# Process: P Checks

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**Note:** The original page contains a PDF attachment for P Checks. Please manually copy it from the source page.

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### **P Checks**

P Checks focus on key physical aspects of handwriting, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and reducing the risk of strain. The document outlines specific checks related to:

- **Posture**: Sitting correctly with back support, feet flat, and forearms at a comfortable angle.
    
    POSTURE GUIDELINES● Feet flat on the floor or on a wide based raised surface● Knees at a right angle with 2-fingers space behind the knee to avoid compression● Sit on the chair so hips are positioned at approximately 90° with the back supported● Sit approximately a fist-distance away from the table AND● Table height adjusted so that forearms rest on the top without leaning forward (too low)or raising the shoulders/arms (too high)● Surface - clean, smooth and uncluttered
    
- **Pencil Grasp**: Encouraging a dynamic tripod grip for stability and control.
    
    PENCIL GRASP GUIDELINES:● Check the child is developmentally ready before asking them to write.● A dynamic tripod pencil grasp is the most efficient and is expected by end of Year 1.● Address an inappropriate grasp in the early learning stages and later if it is causing discomfort or impacting speed.● Consider corrective action using adaptive grips or specialist writing tools, but always trial several options to find the most appropriate.● Encourage a 2 cm gap between finger tip and pencil point – and slightly greater for left-handers.
    
- **Paper Position**: Adjusting the paper angle and position for optimal writing posture, especially important for left-handed writers.
    
    PAPER GUIDELINES:● Tilt and offset the paper according to the writing hand.● Move the paper up or down to facilitate a comfortable reach and keep it in place with the non-writing hand.● Consider glare from paper and overhead lighting.● Consider a specialist vision assessment if visual stress continues.
    
- **Pressure and Fluency**: Monitoring the pressure applied to ensure that it's neither too light nor too heavy, promoting a rhythmic and flowing handwriting style.
    
    PRESSURE GUIDELINES:● The just-right pressure eases writing across the page, which is important for fluency and reducing the risk of pain during handwriting.● Use teaching tools such as carbon paper, mechanical pencils, 'light-up' and 'squiggle' pens to demonstrate appropriate pressure.● Try some gross and fine motor warm ups before and during the handwriting task. Actions which include squeezing and deep pressure, resistance and/or vibration will increase body awareness.● Check that posture/issues with postural control are not the causative factor here
    

### **P Checks Assessment Quiz**

**Posture**

1. What is the ideal sitting posture for handwriting, and why is it important?
2. How can incorrect sitting posture affect handwriting performance?

**Pencil Grasp**

1. Describe the dynamic tripod grip and its benefits for handwriting.
2. Identify two common issues with pencil grasp and suggest modifications or tools to correct them.

**Paper Position**

1. How should the paper be positioned for right-handed and left-handed writers, respectively?
2. Explain why adjusting the paper position is crucial for effective handwriting.

**Pressure and Fluency**

1. Describe how to assess if a student is applying appropriate pressure while writing.
2. What exercises can help improve handwriting fluency and reduce pressure issues?

### **P Checks Assessment Quiz Answers**

**Posture**

1. The ideal sitting posture involves sitting upright with the back supported, feet flat on the floor, and forearms angled comfortably. This posture is crucial for reducing strain and allowing free movement of the arms and hands for writing.
2. Incorrect sitting posture can lead to discomfort, reduced endurance for writing tasks, and potentially impact the quality of handwriting due to poor control over movement.

**Pencil Grasp**

1. The dynamic tripod grip is where the pencil is held between the thumb, index, and middle fingers, allowing for optimal control and movement. This grip benefits handwriting by providing stability, efficiency, and comfort.
2. Common issues include the thumb wrap and fist grips. Modifications include using grip aids or pencil grips and practicing gripping exercises to encourage the development of the tripod grip.

**Paper Position**

1. For right-handed writers, the paper should be positioned slightly to the right and tilted at a slight angle to the left. For left-handed writers, the paper should be to the left and tilted slightly to the right. This positioning facilitates a more natural arm and wrist movement.
2. Adjusting the paper position is crucial for effective handwriting to prevent awkward wrist bending, which can lead to discomfort and affect the quality of handwriting.

**Pressure and Fluency**

1. Appropriate pressure is assessed by looking for signs of strain in the hand or arm, the sound of the pencil on the paper, and the quality of the lines produced (not too faint or deeply indented).
2. Exercises to improve handwriting fluency include practicing loops and swirls, using varied writing tools for different tactile feedback, and engaging in activities that promote fine motor skills.