Why We Like It: This set is designed to improve writing grips in stages. In the early stages, the tripod grips hold fingers firmly in position. As kids improve, they step down to simpler aids. The pencil buddies add a fun touch!

Why We Like It: Older kids who like the feel of weighted pencils will appreciate this weighted pen. The wider barrel makes it easier to hold, too.Real Review: “I absolutely love this product! My child has Autism and really struggles with his fine motor skills. This product has worked wonders in helping him hold his pencil properly and I couldn’t be more excited about how much he’s improved since he started using this!” Why We Love It: Lefties face special challenges, so these grips are made just for them. Start using them early and you’ll see real results. Real Review: “Bought these for my son who has ADHD, ODD, dyslexia, and SPD. Before these weights we could barely read his writing, but now what a difference! To me it looks like they help him concentrate more on what he’s writing and he seems to take his time which means less mistakes.”

Why We Love It: This unique design is different from other grips on the market. Since the leads are replaceable, these pencils should last a very long time. Real Review: “I use these consistently with children who cannot form or sustain a tripod grasp (after trying other techniques). The Pencil Grip is easy to use….on each grip, an ‘R’ and ‘L’ are printed on the sides. The thumb of the writing hand goes on the side the letter is printed on. So, if you’re a righty, your thumb would go under the ‘R.’ They get a bit gummy after sustained use, as the oils from the fingers will wear down the material. But one grip should last an academic year.” If you’re moving your child away from a primitive palmar grip and toward a mature grip, you could try using a short pencil, which isn’t conducive to a palmar grip. Your child may not develop a three finger tripod pencil grip until they are 5 - 6 years old. This is considered the most appropriate pencil grip, for right and left-handed writers, as it allows the fingers and wrist to work together to provide a more free flowing movement. Why We Like It: This grip has “wings” to help hold fingers in the right position. The center ridge keeps fingers from crossing over to the wrong side.

How we tested

It may be possible to see which hand your child prefers as early as 6 to 9 months although they may not consistently favour one hand until they are two or three years old. Some children can be ambidextrous up to the age of 6 so don’t worry if their dominant hand still isn’t clear. It’s important not to force them to use one side more than the other as this may impede their future development. Schwellnus H, et al. (2012). Effect of pencil grasp on the speed and legibility of handwriting in children.DOI: Real Review: “My kids love these. I remember having them in the first grade so I now have them for my first grade class! I have to count them each time I pass them out so I know they’re all there.”