Paediatric Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy

FAQs – Paediatric Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy

Q1: What is paediatric physiotherapy?

Paediatric physiotherapy focuses on assisting children improve their movement skills, strength, balance, and coordination. It supports children with developmental delays, injuries, neurological conditions, and physical disabilities.

Q2: What is paediatric occupational therapy (OT)?

Paediatric OT helps children develop the skills needed for everyday tasks like dressing, writing, toileting, feeding, and playing. It supports sensory processing, fine motor skills, and independence to tasks.

Q3: What age groups do you work with?

We work with children from infancy through adolescence (0–18 years).

Appointments & Referrals

Q4: Do I need a referral from a doctor?

A referral is not always necessary, but some insurance providers may require one. It’s best to check with your GP or your insurance policy.

Q5: How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic, emailing us, or using our online booking system.

Q6: What should I bring to the first appointment?

Please bring any relevant medical reports, your child’s health history, NDIS plan and goals for therapy. Comfortable clothing for your child is also recommended.

Treatment & Sessions

Q7: What happens in the first session?

The first session in physiotherapy includes an assessment where the therapist observes your child’s abilities, discusses concerns, and develops a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.

The first session in occupational therapy is a parent-only interview where the therapist and parent talk about what is currently happening and agree on age-appropriate, achievable goals.

Q8: How long are the sessions?

Sessions typically last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your child’s needs and treatment goals.

Q9: How many sessions will my child need?

This varies. Some children need short-term therapy, while others may benefit from ongoing support. The therapist will review progress regularly.

Conditions We Treat

Q10: What conditions do you treat?

We support children with:

Developmental delays
Cerebral palsy
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Down syndrome
Chromosomal diagnosis
Sensory processing difficulties
Motor coordination issues (DCD/dyspraxia)
Musculoskeletal injuries
Neurological conditions
Handwriting and fine motor challenges

Parental Involvement & Home Practice

Q11: Can I stay with my child during therapy?

Yes, parents are encouraged to be involved, especially in early sessions. Your support helps reinforce therapy strategies at home.

Q12: Will you give us exercises to do at home?

Absolutely. Home programs are a key part of therapy to ensure progress continues between sessions.

Insurance & Payments

Q13: Is therapy covered by insurance?

Many insurance providers cover paediatric physiotherapy and OT. Please check with your insurer and let us know if you require documentation for claims.