Pediatric Therapy

Pediatric therapy helps children reach their full potential in movement, daily life skills, and communication. Whether a child is recovering from an injury, has a developmental delay, or needs support in specific areas — therapy makes a big difference.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Children can receive pediatric therapy at Sidney Health Center starting from birth. Early support leads to better long-term outcomes. Pediatric therapists work closely with families to build confidence, independence, and joy in everyday life.

Talk To Your Physician or Advanced Practice Provider

If you have any concerns about your child’s development, talk with your physician or advanced practice provider. They can help guide you toward an evaluation with a qualified pediatric therapist.

Do I Need A Referral?

Some insurance companies require a referral while others do not. It is preferred and recommended that you have a provider managing your overall health care.

Pediatric Physical Therapy (PT)

Focus: Gross motor skills, strength, balance, and mobility

PT helps with:

• Delayed walking or crawling
• Poor coordination or balance
• Muscle weakness or stiffness
• Torticollis or flat head (plagiocephaly)
• Recovery from injury or surgery
• Neurological conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy)

Your child might benefit from PT if they:

• Trip or fall often
• Struggle to keep up with peers physically
• Avoid active play
• Walk on their toes or have unusual movement patterns

Pediatric Occupational Therapy (OT)

Focus: Fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care

OT helps with:

• Difficulty holding a pencil or using utensils
• Challenges with dressing, feeding, or toileting
• Sensory sensitivities (to textures, sounds, etc.)
• Attention and self-regulation
• Hand-eye coordination and motor planning

Your child might benefit from OT if they:

• Avoid messy play (like finger paint or sand)
• Struggle with buttons, zippers, or tying shoes
• Show frustration with everyday tasks
• Have difficulty staying focused

Pediatric Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)

Focus: Speech, language, and communication

SLP helps with:

• Late talking or unclear speech
• Difficulty following directions
• Stuttering or voice concerns
• Social communication and interaction
• Expressing needs clearly

Your child might benefit from SLP if they:

• Use fewer words than peers
• Get frustrated trying to communicate
• Have trouble understanding or using language