Bilateral Coordination Difficulties in Children
Supporting Two-Handed Skills Like Cutting, Dressing, And Daily Play
Many daily tasks — from tying shoelaces to using scissors — require both hands to work together smoothly.
For some children, coordinating two sides of the body can be a challenge.
At KidsHeart Medical Center, our pediatric occupational therapists help children strengthen bilateral coordination through targeted, playful activities. These skills are key for school tasks, self-care, and physical development.
We offer this support as part of our Pediatric Occupational Therapy services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
What Is Bilateral Coordination?
Bilateral coordination is the ability to use both sides of the body at the same time — in a coordinated and controlled way.
Examples include:
- Holding paper steady while cutting
- Using one hand to button a shirt while the other helps guide
- Catching and throwing with both arms
- Climbing stairs with alternating legs
When these skills are delayed, tasks may feel slow, clumsy, or frustrating for the child.
When Should You Seek Help?
You may want to consider an evaluation if your child:
- Avoids or struggles with scissors, drawing, or tying
- Has difficulty dressing independently
- Appears awkward or uncoordinated during play
- Uses one hand excessively, even when both are needed
- Struggles with tasks that involve rhythm or timing (clapping, jumping jacks)
- Tires quickly or gets frustrated by basic motor activities
Early support can reduce frustration and improve success in home, school, and play.
What to Expect in Therapy
We use structured, playful tasks that develop coordination in fun and achievable ways. Therapy may include:
- Activities like stringing beads, lacing, or ball games
- Practice with dressing, fastening, and utensil use
- Motor planning exercises to improve timing and rhythm
- Strength-building play for arms, shoulders, and core stability
- Visual-motor activities like drawing and puzzle assembly
- Parent strategies for reinforcing skills at home
We help children build control and confidence through movement and repetition — always at their own pace.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Skilled pediatric therapists who understand bilateral and motor skill development
- Fun, child-led sessions that target everyday functional goals
- Family guidance to support progress between sessions
- Therapy spaces designed to encourage movement, play, and practice
- Services conveniently offered in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain
We focus on real-life progress — helping your child move more easily, dress more independently, and play more confidently.
Helping Hands Work Together
At KidsHeart, we support children in mastering the small movements that build big independence.
With the right support, your child can gain confidence in everything from school tasks to self-care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Some children improve naturally, but therapy often speeds progress and reduces frustration.
Preference is normal — but if both hands aren’t used when they should be, it may signal a coordination challenge.
By preschool, children typically use both hands for tasks like dressing and cutting. Delays are more noticeable by ages 4–6.
Not at all. We design sessions around play, movement, and fun — kids are often excited to participate.
Absolutely. We’ll give you simple activities and guidance to use in everyday routines.