Left handed writers and right handed writers both can use the triangle grip, making it easy to use for either writer. Using theDexgrip you do not have to press or grip as hard when writing, so your hand does not tire as easily.

Explore the other blog posts we have here at The OT Toolbox regarding pencil grasps by reviewing the convenient list of these just for you: Dexpen grip is ergonomically designed for comfort. The grip tapers at the end and the stopper is tapered in so that you can easily see over top of it and it sits comfortably in your hand. The type of pencil grip can also serve to support the child as they focus on the writing process, therefore not exhausting their thought and energy, trying to remember to grasp the pencil properly for the best function. In occupational therapy sessions, the OT practitioner is striving to achieve the most effective and functional pencil grasp for each individual. A therapist may have 40, 50, or even 70 students on their school-based OT caseload…and each student will be completely different when it comes to grasp patterns, pencil pressure, positioning of the fingers, preferences, letter formation strokes, executive functioning skills, self-regulation, visual motor skills, sensory preferences, and handwriting considerations. All of these areas play into handwriting. Be patient, encouraging, and rewarding to your learners, as they work on these skills. A good grasping pattern will be essential later in school, as handwriting tasks become longer and more complex. You are supporting their present AND future success! Pencil Grip KitIn the adaptive tripod grasp, the child places the pencil between the index and middle fingers rather than within the traditional web space. They grasp the pencil shaft with the thumb, index, and middle fingers. The placement of the pencil between the index and middle fingers provides ample support and stability allowing for good pencil control, and less hand and finger fatigue. They are not used to using them in this way, therefore they will be uncomfortable and met with resistance. With this discomfort comes less motivation and desire to use. Finally, we’ll cover a variety of related resources and activities to support the development of pencil grip use.

A pencil grip may be a tool provided to support a functional pencil grasp, depending on the needs of the individual student. Cons: While Hexagonal pencils are versatile, there are instances and individuals that call for other pencil shapes. Children learning how to use pencils will be better off using a triangular pencil with which they can perfect their pencil grip. Artists may find the hard-edged hexagonal casing hard to shade with and everyday users may find the sharp corners cause calluses. Rest assured, the use of the right pencil grip, when coupled with the activities you are using to get to the root of the problem, will help.

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The Adaptive Tripod Grip is appropriate to use when low muscle tone or hyper mobility of the finger joints limits pinching and manipulating the pencil. One final note on the use of pencil grips, they WILL be uncomfortable to use at first. Learners are having to utilize the correct finger and hand muscles. Hexagonal pencils won’t roll off the desk as easily as their rounded counterparts. With its hard edges, the hexagonal pencil will stay put on a desk with an incline. The triangle pencil grip promotes a tripod or modified tripod grasp. For more help on building a stronger grasp and a functional pencil grasp, try using these activities to develop pencil grasp through play. Pen Grip

Pros: Hexagonal casings are versatile and easy to use. With well-defined edges, they allow the user to establish a firm grip anywhere on the pencil. The visuals will help parents and teachers understand grasp development and the goals for an appropriate grasping pattern. My prediction is that these tools will help get buy-in from the educational team and the family. It helps them understand exactly where the child is developmentally and where you, as the OT, wants the learner to head, and why! pencil grips and Occupational Therapy When writing with the pen, they can use their normal grasp and clearly see the written work because the pen slides more smoothly across the writing surface and they don’t need to accommodate for the resistance of the paper. Functional grasps have a few basic components, which include; an open web space, skill fingers holding the pencil (thumb, first, and middle fingers), and stability (achieved with the ring and little fingers being curled securely into the palm). This results in an efficient and functional tripod grasp for the most success with handwriting, drawing, and coloring.It is easy to achieve, and I often use it if I am writing a lot. My husband uses it all of the time, and has since grade school. This is based on many factors including; their current skill level, motivation, and understanding that the pencil grasp should be efficient and effective, but NOT perfect. Dexcomes complete with our patent pending stopper to support your grip for all your writing and drawing needs.