Does your child often wobble or fall over while riding a bicycle? Or frequently trip while walking or getting up and down stairs? If so, they may benefit from personalized physical therapy sessions to strengthen their balance and coordination skills.
What Are Balance and Coordination?
Balance and coordination work together to help your child stay upright on their feet and in control of their movements, without clumsiness, while doing everyday activities.
For a better understanding of balance and coordination, here is a breakdown of each ability:
Balance
Balance helps your child maintain their center of gravity, keeping them steady and upright while holding a still posture, such as sitting or standing, or making active movements, such as walking or running.
Here are some examples of balance:
- Tiptoeing in ballet
- Holding a handstand
- Balancing on one foot
- Riding a bicycle without training wheels
- Walking across a balance beam in gymnastics
Coordination
Coordination enables your child to make smooth, controlled movements with their arms and legs. This ability is made possible by the brain working with the senses, helping your child interpret sensory information to decide how to move.
Here are a few examples of coordination at work:
- Crawling
- Tying shoes
- Catching a ball
- Playing hopscotch
- Swimming laps
- Walking up and down stairs
Signs of Balance and Coordination Struggles in Children
If you are unsure of whether or not your child struggles with balance and coordination, here are some common signs to keep an eye out for as your child navigates daily activities:
- Often complains about feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or disoriented
- Finds it challenging to go up and down stairs
- Struggles with participating in sports
- Experiences difficulties while riding a bicycle
- Persistently trips over their own feet while walking
Can Physical Therapy Improve Balance and Coordination Challenges?
Physical therapy is an effective option for addressing any balance or coordination challenges your child experiences. By referring to assessments of your child’s abilities and using evidence-based methods, a physical therapist can create a personalized treatment plan that helps your child strengthen their balance and coordination skills.
What Is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy helps children improve their movement and stability, allowing them to play, explore, and feel independent. Exercises and activities during sessions involve learning and practicing gross and fine motor skills, helping children develop strength, balance, coordination, and mobility for everyday life.
Goal of Pediatric Physical Therapy
Physical therapy aims to equip your child with essential physical skills for thriving in life. We reach this goal through expert support and guidance, both in the clinic and at home, to boost confidence and encourage independence, helping your child succeed in daily activities.
When Should I Contact a Physical Therapist?
If your child seems to be struggling with their balance and coordination, talk with a pediatric physical therapist about your observations. They can provide professional interpretations of your concerns and, if necessary, create the best course of action to empower your child as they improve their balance and coordination for day-to-day life.
Reach Out for a Free Consultation at First Steps
Ready to collaborate with a pediatric physical therapist to help your child develop balance and coordination skills for daily activities? At First Steps Pediatric Therapy, our specialized team can help. Call us today at (700) 900-7432 to receive more information or set up your free 15-minute screening.