Physiotherapists are trained to understand and treat children, from infants to teenagers. They are a vital health professional that can help your child develop physically, mentally, and socially.
The physiotherapist works closely with the child, their family and carers to ensure they develop to their full potential. Treatment is tailored to your child’s specific needs, and a graduated treatment plan is developed.
Gross Motor Skills
If your child has not yet reached certain gross motor milestones (such as crawling, walking and running) compared to their peers, it may be time to see a physiotherapist. They can perform an evaluation that evaluates your child in comparison to their age and will work with you to set goals and put together a treatment care plan.
Pediatric Physiotherapy is a holistic treatment approach designed to maximise your child’s ability to move and function throughout their life. Physiotherapists provide intervention strategies that are engaging and specific to your child’s age, cognitive status, ability level and interests.
They will help your child to improve their movement skills through stretching exercises, guided play and strengthening activities. Your therapist will also teach you exercises you can do at home to help your child progress.
Children with gross motor delays often have poor balance and body awareness, making it difficult for them to walk, run and get around easily. These problems can increase the risk of accidents and injury, so it is essential to address them as soon as they are noticed.
Typically, paediatric physiotherapists will assess various kinaesthetic and sensory integrative activities, including stretching, guided play, ball play skills, gait training, coordination skills, and functional skills. They will then teach you exercises you can do at home with your child to help them improve their gross motor skills.
It is important to remember that the benefits of therapy for gross motor difficulties vary significantly from child to child. It is crucial to seek physiotherapy as soon as concerns are raised. It will help ensure your child develops the motor skills needed for a successful and happy future.
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Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor skills are the small, repetitive movements children use to complete everyday tasks like writing, using cutlery and fastening buttons. They help kids with self-care and play at school or home, so if your child has trouble developing these skills, Paediatric Physiotherapy can help them improve.
In the early years, babies and toddlers need a lot of practice to develop their fine motor skills. It includes playing with toys and learning to move their arms and legs. It also helps their eye-hand coordination. This skill allows them to turn pages in books, use crayons, and self-feed with their hands.
To develop core stability and postural control, many babies must spend time in a “prone” position (lying on their stomach) or even propped up. It is essential because, with this, it can be easier for children to focus on fine motor skills when standing and sitting.
If your child doesn’t meet their fine motor milestones by the age they are supposed to, it can be a worrying sign. Seeking advice if you suspect your child may have a problem is crucial.
Your physiotherapist will be able to assess your child and their progress, using their Child Development Milestones as a guide. They will then develop a graduated treatment plan including your child’s parents, carers and teachers to help them reach those milestones.
In addition, your physiotherapist will work with you and your child to create fun activities to help them learn these skills. For example, your physiotherapist might suggest transferring water from one container to another using your child’s fingers or hand. It is a great way to develop your child’s fine motor skills and endurance.
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Social Skills
Occupational therapists can help your child with social skills through various tools and activities. They may use books, crafts or toys to help your child understand how others feel. They can also work with your child on their social skills through group discussions or by assisting them in practising new skills on their own.
Several common social skills deficits can impact your child’s development, such as poor communication and listening. These problems are often due to various factors, such as developmental delays or medical conditions. They can affect your child’s ability to make friends and interact positively with others.
When it comes to social skills, the best thing you can do for your child is encourage them to get involved in fun and engaging activities. It will increase their confidence and help them develop healthy relationships with their peers.
The Robina Paediatric Physiotherapy have extensive experience working with young children. They will be able to provide a range of different interventions to help your child improve their social skills. They will be able to identify your child’s difficulties and deliver targeted therapy sessions designed specifically for them.
To provide a more holistic approach, your child’s physiotherapist will also assess their motor development and how these skills are progressing. It can include looking at their rolling, crawling, sitting unaided and more.
Your physiotherapist can use these assessments to determine which techniques would be most beneficial for your child’s specific needs and abilities. They can also advise on how to ensure your child’s new skills are transferred into their daily routine at home.