The Vestibular System

 

 

 

The vestibular system is housed within our inner ear. It is responsible for detecting head position with respect to gravity and spatial orientation. The vestibular system allows us to coordinate movement for balance and posture.

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This system helps with:

Balance

Posture

Muscle tone

Bilateral coordination

Visual skills of tracking, convergence, and saccades

Spatial skills

Motor planning

Alertness 

Some behaviors we may see due to sensory challenges within the vestibular system include:

Loss of balance and experiences frequent falls 

Leaning against furniture or people for support

Holding their head in their hands while seated

Rocking in a chair or when standing

Becomes overly excited following movement activities

Demonstrates caution, hesitation, or fear before moving or having their feet off of the ground (gravitational insecurity)

Moves slowly or stiffly

A few activities that can be used to improve the vestibular system:

Swinging, spinning, bouncing, rocking, dancing

Scooter board activities

Zoom ball

Playing a matching game

Word Searches

Crossword Puzzles

Playing sports (soccer, baseball, basketball, etc.)

Blowing bubbles

Midline crossing activities

Yoga

Movement Games

Red Light, Green Light

Mr Fox, Mr Fox, What Time Is It?

Simon Says

Playing on playground equipment

Sliding

Climbing

Monkey bars

Swinging