Lowering to Sit/Protective Reactions

Purpose:

To develop the reflexes to catch themself if falling to the side or backwards to prevent injuries.  

Directions:

To work on lateral protective reactions, have the child sit on the ground and support them at their torso. Slowly lean the child to the right and allow them to extend their right arm to “catch” themself. Repeat on the other side. 

To work on posterior protective reactions, slowly lower the child from standing to sitting and allow them to extend their arms behind to “catch” themself. 

Notes:   

• Typically, anterior protective reactions develop first, then lateral. Posterior protective reactions develop last.  

• Alternate option: Have the child sit on a ball and lean them to different sides.