How ‘W Sitting’ Can Impact Development
Did you know the way your child sits muscles for sitting. can impact his or her development? X It can limit trunk rotation and Sometimes you will see children sit crossing the midline of the body. in a “W” formation, which consists of them sitting on the floor on their X It may also delay the integration of infant reflexes which could bottoms with knees bent and rotated lead to bunny hopping or butt on the floor behind them. scooting instead of crawling. This position is typical for This can lead to coordination children under 12 months, as they problems later in life with will transition in and out of it developmental milestones such when beginning to learn to walk. as skipping, bike riding and However, it does become a concern swimming. when “W” sitting is your child’s primary way of sitting, because X It can cause problems with decreased stability in the trunk core muscles are not fully engaged. and hips which creates weak Without a stable core, a child’s core muscles. shoulder and wrist stability may be weak, and this may affect fine motor X It creates future orthopedic X Feet sitting (kneel with feet issues with your child’s hips, development, which is crucial in the together and sit on feet or tall knees, and feet. early childhood years. kneel) X It creates tightness in the When you notice your child “W” hamstrings, hip adductors, sitting, encourage him or her to sit internal rotators and heel cords. like one of the suggestions above As a parent, what can I do to by using a verbal cue such as “fix your feet” and/or modeling for your prevent “W” sitting? child. Here are some alternative ways to If your child refuses to sit in a encourage your child to sit: different position, encourage him or X Tailor sitting (criss-cross their her to sit on a chair, a bench/stool, legs) or a pillow instead. Remember, the Why is “W” sitting discouraged? X Ring sitting (round sit without longer the habit is allowed to occur, ankles crossing) X This position limits active trunk the harder it will be to break in the control and development of core X Long sitting (legs out front) future.
