Could your child benefit from Physiotherapy? A Parent’s Guide
- Jeremie Guimbeau
- May 9
- 3 min read
Updated: May 17
Hello Super Parents!
We all want to see our kids thrive, whether that means chasing butterflies at the park or confidently climbing the stairs to school. But sometimes, you might wonder:
“IS THIS JUST A QUIRKY PHASE, OR IS SOMETHING MORE
GOING ON WITH HOW MY CHILD MOVES?"
If you’ve found yourself quietly comparing your child to their peers (we all do it!) or wondering about their coordination, strength, or posture—this guide is for you. Let’s take a gentle look at the signs that might mean your child could benefit from paediatric physiotherapy.
Understanding Movement Milestones
Every child has their own timeline, but here are some early signs that might stand out:
Delays in sitting, crawling, or walking compared to what your doctor expects
Skipping milestones altogether (e.g. never crawling before walking)
Struggles with movement transitions like rolling, sitting up, or standing from the floor
NOT SURE IF IT'S A DELAY OR JUST YOUR CHILD'S UNIQUE STYLE? WHEN IN DOUBT, ASK! A PAEDIATRIC PHYSIO CAN HELP YOU FIGURE IT OUT.
Playground Wobbles: Signs to Watch During Play
You might notice your child:
Falling more often than other kids
Avoiding hopping, running, or climbing games
Getting tired quicker during playground time
Preferring quieter, less active play
Struggling to coordinate movement in games like skipping rope, hopscotch or catch
If your child prefers playing “statue” instead of tag, it might be worth a closer look!
Everyday Life: Is Movement Getting in the Way?
During everyday routines, some things to look out for include:
Difficulty going up and down stairs without a rail
Needing extra time or effort to change positions (e.g., from lying to sitting, or sitting to standing)
Finding it hard to sit upright for meals, crafts, or story time
Constantly slouching or leaning when seated
Avoiding community outings or school activities that involve movement
HINT: IF YOUR CHILD IS STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP WITH SIBLINGS OR CLASSMATES, THEY MIGHT BE WORKING HARDER THAN YOU REALISE.
What About Discomfort or Tiredness?
Pain and fatigue aren't part of typical development. If your child:
Complains of aching legs after walking or playing
Wakes up at night with unexplained aches
Starts avoiding physical activities they previously enjoyed
…it’s a good idea to have it checked out.
KIDS WON'T ALWAYS SAY, "MY CORE STRENGTH IS POOR", BUT THEY MIGHT SAY "I DON'T WANT TO PLAY OUTSIDE" AND THAT IS WORTH EXPLORING.
What Happens in a Physio Session?
We get this question a lot! A paediatric physiotherapy session is:
Playful and engaging (think games, obstacle courses, and animal walks!)
Tailored to your child’s abilities and interests
Focused on family goals—whether it’s keeping up with friends or being more confident on the playground
Supportive, not scary! Your child won’t be pushed or pressured
Why Does Movement Matter Beyond the Playground?
Poor movement skills can also affect:
Focus and learning in the classroom
Confidence in group settings
Emotional regulation and behaviour
Social participation (no one likes to feel “left out”)
By supporting their physical development, you’re also supporting their emotional and social well-being.
When to Wait and When to Act
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
NO NEED TO ACT | CONTACT YOUR PHYSIO |
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SUPPORT LEADS TO SMOOTHER PATHS AHEAD. THE SOONER WE ADDRESS MOVEMENT CHALLENGES, THE MORE CONFIDENT AND CAPABLE YOUR CHILD CAN FEEL.
Let’s Take the Next Step
If anything you’ve read rings true for your little one, don’t stress—but don’t wait either. A friendly physiotherapist can:
Assess how your child moves
Offer play-based strategies to boost strength and coordination
Provide simple activities for home and school
Empower you as a parent with tools and reassurance
BECAUSE EVERY CHILD DESERVES TO FEEL CONFIDENT IN THEIR BODY - AND EVERY PARENT DESERVES PEACE OF MIND.
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