18 Quick Midline Crossing Activities for Academic Tasks

These occupational therapy midline crossing activities are quick and easy to
use. They’re great for all developing brains, bodies and eyes!

I remember the confusion on my son’s face when I asked why he picked up his
pencil with his left hand. He was right-handed.

His response, “Because it was sitting there!” (on the left side)

He picked it up with his left hand and transferred it to his right hand at the
middle of his body.

The OT in me thought, “Oh no, he’s not crossing midline! He should have
reached across the middle of his body with his right hand to get his pencil!”

Of course, I placed it back down on his left side to have him reach for it again…
with his right hand, per mom’s request. I carefully analyzed his body position
and arm movements as he grabbed it.

OT-Mom relief… he effectively crossed his midline without rotating his trunk!

He gave me one of those looks, shook his head, and started his homework.

What is Midline Crossing?

Midline crossing, or crossing the midline, is when a person’s arm or leg crosses
the middle of the body to the other side.

Picture an imaginary line that goes from the top of the head through the nose,
neck, chest, and belly button. This line divides the body into left and right sides.
When a child crosses midline, their hand will reach across this imaginary line
to the other side of the body.

The important part to note, is that the trunk stays still – the body does not twist
– as the arm reaches across the middle.

You cross your midline when you put on your seatbelt or turn the steering wheel
for a sharp turn. Midline crossing is also required when washing your body,
putting on lotion, and getting dressed.

For kids, crossing the midline typically starts around age two. This skill
continues to develop as they grow.

It’s an important skill needed for completing daily motor tasks and academic
tasks.

Crossing midline and bilateral coordination skills help with the efficiency of
motor movements. Additionally, they help both sides of the brain communicate
for learning.