Selecting a medical professional for yourself is hard enough. Finding one just right for your kiddos is an entirely different story. After all, youth need a special touch to keep them motivated and on target. Because physical therapists work closely with their patients, this decision takes research, time and thoughtful consideration.
Experts tending to your children must understand more than the condition: they must also relate to them, get their mentality and set limits. The following are qualities to look for when selecting pediatric physical therapists.
1. Trustworthiness and Teamwork Oriented
Children are still growing, emotionally and physically. Physical therapists should be gentle and caring during sessions, helping the kiddos understand that hard things are needed to progress.
Uneasiness creates boundaries and limits participation. The wrong therapist, therefore, could hinder focus and progress. Be sure you’re comfortable, and your children are too.
Kids aren’t adults. They aren’t the sole people in charge of their medical decisions. Therapists need to spend time with all parties reviewing exercises and improvements. Find groups eager to collaborate with your other medical providers and schools, discussing current challenges and creating appropriate goals.
2. Specialized Knowledge and Clear Communication
Research physical therapy in Louisville, Kentucky, and search for professionals who focus on your children’s particular medical needs. Ask about training and certification, and discuss why these experts stand out within that field.
How does this group or person engage the individual? Many adults dive straight into work, seeking a very straightforward approach. Youth, however, require fun and play, especially toddlers and adolescents. Ask about the various activities used to hook kids.
Discuss progress reports and exercise tips for continuing work at home and school. In addition, talk to them about their communication. Ask if the therapists speak with others, modifying activities to meet medical concerns. How do the professionals keep everyone in the loop?
3. Compassion and Motivation
Kids don’t take kindly to go-go-go. Instead, they need a gentle, firm touch—someone who doesn’t yell but expresses kindness and compassion for their hard work and strife.
Discuss approaches to sadness, anger and uncooperative behavior. A typically mild child may have an outburst, screaming and kicking because they are trying something that pushes boundaries. The therapist should acknowledge children’s attitudes, read their frustration points and understand limits. In addition, be sure you agree with the methods used to manage and handle the situations.
It’s easy to give in to little ones when they start to cry. Therapists can’t call it a day. Instead, you want someone with emotional tools to motivate, reassess and redirect, encouraging forward progress and keeping kids content.
Is there a system in place to inspire and reward hard work? Treasure boxes, stickers and congratulations can foster confidence and boost future efforts. Find out how the therapist attempts to keep things positive and uplifting.
When your loved ones need care, take the time to search for the best physical therapists in your area. Kids and parents need support. Therefore, seek specialists who focus on communicating with all team members, display patience and strive to motivate their students to do their best.