Typically children are encouraged to walk barefoot or as close to barefoot when first learning to walk for many reasons, sensory-motor, balance…the list goes on but for a kiddo with hypotonia this may not be the best option. Loose joints, specifically ankle joints will make walking difficult. Having shoes on will help to maintain that joint alignment, therapy may also prescribe SMO’s (Supra Malleolar Orthotics here help stabilize the ankle and prevent the arch of the foot from collapsing) to wear with shoes.
Using sensory interventions to increase activity levels before movement may also help them give their best efforts when working. Therapeutic brushing techniques such as the Wilbarger Therapressure Protocol may be used to stimulate the kiddo before physical activities. Sensory play and stimulation may help stimulate and “wake up” the muscles a bit more before producing certain activities.
Hypotonia can also affect speech and oral motor muscles cause difficulties in speaking, eating, or swallowing. When referred to outside therapy PT, OT, and speech will do the necessary evaluation to determine what services will best benefit your kiddo.