Your child’s physical therapy program will be specifically designed for them, based on our assessment of their strengths and difficulties. Here are some of the hundreds of different activities we can do to achieve progress. Remember, the key is always to make it fun and make it a game.
Planking: Many children who need physical therapy struggle with weak core muscles. Planking is an excellent way to build core strength. How long can they hold the plank? Have one child maintain a plank position while other kids scoot under them!
Sitting or bouncing on a therapy ball: Even babies can benefit from this exercise. The small movements required to stay upright on a therapy ball, even with support, strengthen core muscles.
Riding tricycles or toy tractors or animals: This activity not only builds lower body strength but it also improves coordination and movement planning.
Dancing: Who doesn’t love to dance? Encouraging children to dance along with music improves coordination, perception of body position, and strength.
Jumping and hopping: Can they hop right onto the next dot on the floor? Can they jump over the stuffed animals? Can they jump or hop in time to the music? Each variation builds a different ability.
Reaching toes and rolling over: Little babies can be invited to play with their toes to strengthen tummy muscles which helps them learn to roll over. Putting a toy just out of reach encourages them to complete the roll.