Stepping On/Off Curb

Purpose:

To encourage the child to bear more weight on one leg, work on balance, develop coordination, and strengthen the muscles that straighten the knee. 

Directions:

Complete 10 repetitions for each leg once a day 

• Stand child in front of a small step, support at hips or hand depending on independence level. 

• Slowly shift weight to one side and assist child to step up with the other leg. 

• Gradually increase size of step so child must bear more weight on straight leg. 

• Practice a controlled step off with the same support and weight shifting as a step on. 

Recommendations: 

• Keep head upright, in line with the body, and the eyes looking downward.  

• Keep the body upright and straight, including hips and legs straight. 

• Keep the feet flat on the ground, facing straight ahead. 

• Keep the arms forward and down. 

• When going to the store with your child, encourage the child to try to step up on and down from the curbs in the parking lot.