Movement Needs and Gentle Interpretations
Little Boosts
Movement Needs and Gentle Interpretations
A child’s movement choices can hint at what helped their body release energy, reset, or find a steady rhythm again. These interpretations aren’t rules — simply soft clues about how motion supports their regulation and sense of balance.
Stretch Like A Cat
This may reflect a need for slow, grounding movement and body awareness.
Supportive response: Invite gentle stretches. Let the child move slowly and intuitively, without correction or instruction.
Shake Out Your Hands
This may signal a need to release tension, reset energy, or regulate sensory input.
Supportive response: Encourage playful shaking. Let the child shake hands, arms, or whole body freely. It’s okay to be silly.
Do A Wiggle Dance
This may express a need for joy, expression, or emotional movement.
Supportive response: Put on music or let the child wiggle in silence. Celebrate the movement — no steps, no rules, just fun.
Bounce On Your Toes
This may reflect a need for proprioceptive input, excitement, or emotional release.
Supportive response: Offer space to bounce gently. Let the child jump, tiptoe, or bounce in place. Movement is welcome.