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
View the video for suggestions on alternative seating positions.
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
