When Kids Can't Sit Still: Understanding What Their Bodies Are Telling You

Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! d your child running, climbing, or crashing into things and wondered why movement seems to settle them rather than wind them up, this episode will get you thinking differently about what's driving that behavior. Today we're digging into proprioception—the often-overlooked sense that helps your child feel grounded, focused, and safe in their body. In the homeschool environment, you have the flexibility to adapt routines and learning spaces, but it can be hard to tell the difference between excess energy and your child's genuine need for sensory input. We'll unpack what proprioception really is, how it organizes both behavior and attention, and the subtle ways it shows up throughout your day—from breakfast routines to transitions and mealtimes. You'll learn why supporting this sense on purpose makes academic tasks easier and reduces power struggles—especially for children who struggle to sit still, stay on task, or manage big feelings. In this episode you'll hear about: Clear definition of Proprioception (with reference to the American Occupational Therapy Association – AOTA)Explanation of how proprioception works (muscles, joints, tendons, pressure, compression, stretching)Importance in everyday activities (e.g., holding objects, navigating steps, estimating force)Contrasting Proprioception and Vestibular SystemDefinition and function of the vestibular system (AOTA reference)How vestibular is the body's "GPS for movement"Key differences and interplay between the two systemsPractical Example: Tree ClimbingBreakdown of how both sensory systems work during tree climbingProprioceptive roles (grip, force, balance, stability)Vestibular roles (detecting upward movement, changes in balance/orientation)The Impact of Proprioceptive InputDeep muscle/joint input as calming and organizingWhy activities like tree climbing can regulate the nervous systemPractical Guidance for Parents & FamiliesRecognizing when children seek proprioceptive input (climbing, crashing, running)Rethinking discipline: supporting regulation needs vs. correcting behaviorsIntegrating Proprioception into the DayMorning routines and the benefits of early proprioceptive inputPractical sensory activities (carrying, pushing, wall push-ups, chair push-downs, resistance bands)Improved transitions to academic workProprioception Around MealtimesAddressing challenges like movement/chewing at mealsStrategies: involving kids in food prep, offering chewy/crunchy foods for oral inputOutcomes: better postural stability and engagementUsing Proprioception for Smoother TransitionsWhy transitions are dysregulatingIncorporating start-and-stop proprioceptive activities (e.g., obstacle courses, "mommy races")Group activities and teamwork (e.g., carrying bins, holding doors)Supporting Learning and AttentionImportance of body regulation for sustained attentionAssessing physical supports (e.g., foot support, alternative seating)Flexible learning setups in homeschooling (e.g., steps, couch, pillows, movement breaks) Links and Resources From Today's Show Download The Sensory Activities Guide HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers How Sensory Processing Issues Affect Kids In School Implications of Sensory Processing and Attentional Differences Associated With Autism in Academic Settings: An Integrative ReviewCheck Out Our Title Sponsor CTC MathCTC Math Free TrialEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting Success Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara KosinskiEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better HandwritingEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children Episode 72: Navigating Sensory Needs and Sibling Dynamics in Homeschooling Episode 75: Building Lifelong Healthy Habits One Simple Step at a Time: Encouragement for Homeschool Families Episode 81: Navigating Social Pressures, Masking, and Expectations Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, CTC Math. You can check out their FREE trial here.