Before understanding the relationship
between bilateral co-ordination and occupational therapy, we need to
understand what bi lateral co-ordination is. Bilateral co-ordination (bilateral integration) is the ability to
use both sides of the body at the same time. It may be referred to the ability
of either sides of the body for doing different tasks such as stabilizing a
paper with one hand and writing with the other hand. This allows you to play
and work with smooth body movements. It supports a child’s development of fine motor skills, ability to use tools and
ability to visually track a moving object.
Children learn to use both sides of their body in different stages
eventually.
Being able to co-ordinate both
sides of the body are an indication that both sides of the brain are
communicating and sharing information with each other. Having good bilateral co-ordination enables
the hands and feet to work together well. This helps in many daily activities
like walking, climbing stairs, playing, writing etc.
When a child has poor bilateral
co-ordination, it is challenging and difficult to achieve their basic daily
activities. Children with poor bilateral
co-ordination may struggle with gross motor activities such as jumping,
catching a ball etc. They may also struggle with fine gross motor activities
such as shoe lace tying, threading beads, drawing a line with a ruler etc. Bilateral integration skills are essential
for many areas of your child’s life.
Bilateral activities may involve Symmetrical movements or Alternative movements. In symmetrical movements an individual uses
both sides of the body at the same time, eg: whereas in alternative movements both sides are used alternatively, for eg:
rope climbing.
The vestibular system (which is situated in the inner ear helps the
brain to process movements, information) plays an important role in a child’s
physical movements. Children with poor vestibular processing may well have
delayed bilateral integration abilities. For this reason many occupational
therapists use movement activities in their therapy sessions to boost bilateral
co-ordination skills, for eg: jumping on a trampoline, rolling on the grass,
going down a slide and doing somersaulting etc.
One of the goals of the
occupation therapy is to help children strengthen their upper body and
bilateral co-ordinations through a series of games and exercises. Occupational
therapy helps these children to be as independent as they can be. This makes
them competent to complete tasks on their own at home and school. An individualized program is usually created
for the children with inputs taken from parents and teachers. Occupational
therapist provides Home Programs for practice at home to develop necessary
skills.
When your child exhibits problems
in activities involving both sides of the body despite repeated attempts or
keeps away from play activities, please be alert and do not hesitate to consult
an occupational therapist.
