From Vincent Iannelli, M.D.,
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Definition:

Dysgraphia is a type of learning disability in which children have problems with writing, including handwriting and spelling.

In addition to poor handwriting, children with dysgraphia may write slowly, get tired while when writing, leave out words, and have trouble thinking and writing at the same. They may especially have trouble communicating their ideas when trying to write them down.

Children can be tested by a school's special education department if a parent or teacher suspects that a child might have dysgraphia.

Also Known As: Writing Difficulty

Common Misspellings: disgrafia, disgraphia, dysgraphie, dysgrafia

Examples: Children with dysgraphia often have poor handwriting and have trouble taking notes or with creative writing.