As a parent of a child with developmental needs, you’ve probably had both the frustrations and the delights of your own special journey. You’ve shared in celebrations of progress that are the world to your family. You’ve probably grappled as well with questions of how best to support your child’s growth.
Traditional weekly physiotherapy sessions are highly beneficial for many children. There are instances when more intense, concentrated therapy programs would be an additional option in meeting developmental targets, though, for some families.
At The Timmermans Method, we focus on providing intensive therapy programs that aim to create structured opportunities for your child to develop strength, coordination, and functional skills.
How Paediatric Physiotherapy Differs from Adult Approaches
Paediatric physiotherapy isn’t simply adult therapy scaled down. It differs in several important ways.
|
Feature |
Paediatric Physio |
Adult Physio |
|
Developmental Focus |
Early milestones, reflex integration |
Injury recovery, pain management |
|
Play-Based Techniques |
Games, imaginative activities |
Structured exercises |
|
Family Involvement |
Essential to treatment planning |
Generally independent sessions |
|
Emotional Consideration |
Builds confidence, engagement |
Focus on functional outcomes |
|
Collaboration |
School and community integration |
Workplace or lifestyle considerations |
Understanding Intensive Therapy Programs
While traditional weekly sessions benefit many children, intensive therapy provides an alternative that some families find useful in the development of their child. Some intensives involve daily sessions over two or three weeks and utilize specialized equipment such as the TheraSuit or techniques such as Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI).
This concentrated structure provides your child with repeated, consistent opportunities to practice movement patterns that may support their development. Some parents report observing changes in their child’s movement, strength, or confidence following intensive programs.
Intensive therapy programs may be considered:
- Before transitions (such as starting school or moving to a new environment)
- When families are looking for a different approach to therapy
- When a child shows readiness for practicing new skills
- When families have specific goals they’re working toward
Water-Based Therapy: Supporting Movement in a Different Environment
For many children with movement challenges, water provides an environment where movement may feel different and sometimes easier.
Water-based therapy (hydrotherapy) offers several potential benefits:
- Buoyancy effects – Water’s buoyancy reduces the effects of gravity, which may make some movements easier to practice.
- Natural resistance – Water provides gentle resistance that can be used in movement activities.
- Sensory experience – The warm, surrounding sensation of water may help some children feel more comfortable with movement.
- Enjoyable setting – Many children enjoy water-based activities, which can increase their willingness to participate in therapeutic exercises.
Your Important Role in Your Child’s Therapy
In effective paediatric physiotherapy, you’re not just an observer—you’re an active participant whose involvement may enhance the therapy process.
Your therapist should aim to:
- Include you in sessions – Teaching you techniques you can practice at home if appropriate.
- Listen to your observations – Using your insights about what motivates your child
- Provide practical suggestions – Helping you incorporate therapeutic activities into daily routines when possible.
- Communicate clearly – Explaining the purpose behind each exercise and noting progress together.
This collaborative approach helps extend the principles of therapy beyond the formal session. When therapeutic activities are incorporated into daily routines, children have more opportunities to practice developing skills.
Finding a Paediatric Physiotherapy Provider in Australia
When looking for a paediatric physiotherapist, you might consider:
- Training in paediatric approaches – Knowledge specific to children’s development.
- Experience with your child’s particular needs.
- A family-centred approach that values your involvement.
- NDIS knowledge if relevant to your situation.
- Various therapeutic approaches that might suit your child.
- Clear communication about goals and progress.
A well-matched physiotherapy provider works not just with your child but with your whole family, sharing knowledge and skills that you can use beyond the therapy room.
Supporting Development Through Collaborative Approaches
Paediatric physiotherapy aims to support children in developing movement skills that contribute to their participation in daily activities. With appropriate therapeutic approaches and your active involvement, your child has opportunities to work toward developmental milestones that are meaningful for your family.
Whether through weekly sessions, intensive programs, water-based therapy, or a combination of approaches, physiotherapy aims to help your child develop strength, coordination, functional skills, and confidence.
Early intervention, consistent support, and the appropriate therapy team can change your child’s future.
At The Timmermans Method, we offer intensive therapy programs that aim to provide structured opportunities for children to practice and develop movement skills. Our approach combines multiple therapeutic techniques with parent education, creating a supportive environment for your child’s development. Contact us to learn more about our programs and how they might fit with your child’s needs.