In A first-of-its-kind programme initiated by a hospital in Mumbai, an occupational therapist has been helping children improve their handwriting. Since its initiation in January, seven children have enrolled in the programme at Surya Children Hospital at Santacruz. They include children with special needs.

Children are often rebuked and lack confidence owing to bad handwriting. The programme provides professional training to improve handwriting. "We started the Handwriting Without Tears programme in January 2019 and so far around seven children have participated in it. The youngest was a five-year-old. He could read the letters but couldn't write them," said Dr Rupal Gupta, the therapist. The programme includes the use of various tools to teach children writing techniques. "We use tools such as chalk board, creative art patterns and even wood pieces to create alphabets," she added.

Dr Rupal Gupta