22 May Supporting Personal Space in Children: Insights from an Occupational Therapist
Many children, particularly those with sensory processing challenges, motor planning difficulties, or social communication differences, may struggle to understand and maintain appropriate personal space. As an occupational therapist, I see how this issue affects not only individual well-being but also peer relationships and classroom dynamics. By understanding why personal space can be difficult and using targeted strategies, we can help children develop respectful and confident interactions.
Why Personal Space Can Be Challenging
For children with sensory processing difficulties, physical boundaries may feel confusing. Some may be sensory seekers who crave physical contact (big cup) and frequently invade others’ space without realising it. Others may be “avoiders” (small cup) who become overwhelmed by proximity, reacting strongly even to light touch. (Click here to read our blog explaining “Sensory Cups”)
Motor planning issues: often associated with conditions like dyspraxia or developmental coordination disorder, can also impact how children position their bodies. These children may accidentally stand too close or bump into others simply because they struggle to judge distances or move their bodies with control.
Additionally, difficulties with social communication can make it hard for some children to read nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language. They may not recognise when someone is uncomfortable or attempting to create space.
Strategies to Support Personal Space
- Social stories: These are short, illustrated narratives that teach children what personal space looks like, why it matters, and how to respect it in various situations. They’re especially effective for visual learners and children on the autism spectrum.
- Proprioceptive activities: Engaging in “heavy work” such as pushing, pulling, jumping, or carrying provides deep input to the joints and muscles. This helps children develop better body awareness, which is key to understanding where they are in relation to others.
- Modelling and role-playing: Adults can demonstrate respectful behaviours like asking before hugging or showing how to read social cues. Practising these skills in a safe setting helps children apply them in real life.
- Teaching consent: Empower children to express when they don’t want physical contact and to honour those boundaries in others. This not only reinforces personal space but also builds a foundation of mutual respect.
- Visual supports: Use visual aids like floor markers, hula hoops, or designated spots to define personal space in classrooms or group activities. These concrete cues are invaluable for children who benefit from visual structure.
With consistent, supportive strategies rooted in occupational therapy principles, children can learn to navigate personal space in ways that promote confidence, empathy, and healthy relationships.
Click here to download your free social story called “My Bubble” on Personal Space!