What is Pediatric Physical Therapy?

Pediatric physical therapy focuses on improving children’s gross motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination. It helps children with physical limitations, developmental delays, or injuries to move more easily and confidently. By using targeted exercises and activities, physical therapy enhances mobility, posture, and overall physical function. Whether recovering from an injury or working on everyday motor skills, pediatric physical therapy supports children in gaining independence and participating fully in physical activities at home, school, and in sports.

Key Benefits of Physical Therapy

• Improved Mobility: Helps children develop better movement patterns, whether learning to walk, run, or climb stairs.
• Enhanced Strength and Endurance: Builds muscle strength and cardiovascular health for increased stamina.
• Better Balance and Coordination: Focuses on skills like standing, jumping, and playing sports with confidence.
• Injury Recovery and Prevention: Assists with healing from injuries and teaches techniques to prevent future injuries.
• Increased Independence: Empowers children to move confidently and participate fully in physical activities.

A Personalized Physical Therapy Treatment Plan

At Inspiring Talkers, our physical therapy sessions are tailored to meet your child’s specific needs and goals. We begin with a thorough evaluation to identify areas of concern, such as muscle weakness, balance issues, or mobility limitations. Based on this, our therapists create a customized plan that includes fun, engaging exercises designed to improve motor skills, strength, and coordination. Regular progress updates ensure that therapy is effective and that adjustments are made as your child improves.

Schedule & Complete an Evaluation

Complete the contact form with your families information or call us directly to talk to a representative about your unique goals. We’ll schedule a 60 minute evaluation to get to know you and your child.

Create A Personal Treatment Plan

Our therapists will review the information from the evaluation and work with you to create an effective treatment plan. We’ll contact you to determine the most convenient schedule for your family.

Ongoing Evaluation & Updates

Re-evaluations are completed periodically with testing and goal updates to establish a new plan of care for continued improvement.

Signs your child may benefit from Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy aims at improving gross motor, balance, and mobility to increase independence with functional activities. Our physical therapists have training in Neurodevelopmental Therapy, wheelchair fitting and mobility, orthotics, torticollis management, and more.

• Late to crawl or walk
• Trips or falls frequently
• Has more difficulty than other kids using playground equipment, riding a bike, or playing sports
• Complains of pain or fatigue with physical activity

Common Areas We Address

Our physical therapy services target challenges that limit children’s movement and physical abilities. Our therapists focus on:

• Gross Motor Skills: Helping children improve activities like walking, running, jumping, and climbing.
• Coordination and Balance: Addressing difficulties with balance to prevent falls and improve physical confidence.
• Strength and Endurance: Building muscle strength and stamina to support active participation in daily life.
• Injury Recovery and Prevention: Assisting children in recovering from injuries and learning strategies to prevent future injuries.
• Posture and Gait Training: Helping children develop proper posture and walking patterns.

Experienced Physical Therapy Team

Inspiring talkers physical therapists are committed to helping children enhance their strength, mobility, and coordination. By creating a positive and engaging environment, they use evidence-based techniques to guide each child toward reaching their physical goals. With a personalized and compassionate approach, our therapists focus on building trust and ensuring that therapy sessions are both effective and enjoyable. This helps children stay motivated and confident throughout their therapy journey, making meaningful progress every step of the way.

Lydia Ockert, PT, DPT, Chief Operating Officer
Firestone & Windsor

Lauren Parenet, PT, DPT
Firestone

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child start physical therapy?

Physical therapy can begin at any age when there are concerns about movement, strength, or coordination. Early intervention often leads to better long-term results.

How long does physical therapy typically last?

The length of therapy varies based on your child’s specific needs and goals, but most children attend sessions once or twice a week, with progress monitored regularly.

What activities are included in physical therapy?

Therapy sessions include exercises to improve strength, balance, coordination, and motor skills, tailored to your child’s specific needs.

How can physical therapy help my child after an injury?

Physical therapy aids in recovery by restoring mobility, strength, and flexibility. It also teaches techniques to prevent future injuries.

Do you offer telehealth for physical therapy?

Yes, we offer telehealth options for families who prefer remote sessions.