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