Types of Grasping Chopsticks and Their Functionality in Typically Developing Preschool Children

Abstract

Objective: In Asia, chopsticks are popular eating utensils, and the use of chopsticks is closely related to food culture. Therefore, the type in which children grasp chopsticks and the functionality of these grasping patterns are important for occupational therapists. The purpose of this study was to investigate the various types of grasping chopsticks in typically developing preschool children and compare the functionalities of these types.

Methods: We investigated various types of grasping chopsticks in 102 typically developing preschool children. There were 72 preschool children who performed four types of chopstick operation tasks: two pick-up and carry tasks, a scoop-up and carry task, and a cut task. These task scores were compared between the traditional and untraditional grasping types.

Results: Within the 102 participants, we found the traditional and four untraditional grasping types. There was no significant difference between the traditional and untraditional grasping types in the “pick-up and carry” and “scoop-up and carry” task scores (p > 0.05). For all grasping types, the “cut task” score was low.

Conclusion: There were no differences in functionality between traditional and untraditional grasping types. Furthermore, we found that functionality was affected by food shape. These results may provide insights on interventions during meals, especially for children who are learning how to use chopsticks.