Using Both Hands
You have been directed to this advice sheet because your child mainly uses one side of their body to reach for objects and toys.
It may be that this is observed by:
The child showing a preference for being positioned on their back.
They may not reach out to hit their play gym or touch their parent or carers face
If held in a sitting position, their arms may be held stiffly by their side, and they may not use them to reach out
They may also appear to reach out or use one side of their body but not the other.
More Information
Strategies
Make sure your baby is comfortable, has the right amount of support and is developmentally ready. A baby who is learning to lift their head up while lying on their tummy will not be ready to reach out for toys as well
Make sure you have picked the right time and that your baby is alert
Turn off distractions such as the TV and music
Give them an object – something that is easy to see and without complicated patterns
Help your baby by gently guiding their hands or their arms at the shoulders to the object so they know what movement or action you are encouraging. Let their hands go and then help them find their way there again, hopefully giving less and less help each time.
Try using toys with a variety of textures and watch to see if your baby has any preferences.
Always encourage your baby to use both arms, initially together. Then alternate using left and right sides. If you are doing this in side lying then make sure your baby lies on both sides.
For babies who are sitting up
Make sure your baby has enough support and they are developmentally ready. If they are just learning to sit unsupported, they will not be ready to reach out as well. You may need to go back to floor play or make the activity easier until they are ready
Present each toy or object in their reach and at the right height. If your baby is sitting on the floor between your legs you could make or use a small table to place things on. Alternatively, the highchair with a tray may be suitable
Make sure your baby can clearly see what to reach for. If the surface is cluttered, it may be difficult to see
Guide your baby’s hands to the object, supporting them at the elbow or shoulder. This gives them the sensation of the movement you want them to make. Give them time to practise. Take your hands off and allow them time to try and find the object again before offering your hands to help, hopefully giving less and less help each time
Hold the objects or toys out to both their left and right sides and in the middle. Watch which hand they prefer to grasp with
Offer toys of varying sizes. This will encourage them to use both hands, for example a beach ball or large cuddly toy