Helping kids feel where their body is in space
🧠 What Is the Proprioceptive System?
The proprioceptive system uses signals from muscles and joints to tell the brain:
- Where the body is in space
- How much force to use
- How to move smoothly and accurately
It supports balance, coordination, motor skills, and body awareness.
🚩 Signs of Proprioceptive Difficulties
- Frequent tripping, falling, or clumsiness
- Plays too rough or breaks toys easily
- Struggles to adjust pressure when writing or drawing
- Needs to watch their feet when walking
- Constantly seeks intense movement (chewing, crashing, jumping)
🎯 Goals of Proprioceptive Activities
- Improve body awareness and movement control
- Support fine and gross motor development
- Help regulate touch and movement sensitivities
- Build a foundation for focus, learning, and play
🛠️ Proprioceptive Activities (a.k.a. “Heavy Work”)
🧺 Push & Pull
- Push/pull laundry baskets, wagons, or grocery carts
- Pull a parent on a swing or ride in a laundry basket
- Tug-of-war with a rope or theraband
🧗 Climb, Jump, Crash
- Climb playground equipment, pillows, or furniture
- Jump on trampolines, inner tubes, or air mattresses
- Crash into cushions or play “kid sandwich” between couch cushions
🐾 Animal Walks & Crawls
- Bear crawl, crab walk, frog jumps
- Commando crawl under blankets or over pillows
- Wheelbarrow walks or weight-bearing play on hands and knees
🧶 Rope & Resistance Play
- Pull a loaded wagon with a rope
- Walk around a rope laid in a figure 8
- Use therapy bands for resistance while sitting or standing
🏠 Creative Play
- Build and decorate a box fort
- Play “hot dog” game (roll up in a blanket and escape)
- Stack chairs, rearrange furniture, or help with chores
⚠️ Safety First
- Always supervise your child during activities
- Never force participation—make it fun and engaging
- If unsure, consult your therapist before trying new activities