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4 Ways Dysgraphia Can Affect Your Child’s Social Skills

Dysgraphia is a biological condition that can make many aspects of writing difficult.  But it can affect children socially, too.  Here are four common social challenges your child may face—and what you could do to help. 

Social challenge #1: Your child is easily frustrated by writing assignments—to the point of temper tantrums. 

The dysgraphia link: For kids with dysgraphia, writing can be a difficult and slow process.  Being pressured to write may add to the anxiety. 

How you can help: Make writing more fun with journaling and other activities that develop writing skills. 

The dysgraphia link: Kids with dysgraphia may have language processing issues, which can make it difficult to express ideas and speak about specifics. 

How you can help: Encourage speaking skills by trying video games and apps that can help your child become a better communicator. 

Social challenge #3: Your child doesn’t pick up on humor. 

The dysgraphia link: Language processing difficulties can make it tough for kids to understand humor or language nuances such as sarcasm. 

How you can help: Sit down with your child and watch a funny movie or TV show that has straightforward humor (in other words, one that doesn’t rely on double meanings or reading between the lines).  Laugh along with your child and then discuss what makes the content funny. 

Social challenge #4: Your child lacks confidence and frequently says, “I’m not good at school.” 

The dysgraphia link: Children with dysgraphia may sense they’re different from other kids and worry they’re not smart.  That can lead to low self-esteem. 

How you can help: Encourage your child to choose afterschool activities that will build on strengths.  Doing well in one area can help boost your child’s confidence and self-esteem. 

Having social issues on top of writing challenges can take a toll on your child.  But there are many ways you can help your child build confidence and strengthen social skills.