Rushing down the shopping aisle with the school supplies list in hand is a common ritual for parents everywhere. But shopping for school supplies can be even more difficult if your child has special needs. If your child has a physical or developmental disability that affects their ability to write effectively and comfortably, then this list is for you. We’ll be looking at five products that can improve your child’s writing.

1. The Gripper

The Gripper

There’s a saying that the best solution is often the simplest one. The Gripper fits squarely into that philosophy. It provides relief from writing cramps and compensates for grasp limitations. The Gripper is cushioned and the regular size fits most pens and pencils. Not only is it comfortable, it also improves your child’s ability to control the pen or pencil. For even more versatility, The Gripper is also available in assorted sizes to fit other items such as artists’ brushes and eating utensils.

2. Pediatric Universal Weighted Holder

Pediatric Universal Weighted Holder

This weighted holder sets out to solve several writing problems. For starters, it makes various writing utensils easier to grip. It’s also weighted. The additional weight is great for stabilizing the hand for kids with hand trembling. The weight also helps kids with weaker hands by reducing the amount of pressure they need to apply when bearing down with the writing utensil.

3. The Twist-n-Write Pencil

Twist-n-Write Pencil

The Twist-n-Write Pencil was designed especially for children’s small hands. It offers an ergonomic, wishbone design that promotes an efficient “tripod” grasp. The Twist-n-Write Pencil never needs sharpening and comes with a No. 2, 2 mm stick of lead. Simply twisting the cap provides more lead and refills are available (sold separately). In addition it has two erasers and comes in fun assorted colors that your child will love.

4. Wanchik’s Pediatric Writer

Wanchik's Pediatric Writer

Wanchik’s Pediatric Writer is great for kids with weakened hands or fingers, or lessened finger/wrist dexterity. The device slides on the hand and holds the writing utensil in place. It provides a ring for the writing finger to help keep the finger in the proper position. The device’s special design allows for a more relaxed hand when writing by holding the utensil and providing hand support.

5. Squiggle Wiggle Writer

Squiggle Wiggle Writer

The Squiggle Wiggle Writer is a battery operated vibrating pen that turns straight lines into a series of loops, circles, or curves, depending on how close it is held to the writing surface. Not only is it outrageously fun, it gives tactile stimulation and encourages appropriate grasp. Occupational and developmental therapists love the Squiggle Wiggle Writer for young writers as it helps them develop better coordination.

Make writing easy and fun for your child

Taking on the new school year is hard enough for you and your child. But writing shouldn’t be. These adapted writing utensils can help kids with a variety of special needs and make writing easy and fun.