We’re probably all familiar with the five senses that help us experience our world: sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing.
People with expertise in how our senses work and what happens when they’re out-of-sync often include two more senses: proprioceptive and vestibular.
Proprioceptive
Refers to our awareness of body movement (where a certain body part is and how it is moving). It helps us do things like automatically remember how to go up and down steps.
Vestibular
Refers to our sense of balance and how our bodies move in space. It helps prevent dizziness.
As many as 1 in 20 children have difficulties processing the information received through their senses. How do you know if a child has a problem with their proprioceptive or vestibular sense, and what can you do to help?
Symptoms of Sensory Issues
Proprioception
Bumps into people, furniture or walls; accidentally spills when pouring or drinking; has poor body awareness and can’t figure out what to do to make their body complete a task.
Vestibular Sense
Seems clumsy and moves awkwardly; is excessively cautious on stairs; has trouble tracking a moving object; fidgets constantly; gets dizzy easily or never seems to get dizzy; avoids changes in head position; avoids or craves moving playground equipment.
Potential Activities and Equipment for Children with Body Movement and Balance Issues
Proprioception System
Stress balls and modeling clay; weighted vests or hats; heavy work activities such as whole body actions (pushing pulling, lifting); oral actions like chewing and blowing; using hands for squeezing or pinching (objects, not other children!)
Vestibular Sense
(Depending on whether the sense is over- or under-active): tumbling; slow repetitive rhythmic movements such as swaying in a rocking chair; firm pressure on the body from hugs; outdoor and indoor swings; rocking toys, balancing boards, spinning toys
Two Important Reminders
- Make sure physical activity is part of the routine every day. These children need it!
- Don’t hesitate to get advice from a qualified occupational therapist about effective proven strategies and treatments.
Concerned about your child’s development? Call Pennsylvania’s CONNECT Helpline at 1-800-692-7288 for information about your child’s development and connecting to Early Intervention Services in Pennsylvania.
Resources
Call Pennsylvania’s CONNECT Helpline at 1-800-692-7288 for information about your child’s development and connecting to Early Intervention Services in Pennsylvania.
Get information about the Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Project.
Click here to print the infographic: Sensory Issues: Body Movement and Balance