Sit to Stand from Bench

Purpose:

To strengthen the muscles that control the leg when standing. 

Directions:

Seat the child at a bench with the feet flat on the floor. Place one of your arms across the child’s upper legs. Have the child place their hands on your shoulders. Direct the child’s weight forward over the feet. As the child comes up to a standing position, provide gentle pressure with your arm across the upper legs. Assist as necessary with your other hand across the buttocks to help the child lift the hips. Help the child control the movement when returning to a sitting position on the bench. 

Important:   

• Do not allow the child to begin standing by pushing backward rather than shifting the weight forward.  

Recommendations:   

• Before trying to stand, have the child practice forward weight shift while sitting on the bench.