Neurodevelopmental and learning disabilities

Dysgraphia

A learning difference impacting writing, affecting handwriting, spelling, and organising thoughts on paper.
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About

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects writing skills.

People with dysgraphia may struggle with handwriting, spelling, and organising thoughts on paper. It can impact a person’s ability to write clearly and quickly.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Difficulty writing emails or reports.
  • Trouble with notetaking during meetings.
  • Struggling to fill out forms or write legible documents.
  • Challenges in organising written thoughts for tasks or projects.
  • May take longer to complete written tasks.
  • May avoid jobs requiring extensive writing or typing.

Practitioner Help

  • Help identify roles that match the individual’s strengths and minimize the need for writing.
  • Provide job coaching to assist in tasks like writing or note-taking.
  • Suggest using technology tools (speech-to-text software, dictation apps) to aid in writing.
  • Offer training on organizing thoughts verbally or using mind maps.
  • Support in managing time and meeting deadlines with assistive technology.

Common Accommodations

  • Access to digital tools (e.g., typing aids or grammar checkers)
  • Use of assistive technology like speech-to-text software
  • Extra time for reading or writing tasks
  • Permission to use a computer or tablet instead of handwriting
  • Allowing verbal responses or video presentations instead of written reports
  • Providing a scribe or note-taker for meetings or tasks
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Notes

Dysgraphia varies from person to person, and accommodations should be tailored to individual needs. Early support and the right tools can help individuals manage this condition effectively in the workplace.

Dysgraphia Awareness Day is October 5th 2025

Resources

  • Learning disabilities | healthdirect
  • DSF - What is Dysgraphia?
  • Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia? | Australian Dyslexia Association
Neurodevelopmental and learning disabilities

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