Teaching Pull-To-Stand In Three Easy Stages
By: Renata Bursten, Dragonfly Staff
1. Sit the child on a bolster, seat or small physioball in front of a steady surface to pull up on. The child's feet should be firmly planted on the floor. Let the child grasp your hands and rise to standing.
2. Once that step is mastered, try starting the child from a kneeling position. Help them bring one foot forward first and then the other foot as they rise.
3. Then try starting from a sitting position. The feet must swing to the side, then the child moves to an all-fours kneeling position, and then pulls to stand.
This activity helps children develop strong shoulder muscles and general stability. It is especially appropriate for children who have general developmental delays or Down syndrome.