08/15/2026
Left-handedness is a natural characteristic of lateral preference, not a habit that needs to be corrected. Although many environments are designed for right-handed people, left-handed children can develop fully when they receive understanding, appropriate materials, and opportunities to learn in ways that suit them.
Left-Handed Children: Facts and Support
When is International Left-Handers Day celebrated?
It is observed every year on August 13. The date was established in 1992 by the British organization Lefthanders International to raise awareness of the experiences of left-handed people and promote greater inclusion. The celebration also recognizes the work of earlier organizations dedicated to supporting left-handed people, including the International Association of Left-Handed People, founded in 1975.
Why was this celebration created?
For centuries, in different cultures, left-handed children were pressured to use their right hand. Some were scolded, punished, or forced to keep their left hand restrained. August 13 is an opportunity to recognize left-handedness as a normal variation of human diversity and to draw attention to the difficulties that may arise in spaces and activities designed mainly for right-handed people.
Does left-handedness affect children?
Left-handedness itself is not an illness or developmental problem. However, left-handed children may encounter practical challenges when writing, cutting, using desks, handling tools, playing musical instruments, or working with certain school materials. They may also become frustrated if they are forced to change hands or criticized for using their natural hand preference.
With simple adaptations and a respectful environment, left-handed children can participate and learn normally. Hand preference may develop gradually during early childhood, so children should be allowed to develop their preference without pressure.
Are there equal percentages of left-handed boys and girls?
Not exactly. International studies generally find a slightly higher percentage of left-handed boys than girls. Some estimates place the figure at approximately 11% for boys and 9% for girls, although the percentages vary depending on the age group, the population studied, and how left-handedness is defined or measured. Overall, approximately 8% to 13% of the world’s population is left-handed.
How can we help?
Allow children to naturally choose the hand they prefer to use.
Do not move objects from one hand to the other or force them to write with their right hand.
Provide left-handed scissors, can openers, desks, and other adapted materials.
Position the paper at a slight angle to the right to make writing easier.
Teach a comfortable writing position so children can see what they are writing.
When necessary, seat them so their elbow does not collide with that of a right-handed classmate.
Give them enough time to learn new movements without comparing them to other children.
Recognize their achievements and address difficulties without attributing them to left-handedness.
Encourage communication between families and educators so adaptations are consistent.
Left-handedness does not determine a child’s intelligence, personality, or abilities. Adult support should focus on removing barriers, respecting each child’s hand preference, and providing the tools needed to learn safely and confidently.
