Every child has their own unique way of viewing and interacting with the world. This includes individualised responses to sensory information, especially when it comes to their sense of balance. Basically, everyone reacts differently to the “stuff” life throws at them.
Daily household activities provide vestibular, balance, or movement input, to help children organise their nervous systems and feel empowered along the way.
If you have read our previous blogs, you’ll know that vestibular input is any type of movement that results in a change of head position. When the head position changes and the body is moving, this registers through the inner ear in the nervous system.
Children who are sensitive to movement may become overstimulated when given rotary input (spinning) or when the head is inverted (handstand or upside down). Linear movement, in these cases, is the most calming type of vestibular input.
The goal is to combine the calming linear movements with “heavy” work to help kids focus throughout the day. Using functional heavy work activities is especially important during the colder months and holidays when our schedules are off, transitions are difficult, and there may be less outdoor activity due to the weather.
Engaging your kids in household chores not only helps them develop responsibility but can also develop their sense of balance. Here are some fun chores that can work on their vestibular system:
- SWEEPING: Give your kiddies a child-sized broom and let them sweep the floors. Encourage them to use big sweeping motions, twisting their torso from side to side as they move.
- VACUUMING: If your child is old enough and can handle a lightweight vacuum, let them push and manoeuvre it to provide vestibular input.
- MOPPING: Similar to sweeping, mopping involves large, rhythmic movements. Teach your child how to dip the mop into the bucket, wring it out, and then move it back and forth while using their body to generate the motion.
- WASHING WINDOWS: Provide your child with a spray bottle filled with water and a cloth or sponge. Show them how to spray the window and use big circular motions to clean it. This activity can involve reaching high and low, engaging their sense of balance.
- REARRANGING FURNITURE: Allow your child to help with rearranging furniture in a room. This task involves pushing, pulling, and spatial awareness as they figure out the best placement for each piece.
And don’t forget the Clamber Club bonus tip:
- CARRYING GROCERIES: Bringing in the groceries helps work those muscles and empowers your little ones at the same time. The work itself releases the calming chemicals in their bodies, which can be regulating, and at the same time, since the child is helping with household chores it gives them a sense of pride and accomplishment. Plus, as an added bonus, the whole family can get involved and make it fun.
Remember to make these chores enjoyable by turning them into games you have learned during your Clamber Club classes, playing our fantastic Clamber Club Action Songs, or getting your Jog the Frog plush toy to join in the fun. And finally, always prioritise safety and supervise children while they are performing household tasks.