the vestibular system
When spinning your child around or watching them learn to pull themselves up, their vestibular system is hard at work.
The vestibular system is a key part of our inner ear and brain that helps control balance and eye movements. It’s like an internal compass that tells us how we're positioned in space - whether we're standing up straight, tilting, moving, or spinning.
By incorporating specific types of play equipment and activities into your play space, you can create an environment that stimulates and challenges this crucial sensory system in fun and safe ways.
For example...
• Add swings, rings, and other hanging equipment.
The swinging motion helps your child understand and regulate their body's responses to changes in direction and speed, improving balance and spatial awareness.
• Include balance beams or boards to encourage your child to maintain their balance as they walk across them. This not only supports vestibular development but also enhances concentration and coordination.
• Incorporate a climbing element like rock walls, ladders, or indoor gyms. This challenges your child’s balance and gives their vestibular system a workout as they adjust their movements to stay upright.
• Create an obstacle course with various elements like crawling under or over objects, jumping, and balancing, which can integrate multiple vestibular challenges, promoting adaptability and agility.
Creating a play space with these elements in mind allows your child to engage in play that's not only fun but also critical for their physical and sensory development.
We strive to design spaces that support the vestibular system in an organic, playful way, laying the foundation for improved motor skills, balance, and coordination!
