In the context of motor development, what is lateralization?

Lateralization refers to the process where one side of the body, typically the right or left hemisphere of the brain, becomes more dominant for skilled tasks. This phenomenon is crucial in motor development as it influences how individuals perform activities that require precision and coordination. For instance, most people tend to have a dominant hand that they use for writing, throwing, or other tasks, resulting from this lateralization process.

This dominance often leads to improved efficiency and skill in those tasks, as the brain creates stronger neural pathways associated with the dominant side. The development of lateralization is a key aspect of childhood development, affecting not only motor skills but also cognitive functions tied to each hemisphere of the brain. Thus, understanding lateralization helps in assessing and enhancing a child's motor abilities and overall development as they grow.