Proprioception: body awareness
Proprioception tells the brain where the body is and how much force to use. It comes from muscles and joints. Proprioceptive input is often calming and organising.
Signs of proprioceptive seeking
Crashes into things, hugs tightly, leans on people, chews objects, pushes or pulls furniture, stomps, jumps heavily, likes weighted blankets or tight clothing, plays roughly, breaks pencils by pressing too hard, struggles with personal space.
Proprioceptive support ideas
Heavy work activities, carrying shopping bags, wall pushes, chair pushes, animal walks, tug of war, climbing, jumping, resistance bands, squeezing stress balls, chew-safe tools, weighted lap pads, deep pressure with consent.
Proprioceptive activities
Bear walks, crab walks, wheelbarrow walks, pushing laundry baskets, carrying books, helping with gardening, kneading dough, pulling weeds, sweeping, vacuuming, pillow squashes if wanted, obstacle courses, scooter board pulling, yoga poses.
Do
- Use heavy work before difficult routines
- Offer safe alternatives for crashing or chewing
- Build movement into daily life
- Notice if deep pressure calms the child
Don't
- Punish rough movement without offering alternatives
- Force deep pressure
- Use weighted items without guidance if there are safety concerns
- Ignore chewing if unsafe items are being used