#213 - The Vestibular System: Dysfunction and Activities to Implement

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The Vestibular System: Dysfunction and Activities to Implement

Back in 2018, we put out an episode on the vestibular system - it’s been 4 years and it’s time for a re-do! 

In this episode, we dive into all things vestibular. What the vestibular system is, how it works, what dysfunction looks like, and a variety of activities for all ages! 

Links

Primitive Reflex Digital Course

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website 

Harkla Instagram

Ep. 21 The Vestibular System

Ep. 123 Sensory Modulation Disorder 

Sensory Checklists from Sensational Brain

2 Minute Neuroscience - The Vestibular System (YouTube) 

Article: Vestibular Sensitivity and Multisensory Temporal Integration 

Article: Vestibular Processing During Natural Self-Motion

The Vestibular System: Dysfunction And Activities To Implement

Did you know your child has eight sensory systems, not just the commonly known five? One of the most powerful—but often overlooked—senses is the vestibular system, which helps balance, movement, coordination, and spatial awareness.

If your child struggles with clumsiness, fear of movement, or constantly seeks out spinning and jumping, they may have vestibular processing challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore:

• What the vestibular system is.

• How it connects to primitive reflexes and overall development.

• Signs of vestibular dysfunction.

• Fun vestibular activities to support integration.

By the end, you'll have actionable strategies to help your child thrive.

What Is The Vestibular System?

The vestibular system is a sensory system located in the inner ear that helps us:

• Maintain balance and postural control.

• Understand our body’s position in space.

• Move smoothly through daily activities.

• Coordinate head and eye movements.

How Does It Work?

Inside the inner ear, tiny structures called semicircular canals and otolith organs detect head movement and changes in gravity. This information is sent to the brain, which helps us stay upright, adjust movements, and respond to our environment.

Why Is The Vestibular System So Important?

Your child's ability to:

• Walk, run, jump, and climb

• Read, write, and focus in school

• Stay seated without fidgeting

• Feel secure and confident in movement … all depend on a well-integrated vestibular system.

Vestibular Challenges: Signs & Symptoms

Vestibular dysfunction can impact motor skills, attention, and even emotions. Children may be:

1. Over-Responsive (Hypersensitive) To Movement

• Fearful of climbing, swings, or being upside down.

• Motion sickness in cars or playground equipment.

• Avoids jumping, running, or rolling.

• Gets dizzy easily.

2. Under-Responsive (Hyposensitive) To Movement

• Doesn’t react to spinning or swinging.

• Struggles with coordinated movement (e.g., learning to ride a bike).

• Needs a lot of movement to stay engaged.

3. Sensory Seeking

• Loves spinning, jumping, and climbing excessively.

• Constantly fidgets or rocks.

• Appears “on the go” all the time.

4. Related Challenges

• Low muscle tone.

• Poor balance & coordination.

• Difficulty with reading, writing, or eye tracking.

• Fear of falling or avoiding movement.

These symptoms can be mistaken for clumsiness, ADHD, or behavioral issues. But in reality, they signal vestibular processing difficulties.

How The Vestibular System Connects To Primitive Reflexes

Vestibular function is closely linked to primitive reflexes—the automatic movements babies are born with that should integrate as they develop. When these reflexes are retained (not fully developed), they can interfere with motor skills and learning.

Key Reflexes & Vestibular Connection

• Moro Reflex → Startle response when head position changes.

• Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR) → Impacts balance in lying & standing positions.

• Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) → Affects head turning, coordination, and eye movements.

• Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) → Influences posture and crawling patterns.

If your child has retained reflexes, they may struggle with vestibular processing and need targeted activities to support development and integration.

Vestibular Activities By Age

Now, let’s get into the fun part—helping your child strengthen their vestibular system with engaging, developmentally appropriate activities!

Infants (0-12 Months)

• Tummy time over a therapy ball

• Gentle rocking or bouncing while holding them

• Rolling & crawling games

• Baby-wearing (front & back)

Toddlers (1-3 Years)

• Swinging (bucket swing, hammock, or playground swing)

• Rolling like a log

• Jumping on soft surfaces (pillows, trampoline)

• Tumbling and gentle somersaults

• Crawling through tunnels

Preschool & Early Elementary (4-7 Years)

• Spinning games (ring-around-the-rosie, sit-and-spin)

• Climbing playground equipment

• Jumping rope or on a trampoline

• Obstacle courses with rolling, crawling, and balancing

• Yoga poses (downward dog, wheelbarrow walking, rocking egg)

Older Kids (8+ Years)

• Sports (gymnastics, soccer, martial arts)

• Bike riding or scooter play

• Swinging & spinning on playground equipment

• Upside-down activities (cartwheels, handstands)

• Yoga & balance exercises

Teens & Adults

• Exercise routines (yoga, running, dancing)

• Hiking on uneven terrain

• Rock climbing

• Weightlifting with head movement

• Hammock swinging for relaxation

How To Support Vestibular Processing At Home

• Encourage daily movement (outdoor play is ideal!).

• Balance vestibular input with proprioception (deep pressure activities like pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects help regulate the nervous system).

• Use tools like swings, therapy balls, and balance boards.

• Watch for signs of overload (nausea, dizziness, or emotional outbursts).

• Create a sensory diet with both calming and alerting activities.

Final Thoughts

The vestibular system is critical for your child’s balance, focus, and movement skills. If your child shows sensory challenges—whether avoiding or seeking movement—simple, structured vestibular activities can make a big impact.

BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

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This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.