Proprioception Strategies

Proprioceptive activities help children by giving deep pressure input to their muscles and joints, which stimulates the proprioceptive system—the body’s internal sense of position, movement, and force. This kind of sensory input is especially important for children’s development, self-regulation, and functional independence.

Indoor Proprioceptive Activities for Children

Push a laundry basket filled with books or toys
Pull a blanket with stuffed animals or a sibling sitting on it
Play "tug of war" with a towel or rope
Wall push-ups (hands on the wall, push away with strength)
Jumping jacks, frog jumps, or squat jumps
Wrap up tightly in a blanket like a burrito ("deep pressure wrap")
Use a body sock or stretchy fabric tube to move and stretch in
Wipe windows or walls with pressure
Sweep, vacuum, or mop (child-size tools if needed)
Help carry laundry baskets or push full bins or switching over wet laundry from washer to dryer
Knead dough or help stir thick batter
Obstacle courses using furniture and pillows
Scavenger hunts that involve carrying and moving objects

Outdoor Proprioceptive Activities for Children

Climb on playground equipment (monkey bars, ladders, climbing walls)
Push a wheelbarrow filled with dirt, rocks, or toys
Pull a wagon with toys or a sibling inside
Help move garbage bins or garden tools
Push a toy lawnmower or shopping cart
Carry buckets of water, sand, or rocks (appropriate weight for the child)
Bring in groceries or help carry outdoor gear
Collect and carry sticks, pinecones, or gardening tools
Jump on a trampoline (mini or full-size with supervision)
Jump rope or hopscotch
Do frog jumps, long jumps, or jump challenges
Bear walks, crab walks, or army crawling on grass
Wheelbarrow walks (adult holds the child’s legs while they walk on hands)
Dig in the sandbox or beach using resistance
Squeeze water from sponges during water play
Rake leaves, dig holes, or shovel dirt
Water plants with a full watering can
Obstacle courses that involve crawling, lifting, and jumping

Equipment Options

Disclaimer: Equipment is not needed to support a child's proprioceptive input. See above examples that can include common household items.

Mini-Trampoline: This will provide vestibular sensory stimulation and heavy work. A handle on the mini trampoline increases safety and stability during use.
Sensory Swing: Hammock: A flexible fabric that wraps around the child, providing increased deep pressure. Multiple variations for use. Spins and swings.
Wiggle Cushion: Allow for movement and fidgeting while sitting to increase sitting tolerance for participation in circle time or sitting activities.

Disclaimer Statement: The links on this site have been reviewed by KidsInclusive staff; however we are not responsible for the contents of the links provided. Links are provided to assist families in learning as much as they can while they wait for their assessment and beyond. Many thanks to the various organizations we have linked to.

The content on this site was reviewed by KidsInclusive staff and is consistent with evidence-informed practice at the time of publishing.

These links and content do not replace the advice of doctors and therapists. Always consult with your therapist if you have questions or concerns.

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