Pair this stretch with the Butterfly Flutter to support children to be able to achieve a cross legged sitting position.
Young children can squat very naturally with proper posture. But, after children start school and begin spending many hours seated at desks, their hips, legs and backs lose strength and flexibility. Eventually, they start bending forward from the waist (instead of the pelvis), which results in poor posture and can contribute to back pain/injuries over time.
This exercise is beneficial to maintain the optimal position and movement range of the pelvis, legs and back. Especially with lengthy times of desk sitting once children begin formal schooling.
Instructions
Start with your feet a bit wider than your shoulders, and your toes turned out
Squat down low with your chest up tall
Use your elbows to push your knees outwards
Take 5-10 deep breaths
Watch Points
Feet wider than hips
Knees wide apart
Chest upright and back straight – “look forwards”
Shoulders down and neck relaxed
Modifications
More Challenging
Multi-Sensory
Ball Skills
Fine Motor
Seated:
Lift your left foot onto your chair. Use your left elbow to push your left knee outwards until you feel a stretch.
Seated:
Bend forwards from your hips, keeping your back straight and strong. Place your elbows on the insides of your knees and push your knees outwards. Hold for 5 deep breaths
Not Applicable
Imagine you’re a toad sitting in the backyard at night. What might you hear or see around you?
