If Your Child Ever Sits in This Position, Stop Them Immediately

POSTED ON January 12, 2016 BY Kat Gal

Written by: Kat Gal

Guilty as charged. As a kid I used to sit for hours on end in the “W” position while playing.

This is not unusual at all, but actually a very common sitting position used by children.

No matter how common it is though, after reading this, please, NEVER let your child sit this way. Pinky promise.

What Is W-Sitting?

If your child is sitting with his or her knees bent, feet tucked under, and legs splayed out to the side looking like a “W,” they are “W-sitting.” Sitting this way keeps your kiddo supported and secure; however, when doing it for too long, it can negatively impact a his or her development.

It’s true. My husband, for example, has been dealing with knee issues ever since his childhood as a result.

Though not everyone will experience negative or life-long consequences from W-sitting, it is certainly elevating their risk.

Negative consequences of W-Sitting may include (due to unnecessary strain on the body):

Orthopedic problems
Delayed development of postural control and stability
Delayed development of refined motor skills

Extensive and/or exclusive W-Sitting may put extra stress on:

Hamstrings
Hip Abductors
Internal Rotators
Heel Cords

W-Sitting may also lead to:

Dislocation of joints
Shortened muscles
Tightened muscles
Problems with balance and coordination
Bad posture
Weakened trunk muscles

What YOU can do to prevent W-Sitting:

When sitting on the floor, the lotus position is a better go-to.
Teach them how to sit on a chair or at a desk.
Teach them how to sit up straight and remind them to do it.
Remind them not to sit in a “W” position.
Invest in a good chair.
Keep them active. Make sure they don’t just sit around, but take movement breaks, run around, stretch and play.

Do you have any other tips to help keep children to not only sit in a healthy position, but to also have them move around more? Share below, we would love to hear your wisdom!

Also, don’t forget to visit our store, where amazing goodies our waiting for you, such as a nutrient-filled, tasty Organifi Green Juice Powder and BioticBalance Probiotics.

Source:

http://www.davidwolfe.com/kids-w-sitting-position/

Image Source:

https://lianabeer.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/screen-shot-2014-09-11-at-2-15-19-pm.png

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Kat Gal

Health Writer & Freelance Writing Mentor at Kat Gal Writer / Freelance Writer School

Kat Gál is a holistic health writer who helps health, wellness, and nutrition businesses to market their products and services through quality online content. She is also a freelance writing mentor teaching wanna-be-freelancers how to make a living writing at freelancewriterschool.com. Reach out if you are looking for amazing blog content at katgalwriter@gmail.com or katgalwriter.com. Visit freelancewriterschool.com for freelance writing tips. Follow me on Instagram @freelancewriterschool and on Facebook at facebook.com/katgalwriter.