Why should my child not sit in “W” position?

“W-sitting” is a very common position for young children!! We all know this position - legs out to the sides, knees bent in toward the middle of the body, and their bottom on the floor between their feet. It’s fast, it’s stable, and it often shows up in toddlers who are still developing core strength. But while it may look harmless, and social media has mixed messages regarding this position, long periods of W-sitting can create challenges for growing bodies. 

Why Kids Choose the W Position

Children often W-sit because it gives them a wide base of support. This makes it easier to play without losing balance, especially for kids with:

• Low muscle tone

• Core weakness

• Delays in balance or postural control

• Sensory-seeking movement patterns

It’s a shortcut to stability, but one that can limit long-term motor development.

Potential Concerns

Extended W-sitting can contribute to:

• Limited trunk rotation, which is essential for crossing midline, hand dominance, and coordinated movement

• Delayed core strength development, since the position reduces the need for active postural control

• Hip stress, especially in children with femoral anteversion or a history of hip concerns; can lead to increased in-toeing when walking

• Less mature movement patterns, because kids aren’t practicing transitions like side-sitting, tall kneeling, or criss-cross sitting; can make circle time at school a challenge

What to Encourage Instead

You are not with your child 100% of the time, so eliminating W-sitting entirely is unreasonable. Instead, work to reduce prolonged time in the position when you are playing together or reading and build a child’s movement toolbox. Helpful alternatives include:

• Criss-cross sitting

• Side sitting (both sides) 

  • Both feet on the same side

• Long sitting

  • Legs out in front of body with knees straight

• Kneeling positioning either on both knees or one knee at a time

• Sitting on a small stool or cube chair

These positions promote stronger core engagement, better hip alignment, and more natural movement transitions.

How Parents and Caregivers Can Help

Gentle redirection works best. Try:

• “Feet in front, please” or “Criss-cross, please”

• Modeling the position you want when sitting on the floor

• Using visual cues (a small mat or spot marker)

• Incorporating core-strengthening play like reaching games, obstacle courses, or tall-kneel activities

Small, consistent reminders make a big difference over time. If you’re concerned your child may need additional support, or just aren’t sure where to start, give us a call. We’re happy to help!