Polly Benson: What Your Child’s Handwriting Says About Their Development

In this episode of the Holistic Sister Circle, occupational therapist Polly Benson shares her expertise in child development, fine motor skills, handwriting, and the emotional world of children who struggle academically. She offers a rare, inside perspective from working both as a therapist and as a parent navigating the IEP system—highlighting what children need, what parents often miss, and how a supportive learning environment can transform confidence.Polly also discusses the creation of the Legiel Liner, a handwriting tool now used in classrooms nationwide, and how small, intentional adjustments can dramatically improve a child’s motor coordination, visual perception, and self-esteem.Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, or simply someone who wants to better understand child development, this conversation provides clarity, compassion, and practical direction.In this episode you will learn:• Early signs of fine-motor delays parents commonly overlook• How handwriting reveals a child’s strengths, challenges, and sensory needs• The emotional impact of handwriting difficulties and how to support confidence• Why technology affects motor development—and what to do about it• How the Legiel Liner helps children improve handwriting through consistent structureThis episode is a reminder that every child learns differently—and with the right tools, language, and advocacy, they can thrive in ways that honor their development and identity.✨ Subscribe to The Holistic Sister Circle on your favorite platform and hit the 🔔 bell notification so you never miss an episode full of real, relatable conversations for modern women finding their balance.Timestamps:0:00 – Welcome and introduction0:32 – Polly shares her path to occupational therapy3:00 – Understanding a child’s inner world4:06 – OT experience in school systems7:04 – Early signs of fine-motor challenges9:44 – Technology’s impact on development11:26 – What handwriting reveals15:00 – Handwriting and confidence17:13 – How the Legiel Liner was created22:00 – How to connect with Polly Benson23:36 – Closing remarksSupport the show