Supporting One-Handed Dressing: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

Learning to get dressed using one hand can feel challenging, but with the right strategies and support, children can build confidence and independence. From a therapy perspective, success comes from making a task simpler, using adaptive techniques, and allowing plenty of time for practice. Below are key principles often used to support one-handed dressing. Within the pediatric setting, these strategies could be used for quadriplegia.

Start with smart task setup

● Dress the weaker or more affected arm first and undress it last

● Use flat surfaces (i.e., bed, table, lap) to help stabilize clothing

● Choose clothing that reduces fine motor demands, such as pull over shirts, elastic

waistbands and Velcro fasteners

Use adaptive strategies and tools

● Zipper pulls and button hooks can make closures more manageable

● Sock aids and adapted shoe fasteners support lower body dressing

● Tools are used to increase independence, not replace skill development

Focus on practice and problem solving

● Encourage repeated practice within daily routines

● Allow extra time and avoid rushing the process

● Support children in experimenting with different techniques that work best for their

bodies

Promote independence through confidence

● Celebrate effort and small success

● Gradually reduce support as skills improve

● Collaborate with caregivers to ensure strategies carry over at home and school

With consistent support and flexible strategies, dressing can become more than a daily task - it can be a meaningful opportunity for children to build independence, autonomy, and self-confidence.

Sources:

AboutKidsHealth. (n.d.). I can do it myself! Dressing and other daily living skills for children

with one-arm weakness.

https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/globalassets/assets/i_can_do_it_myself.pdf

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (n.d.). When hands need help: Dressing with weak

hands or one hand. Together by St. Jude. https://together.stjude.org/en-us/medical-care/rehabilitation/when-hands-need-help.html