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Swinging, spinning, and jumping can be incredible tools for regulation, but they can also lead to overstimulation if we’re not careful. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to safely use vestibular input (aka movement) to support sensory regulation without causing meltdowns or motion sickness.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What the vestibular system is and why it’s so important
The difference between seekers, avoiders, and under-responders
Signs of vestibular overload and what to look for
How to safely build up tolerance to spinning, swinging, and movement
Tips for balancing vestibular input with proprioception for regulation
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All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
What is Vestibular Input? (Blog Post)
What is the Vestibular System? (Podcast)
Research Articles:
Vestibular Activity and Development in Children
Vestibular Dysfunction in Children
Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairments
Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population
Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children
When it comes to sensory processing, vestibular input is one of the most powerful—and complex—tools in a therapist or parent’s toolkit. It can wake up the body, support emotional regulation, improve posture and coordination, and even aid in reading and interoception.
But here’s the catch: too much vestibular input, or the wrong kind, can quickly lead to sensory overstimulation. Let’s break down how to safely and effectively use vestibular input in daily routines, therapy sessions, and sensory diets—while avoiding the dreaded meltdown or motion sickness.
The vestibular system is located in our inner ears and helps us understand our body's position in space—whether we’re moving, standing still, upside down, or balanced on one foot. This system works by using fluid and tiny hair-like receptors in the inner ear.
When the head changes position, the fluid shifts and stimulates those receptors, sending signals to the brain about movement and balance. It’s a critical part of:
Postural control.
Coordination.
Visual and auditory processing.
Emotional regulation.
Interoception (the sense of what’s happening inside the body).
Research shows that vestibular challenges are increasingly common in children, yet many go unrecognized. One study found that 1 in 5 children in the U.S. experience problems with dizziness or balance—but only 36% were evaluated by a professional.
Vestibular processing is deeply tied to motor skills, balance, visual coordination, and even reading ability. When vestibular input is used correctly, it can help children:
Increase attention and focus.
Regulate emotions.
Improve body awareness.
Support primitive reflex integration.
Build muscle tone.
Improve visual tracking and coordination.
When it comes to vestibular processing, children typically fall into one of these categories:
These children actively crave movement. They may spin, jump, and climb constantly. Their vestibular system isn’t registering input strongly enough, so their bodies are seeking more.
These children don’t seek movement but benefit from it. They may seem sluggish or low-energy. While they need vestibular input, they don’t actively go after it.
These children are highly sensitive to movement. Even a simple swing or car ride can cause distress, fear, or nausea. They often avoid climbing, swinging, or going upside down.
Vestibular activities involve head and body movements that change direction, speed, or head position. Common vestibular activities include:
Swinging (linear and rotational).
Spinning (e.g., on a swing, office chair, or in a hammock).
Jumping (on trampolines, pogo sticks, or from surfaces).
Rocking (rocking chairs, rocking horses).
Rolling (down a hill, on a scooter board).
Upside-down play (e.g., over therapy balls or monkey bars).
Car rides (especially with head turning for looking and merging).
OT Tip: Always combine vestibular input with proprioceptive input (like pushing, pulling, or squeezing) to help the nervous system process the stimulation more effectively.
Vestibular input is powerful—sometimes too powerful. Overstimulation can show up immediately or have a delayed onset of up to several hours. Symptoms to look for include:
Dizziness or nausea.
Vomiting.
Changes in facial color (pale, flushed, greenish).
Dilated pupils or visual tracking problems.
Heavy or irregular breathing.
Irritability or sudden mood shifts.
Meltdowns or tears.
Refusal to participate in movement.
Unusual hyperactivity or silliness.
Withdrawal or shutdown.
Clumsiness or increased tripping.
Poor posture (slumping, head resting).
Difficulty coordinating movements (like catching a ball).
Headaches or extreme fatigue later in the day.
Delayed Overstimulation Is Real: One of our podcast hosts shared how a simple vestibular test (10 spins each direction) resulted in unexplained irritability and fatigue hours later—a classic example of delayed vestibular overload.
Always begin with a short duration of vestibular input. See how your child or client responds before increasing intensity or time.
Example:Start with 30 seconds of gentle swinging. If tolerated well, you can slowly build up to 1–2 minutes over time.
Proprioceptive input is calming and helps “organize” the nervous system. Follow spinning or swinging with:
Wall pushes.
Carrying heavy objects.
Crawling or animal walks.
Deep pressure squeezes.
Don’t rely on one form of movement. Rotate between linear swinging, rocking, spinning, or going upside down. This encourages broader integration.
If you see early signs of overstimulation, pause immediately. Shift to calming, grounding activities.
Example transitions:
From spinning → to deep pressure hugs.
From swinging → to squeezing therapy putty.
From jumping → to crawling through a tunnel.
After a vestibular activity, allow the child some time to “reset.” Let them sit, swing passively, or do a calming activity before transitioning.
Build consistent vestibular-proprioceptive circuits into the day:
Morning: Jumping + pushups against the wall
Midday: Spinning in a hammock + weighted animal carry
Evening: Rocking + deep pressure massage
Every child is different. What overstimulates one child might be calming for another.
That’s why we always say: start small, observe, and adapt. The goal is not just movement—but modulated, effective movement that teaches the brain how to process vestibular input safely and efficiently.
Remember, vestibular activities can be both fun and functional when used with intention. With a little trial and error, and a lot of observation, you’ll learn how to make movement a tool for regulation, not overstimulation.
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 & art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views & opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties & 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.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links & make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews & comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair & balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
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.
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