Goal: Trunk Control, Eye Movement Development, Attention and Focus, Reflex Integration.

Even though your child is sitting, they still continue to be working on development of their gross motor skills. It is recommended to avoid W-sitting, which is sitting on the bottom, knees in front, and legs bent so that feet are next to the hips. Remember to encourage your child to sit up straight and avoid slouching.

Goal: Shoulder Girdle Strength, Core and Extension Strength, Reflex Integration

Playing in quadruped (hands/knees) is very beneficial, especially after sitting for long periods of time. As therapists, we often encourage children to get on your hands and knees. It is very important to make sure the hands are down flat against the floor and not in a tented up position weight bearing on the thumb webspace. You can play a game in this position, work on a puzzle, or or try some arts and crafts. It's wonderful for adults too!

Goal: Hip and Pelvis Strength, Core Strength, Postural Control, Balance

Playing a game? Working on school work? High (or tall) kneeling is when the child is on their knees and their bottom is not resting on their feet. It is a wonderful position to have your child in to build strength while performing activities. 1/2 kneeling ("one foot-one knee) is when one foot is on the ground and one knee is on the ground. This is more of a balance challenge. Be sure you work both legs! You can also practice have your child stand up from this position without using their hands to pull up or for support. Have them put their hands on their elevated knee and push through there when moving to stand.

This is a wonderful activity that combines gross motor skills and pre-writing activities by encouraging weight bearing and weight shifting through the arms. Enjoy!