Why You Should Discourage Your Child From Sitting In The W Position

In an article on Mirror UK, Dr Connie Challoner reveals the potential harm in the W position when seated commonly used by kids.

The common ‘W’ position is when kids (and sometimes adults) sit flat on their bottoms with their legs splayed out to each side, knees bent and feet pointing outwards – forming the letter ‘W’.

But whilst it may be your child’s default mode when watching TV or playing, it may be causing lasting damage to their posture. This in turn can affect their growth and development and lead to orthopaedic issues.

In a video posted on Aunty Acid , Dr Connie Challoner goes through the potential harm the ‘W’ position can cause which are bad hips, bad knees and ankles and bad postural muscles found in your back, abdomen and hips. It can also cause core stability development.

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If and when you do see your child in a “W”, regularly encourage her/him to adjust to a different position by saying, “Fix your legs.” Consistency is key. Make sure children know what some of their other options are so they can choose a substitute. This encouragement will have positive effects on a child’s growth and development.