How to Support a Child Who “Doesn’t Sit Still”

As a pediatric Occupational Therapist, I hear this all the time from parents and teachers:

“He just won’t sit still.”“She’s always bouncing or fidgeting.”“They can’t focus unless they’re moving—and sometimes not even then.”

It’s easy to feel frustrated or worried when a child seems constantly in motion, especially when sitting still is expected—during circle time, mealtimes, or learning activities. But here’s the important truth:

👉 Movement is not the problem. It’s a message.

Why Some Kids Need to Move

Movement is essential for development—and for many children, especially in the early years, it's also a form of regulation. Some kids seek movement because their bodies are telling them that’s what they need to stay alert, calm, or engaged.

This is especially true for children with sensory processing differences or attention challenges. Sitting still may not mean they’re focused. In fact, for some kids, sitting still takes so much effort that there's no energy left for listening or learning.

Supporting, Not Stopping the Movement

The goal isn't to make kids sit still for longer periods—it’s to help them move in ways that support learning, regulation, and participation. Here's how:

1. Build Movement Into the Day

Instead of waiting for kids to “get the wiggles out,” structure in movement before they need it. Try:

• Mini movement breaks every 30–45 minutes (animal walks, stretching, jumping games)

• Heavy work (carrying books, pushing chairs, wall push-ups) to calm the body

• Transition routines that include movement, like hopping to the next activity

Check out these resources:

👉 Dance Party Cards

👉 Red Light Green Light Motion Sensor Game

👉 Tater Toss Game

👉 Bean Bag 3-in-a-Row Game

👉 Suction Toy for Heavy Work

👉 Sensory Body Bag

2. Offer “Active Seating” Options

Not all kids need to sit the same way. Try (and click the link!):

• Wiggle cushions or wobble stools

• Floor time with tummy-lying or beanbags

• Standing desks or clipboards on walls/standing easel

• Sitting on a yoga ball (with adult supervision)

• Fidget tools for hands or feet—like stress balls, textured finger toys, or foot fidget bands—that provide subtle movement and sensory input without distracting others

These options give kids a chance to move just enough without leaving the activity.

3. Reframe What “Attention” Looks Like

Some kids learn better when they’re moving. If your child is building, drawing, or listening while standing or pacing, that might be their version of focus.

Instead of correcting posture or requiring stillness, ask:🔍 Are they engaged? Are they learning or participating? If yes, movement may be helping—not hurting.

✅ 4. Teach Body Awareness & Self-Regulation

We want kids to begin recognizing their own needs. Over time, they can learn:

• “My body needs a break”

• “I feel wiggly—can I do wall pushes?”

• “I need to stand up to listen better”

Use visuals, movement choice boards, or co-regulation language to help them build that awareness.

Check out these resources:

👉 Self-Regulation and Mindfulness: Over 82 Exercises & Worksheets for Sensory Processing Disorder, ADHD, & Autism Spectrum Disorder

👉 Sensory Sticks

👉 Anger Management Play Kit

👉 Mood Flipbook

👉 Movement Dice Game

✅ 5. Don’t Take It Personally

A child who’s moving a lot is not being “bad” or “defiant.” They’re doing the best they can with the skills and regulation tools they currently have.

When we meet that behavior with curiosity—not control—we open the door to connection and growth.

Final Thoughts

If your child struggles to sit still, you’re not alone—and they’re not broken. Movement is a developmental need, not a flaw. By shifting the focus from compliance to connection, we can support our children in ways that are both respectful and effective.

Coaching families on how to support sensory and movement needs is one of the most powerful parts of my work. If you’d like to learn more about how to adapt routines, create movement-friendly environments, or better understand your child’s needs, I’d love to help.

Let’s work together to build strategies that work for your child—right where they are.

Ready to start your OT coaching journey?

📧 tarapedot@gmail.com | 🌐 www.tarapedot.com | 📱 WhatsApp: +34 633 180 285

Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no additional cost to you—if you choose to make a purchase through them. I only recommend products and resources that I truly believe in and that align with my values as a pediatric occupational therapist. Your support helps me continue providing free content and resources for families and educators. Thank you!