In an occupational therapy context, jumping is a powerful (and fun!), whole-body sensory regulation tool that can help with energy release, body organisation, and emotional balance.
What is it?
Repeated up-and-down movements help people increase awareness of their body’s position and the force it is using, as well as supporting balance and spatial awareness. Jumping using trampolines, skipping ropes, hopscotch, or even simple “star jumps” on the spot all stimulate multiple sensory systems in the body which can have a positive effect on a person.
Why it matters:
Jumping is a brilliant regulating tool because it combines heavy work (impact through the joints) with rhythm and repetition. For both children and adults, it can boost alertness and focus; for some people, it offers an outlet to release built-up energy or stress. It improves balance, coordination, and overall body awareness, making it both fun and regulating!
Why it works:
Regulation through proprioceptive input
o Jumping delivers high-intensity heavy work to joints and muscles, which can be calming for sensory seekers and organising for sensory avoiders.
Vestibular–proprioceptive integration
o The brain must process acceleration, deceleration, and impact timing and this is building spatial awareness and balance.
Motor planning & coordination
o Sequencing jumps, adjusting force, and landing safely develops praxis.
Core stability & postural control
o Maintaining upright position on unstable surfaces strengthens deep postural muscles.
Attention & engagement
o Rhythmic, repetitive jumping increases dopamine and norepinephrine, supporting focus
Top tips – use jumping as part of a sensory diet, as a proactive regulation tool in your daily routine. Finish a jumping activity with a grounding movement (heavy pushing, static wall sits or deep breathing).
Jumping ideas
Target games – jump to catch bubbles or a hanging scarf
Rhythm integration– jump to a beat or music (slow = calming or fast = alerting)
Heavy work combination– Jump then push a weighted cart or carry an object for sustained regulation
Cognitive integration– Count backwards while jumping or every time you jump, call out a shape/colour/animal
Safety
- Always supervise jumping activities closely.
- Use age-appropriate, well-maintained equipment (mini-trampolines, crash mats).
- Clear the area of obstacles.
- Teach safe mounting/dismounting.
- Consider fatigue — high-intensity jumping may be exhausting for some children.
- Monitor arousal levels — some children may become over-stimulated and need grounding afterwards.
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