Dear Marianne,
My name is Cherie Stephenson and I am currently teaching pre-k 4 this year. I was in Richardson , TX at one of your classes and you mentioned children who cannot sit "criss-cross apple sauce" and tend to sit with legs in a "w" shape. I have 2 children who do just that and struggle with holding a pencil correctly!!! I cannot remember what you said in regards to how they sit but was wondering if you could refresh my memory. I was just wondering what you said in regards to sitting differently. Both children say they cannot sit the other way...it hurts.
Thank you for your time!
Cherie Stephenson
Mansfield, TX.
Greetings Early Childhood Educators and Parents,
Cherie's comment and question regarding "W" sitting is excellent! Observe your students today and see how they sit on the floor at school and home. "W" sitting compromises knee and hip joint positioning and inhibits trunk stability needed for sitting and developing proficient hand skills. Unfortunately, children may develop a habit for "W" sitting as a way to establish increased stability in the body when sitting when they cannot assume and maintain the criss-cross sitting position.
"W" sitting should be gently, but firmly discouraged. I recommend allowing a variety of sitting positions if kiddos are struggling or have pain sitting in the criss-cross (tailor) position. All of the following positions support healthy joint development and learning.
Recommended Sitting Positions (see sidebar pictures):
1. Long sit with legs straight out in front
2. Side sit with both legs bent and tucked to one side
3. Laying on tummy propped up on elbows
4. Laying on back propped up on elbows with knees slightly bent
5. Sitting on a small to medium-sized ball with feet connected firmly with the ground is a fun way to sit and gain coordination at the same time.
Students will move in and out of positions when sitting on the floor - that is natural and the way kids learn to manage their bodies in space. Just as one size does NOT fit all, one sitting position will never accommodate the sitting needs of all children. Young children learn best when their bodies are safely and comfortably positioned. When you support a variety of appropriate sitting positions, you are setting all children up for success!
Have a great week...Write Out of the Box!
Marianne MOT, OTR |
