Pencil Grasp

Palmar Supinate Grasp (Fisted Grasp)

• Description: The child holds the writing utensil with their entire fist, with the thumb positioned at the top near the writing end. Movement originates from the shoulder, resulting in large, sweeping motions.​Associates in Pediatric Therapy+3CST Academy+3The OT Toolbox+3
• Average Age: 12 to 15 months.​Associates in Pediatric Therapy+1Growing Hands-On Kids+1
• Source: Growing Hands-On Kids

Digital Pronate Grasp

Source: Growing Hands-On Kids

Description: The writing tool is held with fingers pointing downward toward the paper, and the palm facing toward the paper. The index finger typically extends along the shaft of the utensil. Movement is primarily driven by the shoulder, with some involvement of the elbow.​the-elbowroom.com

Average Age: 2 to 3 years.​SAGE Journals+2the-elbowroom.com+2Growing Hands-On Kids+2

Quadrupod Grasp

Source: The OT Toolbox

Description: The pencil is held between the thumb, index, and middle fingers, with the ring finger supporting the underside. This grasp can be dynamic (with finger movement) or static (with movement from the wrist or forearm).​the-elbowroom.com+3OT Perspective+3The OT Toolbox+3

Average Age: 3 to 4 years.​Growing Hands-On Kids+6CST Academy+6Pass the OT+6

Lateral Quadrupod Grasp

Source: The OT Toolbox

Description: Similar to the lateral tripod, but involves the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers holding the pencil, with the little finger tucked into the palm. This grasp provides additional stability but may reduce fine motor control compared to the dynamic tripod grasp.​Pinterest+5The OT Toolbox+5OT Perspective+5

Average Age: 4 to 6 years.​

Static Tripod Grasp

• Description: The child holds the writing instrument between the thumb and index finger, with the middle finger providing support beneath. The ring and little fingers are tucked into the palm. While the fingers are in position, movement is generated by the wrist and forearm rather than the fingers themselves.​The OT Butterfly | Official Website+6CST Academy+6The OT Toolbox+6
• Average Age: 3.5 to 4 years.​
• Source: The OT Toolbox

Dynamic Tripod Grasp

• Description: Similar to the static tripod, but now the fingers move independently to control the writing utensil, allowing for precise and refined movements. This grasp is considered the most efficient for writing tasks.​OT Perspective+3the-elbowroom.com+3The OT Toolbox+3
• Average Age: 4 to 6 years.​Growing Hands-On Kids+1The OT Butterfly | Official Website+1
• Source: The OT Toolbox

Lateral Tripod Grasp

• Description: The thumb is pressed against the side of the index finger, securing the pencil between the index and middle fingers, with the pencil resting on the ring finger. Movement is typically generated from the fingers, though the thumb’s position may limit some dexterity.​
• Average Age: 4 to 6 years.​Pass the OT
• Source: The OT Toolbox