Meltdowns, Frustrations, Inability to Tolerate Change and More??????????? Heavy Work Might Be the Missing Piece!
Does your child seem to be constantly on the move? Do they love to crash, jump, and climb on everything in sight? While it can be exhausting at times, this might actually be your child's way of seeking out the sensory input they need to feel regulated and calm.
As a pediatric physical therapist, I often work with children who crave proprioceptive input, also known as "heavy work." This type of input comes from activities that push, pull, and challenge their muscles and joints. Think of it like a big bear hug for their nervous system!
Why is Heavy Work Important?
Heavy work activities help children:
- Develop body awareness: It helps them understand where their body is in space.
- Regulate their sensory system: This leads to better emotional control and focus.
- Build strength and stability: Important for gross motor skills and coordination.
- Calm and focus: Heavy work can have a grounding effect, reducing anxiety and improving attention.
The Highs and Lows of Sensory Seeking
It's important to understand that sensory seeking isn't just about constant movement. Children who crave heavy work may experience a rollercoaster of emotions and behaviors throughout the day.
-
Emotional Highs: They might seem exhilarated and joyful when engaging in sensory-seeking activities, like climbing high on the playground or roughhousing with friends.
-
Emotional Lows: When they don't get enough proprioceptive input, they might become irritable, restless, or even have meltdowns. Frustration and struggles with transitions are also common.
-
Difficulty with Change: Sensory seekers often thrive on routine and predictability. Changes in their environment or schedule can throw their sensory system off balance, leading to increased anxiety and challenging behaviors.
Why Parents Might Miss the Signs
Sometimes, parents may not recognize these emotional highs and lows as signs that their child needs more heavy work. They might see the constant movement as misbehavior or defiance instead of a way to self-regulate.
It's crucial for parents to understand that providing opportunities for heavy work isn't just about managing behavior. It's about helping their child feel safe, secure, and in control of their body and emotions.
Heavy Work Activities You Can Try at Home:
The good news is that you don't need fancy equipment to incorporate heavy work into your child's day. Here are a few ideas:
Chores that Count:
- Carrying laundry baskets
- Pushing or pulling a loaded wagon or shopping cart
- Helping with yard work (raking leaves, shoveling snow)
- Loading and unloading groceries
- Vacuuming or mopping
Playtime Power-Ups:
- Climbing on playground equipment
- Wheelbarrow walks and animal walks
- Playing tug-of-war
- Building forts with blankets and pillows
- Rolling or crawling through tunnels
- Jumping on a trampoline
Creative and Calming:
- Playing with playdough or theraputty
- Digging in the sand or dirt
- Carrying weighted stuffed animals or backpacks
Remember: Every child is different. What works for one might not work for another. If you're concerned about your child's sensory needs or behavior, it's always a good idea to reach out to an occupational therapist for personalized guidance.