Physical therapy services
Motor Planning and Execution
- Therapy helps children with ASD plan and sequence their movements for tasks like dressing, eating, or playing.
Sensory Integration
- PT can include vestibular and proprioceptive activities to help children with sensory issues, improving their ability to process input and regulate emotional responses.
Strength and Endurance
- Exercises are often tailored to improve muscle strength and stamina for both fine and gross motor tasks, such as climbing, jumping, or running.
Postural Alignment
- Helping children develop postural control for better balance, sitting, standing, and walking, which is essential for classroom and social settings.
Functional Mobility
- Physical therapy focuses on helping children with ASD navigate their environment, improving skills like running, jumping, hopping, and climbing.
Coordination
- Many children with ASD have difficulty with hand-eye coordination and other fine motor skills. PT incorporates activities to improve these skills, such as throwing, catching, or using utensils.
Social Play
- Incorporating physical activities that encourage social interaction, cooperation, and play with peers, aiding in social skill development.
Adaptive Equipment
- In some cases, physical therapists recommend and train the child on adaptive tools, such as walkers or braces, to aid mobility.