Do you have little leprechauns that are toe walking??
/Toe walking can be caused by a variety of different reasons. If you see it, pay attention or ask a parent how often they notice it. It is common for kids to walk on their toes when they first start walking, but toe walking should decrease over time. If a child is toe walking more than 50% of the time (and/or increasing in frequency), it is important to seek input from a physical therapist. A physical therapist can perform an evaluation to provide parents and educators with activities to work on including body stretching and strengthening. Kids start to walk around the age of 1 and walking becomes more adult-like by the age of 3. Throughout that time, they get practice and practice makes permanent. For that reason, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible.
Want to help right away?
Bear walking is a great activity that helps with:
stretching
strengthening
coordination
regulation
Have the child or entire class bear walk during transitions or during body breaks!