We are all aware of the physical benefits of standing for kids who use wheelchairs. There are even some studies that have found positive psychosocial benefits for children using standers, especially in a school setting. But how does standing affect educational issues? What is the impact on learning by a child utilizing a standing frame at school?
Typical Students Benefit from Standing
Educators are finding that children who are physically active at school on a regular basis have fewer disciplinary problems and have a better concentration in class. Also, some schools are experimenting with tall work tables, where students stand to do their school work. Many of these students and teachers reported benefits including increased attentiveness, better organization, and more energy. If standing for typical students improves performance, then what is the effect for students with disabilities such as cerebral palsy?
Standing stimulates learning for kids of all abilities!
Students with Disabilities Benefit from Standing
Children who use wheelchairs also need to stand periodically throughout the day to help them learn, play and develop their minds to prepare for adulthood. Standing frequently can help a child bring about alertness and engagement, for the child that is lethargic, or can help the child that is hyperactive to release energy and be able to focus more effectively. Also, standing may help children see better by improving their visual field or line of sight, and to bring them up closer to be engaged in activities. Standing also provides good proprioceptive input to young developing muscles and joints, helping organize a child’s sensory system and increasing their level of alertness, so they can focus and be at their best for learning.
The Body-Mind Connection
As we know, you cannot talk about the mind, without talking about the body, and visa-versa. So if a student is in pain, is unable to move their bowels or not able to breathe freely, they are not able to concentrate in school. Hopefully, if they can stand on regular basis, improving the detrimental effects of a sedentary position, they can alleviate some of their physical problems that will help them be more physically comfortable at school, and improve their learning experience.
Learn through Playing
As teachers know, one of the best ways to learn, is thru play. Lately, researchers are recognizing how important play activity is to the normal development of children, and sadly many children that have disabilities have limited access to play opportunities. For kids who use wheelchairs, standing can stimulate play! Standing can help them with better head control, improve motor skills and position them to bring about better play opportunities, often with their peers for better interaction, which is so important.
For information on the EasyStand Bantam pediatric stander for children, and all the physical, psychosocial, and cognitive benefits, goto www.easystand.com/bantam.
