Hi Banshi!

UGH!! I just typed a big reply to you and then hit the wrong button and it disappeared! GRRR...
So I will start again but it will probably be shorter.

ANYWAY!! DS holds a pen/pencil in a VERY unconventional way that is too hard to describe in words but essentially he grips it in a fist grip and therefore has absolutely NO control over what he does at all.

I gently suggested that he let me show him an easier way to hold it that will give him more control and allow him to start writing and colouring in. He was agreeable to this and just a couple of days ago came up to me and said "is this how I hold it mummy" and was almost holding the pen correctly! So I'm not worried anymore and I'm sure that with a little correction and a lot of practice he will be fine.

I have a good way to offer him incentive as well. He is very interested in activity books and colouring-in books at the moment and has been wanting me to buy him Cars and Thomas activity books so I told him that I would buy him some special activity books and colouring books when he has practiced holding a pen/pencil correctly and can do the work more easily. He is excited bout this and I think it will be a good motivation for him.

Thanks again for your thoughts and input!

I have also been looking for home schooling blogs and in the process have found some blogs geared specifically towards home schooling boys so I'm excited to read through some of these and get ideas and information!

I hope all is well with you and your family...