W sitting - what you need to know

‘W’ sitting is a common position used when children are playing or transitioning from one position to another. 

However, ‘W’ sitting is not recommended if your child spends long periods playing and sitting in this position or if it is the only sitting position they use.

When in a ‘W’ sitting position children are increasing their base of support therefore there is minimal trunk activation required to maintain the upright position. It is also a stable position and therefore can be easier to maintain for children with weakness, decreased muscle tone or flexible joints. This makes it easier for children to use their arms and hands for play. 

So if it is so much easier why is it not recommended? 

‘W’ sitting has the potential to cause stress on the hip and knee joints. 

Long term ‘W’ sitting could lead to increased internal rotation of the leg and decreased external rotation as a result of muscle stretching and shortening. This can lead to in-toeing of the legs and difficulty with cross legged sitting. In-toeing can result in increased tripping frequency and difficulties with balance and therefore hopping and jumping skills.  

Long term ‘W’ sitting reduces opportunities for children to strengthen their core and shoulder muscles through weight shift and trunk rotation. As a result this can lead to decreased bilateral coordination. 

Encourage your child to sit in a variety of other positions for example: 

Cross legged sitting 

Kneeling 

Side sitting 

Long sitting