Sitting Tolerance Checklist

 

ARURA PAEDIATRIC THERAPY SERVICES

Sitting Tolerance Checklist

Child Name: _________________________ Date: __________ Age: _____

Skill/Behavior	How to Assess	Response Observed	Comments
Initial Sitting Duration	Time how long the child can sit initially without support or complaint
Posture	Observe the child's posture while sitting
Attention and Focus	Note if the child can focus on a task while sitting
Fidgeting	Observe frequency and type of fidgeting behaviors
Comfort Level	Ask the child how comfortable they feel while sitting
Use of Support	Note if the child requires any support (e.g., cushions)
Transitions	Observe how the child transitions in and out of sitting
Behavioral Responses	Document any behavioral responses to sitting (e.g., frustration, restlessness)

Strategies to Improve Sitting Tolerance

In-Clinic Therapy Activities

1. Gradual Increase in Sitting Time:
• Start with the child's baseline sitting duration and gradually increase the time by small increments.
• Use a timer and provide positive reinforcement for achieving each new time goal.
2. Engaging Activities:
• Engage the child in highly motivating activities that require sitting (e.g., puzzles, drawing, interactive games).
• Switch activities regularly to maintain interest.
3. Strengthening Exercises:
• Include core strengthening exercises such as seated ball toss, balancing on a stability ball, and sitting with legs crossed.
• Incorporate fun activities like obstacle courses that require sitting.
4. Adaptive Seating:
• Use adaptive seating options such as wiggle cushions, therapy balls, or supportive chairs to increase comfort and reduce fidgeting.
• Ensure proper chair height and posture support.
5. Breaks and Movement:
• Schedule regular breaks to stand, stretch, or move around.
• Use sensory activities during breaks to help the child regulate and prepare for more sitting.
6. Visual Schedules:
• Use visual schedules to help the child understand and anticipate sitting periods.
• Include pictures or symbols representing sitting activities and breaks.

Home Program for Improving Sitting Tolerance

1. Create a Sitting Routine:
• Establish a daily routine that includes specific times for sitting activities.
• Gradually increase the sitting time as the child becomes more tolerant.
2. Use Engaging Home Activities:
• Incorporate favorite activities that require sitting, such as reading books, playing board games, or doing crafts.
• Encourage participation in family meals while sitting at the table.
3. Strengthening Exercises:
• Practice core strengthening exercises at home, such as seated ball toss or yoga poses.
• Make exercises fun and part of playtime.
4. Adaptive Seating at Home:
• Provide supportive seating options at home, such as cushions or chairs with proper back support.
• Ensure that the seating environment is comfortable and conducive to prolonged sitting.
5. Scheduled Breaks:
• Implement a schedule that includes regular movement breaks.
• Use a timer or visual cue to indicate break times.
6. Positive Reinforcement:
• Use positive reinforcement, such as praise or small rewards, to encourage increased sitting tolerance.
• Celebrate small achievements and gradually raise expectations.
7. Sensory Activities:
• Incorporate sensory activities that the child enjoys before and after sitting periods.
• Activities could include using a sensory bin, playing with textured toys, or swinging.
8. Parental Involvement:
• Educate parents on the importance of sitting tolerance and how to support their child.
• Provide parents with resources and strategies to implement at home.

Sample Daily Home Program Schedule

Time	Activity	Duration	Notes
8:00 AM	Breakfast at the table	15 minutes	Encourage proper sitting posture
9:00 AM	Seated play activity (puzzle)	10 minutes	Gradually increase time
10:00 AM	Movement break (stretching)	5 minutes	Use timer for transition
10:30 AM	Reading time (book)	15 minutes	Provide positive reinforcement
12:00 PM	Lunch at the table	20 minutes	Ensure comfort and support
2:00 PM	Seated craft activity	10 minutes	Vary activities to maintain interest
3:00 PM	Core strengthening exercises	10 minutes	Make exercises fun and engaging
4:00 PM	Snack time	10 minutes	Encourage participation at the table
5:00 PM	Family game time	15 minutes	Include sitting games like board games