Rehabilitative services

Frequently asked questions

During an evaluation, your child's skills will be assessed to determine if there is a need for ongoing therapy.

What is the difference between evaluation and therapy?

• During an evaluation, your child's skills will be assessed to determine if there is a need for ongoing therapy. If therapy is needed, your child will work on improving skills identified during the evaluation.

How do I know if my child needs an evaluation?

• An evaluation may be suggested by a physician, a teacher or other medical professionals. Check our motor skills chart for basic information regarding typical motor development. If you are concerned your child's skills are not where they should be, he or she might benefit from an evaluation with one of our physical therapists.

• A shoe with a flexible sole is best when outdoors until the child has mastered walking.
• Letting a child go barefoot or in socks when in the house is also recommended.
• Hard, firm baby shoes may actually hinder the development of foot intrinsic muscles and the grasping action of the toes.
• A flexible shoe enables the foot to grow normally, develop the appropriate muscles and grasping action of the toes.

Working hard in therapy can be fun.

Is "W" sitting bad for my child?

• Children who W-sit can place increased stresses on their hip joints and can develop tightness of their hip and hamstring muscles. Repeated sitting in this position may reinforce the "turning-in direction" of the femur (the long leg) bone and stretching out of the inside knee ligaments. It may lead to a knock knee presentation when the child walks.
• Children should be encouraged to tailor sit or ring sit to encourage a better alignment throughout the lower leg. These sitting positions will avoid placing any undue stress to the hip or knee joints.

How can I encourage my child to have a more healthy lifestyle?

• Limit time watching television, and never eat meals in front of the television.
• Reward children with fun activities or more time spent with you, not food. 
• Be a good example. Be active and encourage play activities.
• Read more tips on how to encourage a healthy lifestyle »