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.