The left-handed child.

The Left-Handed Child

Some children tend to use their left hand for writing and in general daily activities, which may prompt some parents to try to change their child’s pattern to use the right hand instead of the left. However, some studies have warned against this practice. In today’s topic, we will explore the reasons behind a child’s preference for the left hand and how to handle this matter properly. 💁🏻‍♀️

Studies Warn Against Forcing Left-Handed Children to Use Their Right Hand
Several studies have cautioned against forcing a left-handed child to use their right hand. These studies argue that doing so can confuse the child’s memory and disrupt their cognitive skills. Research in neuroscience has shown that a left-handed child trained under pressure to use their right hand will not naturally adapt to being right-handed. Instead, they may face difficulties using their right hand and experience increased distraction.

Reasons Why Some Children Prefer the Left Hand

1. Early Development Preferences
   During the first year of life, children may begin favoring one hand for bringing objects to their mouth or grasping items.
2. Percentage of Left-Handed People in Society
   The proportion of left-handed individuals ranges from approximately 10% to 25% of the population.
3. Genetic Factors
   In 2007, a study discovered that a preference for one hand over the other is linked to a specific gene called LRRTM1. Children who favor their left hand are often carriers of this gene.
4. Weakness in the Right Hand
   • If a child faces an issue that hinders the use of their right hand for a significant period (at least eight months) or experiences long-term weakness in the right hand, they are likely to become left-handed.
   • Even after recovering, it is unlikely they will revert to relying primarily on their right hand.
5. Norman’s Theory
   • According to Dr. Norman, a neurologist, elevated testosterone levels (the male hormone) during pregnancy may lead to the birth of a left-handed child.
   • This theory suggests that changes in testosterone levels affect the brain development of the fetus. Testosterone inhibits the growth of the brain’s left hemisphere, which controls the right hand.
   • As a result, many neurons dominate the brain’s right hemisphere, which controls the left hand. Generally, the brain’s right hemisphere controls the body’s left side, and vice versa.

How to Predict Which Hand a Child Will Use? 🤔

1. Place keys on a table and ask the child to pick them up and open a drawer. Observe which hand they tend to use.
2. Ask the child to pick up a ball from the floor and throw it.
3. If the child uses both hands equally, consult a pediatric neurologist to determine the dominant side.