Postural ocular

The Postural ocular system provides a stable postural base during movement and when at rest.  It is closely linked to the vestibular system and as such gives a foundation of postural control for balance reactions to develop and reflexes to be inhibited.  When a child does not have sufficient postural control, they can get tired with the effort required just to remain upright and so can appear passive, leaning against any solid surface (including a parent) or lying on the floor.  They will often choose sedentary activities over active games. 

The vestibular system also affects ocular control, which allows the child to relate spatially to their environment.  Their eyes can help balance skills by keeping the visual field stable.  Because of slower balance reactions and possible difficulties with stabilising the visual field, children with postural ocular difficulties can be nervous of unstable or uneven surfaces, they are wary of crowded places where their vision is obscured and they can be bumped and of fast moving games where other children's movements can confuse their own.