FM.E.58 MANIPULATES AN OBJECT USING BOTH HANDS

In the first year, children tend to manipulate objects with either one hand or the other. When they find an object that interests them, they will take it in one hand and shake it or bang it on the floor. When an object is held in both hands, the 2 hands are used as one, each contributing to the same action. Learning to use 2 hands to manipulate an object, with each hand serving a different purpose, is a big step forward.

How to Assess

Materials: Any toy that requires both hands for manipulation.

Examples are a pinwheel, a container with a lid, a tambourine, a doll with movable limbs.

Method: Give the toy to the child and observe him at play.

Score plus if your child manipulates the object with both hands, using each hand for a different purpose. For example, he could hold the pinwheel with one hand and make it spin with the other, or steady the container with one hand while removing the lid.

How to Teach

Have a new look at your child’s toy collection to ensure that he has access to toys which can be manipulated with both hands.

Play with these toys with your child, demonstrating often, giving verbal directions and helping him physically when necessary. You may find it easier to guide his hands through the correct movements if you sit behind him, so that your right hand is aligned with his.

Playtime and Round-the-house Activities

In the kitchen, let your child play with the rotary egg-beater, or remove lids from containers. In the bathroom, encourage him to hold his washcloth with one hand while he rubs soap on with the other.

Give your child loosely wrapped parcels to unwrap. Use a variety of papers, such as cellophane, crepe paper, aluminium foil and waxed paper. This game is great fun, even when the ‘surprises’ inside are just his old familiar toys!

Remembering and Extending

Once your child is using his hands to co-operate with each other in this way, he will find the skill too useful to forget!