Addressing Sitting Issues for the Child with Down Syndrome
Often frustrating to parents and caregivers is that their child does not sit in the same time frame as a child without Down Syndrome. Due to low muscle tone and the short stature (especially the arms), the child with Down Syndrome does not attain independent sitting in the same sequence of motor milestones as other children. It is important that parents not let their child sit with arms propped on the floor as this promotes a rounded spine and reinforces poor sitting skills. The child will not be able to develop upright sitting and postural reactions with the trunk flexed so far forward.
Alternatively, have the child sit with his / her back against a sofa or with arms propped on a cushion on the floor, or play with a busy box that is positioned up off the floor. In these positions, the mid back is more upright and active in sitting, allowing for balance reactions and upright posture to develop.
For more information:
National Association for Down Syndrome
PO Box 4542
Oak Brook, IL 60521
630-325-9112