By a certain age, most children are able to sit up, stand, walk, run, coordinate movements, balance, use playground equipment, and participate in sports activities. Seeing your child accomplish these things and develop their gross motor skills can be exciting.
However, if you’ve noticed your child hasn’t yet met these milestones for their age, it can be very worrisome and confusing to know the next steps to take to help them as they grow.
What are gross motor skills?
Gross motor skills are what allow children to use the large muscles of the body to control limbs and the torso in performing physical activities. These skills are acquired over time and usually occur in a developmental sequence.
For some children, the development of gross motor skills can be delayed and may require early intervention to improve so that they will be able to keep up with same-aged peers at school and during play. Some examples of gross motor skill challenges may include trouble using playground equipment, avoidance of sports or physical education activities, late or absent rolling, crawling, or walking, clumsiness, balance problems, or decreased endurance.
If you notice any of the above occurring with your child, we are here to help! Skills on the Hill’s therapists are skilled in using creative and fun activities to help improve your child’s gross motor skills.
How can therapy at Skills on the Hill help?
Occupational and physical therapy can offer a variety of treatment options to meet each child’s specific needs when it comes to addressing delays in gross motor development. These skills are also dependent on strength and stability in the core, limbs, and shoulder girdle.
When children come to Skills on the Hill with issues in gross motor skill development, our therapists first perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate all underlying areas.
our therapists will create a customized treatment plan tailored to meet your child’s unique therapeutic goals. It will include the right combination of strategies, including exercises and home activities the whole family can participate in. We will also make recommendations for school, if needed, related to seating, positioning, and mobility.
Our key to a successful therapy program is to present activities at the child’s skill level and gradually increase the level of difficulty so the child makes progress while continuing to be motivated and interested. This ensures the child is fully engaged and putting forth their best effort.
When the therapy program is artistically designed in this manner, your child is able to make sustained progress toward goals and ultimately your child will maximize his/her potential.
Don’t wait any longer
If you think your child has a delay in their gross motor development, contact Skills on the Hill today to learn more about our pediatric therapy services and how they can help your child gain the necessary skills to be successful in life.
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