Pediatric Motor Development Delays

As children grow, they learn and acquire gross motor skills, which will be tracked by healthcare providers to ensure proper development. Examples of the important motor development motor milestones for infants include grabbing toys with two hands, rolling, sitting unsupported, and walking. For toddlers, milestones include walking, jumping, skipping, and running. There are time ranges for each milestone, but it is important to remember that each child is different and therefore develops differently.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• Child appearing behind peers in terms of play, manipulation of objects, etc.
• Weakness and quick fatigue with daily activities
• Coordination deficits
• Pain
• Tightness/poor flexibility
• Excessive flexibility

HOW CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP?

Based on what difficulties your child is having, your physical therapist will create a comprehensive program that may include manual stretching, functional strengthening, activities to optimize coordination, postural training, and exercises to improve functional mobility all in the form of play. Your therapist will provide a home exercise program as well as strategies to encourage improvements through everyday activities.