Why Does My Child Have Trouble Sitting Still in School?
Many parents hear from teachers that their child struggles to sit still in school, making it difficult for them to focus and participate in lessons. While some fidgeting is normal for young children, consistent difficulty with sitting still can affect learning and classroom behaviour. If your child has trouble sitting still, you’re not alone—this is a common issue and can be caused by various factors such as sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, low muscle tone, or even boredom.
In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why children might struggle with sitting still in school and how Occupational Therapy in Bondi Junction and Mascot can help.
Common Reasons for Trouble Sitting Still
1. High Energy Levels
It’s natural for children, especially in their early school years, to have high energy levels. Children often find it difficult to stay in one place for long periods as they have lots of energy to burn.
What to look for: Your child may prefer active play over sitting still and may ask to move around frequently.
2. Sensory Processing Difficulties
Children with sensory processing challenges may either seek movement or become overwhelmed by their surroundings, making it difficult to sit still.
What to look for: Sensory seekers may rock or bounce, while sensory avoiders may struggle with certain textures or sounds, leading to discomfort in sitting still.
3. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Children with ADHD often have difficulty with impulse control, hyperactivity, and maintaining focus. They may feel the need to move frequently, even during seated activities.
What to look for: Excessive fidgeting, difficulty staying focused, impulsive behaviour, and frequently shifting between activities are signs to watch for.
4. Low Muscle Tone or Poor Postural Control
Children with low muscle tone or weak postural control may find sitting still physically uncomfortable. Low muscle tone refers to reduced muscle tension, making it harder to maintain a seated posture for long periods.
What to look for: Frequent slouching, leaning on desks or chairs, and shifting positions to find comfort are common signs.
5. Lack of Physical Activity
Not getting enough physical activity during the day can leave children restless and unable to sit still for lessons. Physical movement helps children release energy, allowing them to focus better.
What to look for: Restlessness often increases on days when your child hasn’t had enough time to play or exercise.
6. Boredom or Disengagement
Sometimes, children struggle to sit still because they are disengaged from the lesson. When tasks are too easy, too hard, or not interesting enough, children may seek distractions or movement.
What to look for: If your child sits still during enjoyable activities but becomes fidgety during challenging tasks, boredom or disengagement may be the cause.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
Occupational Therapy (OT) provides practical strategies to help children who struggle with sitting still. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, our Occupational Therapists in Bondi Junction and Mascot focus on improving children’s ability to manage energy, regulate sensory input, and strengthen core muscles. Here are some strategies that OT may recommend:
1. Incorporating Sensory Breaks
Children with sensory processing issues or ADHD benefit from sensory breaks—short periods of movement throughout the day. These breaks allow children to release energy and refocus.
How to use this at home or school: Teachers can schedule sensory breaks between lessons. At home, encourage movement breaks during homework, such as stretching or bouncing on a therapy ball.
2. Improving Core Strength and Postural Control
For children with low muscle tone or poor postural control, OT focuses on strengthening core muscles to help them sit upright comfortably for longer periods.
How to use this at home or school: Engage your child in activities like climbing, yoga, or balance exercises. Teachers may allow your child to sit on a wiggle cushion or therapy ball to promote better posture while providing movement.
3. Using Sensory Tools
Children with sensory processing difficulties often benefit from using sensory tools like fidget toys, which provide sensory input and help them stay focused while seated.
How to use this at home or school: Use sensory tools during seated activities such as reading or homework. In the classroom, fidget tools can help children focus without disrupting others.
4. Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment
Small adjustments in the classroom or home environment, such as reducing background noise or dimming lights, can make a significant difference for children with sensory challenges.
How to use this at home or school: Collaborate with teachers to modify the classroom environment. At home, create a calm, quiet space for homework or reading time.
5. Incorporating Physical Activity
Ensuring children get enough physical activity is key to helping them sit still and focus during lessons. OT encourages physical play to burn off excess energy.
How to use this at home or school: Encourage outdoor play, sports, or active games before and after school. Teachers can include physical activities, such as stretching or running, between lessons to help children focus.
Occupational Therapy Services in Bondi Junction and Mascot
If your child is having trouble sitting still in school, Occupational Therapy may be the solution. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we offer Occupational Therapy services in Bondi Junction and Mascot to support children with challenges like sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, and low muscle tone. Our experienced Occupational Therapists will assess your child’s needs and create a personalised plan to help them improve their ability to focus, sit comfortably, and participate fully in the classroom.
We’re Here to Support You
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Our clinics in Bondi Junction and Mascot provide a supportive environment where children can discover their strengths and overcome challenges. We combine innovative therapy techniques with a holistic approach to paediatric therapy.
Contact Us for Occupational Therapy in Bondi Junction and Mascot
If your child is struggling to sit still in school and you’re concerned about their development, contact OneOnOne Children’s Therapy. Our Occupational Therapists can help improve your child’s focus and ability to participate in school activities.
- Call us on (02) 8065 7837 or email us to learn more about how Occupational Therapy in Bondi Junction and Mascot can support your child.
- Book a phone consultation to discuss how we can help your child succeed.
Out OT’s are proud members of AHPRA.
