The proprioceptive systems are housed within our joints. It recognizes our body in space and contributes to body awareness. Proprioception input is provided when our joints are compressed. Adequate daily proprioception is closely paired with self-regulation.
This system helps with:
- Body awareness and body schema
- Posture
- Coordination
- Self-regulation
- Grading the pressure of objects and movements
- Complete activities without having to use vision (walking while talking to someone)
- Motor planning
- Knowing where our body is while we move through the environment
Some behaviors we may see due to sensory challenges within the proprioceptive system include:
- Emotional outbursts, crying, and avoiding play
- Fidgeting
- Taking unsafe movement risks
- Drapes self over furniture or others
- Walks loudly or heavily
A few activities that can be used to improve the proprioceptive system:
- Climbing, jumping, running, pushing, pulling
- Yoga
- Animal walks (bear walks, crab walks, bunny hops, etc.)
- Riding a bike or scooter
- Activities without using vision
- Swimming
- Squeezing activities (stress ball, play-dough, etc.)
- Use a heavy blanket or lap pad
- Crashes into a crash pad or jumps
- Pillow fights
- Tug-of-war
- Playing with weighted balls
- Carry groceries