Proprioceptive (Heavy Work) Activities for Child Regulation

The video “Heavy Work Activities to Regulate Children” demonstrates how heavy work activities—physical tasks involving pushing, pulling, lifting, and resistance—can support children with sensory needs to feel more grounded and calm. An occupational therapist (OT Lindsay) explains that these activities engage the body’s proprioceptive system, which helps children understand where their body is in space and can improve self-regulation, focus, and emotional control. Viewers see practical examples such as pushing weighted objects, pulling carts, or performing supported walking and movement tasks that provide deep sensory input and help reduce frustration or restlessness. The therapist highlights that heavy work is useful both in therapy and daily routines to assist children in transitioning between activities and managing sensory responses. Overall, the video is a helpful guide for parents and professionals looking for functional strategies to support regulation in children with sensory processing challenges