Aquatic Physiotherapy
Aquatic Physiotherapy (previously known as hydrotherapy) is physiotherapy in water. The warmth of the water can help reduce spasticity, the buoyancy of the water makes movement and balance easier, the density of the water can be used as resistance to build strength and improve function.
Would my child benefit?
Aquatic Physiotherapy involves specific exercises that help your child to develop strength, balance, co-ordination, core stability and more. It may involve some activities similar to ones done in swimming lessons but should not replace swimming lessons. Aquatic Physiotherapy works well when it complements a regular land-based program.
Is my child eligible?
To attend Aquatic Physiotherapy, you will need a certificate from your GP, stating you are fit to attend. Being in the water puts increased pressure on your child’s body systems. It is important to get medical clearance, particularly if your child has any issues with their heart, lungs, blood pressure or kidneys. A land-based assessment by one of our physiotherapists is important in deciding if this program is right for your child.
Group Programs
Group programs are an ideal way to build skills in a functional and meaningful environment. Peer interaction is an important factor in translation of skills to real world application, and developing opportunities for children to see how the skills they are developing are meaningful to their daily lives. It also provides opportunities to develop social skills, communication and co-operation and provides a platform for parents to meet other parents who are on similar journeys.
Stepping Forward Therapy Services offers groups from 6 months to 10 years old.
Turtles Baby Group
Tummy Time is better with company!
Our Turtles Group is suited for pre-crawling babies from 10 weeks of age and above. This 6 week course is aimed at improving tummy time and gross motor skills for your baby in a fun and inclusive environment.
Classes are 45min and run in small groups by one of our experienced Physiotherapists and sessions are customised to meet each baby’s therapy needs.
Will this benefit my baby?
Yes! If you or your healthcare professional notes that your baby is a reluctant tummy-timer; is struggling to meet their milestones; has a head turn preference to one side; has tight neck muscles or a persistent head tilt; or would benefit from a group environment.
Little Cubs Group
Our Cubs Group is suited for babies on the move, but not yet sitting independently or pulling up to stand. This 6 week course is aimed at improving crawling, sitting and gross motor skills for your baby in a fun and inclusive environment.
Classes are 45min and run in small groups by one of our experienced Physiotherapists and sessions a
re customised to meet each baby’s therapy needs.
Is this right for my baby?
Yes! If your baby is learning to crawl, or struggling to meet their milestones; or if they have a history of plagiocephaly or torticollis; or is having difficulty getting into sitting by themselves, or would benefit from a group environment.
Penguin Group
Our Penguins Group is suited for children from ages 1-3 years old. Groups run weekly in small groups by a physiotherapist, and occupational therapist and is aimed at supporting children in reaching developmental milestones in gross motor, fine motor, cognitive play skills and communication.
Joeys Group
Our Joey’s group is suited for children 3-5 years of age. Weekly group sessions are run by an occupational therapist and physiotherapist, and is aimed at readiness for school, and early childhood development in gross motor, fine motor, cognitive play skills, self-care and communication.
Skill Up Group
Our Skill Up group is for children at lower primary age (Prep – Grade 3) who need extra practise with gross motor skills, co-ordination, agility and balance. Sessions are fun and have a mix of circuit activities and games, to promote, strength, flexibility and gross motor skills. This group is run after school on a weekly basis.