*** Please note REGISTRATIONS are now OPEN  for this workshop – see UPCOMING REGISTRATIONS tab***

Towards Functional Writing:

Fine Motor & Handwriting skill remediation for mainstream kindergarten & primary school children

Producing handwriting is one of the most complex tasks in which children engage. It requires the ability to integrate skills in the areas of cognition, language, visual perception, sensory and motor development. Handwriting mastery is an essential tool for communication and is vital for success at school.  Recent literature also highlights the correlation between proficient handwriting and children’s performance in the areas of successful academic achievement, increased concentration, improved self-confidence and self-esteem, as well as the ability for children to express themselves creatively and engage productively in activities of daily living.

Poor handwriting and fine motor skill development is often a primary reason for referral to Occupational Therapy, with many factors affecting a student’s handwriting performance. Through the extensive use of case studies, this two-day workshop will assist occupational therapists to explore ways they can work more effectively to assist emergent writers and those in later years with handwriting challenges.

Workshop Aims

The workshop aims to provide participants with:

• An overview of the development of handwriting, drawing and tool usage for mainstream kindergarten and primary school children
• an overview of the underlying causes/component contributing to handwriting difficulties
• a clinical reasoning framework to employ effective treatment approaches for handwriting intervention, including:
  • Biomechanics of handwriting and tool use
  • Writing speed and legibility and
  • Planning and organising written content

The workshop aims to be practical in nature, include video and case studies to assist participants integrate their knowledge and skills.

This workshop is open to occupational therapists.

Videoconferencing/Online Format

Zi Mei Events is committed to provide high quality professional development, opportunities for participants. Due to the content and multi-day format of this workshop we have decided that a face to face presentation is the best option for this particular workshop. Unfortunately the ability to link to this workshop via an online format or to record this workshop is NOT an option.

About the Presenter – Lisa Scott BApp.Sci (Occ Ther)

Lisa completed her undergraduate training at La Trobe University in 1989. Her work has taken her to many, many pre-schools and schools on 3 continents over the past 30+ years.  She currently spends 2 out of 6 days in her private practice working in school settings.  Lisa has completed study related to working with children with developmental issues, with Mary Benbow in Boston, Rhoda Erhardt in Pennsylvania, at the Ayres clinic in California and of course in Australia!  She is SIPT- certified and has also completed NDT certification. Lisa enjoys using the best treatment approaches for each child she sees, based on the issues they present with.

 Expressions of Interest for this workshop are now being sought. Please register your interest by emailing Zi Mei Events at info@zimei.com.au