What Is W-Sitting?
W-sitting is a way that children often sit beginning in early childhood. If you’re standing and looking down at your child, their legs are stretched out to each side in a "W" shape, with knees bent and feet pointed outwards.
It was once thought that W-sitting for long periods of time could cause problems with physical development later on. But recent research has found that this doesn't seem to be the case, and that this type of sitting position is normal for many children.
Why Does a Child W-Sit?
Between the ages of 2 and 5 is an important developmental time. It’s during this stage that children become stronger and develop their sense of balance, such as learning to climb stairs.
In the W-sitting position, a child makes a wide base with their legs and relies on that more than their core posture muscles. This may feel more stable to them, especially if their core muscles aren't very strong.
Many children are born with their thigh bones slightly turned in (called femoral anteversion), which makes W-sitting more comfortable. Almost all children outgrow femoral anteversion.
Can W-Sitting Harm Your Child?
Until recently, many experts believed W-sitting could lead to hip dysplasia (in which the hip joint doesn't form properly) or other long-term orthopedic problems because of the pressure the position puts on the lower joints. Some physical therapists and occupational therapists still discourage children from sitting like this often or for long periods.
But studies have found no evidence that W-sitting contributes to dysplasia or otherwise harms developing hips. Nor does it cause kids to use their core muscles differently. As they grow and become less flexible, most kids will stop sitting like this.
We need more research into the effects of W-sitting. But there doesn't seem to be any harm in occasionally sitting in this position.
How to Keep Your Child From W-Sitting
While occasional W-sitting is unlikely to cause any serious issues, it's best for kids (and everyone else) to change positions often to avoid stressing muscles and joints. Your child will likely do this naturally on their own. But there are ways to encourage them to shift their body position:
- Try side sitting. Have your child sit on the floor with you and mirror your movements. Without putting your hands on the floor, sit on your left side. Then move onto your knees and shift your position again to your right side.
- Sit on the floor with your child and encourage them to mirror your movements. Place your legs straight out. You can add an element of fun by having “bottom walking races” with your child, shifting your weight back and forth to create movement and momentum.
- Have your child sit with you with both of your backs against the wall and your legs stretched out in front of you. This position will help stretch their hamstrings.
- Play reaching games with your child by encouraging them to reach for objects at different heights and distances. This helps build their trunk muscles and flexibility.
Talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s W-sitting, muscle strength, or motor skills.