Making Sense of Sensory – Week 8: Understanding Proprioception 💪

Proprioception is sometimes referred to as the “hidden sense.”

It’s what tells us where our body is, how much pressure we’re using, and how our muscles and joints are moving.

It’s what lets you touch your nose with your eyes closed, or know how hard to kick a ball without sending it flying over the fence.

For neurodivergent individuals, proprioception can sometimes be under- or over-responsive, making everyday activities like handwriting, climbing stairs, or even getting dressed more challenging.

Over-Sensitive to Proprioceptive Input? (Proprioceptive Avoidant)

Someone who is hyper-aware of proprioceptive input might find certain movements or touch overwhelming.

Signs might include:

• Dislike tight clothing, shoes, or jewellery.

• Avoid rough play, sports, or climbing activities.

• Feel uncomfortable with hugs, pushes, or pulls.

• Be easily startled by unexpected touch or bumps.

  
  

How to support a proprioceptive avoider:

• Respect personal space and comfort zones.

• Offer softer, looser clothing choices.

• Use predictable, slow movements when offering physical support.

• Encourage gentle, calming activities like stretching or yoga.

  
  

Under-Sensitive to Proprioceptive Input? (Proprioceptive Seeking)

An under-responsive proprioceptive system may crave more input to feel grounded or in control of the body.

Signs might include:

• Chew on clothing, pencils, or other objects.

• Seek out crashing, jumping, climbing, or rough play.

• Push, pull, or bump into others.

• Struggle with using the right pressure when writing, eating, or playing.

  
  

How to support a proprioceptive seeker:

• Provide safe outlets for movement (trampolines, resistance bands, climbing frames)

• Encourage heavy work activities (carrying shopping bags, pushing furniture, animal walks)

• Offer chewable jewellery or safe oral tools

Build breaks with movement and pressure-based play into daily routines

Safety Note on Weighted Blankets ⚠️

While weighted blankets can provide calming deep pressure, NHS guidance highlights important risks. They should never be used for children under 4, must not exceed 10% of body weight, and should only be used for short, supervised periods. Always ensure the person can remove the blanket themselves, and seek professional advice (e.g. from an Occupational Therapist) before introducing one. For more information on the safe use of weighted items, please explore the following resources.

1. CYP-OT-guidance-for-parents-and-carers-on-weighted-blankets-.pdf

2. Weighted Therapy for Sensory Integration

3. RCOT launches official weighted blankets guide | RCOT

Why It Matters

Proprioception helps us feel safe and secure in our bodies.

When this sense is out of balance, it can affect focus, coordination, and self-regulation. By noticing whether someone seeks or avoids proprioceptive input, we can support them with strategies that help them feel more comfortable and confident.

At NEST, we believe that every sense matters, and understanding proprioception can make a significant difference in daily life.

Stay Tuned

Next week, we’ll be exploring the interoceptive sense, our body’s way of telling us what’s happening inside, like hunger, thirst, or emotions.