If you’ve got a left-handed child, you’ll know the world isn’t always designed with them in mind. Scissors, spiral notebooks and even the way we’re taught to hold a pen are usually created for right-handers.
That’s exactly why International Left-Handers Day, on 13 August, exists. Around 10% of people are left-handed, and while it’s completely normal, it can bring some real challenges growing up.
A few simple adjustments can make a big difference. Angling the paper slightly to the left when writing, using proper left-handed scissors and sitting on the left side of a shared desk where possible. Otherwise, two children with different dominant hands can spend the day bumping elbows.
Things like tying shoelaces can take longer, too, especially when they’re watching a right-handed adult demonstrate and everything looks mirrored. Cooking, learning an instrument and using certain tools can bring similar challenges.
Helping Left-Handed Children Build Confidence
If you’re not sure how to help, left-handed tutorials online can come in handy, showing children exactly how to approach tasks in a way that makes sense for them.
It’s also worth knowing that some left-handed children prefer to tackle certain tasks in a right-handed way. Giving them the space to experiment can help them discover what feels most natural.
A little patience and encouragement can go a long way. Every child learns differently, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Read more stories from The Caboolture Guide print magazine here:
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- Chamber Chat
- What’s Hot Around Town
- CatVideoFest 2026
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- Organic Gardening in August
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- PBR Monster Energy Tour Returns with Major Prize Pool
- Honouring Lives Lost On the Road
- Double Triumph Celebrates St Columban’s Sporting Spirit
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- Vintage Machinery Rally – A History of Man and Machines
