- Are there left handers in your family? If so, left handedness alone is usually not a sign of a problem, even if the trait occurred generations ago. Hereditary left handedness is a natural difference akin to eye and hair color differences.
- Does your child show early early signs and symptoms of learning disabilities or developmental delays?
- Was your child exposed to risk factors prenatally or in early childhood?
- Has your child experienced severe illnesses such as meningitis, developmental disorders such as spina bifida, or accidents or abuse leading to brain injuries?
- If these, or other developmental disabilities, are not a concern for your child, then his left handedness is likely just a part of his natural development.
What if Your Child Shows Signs of Learning Problems?
Learning problems may be present if your child shows a left hand preference and:
- Has other signs of learning disabilities;
- Was exposed to risks during pregnancy or in early development; or
- Has developmental delays.
If you are concerned about the possibility of learning disabilities in early childhood, talk with your child's pediatrician. Your child's doctor can help you decide if there is a reason for concern and can refer you to early childhood intervention programs. If your child is age three or older, you may contact your local public school district for information on diagnosis, evaluation, and special education services.
