Early Years Physiotherapy (0-4 years)

Within the Early Years pathway, we work with babies and pre-school children 0-4yrs. We see a variety of children who may or may not have a medical diagnosis, this can include:

  • Those with a delay in their motor development, such as being late to crawl or walk.

  • Concerns with regards the way they walk, such as intoeing or out toeing or being flat footed. 

  • Children with more complex needs such as Cerebral Palsy and Down’s syndrome.

It is important to remember your baby is unique and will develop in their own way as all babies develop at different rates. They are not only growing physically but learning all about the world around them.  All sorts of different things will influence and affect how your child develops and it is really important to remember that no two children are the same.  Your Paediatric Physiotherapist will advise you on lots of different positions and play activities to help your child develop the skills they need. We will work through the milestones in stages, for example we will work on tummy time before expecting them to crawl and work on standing before we expect them to walk as this helps them to learn the important skills and build up their muscle strength ready to conquer the next challenge.  Little and often throughout the day, at times when they are not hungry or due a nap is the trick. Click here or below for a poster to help: Don't Delay the Play

 

Our information is intended to provide some useful guidance around the expected ages the average baby will achieve their early development milestones.  Also highlighted are some suggestions and advice around positions and activities that will support you to encourage the development of your baby’s gross and fine motor skills as well as their communication and interaction.

Click below for guidance on typical development.