From time to time readers contact me with questions regarding parenting issues. I love receiving those inquiries and I always try to answer them to the best of my ability, based on my own experience as a mother of four. However, some questions are so unique or complex that I have to seek the advice of a professional, which I am always happy to do.
Recently a mom wrote me about an issue she’s having at her son’s preschool and she didn’t know if the teachers were warranted in their concern. I have a little experience in this particular matter, but I felt that consulting a group of professionals would give her the in-depth answer she deserved. Her son’s preschool teacher recently brought it to her attention that her son (4 years old) “W-sits” when they have circle time on the carpet. Her questions to me were along the lines of “why is that a concern, what can I do, and who can help me?”
[bctt tweet=”Why is W-Sitting such a big deal? The experts answer. Help your child develop healthy habits early! #W-Sitting “]
The Experts:
I contacted Lauren and Claire from “The Inspired Treehouse“. They are Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapists – and moms, so their professional and personal experience make them the perfect dynamic duo to address this issue. I have followed their blog for a while and I often share their content because their articles break down the clinical terms of childhood development and make them relatable for parents.
Like the mom who wrote me, I have also noticed that one of our boys W-sits much more than the others. So what IS W-sitting and why is it a big deal?
Lauren & Claire were thrilled to help us understand why W-sitting needs to be addressed and how.
WHAT is W-sitting:
W-sitting looks like this: a child sits on the floor, his bottom is between their legs, and his knees are bent with legs rotated away from the body – if you stand above him and look down, it looks like his legs are forming a “W”. All children have the potential to begin the W-sitting habit. In this position, a child’s base of support is wider and his center of gravity is lower, allowing for increased stability through the hips and trunk. It’s a convenient position for play because they do not have to work on keeping their balance while also concentrating on toys.
WHY does it need to be addressed – and HOW?:
Thank you Lauren and Claire.
Which developmental milestone did your child just reach? Do you have any questions for Lauren and Claire?
For more great advice about your child’s developmental milestones follow The Inspired Treehouse on:
Their website, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter
Thanks so much for sharing the information about w-sitting Tove!!
I had heard about this once but never bothered to check it out. I have no idea if my kids W-sit or not. Now I’ll be more watchful to see!
Wow! What an interesting post! I am a pediatric healthcare writer and this is a topic I have never covered for one of my clients. I STILL sit like this, have a ton of problems with my legs and now I know why. My mom used to sit like this and she has problems with her legs and now my boys sit like this and and I am going to break the cycle. I just happened to see your post on Pinterest and I am so glad I did. 🙂
THANK YOU for reading and I am glad you found it useful. My 6 year old w-sits and it looks “painful” when he does – so that’s why I started to research it.
I’ve never even heard of w sitting but will look out for it. I won’t be seeing this for awhile since my little one’s milestone is lifting up her head for tummy time.
Thanks for sharing! I’ve heard about W sitting but never concrete details from experts.