Handling Poor Handwriting in First Grade

My daughter's handwriting is poor. She is only in first grade. How should we try to improve it? -- Worried
Answer: Before trying to do anything about your child's handwriting, talk to her teacher. The teacher will know if the child's handwriting skills are right on track for her grade level or need to be improved. It is also the teacher who can give you clues about how you can help the child improve her handwriting skills, from holding a pencil correctly or using a pencil grip to doing handwriting practice sheets. Don't just go out and buy practice handwriting books for her to use, as they could have letters in a different style than your child is learning in school. This could definitely confuse your child and not improve her handwriting.
Discuss with the teacher the possibility that your daughter's fine motor skills may need to be improved in order for the child to improve her handwriting. Does the teacher think your child needs help from an occupational therapist? Just about any activity that can be done at home in which she must use her fingers is a way to improve her fine motor skills, from stringing beads to playing jacks.