Left-handedness is NOT a SEND. Children who are left-handed display a natural variation in human brain function. But while it is not a disability or disorder in itself, left-handedness may be associated with prevalence of learning challenges such as ADHD or dyslexia due to shared brain differences.
However, because the world around them is built around right-handed users, children who are left-handed may need support in school – and their teachers from better awareness of their needs.
What causes left-handedness?
Whether a person tends towards using their right or left hand is determined by a number of factors: 25% is thought to be linked to genetics and the developmental biology of the brain and 75% to environmental factors.
Changes in attitudes
As recently as the 1980s, left-handed pupils were often forced in school to use their right hand as part of an approach known as ‘handedness re-learning’ but this practice has now disappeared. However, stationery, scissors, classroom layouts and even handwriting practice in schools still tends to be designed around right-handedness.
The academic outcomes for left-handers are conflicting. Some studies have suggested that lefties have higher IQs and better at divergent thinking and verbal skills, other claim they are less likely to graduate from university and are more prone to learning difficulties.
Supporting left-handed pupils in the classroom
Giving some thought to, and providing resources for left-handers, can help to improve the experience of left-handed pupils in class.
- Seating. A left-handed children should be seated slightly to the right of desk space, or on the left of a child who is right-handed so that their hands don’t collide
- Light. The light source in the classroom should be on the right-hand side of the left-handed pupil, so they are not working in the shadow of their own hand
- Higher chair. A slightly higher chair will help to elevate the pupil so they can see more easily over their hand, giving more freedom to move
- Paper tilting. Create a ‘slope’ so the top right corner is higher than the top left side. This will help to prevent smudging and allows for a more natural wrist position
- Left-handed pens, pencils and items such as scissors can help pupils with writing and other classroom activities
- Sloping surfaces. These can help to prevent a “hook” grip, which can cause hand strain
- Mirroring. If you are demonstrating techniques while using tools, sit opposite the child to they can copy you
- Computers. Adjust settings for left-handers, including providing a left-handed mouse
- Be patient and positive. A young child can take some time to develop their way of doing things and adjust to most of the class using their right hand
- Promote a culture of respect of all pupils’ differences so they are seen as a natural diversity.
