When Can You Tell if a Child Is Left-Handed?

Handedness – the preference for using one hand over the other – is usually innate and becomes apparent during early childhood. But at what age can you tell if a child is left-handed?

When does handedness develop?

Babies begin reaching for objects around 6 to 9 months of age. However, a clear hand preference typically appears between 18 and 24 months. By the age of four, most children will show a clear tendency.

How to spot left-handedness in children

Look for these signs in everyday activities:

• Spontaneous actions: Which hand does your child use to grab toys or point?
• Fine motor skills: Which hand does your child prefer for drawing or eating?
• Daily routines: How do they open doors or hold objects?

Be sure to observe your child in natural, unstructured situations to avoid influencing their behavior.

Why early recognition is important

Identifying a child’s dominant hand supports motor development and makes learning to write easier. Forcing right-hand use in left-handed children can lead to problems like concentration difficulties or coordination issues. Recognizing and supporting natural handedness is essential.

What to do if you're unsure?

If you’re unsure about your child’s handedness, a professional left-handed assessment can help. Certified specialists observe behavior and use specific tests to determine hand dominance.

Do you have questions about your child’s handedness or want guidance? Just ask the Left-Handed Store – we’re happy to help!