Summer days can be very long when no activities are planned and we are at home…
What to do on a summer day when the kids are at home all day?
This week, our Holiday tips will be related to our propioceptive system.
Propioception is responsible for the body’s ability to sense its position, movement, and force in space. And this kind of sensory information is organising and calming.
“Proprioception is information arising from the body, especially muscles, joints, ligaments and receptors associated with the bones.”
Ayres, 1972
Here are some ideas of proprioceptive games that can help to keep all family members regulated and of course, having fun!
“Animal races”
Running different types of races is always fun — but adding proprioceptive input makes it even more enjoyable and regulating! Animal walks, wheelbarrow races, or jumping challenges… all involving crawling, jumping, pushing, pulling, or carrying weight. It’s a great way for kids and parents to play together, move their bodies, and have fun while supporting regulation and sensoriomotor development.
“Family yoga”
Practising yoga poses with the whole family involved is always a good idea.
You can always follow a YouTube video or create different poses to activate the proprioceptive system. Poses in which the weight is on the arms are so proprioceptive, also balance poses involve this sensory system, besides the vestibular system.
Yoga in general is a really proprioceptive practice that can support kids’ regulation.
“Alternative sports”
Playing football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, or any other sport can be very creative. You can create your own rules by changing postures or equipment, for example!
Maybe one rule is that you must play on your knees, or crawling, or doing the crab pose… You can use balloons instead of balls, you can use noodles instead of raquels…all ideas welcome!
“Obstacle course or Ninja Warrior”
All family members can create an obstacle course at home or in the garden using any available materials. Creativity is key! You can use everyday household items like cushions, pillows, blankets, tables, and chairs to build tunnels, bridges, and unstable paths. The goal is to get kids moving—jumping, crawling, balancing, and walking along uneven routes—to help activate their proprioceptive system.
Next day we will dive into the vestibular system…
See you on the following Holiday tip post!