Postural Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | Sensory-Based Motor Disorder Guide

Use this checklist to help identify possible signs of Postural Disorder in children aged 3 and up. This tool is not for diagnosis but can support informed discussions with an occupational therapist.

🧍 Body Awareness & Core Stability

• ☐ My child appears “floppy” or has low muscle tone
• ☐ Struggles to sit upright for more than a few minutes
• ☐ Slouches or leans on desks, walls, or furniture
• ☐ Has difficulty holding still during seated tasks
• ☐ Tires quickly during physical activities like running or climbing

⚖️ Balance & Coordination

• ☐ Frequently trips, stumbles, or falls
• ☐ Has poor balance when standing on one foot or walking on a line
• ☐ Avoids playground equipment or sports
• ☐ Struggles with bike riding or climbing stairs
• ☐ Appears clumsy during group physical activities

🤸 Movement & Motor Planning

• ☐ Needs extra time to initiate movement
• ☐ Has trouble copying movements (e.g., jumping jacks)
• ☐ Avoids new physical tasks or becomes frustrated easily
• ☐ Cannot hold posture during dynamic activities (e.g., yoga poses)

✏️ Classroom & Daily Functioning

• ☐ Leans heavily on the table during writing or meals
• ☐ Has poor handwriting or fatigue during fine motor tasks
• ☐ Fidgets or constantly shifts position when sitting
• ☐ Avoids tasks requiring upright posture (e.g., brushing teeth standing up)
• ☐ Shows frustration or resistance toward physical routines

🚨 When to Seek Help

If you checked 5 or more boxes, especially in multiple categories, consider reaching out to a pediatric occupational therapist for a comprehensive sensory-motor evaluation.

📞 Need guidance? Visit our Therapist Finder to schedule a screening with a sensory-trained OT.