What Is “W-Sitting”? Why Kids Do It, Why It’s a Problem, and How Parents Can Help
If you’ve watched your child play on the floor and noticed their legs folded into a “W” shape—knees bent inward, feet tucked outside their hips—you’re not alone. Many children naturally fall into this position during play. While it may look harmless (or even comfortable for them), consistent W-sitting can have long-term effects on a child’s development, posture, and motor skills.
As a pediatric occupational therapist, I regularly support families who are concerned about their child’s development and poor sitting posture is often a common denominator. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Kids W-Sit
Children often choose the W-position because:
1. It Provides a Wide, Stable Base
In the W-sit, the body is supported by a large base of support. This makes it easier for children with low core strength, balance challenges, or sensory processing differences to stay upright without wobbling.
2. It Requires Less Core Engagement
Sitting in a W-shape allows kids to rest their core muscles. If maintaining upright posture is difficult, W-sitting feels easier and more secure.
3. It Limits Rotation and Shifting Weight
W-sitting keeps the trunk “locked in.” For kids who struggle with postural or motor control, this makes play feel more manageable because they don’t have to shift or rotate their upper body as much. Decreased rotational and weight shifting patterns can lead to retained primitive reflexes which can lead to more substantial developmental difficulties if not managed.
4. It Can Be a Habit
Sometimes kids W-sit simply because it’s familiar. They may not realize they're doing it.
Why W-Sitting Can Become a Problem
Occasional use of the W-position is not harmful. The concern comes when W-sitting becomes a child’s primary or only sitting posture. Over time, this can contribute to:
1. Delayed Core and Trunk Strength
Because W-sitting reduces core activation, children miss out on opportunities to develop core strength and postural stability needed for running, climbing, writing, and self-care tasks. It can also impact the natural integration of primitive reflexes which impacts a variety of developmental skills throughout environments and life stages.
2. Limited Hip Mobility
The extreme inward rotation of the hips in this position can place strain on hip joints and surrounding ligaments. For some children, especially those with joint hypermobility or alignment issues, this can increase risk for pain or postural concerns later on.
3. Poor Balance and Coordination
W-sitting reduces the ability to shift weight or cross midline (reaching across the body), both of which are essential for developing balance, bilateral coordination, and motor planning.
4. Impact on Handedness and Fine Motor Skills
Because the pelvis and trunk are fixed, children may have more difficulty stabilizing their bodies for refined hand movements. This can affect handwriting, cutting, and other school-based tasks.
How Parents Can Help Correct W-Sitting
The good news: W-sitting is a habit that can be changed with consistent, gentle redirection and opportunities for stronger, more supportive sitting positions.
1. Offer Alternative Sitting Positions
Encourage your child to try:
Criss-cross (“tailor sitting”)
Side-sitting (but switch sides regularly!)
Long sitting (legs straight in front)
Half-kneeling
Sitting on a small stool, cushion, or low bench
2. Strengthen the Core and Hips
Activities that build stability make alternative sitting easier:
Animal walks (bear walk, crab walk)
Climbing on playground equipment
Scooter board activities
Yoga poses (bridge, boat, superman)
Balance games like sitting on a peanut ball
3. Use Environmental Supports
Sometimes simple changes help break the habit:
Seat cushions
Low tables/benches for play
Providing back support when needed
Furniture that encourages upright posture
4. Gently Correct the Position Each Time
A simple reminder like, “Fix your feet” or “Criss-cross legs please” works well. Over time, your child will learn to self-correct.
5. Consult an Occupational Therapist
If your child:
W-sits constantly,
avoids other sitting positions,
has difficulty with balance, coordination, or endurance,
…an occupational therapy evaluation can help identify underlying core, sensory, or motor challenges—and create an individualized plan to strengthen those skills.
Final Thoughts
W-sitting isn’t “bad” in isolation, but it becomes concerning when it’s a child’s go-to posture. Supporting kids in developing a variety of sitting positions builds a stronger foundation for movement, learning, and play.
If you have concerns about your child’s posture, motor skills, or sensory processing, Presence Therapy Services is here to help you understand what’s behind the behavior and how to support healthy development every step of the way.
