Why Your Child Won't Sit Still (And What to Do About It)

Every parent has been there. You’re trying to get through dinner, and your child is squirming, climbing off the chair, spinning around the room. You’ve said “sit down” fourteen times. Nothing works.

Here’s what most parents don’t know: your child isn’t being defiant. Their body is literally asking for movement.

What’s really happening

Some children’s nervous systems need extra movement input to feel calm and focused. Think of it like this — you know how some adults tap their feet or fidget with a pen during a long meeting? Your child’s version of that is much bigger, because their nervous system is still developing.

Their body craves what experts call vestibular and proprioceptive input — fancy words for movement and deep pressure. Without enough of it, they literally can’t sit still. It’s not a choice. It’s a need.

The mistake most parents make

The natural response is “stop moving” or “sit still.” But telling a movement-seeking child to stop moving is like telling a hungry child to stop thinking about food. It doesn’t work — and it makes things worse because now they’re frustrated AND understimulated.

What actually works: 3 activities you can try today

1. Cushion Crash Pad (5 minutes)

Gather all the couch cushions and pillows. Stack them on the floor. Let your child jump, crash, and burrow into the pile. Repeat 10-15 times.

Why it works: Jumping and crashing provides deep pressure input that satisfies what their nervous system is looking for. After 5 minutes, most kids are noticeably calmer.

When to use it: Before meals, before homework, or anytime you notice the restlessness building.

2. Wall Push-Ups (3 minutes)

Have your child stand arm’s length from a wall, hands flat at shoulder height. Push into the wall like a push-up. Hold 5 seconds, release. Repeat 10 times.

Why it works: Pushing against resistance activates muscles and joints, sending calming signals to the brain. It’s like a reset button.

When to use it: Right before they need to sit and focus — before class, before meals, during transitions.

3. Animal Walks (5 minutes)

Bear walk (hands and feet on the ground), crab walk, frog jumps — across the room and back. Make it a game: “Can you walk like a bear to the kitchen?”

Why it works: These positions put weight through the arms and legs, providing intense movement input in a fun way.

The key insight

Activities work best when used proactively — before the restlessness builds, not during a meltdown. Build 5 minutes of purposeful movement into your daily routine (before meals, before school, before homework) and you’ll see a real difference.

Your child isn’t being difficult. Their body is communicating a need. Once you understand that, everything changes.