Occupational therapists do not rely on repetitive or gym-style exercises. Instead, core strengthening is naturally embedded into meaningful, play-based activities that children enjoy and want to participate in.
Through play, children build strength without even realizing they are “working.”
Common occupational therapy activities include:
►Animal walks (bear, crab, frog)
►Wheelbarrow walking
►Scooter board games
►Child-friendly yoga poses
►Climbing, crawling, and obstacle courses
These activities activate the core while also supporting coordination, balance, and motor planning.
Therapy sessions often combine strength work with sensory-based strategies, such as :
♦ Heavy work activities (pushing, pulling, carrying)
♦ Deep pressure input
♦ Proprioceptive activities that give feedback to muscles and joints
This combination helps children develop body awareness, stay regulated, and remain motivated throughout the session.
Practical Core-Strengthening Tips for Parents
Parents play a vital role in supporting core development outside the therapy room. The good news is that core strengthening does not require special equipment or long sessions.
Here are simple, effective ways to support your child at home:
⇒ Encourage tummy time on the floor while reading, drawing, or playing
⇒ Use fun movement games like bear walk, crab walk, or wheelbarrow walking
⇒ Practice simple yoga poses such as plank, bridge, or table pose
⇒ Create mini obstacle courses using pillows, cushions, chairs, and tunnels
⇒ Promote playground play that includes climbing, swinging, balancing, and hanging
Start small. Even five to ten minutes a day is enough initially. As strength and endurance improve, time and challenge can be gradually increased.
Consistency matters more than duration.
Final Thoughts From an Occupational Therapist
Core muscle strengthening is not about fitness alone.
It supports posture, attention, movement, learning, and independence.
For children with autism, strengthening the body helps organize the brain. When the body feels stable and secure, the nervous system can focus less on staying upright and more on engaging with the world.
When the body feels steady, everything else becomes more possible.
If you haveconcernsabout your child’sposture, attention, or movement skills, an occupational therapy assessment can help identify core strength needs and guide targeted, play-based interventionthat supports your child’s daily life and long-term development.
