My son’s OT recently heard the idea of using a label maker for children who struggle with handwriting.  I want my son to be able to write and have heard all the arguments for continuing to teach handwriting and we do use Handwriting Without Tears.  Meanwhile, I have painfully watched my child not be able to write the information he wants to put on paper.  He is 7 and has a diagnosis of Disorder of Written Expression.

I am amazed by the possibilities and ease of use of the Dymo LetraTag Label Maker I purchased.  The device was only $20 at Walmart, refill cartridges 2 for $6.  The machine takes AA batteries and you can use the rechargeable batteries.  There is a large size keyboard (other label makers had small keys making it more difficult for a child with fine motor issues) that matches up to a typical keyboard (perfect for children learning to type).  After typing in an answer, the child pushes print and the words come out.  Next, the child pushes a button to cut the strip and peel the backing to stick onto their paper.  The sticky backing is easier to peel than I would expect because there is a line down the center to fold and cause an edge to pop up for peeling.  The device is so easy to use and my son had mastered the operation in under ten minutes. 

This device makes it easy for my son to sit wherever he wants and get the answers on his paper.  No need to move to a computer, plug in his Alpha Smart and then print out and staple to the worksheet.  No need to have someone else scribe his answers or to give his answers orally to.  He just types, prints and sticks.  In the end, he turns in the same assignment with his answers inserted in a different way.  An added benefit is that instead of being the kid who can’t write, he is the kid who gets to use a cool “toy” that he thinks is fun.  He came home from school on Friday so proud at having completed an assignment instead of it being left in his unfinished work folder.  His teacher thought it was wonderful.

This may not be a good match for everyone but I wanted to share so that others could explore for children struggling in this area.  We have only been using it for a few days and my child is in first grade so the answers are fairly short.  I am prepared for the possibility of him needing more advanced AT in the future but for now, my opinion is this is much more child friendly than the Alpha Smart that is rarely utilized at school.  Please feel free to forward this suggestion to anyone who needs assistance in this area J

Sandra Riggs