One child is rocking. Another is leaning against you. Someone else has changed sitting positions six times before you've finished the story.
We often talk about attention during group time. But I also want educators to think about the physical effort involved in sitting.
Sitting still is a physical task too
Postural endurance, balance and body awareness influence how comfortable a child feels while sitting. Some children find remaining in one position tiring; others use movement to stay alert.
A child can be listening while moving. The goal should be meaningful participation, not perfectly still bodies.
Let's make this practical
What could you try tomorrow?
Choose a situation and turn the card over to reveal a practical idea.
IDEA 1A child keeps leaning on othersWhat might their body be telling us?Reveal the strategy
Offer different comfortable positions, such as a low chair, side sitting, standing nearby or changing positions. Watch whether the child participates more easily when their body is supported.
Close strategyIDEA 2Several children wriggle after a few minutesCould we change the experience?Reveal the strategy
Shorten the time spent sitting and include actions, movement, props or opportunities to stand. Notice whether involvement improves when children can participate physically.
Close strategyIDEA 3A child avoids floor activitiesWhere else could learning happen?Reveal the strategy
Try puzzles at a low table, drawing on a vertical surface or an activity in kneeling or standing. Offer movement variety without forcing uncomfortable positions.
Close strategyRather than repeatedly saying 'sit still', what could we change about the position, activity or length of time?
WATCH ROBYN EXPLAIN
Let's look at this in practice
I've shared a short video on Instagram exploring this area of children's development and everyday practice.
If the video doesn't load here, select Watch on Instagram.
A preferred sitting position alone does not diagnose a movement difficulty. Discuss persistent pain, unusual fatigue or significant participation difficulties with the family and an appropriate professional.
MORE SUPPORT FOR YOUR TEAM
Want more ideas for your kindergarten?
I have professional learning and practical resources covering this topic, alongside movement, play, sensory development, regulation and learning readiness.
If your educators are experiencing similar challenges, my free PD Needs Check can help identify two professional learning sessions relevant to your team.
Two live, 30-minute staff meeting webinars are currently available for $850 including GST under the early-booking offer.
HAVE A QUESTION?
Ask me about your kindergarten's challenges
If something in this article sounds familiar, you're welcome to send me a quick message. Tell me what your team is noticing, and I'll read your question personally.
Please don't include children's names or other identifying or sensitive information.