GM.A.19 STANDING, TAKES MOST WEIGHT AND CONTROLS HEAD AND UPPER TRUNK

This is a continuation from GM.A.10. You might like to re-read that item now.

How to Assess

Method: Place the child in standing, supporting her around her upper trunk. Score plus if she maintains the standing position. She should take most of her own weight and should control her head and upper trunk, so that she no longer feels as though she might slip through your hands.

How to Teach

A good position to stand your child is as shown. Here you can control the position of her feet and hips while you chat with her. It is most important that she stand with her bottom in, that is, her hips must be in line with the rest of her body. She must also stand with her feet together, so place them inside your feet.

If she keeps collapsing her knees you may need to use splints or braces. Refer to GM.A.10 for some suggestions, but if in doubt, consult your therapist.

Once you feel confident about your child’s standing, gently and slowly rock her just a few degrees to each side. This will help her to learn to bear weight through one leg at a time – important preparation for cruising around furniture and walking.

As your child gains control of her trunk, shoulder girdle and hips in standing against you, you will find that you can support her by the hands as she stands. Refer now to GM.A.36.