Choosing handedness?
A SheKnows reader writes, "I have a toddler who will be 3 in November. I have recently learned that his father has been forcing him to use his right hand. This concerns me, as I believe that my son will eventually gravitate to one hand or the other. His father does not accept this." She asks, "I would be grateful if you could provide a reference to the current wisdom on right/left handedness and allowing a child to choose."
Kerstin Potter says, "Handedness is considered to be inborn, not learned — therefore, 'training handedness' is really working against the natural development of a child and places stress on the developing brain." Dr. Shaw agrees. "Although 'switching' handedness for writing is possible, it is generally recommended to allow the child to use whichever hand he/she prefers." She adds, "Being left-handed is not a handicap, just a normal variant."
"Trying to 'teach' handedness is like trying to teach a caterpillar to fly — frustrating for all involved!" says Potter. "Wait a bit, and it will happen naturally.