The vestibular system’s function is to maintain balance and detect speed and motion. It also plays a crucial role in learning and works together with the visual and proprioceptive systems. It sends messages to the brain, which then sends messages to different parts of the body. For example, the vestibular system receives information about head movement, such as side-to-side or up-and-down (nodding yes or no). The various directions our head can move allow the brain to determine our position in space.

Balance is necessary for all movements, such as rolling, sitting and walking. Our body can make minor adjustments to ensure we do not overbalance, which can cause us to fall, or underbalance.

The vestibular system works closely with our eyes to maintain gaze, particularly when moving, and our eyes remain fixed. It can also detect changes through subtle head movements, causing our body weight to shift so we do not fall.

Proprioception

Proprioception is referred to as the sixth sense. The system is a part of the internal sensory body, with its receptors located in the skin, muscles, joints, ligaments and connective tissues. Once these receptors are stimulated, an arousal centre in the brain provides information about where parts of the body are and what they are doing.

Proprioception plays a vital role in self-regulation, posture, body awareness, coordination, focus, and speech. It also reminds us how body parts move and how much muscle strength is required. For example, a baby moving from a crawling position to pulling itself up to stand.

Developmental Milestones

Reaching developmental milestones is through everyday moments in the infant’s life. Exploring the world around them in the beginning through being on the floor, noticing their hands and legs, to slowly beginning to move as their muscles strengthen. Noticing these everyday moments as achievements, consider the infant’s development of self and reflecting upon the importance of repetition, observation as they participate in family life.