The Power of Core Strength in Pediatric Occupational Therapy in Phnom Penh

Strong core muscles are the foundation of nearly every movement a child makes—from sitting upright in class to writing their name or climbing stairs. In Phnom Penh, occupational therapy is helping children develop core strength through fun, play-based exercises using therapy balls, swings, and balance equipment. These activities are particularly beneficial for children with low muscle tone, developmental coordination disorder, autism, and ADHD.

At Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh, core strengthening is a key component of many individualized therapy plans. Strengthening the trunk muscles enhances posture, balance, and endurance, helping children participate more confidently in daily routines and academic tasks.

Why Core Strength Matters

Core strength includes the muscles of the abdomen, back, hips, and pelvis. It plays a major role in:

• Postural stability for sitting and standing

• Fine motor control, such as handwriting and cutting

• Gross motor coordination like running, jumping, and playing sports

• Body awareness and motor planning

Children with weak cores may slump in their chairs, tire easily during play, or struggle with balance. Occupational therapists use dynamic activities like therapy ball exercises—as pictured above—to build strength in a way that’s safe, engaging, and highly effective.

Therapy That Looks Like Play

In a typical session at Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh, children may:

• Crawl over therapy balls to activate core muscles

• Hold plank or bridge positions in fun obstacle courses

• Bounce or balance on balls to improve coordination and sensory input

• Engage in games that involve reaching, pushing, or pulling

These exercises don’t feel like “work” to children. They’re part of games and challenges that build confidence, body control, and a love for movement.

Supporting Core Strength at Home

Therapists also empower families with strategies to continue strengthening at home. This may include:

• Using cushions or yoga balls for seated play

• Encouraging animal walks or wheelbarrow races

• Setting up mini balance challenges in a hallway or living room

For children who also experience delays in language, Speech Therapy Phnom Penh offers integrated support that complements physical development by working on communication, sequencing, and turn-taking during motor tasks.

Connect with a supportive community of professionals and parents:

• Facebook: Occupational Therapy Phnom Penh

• Facebook Group: Occupational Therapy Cambodia

• Facebook: Speech Therapy Phnom Penh

• Facebook Group: Speech Therapy Cambodia

When children are strong at the core, they’re better prepared to engage, learn, and grow—both in therapy and in life.