Weighted Pen as an Assistive Tool for Handwriting Disability in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot study

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder often experience handwriting difficulties due to poor grip strength reduced fine motor control and impaired dexterity. These difficulties can affect academic performance classroom participation and independence in daily activities. Early low cost and practical assistive interventions are needed to address handwriting related disability in this population.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a weighted pen combined with a structured fine motor protocol on handwriting proficiency grip strength and pinch strength in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study is designed as a single arm quasi experimental pilot study conducted in a clinical and school based setting.

A total of ten children aged eight to fourteen years diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorder were included. Participants received fine motor training along with handwriting practice using a weighted pen for six weeks with three sessions per week. Each session lasted forty five minutes.

Handwriting proficiency was assessed using the Handwriting Legibility Scale while grip strength and pinch strength were measured using a hand dynamometer and pinch meter respectively. Assessments were performed at baseline and after completion of the intervention.

The study aims to determine whether a weighted pen can serve as a simple assistive tool to improve handwriting related outcomes and support functional participation in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder