Boosting Pre-Writing and Literacy Readiness with Occupational Therapy in Phnom Penh

Before a child can write their name or read a sentence, they must first develop the foundational skills of fine motor control, letter recognition, and visual-motor coordination. These early literacy skills start long before pencil meets paper—and occupational therapy can play a major role in building them.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we use play-based occupational therapy to help children strengthen the physical and cognitive abilities they need for future academic success. From manipulating letter magnets to matching shapes and practicing strokes, every activity is designed to build confidence in learning.

What Comes Before Writing and Reading?

Children need more than exposure to letters and books—they need physical readiness and brain-body connection. Key pre-literacy and pre-writing skills include:

• Fine motor strength and dexterity (e.g., finger grip, wrist movement)

• Visual-motor integration (e.g., copying from a model, drawing shapes)

• Letter recognition and sequencing

• Bilateral coordination (using both hands together)

• Attention and task persistence

If a child struggles with these areas, they may avoid writing tasks, tire easily, or fall behind in classroom expectations.

How Occupational Therapy Supports Early Literacy

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our therapists use multisensory strategies that support early learning through movement and play. Sessions may include:

• Tracing letters with fingers or sensory materials

• Using magnetic letters for recognition and sequencing

• Strengthening hand muscles with playdough or tweezers

• Drawing lines, shapes, and simple patterns

• Practicing posture and pencil grasp

Each activity is customized to the child’s developmental level and learning pace, helping build both skill and motivation.

Building a Love of Learning Through Play

Children who feel confident in their ability to hold, trace, and identify letters are more eager to engage with writing and reading tasks. Occupational therapy helps prevent early academic frustration by ensuring foundational skills are in place.

We also work closely with parents and educators, providing tools that can be used at home or in the classroom to support consistency and progress.

Is Your Child Ready for Writing and Reading?

If your child avoids drawing, has poor pencil control, or struggles to recognize letters, occupational therapy could make a big difference. At OrbRom Center, we help prepare children in Phnom Penh for a smooth and confident start to literacy.

Learn more about our occupational therapy services designed to support early writing, coordination, and academic success.