Vestibular sense: balance and movement
The vestibular sense helps with balance, movement and knowing where the head and body are in space.
Vestibular seeking
May seek spinning, swinging, jumping, running, climbing, hanging upside down, rocking, rolling, bouncing or dancing.
Vestibular sensitivity
May avoid swings, slides, escalators, lifts, stairs, bikes, climbing frames, being tipped backwards, rough play or car journeys. May get dizzy, anxious or sick easily.
Vestibular support ideas
- Movement breaks
- Swings if enjoyed
- Rocking chair
- Trampolining
- Dance breaks
- Animal walks
- Balance games
- Scooter boards
- Gentle movement before demanding tasks
- Gradual exposure for movement-sensitive children
Safety note: Spinning can be very intense for the nervous system. Some children love it, but too much can lead to dysregulation, nausea or distress. Use short, supervised bursts and watch the child's response.
Do
- Provide safe movement opportunities
- Use movement before sitting tasks
- Notice if movement calms or excites the child
- Supervise climbing and spinning
Don't
- Use movement as punishment
- Force swings or slides
- Assume every child benefits from the same movement
- Overdo spinning or rough play