Question

A 6-year-old child has hypotonia and poor sitting balance. Which activity would be MOST BENEFICIAL to include in the initial intervention for facilitating the child's active trunk extension?

A. Gentle rocking on a 22-inch (56 cm) diameter ball in a supine position
B. Going down a ramp in a prone position on a standard-size scooter board
C. Rolling forward and backward in a 20-inch (51 cm) diameter carpet-lined barrel
D. Sitting upright and spinning in a ceiling-suspended net hammock

Answer 1

For a child with hypotonia and poor sitting balance, gentle rocking on a large diameter ball can effectively strengthen core muscles and facilitate active trunk extension, setting a foundation for improved motor control and balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most beneficial activity to include in the initial intervention for facilitating a 6-year-old child's active trunk extension, who has hypotonia and poor sitting balance, would be gentle rocking on a 22-inch (56 cm) diameter ball in a supine position.

This exercise can help in strengthening the core muscles, improving balance, and stimulating the vestibular system, which is responsible for spatial orientation and balance. Activities like rolling in a barrel could be beneficial later, but initially, the controlled movement of gentle rocking is more likely to help with trunk extension without overwhelming the child's motor control abilities.