A common concern for many parents, pencil grip can take several years to become mature. While it is not unusual for children to have some difficulty, certain activities can support this learning process. And if that’s not enough, an occupational therapy assessment may be needed to suggest possible solutions.

The stages in the development of pencil grip

Contrary to popular belief, pencil grip isn’t learned, it develops:

  • Palmar grips before 18 months: the child grasps the pencil with the whole hand and the palm is in direct contact with it – which requires moving the whole arm to scribble or draw;
  • Transitional grips between 2 and 4 years: the child holds the pencil more with the fingers but still uses the whole arm to move it. Gradually, they start using the forearm and wrist to improve control and precision;
  • Mature grips after 4 years: the child begins to hold the pencil with 3-4 fingers, resting it in the space between the thumb and index finger.

The 4 types of mature pencil grips

By improving control and dynamism of the pencil, mature grips allow the child to draw and colour with precision and to start writing. There are 4 recognised grips:

  • The thumb opposed to the index finger with a 3- or 4-finger pencil hold: these two grips allow less force to be applied to the pencil, giving an efficient grip;
  • The thumb crossed over the pencil and a 3- or 4-finger hold: both grips are considered mature, even though this can mean the muscles at the base of the thumb aren’t strong enough, unless it’s the thumb joints that lack stability.

Consulting an occupational therapist is sometimes necessary

Through imitating gestures, holding different types of pencils and fine motor activities, the development of a mature grip happens naturally. However, if the child doesn’t hold it optimally when learning letters, it can be helpful to consult an occupational therapist to show them how.

If this intervention doesn’t bring about the desired change, the professional can carry out an assessment to understand what is limiting the child’s functioning. Based on the results, they can then recommend solutions to put in place: interventions on posture, fine motor skills, factors affecting legibility, adapted equipment (finger guides, grips, etc.), or even using a computer for certain tasks…

Don’t hesitate to contact an occupational therapist to discuss the matter: on the Ora-Visio platform, our professionals specialise in learning disorders. As a result, they will be able to distinguish a simple delay from possible dysgraphia.