What is W-sitting?

W-sitting is a common seated position for children, along with criss-cross, ring sitting, and side sitting. In the W-sit position, a child sits on their bottom with knees bent, feet tucked under, and legs out to each side creating a “W” formation with their lower body. Because it is such a commonly-seen seated position for children, many parents don’t recognize it and the negative effects this position can have on children’s growth and development in the future.

Why do children W-sit?

W-sitting is common especially in children with low muscle tone, hypermobile joints, and/or decreased balance and core stability. The W-sit position is a very stable seated position, requiring little need for postural control and stability as they play and reach in sitting. Due to the ease of playing in this position, it becomes the preferred sitting position for many children, and a habit is formed.

Why not W-sit?

Since W-sitting does not require activation of trunk/core muscles and does not challenge sitting balance, it can result in weak core musculature and poor trunk control over time. The W-sit also limits the amount of trunk rotation a child is capable of achieving while playing, which can further delay development of trunk muscles. This lack of trunk rotation also limits the child from crossing midline during play, which is important for facilitating coordination of the two sides of the body. W-sitting places the child at higher risk for developing orthopedic issues in the future. Early childhood is a crucial time period for bone, muscle and joint development, and the W-sit places excess forces on the low back, hips, knees and ankles. Prolonged time sitting in this position can affect the development of these structures and can make the child more susceptible to injuries in those areas in the future.

How do I prevent my child from W-sitting?

Prevention is the key! Being aware of the negative effects of W-sitting from the beginning and correcting this position right away is the most effective way to prevent it from becoming a habit. Once formed, habits are hard to break! If your child has already developed a preference for W-sitting, be consistent with attempts to correct the habit. Make sure your child is aware of alternative positions that are better to sit in, such as “criss cross applesauce”, long sit with feet straight out in front, and side sit with legs bent and off to the same side. Choose a consistent verbal cue to use with your child, such as “fix your feet”, “change your feet”, or “feet in front”. When you see your child W-sitting, encourage them to change positions using your chosen phrase. With consistency, the habit will eventually be broken.