Proprioception – body awareness
The proprioceptive system tells us where our body is in space.
It relies on information from muscles and joints.
Proprioception helps us:
- control movement
- judge force and pressure
- coordinate actions
Signs of proprioceptive differences
Children may:
- bump into objects
- use too much or too little force
- seek deep pressure
- enjoy jumping, crashing or climbing
Why sensory seeking helps regulation
Activities that provide deep pressure or muscle resistance can help regulate the nervous system.
Examples include:
- carrying heavy objects
- pushing or pulling activities
- squeezing putty or clay
- jumping on trampolines
These activities can improve focus, calmness and body awareness.