Movement
Signs your child is overstimulated by movement
Some people can be overstimulated by movement. They may:
- avoid big movements
- avoid playground equipment
- be nervous of challenging activities
- get sick easily in a car or plane
- be hesitant going up or down staircases, travellators, escalators or lifts
Supporting a child who’s overstimulated by movement
You can support someone who gets overstimulated by movement by:
- pre-warning the child ahead of new or challenging movement activities
- doing calming movements such as stretching or chair push-ups ahead of a time where there will be movement activities
- reducing other demands during movement activities. For example, can they transition at school when the corridors are less busy or visit the park during quieter times
- gradually build up the demands of the task at the child’s pace. For example, start on smaller playground equipment
- choose activities for them to take part in where they will be successful
- offer choice between activities to encourage participation
- offer opportunities for activities without pressure. For example, when going to the park allow them to choose what they feel confident using
- break tasks into smaller steps
Signs your child is under stimulated by movement
Some people are under stimulated by movement. This might look like:
- seeking lots of movement
- always being on the go
- they cannot sit still
- chewing on clothing, pencils, fingers, nails
- rocking on their chair
Supporting someone under stimulated by movement
You can support someone under stimulated by movement by:
- warning them when there is going to be an expectation to stay seated or focus on a task
- giving movement breaks
- allowing options like standing rather than sitting
- reducing the duration of tasks
- using an air cushion or something similar which allows for movement whilst remaining in their seat
- having resistance bands around the leg of the chair to bounce or flick
- using of weighted equipment to reduce the need for movement
- sensory circuits and gym trails
- chewellery
- giving them crunchy or chewy snacks
- giving them thick liquids to drink through a straw