25. Understanding Dysgraphia

An episode of the Dyslexia District podcast, hosted by Kimberly Smith, titled "25. Understanding Dysgraphia" was published on October 1, 2025 and runs 15 minutes.

October 1, 2025 ·15m · Dyslexia District

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Summary

Does your child avoid writing assignments, feel frustrated during homework, or struggle with handwriting that’s hard to read? These may be signs of dysgraphia, a learning difference that impacts written expression.In this episode of Dyslexia District, Kim Smith — educator and diagnostician — takes a deep, practical look at dysgraphia. You’ll hear how it presents in children, what recent research tells us, and what parents, teachers, and schools can do to provide effective support.ResourcesIDA Dyslexia Handbook: What Every Family Should Know – A comprehensive guide from the International Dyslexia Association for parents and families.Dyslexia in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to Know – Practical guidance for educators on identifying and supporting students with dyslexia.SAGE Handbook of Dyslexia – Research-based resource for a deeper understanding of dyslexia and related learning differences.State Dyslexia Handbooks (for policies, screening, and interventions):Texas Dyslexia HandbookColorado Dyslexia HandbookIllinois Dyslexia Guide & ToolkitSouth Carolina Dyslexia HandbookAssistive Technology Tools:Speech-to-Text: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, built-in dictation on iOS/Android/WindowsWord Prediction: Co:Writer, GhotitGraphic Organizers & Mind-Mapping: Inspiration, Google DrawingsDownloadable Handouts:Parent Handout: Supporting Your Child with DysgraphiaTeacher Handout: Classroom Strategies & Accommodations

Episode Description

Does your child avoid writing assignments, feel frustrated during homework, or struggle with handwriting that’s hard to read? These may be signs of dysgraphia, a learning difference that impacts written expression.

In this episode of Dyslexia District, Kim Smith — educator and diagnostician — takes a deep, practical look at dysgraphia. You’ll hear how it presents in children, what recent research tells us, and what parents, teachers, and schools can do to provide effective support.

Resources

IDA Dyslexia Handbook: What Every Family Should Know – A comprehensive guide from the International Dyslexia Association for parents and families.
Dyslexia in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to Know – Practical guidance for educators on identifying and supporting students with dyslexia.
SAGE Handbook of Dyslexia – Research-based resource for a deeper understanding of dyslexia and related learning differences.
State Dyslexia Handbooks (for policies, screening, and interventions):
Assistive Technology Tools:
- Speech-to-Text: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, built-in dictation on iOS/Android/Windows
- Word Prediction: Co:Writer, Ghotit
- Graphic Organizers & Mind-Mapping: Inspiration, Google Drawings
Downloadable Handouts:
- Parent Handout: Supporting Your Child with Dysgraphia
- Teacher Handout: Classroom Strategies & Accommodations