Being able to demonstrate 2-handed fine motor skills is a needed pre-school readiness ability. Using both hands at the same time is also called bilateral integration. Bilateral (two-handed) activities are common and happen throughout the day on any number of self-care tasks and during common pre-school activities.
These 2-handed tasks generally require using both hands at the same time, but with different movements for even the most basic manual dexterity and manipulation of objects. For example, opening a pencil or crayon case, tying your shoes, opening a bottle, buttoning, zipping, tearing paper, using scissors, or opening a snack package – all activities and tasks that your child will encounter during pre-school.
All children learn at different rates, and no child is expected to be able to enter pre-school will all skills mastered. Being able to use basic fine-motor skills however, are a needed for pre-school readiness. Having difficulty with putting on a jacket, managing their clothing fasteners, or opening their snack packs can come with practice, and the pre-school staff will help when needed, but pre-school aged children are expected to make good attempts and develop their skills over time and with experience.
Being able to use both hands on 2-handed tasks is a skill that is needed for active participation in pre-school activities. For children who are unable to use one arm, or who have a physical disability, working with your service providers for support will help your child learn how to perform tasks using only one hand, making use of compensatory techniques, modifications and adaptive equipment.