Why does my child…W-Sit?
Children may sit in the W position because it provides them with a wide base of support during play and other activities. In this position, they require less effort to keep their posture upright.
The W-sit position is quite common in children. According to the International Hip Dysplasia Institution, this position is often observed around 3 years of age, and then naturally fades out of routine as the child grows.
Is W-sitting normal?
W-sitting is normal when children are moving and changing positions frequently.
When is W-sitting a problem?
W-sitting is a problem when this position becomes one of the only ways your child is sitting.
Prolonged W-sitting can lead to:
Issues with balance and coordination
Hip dysplasia
Changes in bone structures during development
Knock knees
Pidgeon Toeing
Abnormal walking patterns
Muscle tightness
Limited range of motion
Poor posture
Why does my child W-Sit?
Children may sit in the W position because it provides them with a wide base of support during play and other activities. In this position, they require less effort to keep their posture upright.
The W-sit position is quite common in children. According to the International Hip Dysplasia Institution, this position is often observed around 3 years of age, and then naturally fades out of routine as the child grows.
Is W-sitting normal?
W-sitting is normal when children are moving and changing positions frequently.
When is W-sitting a problem?
W-sitting is a problem when this position becomes one of the only ways your child is sitting.
Prolonged W-sitting can lead to:
Issues with balance and coordination
Hip dysplasia
Changes in bone structures during development
Knock knees
Pidgeon Toeing
Abnormal walking patterns
Muscle tightness
Limited range of motion
Poor posture
What can I do?
If your child is frequently W-sitting, encourage your child to sit in a variety of positions:
Sitting in a chair
Criss Cross Sitting
Side-sitting
Long sitting
Lying on tummy
Tall Kneeling
Contact your child’s doctor or get an assessment with a physiotherapist if you notice other signs or symptoms:
Low muscle tone and has poor overall posture
Poor balance and frequently falls or is very clumsy
Delayed in gross motor skills
Child was diagnosed with congenital or developmental hip issues/child has hip pain
Asymmetrical leg alignment, complaint of pain or stiffness in joints
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