Hand Dominance

Hand dominance is the preference a person has for using one hand over the other for tasks that require precision such as eating, writing, or throwing. A few things to keep in mind when considering hand dominance in a child are the developmental timeline, signs of hand dominance, encouraging natural preference, and supporting fine motor development.

• Typically start to show a preference (using one hand slightly more than the other) between the ages of 2-4.

  • Child may start fine motor tasks consistently with one hand, but as they fatigue, they may switch

• Dominance may not be fully established until between ages of 5-7

•  It is important to let a child develop their natural hand preference. Trying to force them to use their non-dominant hand can be confusing and frustrating. 

An Important Note: It is not typical for children to show a strong hand preference before the age of 2. If your child is under the age of 2 and is showing a strong preference for one hand over the other, or seem to be 'ignoring' one hand, please consult with a medical professional. 

When a child is switching between hands, they are developing a small amount of strength and dexterity in each hand. Once they have a preferred or dominant hand, they can really start to build and refine their fine motor skills!

• Offer eating utensils, writing utensils, and other 'one-handed' fine motor tools at the center of the child's body (rather than to the right or left).

• Incorporate activities that encourage the child to reach across their midline (middle of their body) with either hand (i.e. reaching to the left of the body with the right hand, and visa versa). Activity ideas include:
  -Playing with cars or trucks on a playmat or 'road' 

-Drawing on a large vertical surface such as an easel, chalkboard, or large paper on the wall

-Practice transferring items into/out of a container, with the container on one side of the child and the 'pile' of toys   on the other. 

• If you notice the child is switching hands because they're tired, offer a break from the activity to rest the hand.

• Take a look at out handout "Development of Hand Dominance" for more tips and tricks.