Vestibular system – balance and movement
The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps control:
- balance
- posture
- coordination
- spatial awareness
It also plays an important role in attention and emotional regulation.
Vestibular sensitivity
Some children may feel dizzy or unsafe with movement.
They may avoid:
- swings
- climbing
- spinning
- fast movement
Vestibular seeking
Other children crave movement and may:
- spin frequently
- jump or bounce
- rock back and forth
- struggle to sit still
Movement helps some children regulate their nervous system and focus.
Sensory circuits
Some schools use sensory circuits, which are short movement routines designed to regulate the nervous system.
These typically include:
- alerting activities (jumping, bouncing)
- organising activities (balance, coordination)
- calming activities (deep pressure, stretching)
Research suggests these activities can help improve attention, regulation and readiness to learn.
