Every parent feels excitement when their child learns to roll over, crawl, walk, run, and explore the world. These milestones don’t always happen at the same pace for every child, and that’s not always a cause for concern. But sometimes, a consistent pattern of delay, imbalance, or weakness can signal that your child could benefit from pediatric physical therapy.
Pediatric physical therapists specialize in helping children build strength, coordination, and confidence in movement. Here are some of the most common signs that it may be time to talk with a physical therapist about your child’s development.
1. Delayed Motor Milestones
One of the earliest signs a child may need physical therapy is slow progress through movement milestones. If your baby isn’t rolling by 6 months, sitting by 8 months, crawling by 10 months, or walking by 15 to 18 months, it’s worth asking your pediatrician or a physical therapist for an evaluation.
Sometimes, delays can be mild and resolve on their own. In other cases, they may indicate muscle weakness, low muscle tone, or muscle tightness that needs support.
2. Preference for One Side of the Body
Does your child always reach with the same hand, tilt their head in one direction, or roll to only one side?
Favoring one side of the body can point to muscle imbalance or asymmetry, often related to conditions like torticollis or uneven strength in the neck, trunk, or limbs. Physical therapists can create exercises and stretches to restore balance, improve posture, and prevent long-term challenges with movement or alignment.
3. Trouble with Balance or Coordination
Children who struggle to balance or coordinate movements may appear clumsy or easily frustrated by physical activities. Signs can include:
- Frequent tripping or falling
- Difficulty walking on uneven surfaces
- Trouble learning to jump, hop, or climb
- Avoiding playground activities or sports
These challenges can stem from weak core muscles, poor sensory processing, or developmental coordination disorders. Pediatric PT can improve these skills through playful activities that strengthen balance and body control.
4. Toe Walking or Unusual Walking Patterns
Occasional toe walking is common in toddlers who are just learning to walk. However, if it continues beyond age 2 or 3, it can indicate tight calf muscles, sensory preferences, or neuromuscular conditions.
Physical therapists evaluate gait (the way a child walks) to identify the cause of toe-walking and teach proper movement patterns. Early intervention can prevent long-term strain on the legs and feet.
5. Difficulty with Strength-Based Activities
If your child struggles to climb stairs, get up from the floor, run, or carry light objects, they may have low muscle tone (how relaxed a muscle feels at rest) or muscle weakness (the strength a muscle can produce when it’s being used).
PT sessions can include fun games, obstacle courses, and exercises that address both conditions to build endurance, core stability, and confidence in movement. Over time, you’ll notice your child standing taller, moving more easily, and keeping up with peers.
6. Frequent “W-Sitting” or Poor Posture
Many children sit in a “W” position (knees bent, feet out to the sides) because it feels stable; but it can put strain on hips, knees, and ankles over time.
If your child prefers this position, slouches frequently, or has trouble maintaining upright posture, our physical therapists can work with them to strengthen their trunk and hip muscles and teach healthier sitting alternatives.
7. Regression After Injury, Illness, or Growth Spurt
After a growth spurt or illness, some children temporarily lose skills they had mastered, such as balance, running, or stair climbing.
Physical therapy helps them rebuild strength, restore range of motion, and relearn coordination after any setback—whether from an orthopedic injury, surgery, or a period of limited activity.
8. Diagnosis Affecting Mobility or Development
Children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida often benefit from ongoing physical therapy to support their mobility, balance, and motor planning.
Therapists use individualized play-based techniques and adaptive equipment to help your child learn to move as independently and confidently as possible.
Reach Out to Let’s Communicate for Expert Support
The earlier your child receives help, the faster they can develop healthy movement patterns and prevent future complications. At Let’s Communicate Pediatric Therapy Services, our expert physical therapists help children from birth through age 21 reach their fullest physical potential.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs (or if you simply want reassurance that your child’s motor development is on track), call (678) 963-0694 to schedule an evaluation today. Together, we’ll help your child move with strength, balance, and confidence.
