Why Is My Toddler Always on the Move? Understanding Sensory Seeking Behavior
If you have a toddler who seems to bounce, crash, spin, or climb from the moment their eyes open, you’re not alone. Many young children crave movement and seek out big, intense sensory experiences. This can be completely typical—but sometimes it’s a sign they need extra support learning how to regulate their sensory systems.
Let’s break down what sensory-seeking really means, how to tell the difference between healthy curiosity and dysregulation, and simple ways to support your busy little one at home.
What Does Sensory-Seeking Mean?
Toddlers learn through their senses. They touch, taste, move, and explore as a natural part of development. But some children need more sensory input than others to feel organized and calm. This is often referred to as sensory-seeking behavior.
Sensory-seeking toddlers may:
Crash into pillows or people
Jump from furniture
Spin in circles
Touch everything in sight
Make loud noises
Constantly run instead of walk
Push, squeeze, or hug with lots of force
These behaviors aren’t “bad”—they’re a child’s way of meeting their sensory needs.
Curiosity or Dysregulation: What’s the Difference?
All toddlers explore. The challenge is telling when movement is part of healthy discovery or when it signals sensory dysregulation.
Here are some helpful clues:
Signs It’s Typical Curiosity
They can stop or change activities with a bit of redirection.
They’re exploring new textures, spaces, and objects.
They show calm moments throughout the day.
They respond well to limits like “feet on the floor” or “gentle hands.”
Signs It May Be Sensory Dysregulation
Movement is constant and intense, even during calm routines.
They melt down when asked to stop moving.
They seek unsafe movement (jumping from high places, climbing furniture nonstop).
You see big, frequent crashes, pushing, or rough play.
They struggle to sit for meals, stories, or short tasks even when they’re interested.
If behavior feels driven rather than playful, your child may be trying to regulate an overwhelmed sensory system.
Simple At-Home Strategies to Support a Sensory-Seeking Toddler
You can’t remove a child’s need for movement—but you can help them get the right kind of input in safe, structured ways.
Here are effective, therapist-approved strategies:
1. Build Daily Movement Breaks
Offer predictable, high-energy activities every 1–2 hours:
Jumping on a small trampoline
Running outside
Animal walks (bear crawl, crab walk, frog jumps)
“Crash pad” play with pillows or couch cushions
2. Add Heavy Work Activities
Heavy work = pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying.
It gives deep pressure input that calms the nervous system.
Try:
Pushing a laundry basket full of books
Carrying groceries or stuffed animals
Pulling a wagon
Helping with simple chores like wiping tables or sweeping
3. Offer Deep Pressure Input
Deep pressure can be grounding for sensory-seeking kids.
Use:
Big, firm bear hugs (if your child likes them)
Rolling your child up in a blanket like a “burrito”
Pushing against your hands in a “wall push” game
Using a body pillow for snuggles or squeezes
4. Create Safe Climbing & Crashing Zones
Designate a space where movement is expected and safe:
Cushions for jumping
A small foam crash pad
A couch for climbing with supervision
A doorway pull-up bar (for older toddlers)
5. Prep for Transitions
Movement seekers often struggle shifting from “go-go-go” to “stop.”
Try:
2-minute warnings
Visual schedules
Movement before seated activities (jump 10 times before dinner)
6. Stay Calm and Connect
Remember—sensory seeking is communication. Your child isn’t trying to be wild or difficult. They’re trying to feel just right in their body.
Simple, empathetic phrases help:
“Your body needs to move. Let’s find a safe way.”
“You’re looking for big squeezes. Let’s try a bear hug.”
When to Seek Extra Support
If your toddler’s movement feels constant, unsafe, or overwhelming for your family—or if you’re unsure what’s typical—an occupational therapist can help. OTs are trained to assess sensory processing patterns and create individualized strategies that fit your child’s needs.
With the right tools and support, sensory-seeking toddlers can learn to regulate their bodies, participate in routines, and channel their energy in positive ways.