The way our bodies move and interact with the world is guided by an intricate communication system between the brain, muscles, and nervous system. This system helps us coordinate movement, maintain balance, and understand our body’s position in space. For children, developing this sense is crucial in learning to navigate their environment confidently and effectively.
What Is Proprioception?
Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense its position, movement, and force without relying on sight. Often called the “sixth sense,” it helps us understand where our body parts are and how they are moving, even when we’re not looking at them.
This system works through a constant exchange of signals between the brain and muscles. The brain receives information from receptors in the muscles, joints, and tendons about pressure, strength, and range of movement, allowing it to interpret how the body functions and interacts with its surroundings. At the same time, the brain sends messages back to the muscles, guiding movements with the right amount of force, speed, and coordination.
“Proprioceptive information comes from signals within the muscles about pressure, strength, and movement, helping us understand our body’s position and actions.”
Everyday Examples of Proprioception
- Walking without looking at your feet – Your brain instinctively controls your movement without needing visual confirmation.
- Typing on a keyboard – Fingers move precisely, guided by proprioceptive feedback rather than sight.
- Catching a ball – Your body reacts to speed, force, and distance automatically.
The Importance of Proprioception for Children
Proprioception plays a vital role in a child’s physical coordination, balance, and overall development. It helps them control their movements, regulate their energy levels, and interact effectively with their environment. A well-functioning proprioceptive system allows children to engage in activities such as running, jumping, and writing without having to consciously focus on each movement. It also supports emotional regulation, helping children feel secure in their bodies and reducing anxiety or restlessness.
When proprioceptive feedback is functioning well, children can move confidently and maintain focus. However, when it is inefficient—often due to low or fluctuating muscle tone or a lack of energetic activity—children may experience difficulty with coordination, motor planning, and self-regulation. This can lead to challenges in daily activities and increased anxiety.
Signs of Proprioceptive Dysfunction
Children who struggle with proprioception may exhibit:
- Clumsiness, frequently tripping or bumping into objects.
- Difficulty with motor planning, making it hard to coordinate movements like jumping or catching a ball.
- Poor fine motor skills, such as trouble with handwriting or using utensils.
- Using excessive or insufficient force (e.g., pressing too hard when writing or struggling to grip objects).
- Seeking sensory input by crashing into objects, engaging in rough play, or constantly fidgeting.
- Low muscle tone, appearing weak, floppy, or easily fatigued during physical activities.
Children who are not receiving strong proprioceptive messages often have trouble with bilateral coordination and upper-limb coordination. They may be described as clumsy, floppy, distractible, or hyperactive.
What Can You Do to Support Your Child’s Proprioceptive Development?
Engaging children in activities that provide deep pressure and resistance can help improve proprioception and coordination. Some effective activities include:
- Push ups;
- Chair pull downs;
- Tug of war;
- Playdough;
- Carrying heavy items (eg. Wet laundry, tinned goods, groceries).
Incorporating these activities into daily routines, children can strengthen their proprioceptive system, improve coordination, and develop better self-regulation skills.
For more information on how ATS can support your child’s movement, coordination, and sensory development, visit the different service pages:
Paediatric Occupational Therapy
Or fill out the form below:
