Bunny Hop

  • Strengthens upper limbs (shoulders and arms), which is important for pre-writing/handwriting and fine motor control.
  • Strengthens abdominal muscles, which is important for maintaining upright posture while sitting at a desk.
  • Provides deep pressure proprioceptive input to the muscles and joints, and stimulates the vestibular system, both of which can be useful for regulation (to achieve a ‘calm, alert’ state, ready for learning).
HANDOUT
PRACTISE JOURNAL
TECHNIQUE VIDEO

Uses

  • This exercise supports attention and concentration in the classroom.
  • This is an ideal exercise to do just prior to handwriting and fine motor tasks, to improve performance in these tasks. It has the dual benefit of activating the core (trunk and abdominals) and upper limb muscles (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand and fingers).

Instructions

  1. Crouch down
  2. Slowly lean forwards and place your hands shoulder-width apart on the floor in front of you
  3. Push into the floor with your hands and squeeze your tummy, to lift your feet slightly off the floor.
  4. Slowly lower back down and repeat
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child_bunny_hop_2

Watch Points

  • Controlled movement
  • Feet lifting off the floor only 5-10 cms max
  • Shoulders pulled down, away from ears
  • Arms strong and straight (not collapsing)

Seated:

  • Put your hands on the sides of your chair.  Push down with your hands to lift your bottom off the chair.