Introduction: What is w sitting?
When you hear the word “sitting,” what comes to mind? For most people, sitting is simply a natural way of being.
We sit when we eat, when we work, and when we relax.
For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), however, sitting can be a real challenge.
Many children with ASD have difficulty sitting still and may fidget or rock back and forth constantly.
This type of behavior is often called “w sitting.”
W sitting refers to the way some children with ASD sit on their bottoms with their legs bent out to the sides, rather than sitting upright with their legs together in front of them.
This position can be very uncomfortable and can cause problems with digestion and bladder control.
It can also lead to joint pain and posture problems as the child gets older.
There are a number of reasons why children with ASD may w sit.
What are the benefits of w sitting?
There are many benefits of w sitting, which is why it is often recommended for children with autism.
W sitting helps improve balance and stability, which can be a struggle for children with autism.
Additionally, w sitting encourages the use of both hands, which can help improve fine motor skills.
Lastly, w sitting can help improve attention span and focus.
What are the risks of w sitting?
There is a lot of debate surrounding the risks of w sitting, particularly for those with autism.
Some experts believe that this position can cause physical and developmental problems, while others maintain that there is no evidence to support these claims.
One concern is that w sitting may inhibit the natural movement of the legs, which can lead to issues with blood circulation and muscle development.
Additionally, this posture may restrict the child’s ability to interact with their environment, leading to problems with communication and socialization.
How to wean a child off of w sitting?
W sitting, or sitting with the legs crossed at the waist, is a common habit for toddlers and young children.
For those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), however, w sitting can become a lifelong habit that impacts mobility and independence.
Here are some tips for gradually getting your child out of w sitting:
Start by pointing out when other people are not sitting in w position.
Explain that it is more comfortable and flexible to sit in other ways.
When your child is seated, provide opportunities for them to move around.
Encourage them to rock, bounce, or swing their legs.
If your child insists on w sitting, provide a seat cushion or wedge that will make it more difficult to cross their legs.
Gradually reduce the amount of time your child is allowed to sit in w position.
Conclusion: W sitting and autism
There is still much unknown about autism.
However, one thing that does seem to be clear is the importance of early intervention.
Many studies have shown that early intervention can make a significant difference in the lives of autistic children.
Some experts even believe that early intervention can help to prevent some of the more severe symptoms of autism.
One common intervention strategy is called Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA.
This approach involves working one-on-one with a child to help them learn new skills and behaviors.
ABA has been shown to be effective in many cases, and can sometimes lead to dramatic improvements in a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others.
There is no single answer for treating autism.
However, there are many therapies and interventions that may be helpful for different children.
The most important thing is to find what works best for each individual child and family.