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Using Language as a Tool

Language is a crucial tool in encouraging a child to use both their affected and unaffected extremities outside of therapy. Not only does language remind the child to pay attention to the affected extremity, but also helps form neuronal connections in the brain which promotes a cognitive association for increased use of the affected extremity. Below are several tips for what language to use at home and how to use it. Different language may resonate better for one child versus another. Finding out which cues work best for your child may take trial and error. 

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Click the button below for a printable version. 

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Language Overall

  1. Keep language positive! 

Refrain from saying "not that hand" or "no" when the child attempts an activity intended for their affected extremity with their unaffected extremity. Instead, recognize that the unaffected extremity did the activity while redirecting attention to the affected extremity by saying something like:

  • "that was a good job right hand (unaffected), now let's give left hand (affected) a try". 

  • "this is left hand's (affected) job!" 

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This "turn-taking" of the hands can also help the child become less frustrated by separating the challenge of using the affected hand. 

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2. Acknowledge attempted use of the affected extremity, even if it doesn't go as planned. 

Learning how to use their affected extremity is hard work for the child. If the child tries to use their affected extremity and is struggling try saying something like: 

  • "I see you trying with left hand" 

  • "Keep trying you're almost there!" 

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3. Celebrate successful use of the affected extremity.

Reward the child's hard work of using their affected extremity by saying something like:

  • "Right hand is so strong!" 

  • "Right arm can do so much!"

  • "Good job right hand opening and closing"

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4. Say language in a demeanor that matches the child's at the moment, whether this is calm or energetic. 

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Language to Encourage Use of Both Hands Together: 

If you notice the affected arm has stopped participating in an activity such as holding on to both chains of the swing, say something like

  • "Where's right hand?"

  • "Two hands" or "Both hands"

Language to Encourage Specific Motions:

Grasp

While encouraging the child to hold onto or grab something from an open hand you might say something like: 

  • "Squeeze tight!"

  • "Right/Left hand squeeze" 

  • "Hold tight" 

  • "Fingers closed" 

Release

While encouraging the child to let go of something they are grasping you might say something like: 

  • "Right/Left hand open"

  • "Fingers open" 

Elbow Extension

While encouraging the child to reach out and straighten their elbow, you might say something like: 

  • "Reachhhhh right/left hand"

  • "Elbow straight" 

(Pushing into something)

  • "Big push right/left hand" 

Shoulder Flexion

While encouraging the child to reach for something you might say something like: 

  • "Big reach two hands"

  • "Two hands up" 

  • "Right/left hand up"

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