So what exactly is “Heavy Work”? Essentially, it is any activity that pushes or pulls against the body. It may help kids feel more regulated and can also help with their attention and arousal level. While performing these activities, our sense called proprioception, or body awareness is engaged. This form of sensory input to muscles and joints can be very calming and organizing for children. Often times, kids seek out heavy work input in order to help regulate themselves and may neglect safety doing so. Now that is it summer, it is the perfect time for kids to engage in safe, outdoor heavy work activities while enjoying the beautiful weather!
Here are some ideas:
Swim
Push a wheel barrow
Climb up a slide or playground equipment
Ride a bicycle or tricycle
Jump on a trampoline
Swing on monkey bars
Push a friend on a swing
Dig in the sandbox
Gather firewood
While correcting your child's sense of proprioception can be improved through the use of sensory integration therapy with an occupational therapist, these simple and fun outdoor activities will naturally improve proprioception as well.