Upper Arm & Core Strengthening Exercises for Children

Why is this important?

Good arm movement relies on core strength.

• When your child’s core is strong, he/she will be able to move his/her arms correctly.
• When your child’s core is strong, he/she will be able to sit upright at a desk in school.
• When your child’s core is strong, he/she will be able to use his/her hands well during skills such as handwriting, eating and cutting.

The following are fun exercises to do with your child to strengthen his/her upper body and core.

Wheelbarrow Walking

1. Have your child lay face down on the floor.
2. Hold your child’s lower legs (can hold at the hips if more help is needed).
3. Ask your child to push up and straighten his/her arms.
4. Ask your child to walk with his or her hands across the floor in the forward direction.

Crab Walk

1. Have your child sit with his/her buttocks on the floor as seen.
2. Ask your child to lift his/her buttocks off the floor and push up through the arms.
3. Have your child walk in forward, backward and sideways directions

Bear Walk

1. Ask child to “walk” on all fours with knees slightly bent.
2. Try to have him/her keep their back flat and arms straight.
3. Tummy muscles are strengthened as the child walks forward moving his/her hands and feet.

Remember: Make it fun!

If you have questions or concerns please reach out to your child’s occupational therapist.

This page was last updated on: November 10, 2020 12:30 PM