Core strength is very important for children’s development. It is the development of the torso muscles that stabilise, align, and move the trunk of the body. Poor core strength can cause poor posture which can also affect gross motor and fine motor skills. Building a strong core is like building a strong foundation for your child.
How does core strength develop?
Core strength development starts as an infant. Ever wonder why “tummy time” is so important? When an infant has an opportunity to lie on his tummy, he learns to lift his head which helps to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles. This will help the infant to begin supporting the weight of his own head and to be able to look around in response to sounds. It will also prepare the infant for such developmental milestones such as crawling, rolling over, and sitting up independently.
What does core strength help you do?
The ability to balance, perform co-ordinated movements, sit up straight, sits relatively still in a chair, write with a pencil, use scissors or jump and run is pretty hard if you don’t have a strong core. For school aged children, the best way to develop a strong core is through good old fashioned outdoor play! Children need daily opportunities to run, jump, climb, crawl and explore in an unstructured environment.
Why do so many children have weak core muscles these days?
Our Occupational Therapists find that more and more kids are having difficulty with posture and overall strength. This could be due to a number of reasons including:
- An increase in the number of children who have developmental delays
- Children spending more time sitting in the classroom, rather then being physically active
- Children spending a lot more time on electronic devices rather than playing with their friends in the backyard
The core muscles are the muscles in the abdomen, back and pelvis. The key to strengthening these muscles is to use them and have fun while you do it. The Occupational Therapists in our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics are able to engage your cild in great activities so that they can develop strength in their core. When your child develops strength in their core, they will find it easier to:
- balance
- perform co-ordinated movements
- sit up straight instead of ‘W’ sitting
- sits relatively still in a chair
- write with a pencil
- use scissors
- jump and run
- play with their friends
We’re here to support you
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Our clinics are not just a space for therapy – it’s a place where children can discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.
By combining innovative therapy techniques with a stimulating and supportive environment, we’re proud to offer a holistic approach to paediatric therapy and early intervention that addresses the unique needs of each child we support.
Reach out for support
If you’re concerned about your child’s development or want to learn more about how Occupational Therapy can help your child, OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is here to help.
Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics on (02) 80657837 or email. You can book a free 30 minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey
