What Is Bilateral Coordination
Understanding Bilateral Coordination and How To Help Your Child
Bilateral coordination, often referred to as bilateral integration, is a fundamental skill in child development that involves the ability to use both sides of the body together in a coordinated way. This skill is needed for a wide range of everyday activities, from walking and clapping to more complex tasks like writing and tying shoes. Bilateral coordination is not only essential for physical activities but also plays a significant role in cognitive development and academic success.
Understanding Bilateral Coordination
Bilateral coordination is categorized into three main types: symmetric bilateral coordination, where both sides of the body do the same thing at the same time (e.g., jumping with both feet); asymmetric bilateral coordination, where each side of the body does something different (e.g., cutting with scissors); and alternating bilateral coordination, where the sides of the body take turns in a rhythmic manner (e.g., walking or running).
The development of bilateral coordination starts in infancy and continues to refine as children grow. This skill is closely linked to the brain's ability to communicate across its two hemispheres through a structure called the corpus callosum. Effective bilateral coordination indicates not only physical maturity but also neurological development.
Related Technical Areas
Bilateral coordination is interconnected with several other developmental areas:
Gross Motor Skills: These involve the large muscles of the body and include activities like running, jumping, and swimming.
Fine Motor Skills: Involve the smaller muscles, particularly in the hands. Think about writing, drawing, and manipulating small objects.
Sensory Processing: The ability to process sensory information from the environment and one's own body plays a role in developing coordinated movements.
Motor Planning: This involves the ability to conceive, plan, and carry out a nonhabitual motor act in a correct sequence from beginning to end.
Together, these areas contribute to a child's overall motor development and affect their ability to perform daily tasks effectively.
Signs of Bilateral Coordination Difficulties
Children with bilateral coordination difficulties may exhibit signs such as:
Clumsiness and frequent tripping or bumping into objects.
Difficulty performing tasks that require the use of both hands, such as tying shoelaces or buttoning clothes.
Challenges with activities that require rhythm, like jumping rope or dancing.
Struggles with handwriting and other fine motor tasks.
Enhancing Bilateral Coordination Skills
Parents and caregivers can support the development of bilateral coordination through various activities:
Engage in Sports and Physical Activities: Many sports, like swimming, basketball, and soccer, naturally promote bilateral coordination through the use of both sides of the body.
Arts and Crafts: Activities like coloring, painting, and using scissors encourage the use of both hands in a coordinated manner.
Play Musical Instruments: Learning to play instruments, such as the piano or drums, can improve timing and the ability to use both hands simultaneously.
Games and Puzzles: Building blocks, puzzles, and board games can enhance fine motor skills and require the use of both hands.
Daily Life Skills: Encouraging children to participate in daily chores, such as cooking or cleaning, can provide natural opportunities to practice bilateral coordination.
Professional Support: If a child shows significant difficulties with bilateral coordination, consulting with an occupational therapist can provide targeted strategies and interventions to support their development.
The Importance of Early Intervention
These challenges can impact a child's ability to perform everyday tasks, succeed academically, and participate in social activities. With the right support, most children can improve their bilateral coordination, leading to greater independence and confidence in their abilities.
Kimberley Arnett-DeSimone, a career pediatric occupational therapist in Huntersville, North Carolina, authored this post.
