What Happens at Your Child’s First Physio Appointment? (Spoiler: It’s Fun!)

Tips for a first time consult - from a Paediatric Physiotherapist

Why See a Paediatric Physiotherapist?

How do you know when to seek advice from a paediatric physiotherapist? Maybe your paediatrician recommended it, or you’ve noticed your child isn’t meeting milestones like their peers. Perhaps it’s something a childcare teacher mentioned. It can feel overwhelming and even a little scary, but think of it as part of your child’s overall health and wellbeing. Physiotherapists are primary healthcare professionals, meaning we can assess your child’s movement and mobility without needing a referral from a specialist. Don’t worry, we’re here to support, guide, and listen. There will actually be much more talking and playing than you might expect!

Before You Arrive: How to Prepare

So, what do I love to see from families before the appointment? A detailed birth history is incredibly helpful — when your little one rolled, crawled, pulled to stand, how they manage tummy time, and what toys or activities they love. A handwritten note with the details of your paediatrician, GP, hospitals, and any other important contacts is GOLD to me! Try to schedule the appointment around naps and feeds, and make sure it fits into your day comfortably. And please, don’t forget to bring your child’s favorite toy or book — I love knowing what they enjoy! You can also send me videos of things you have questions about before the session. I see your little one for a one-hour consultation, but YOU are the expert on your child.

What Happens During the First Appointment?

The first appointment will vary depending on your child’s needs and what we hope to achieve. I use a social-ecological model, which helps us understand that a child’s development, health, and behavior are influenced by more than just their own actions. They grow and thrive based on the layers of support around them — family, school, and the community. So, I’ll ask a LOT of questions: What does your child love to do? What do they avoid? How do you structure your daily routines, and which parts are challenging? It’s not me prying; I’m trying to break things down and see where therapy can fit into everyday life.

During the session, I’ll also play on the floor with your child to assess their strength, reflexes, and muscle tone. However, don’t expect everything to happen in one go — some little ones need a little more time to warm up, so we may spread this across a few sessions.

Your Role as a Parent or Caregiver

Research shows that parents play a huge role in the success of paediatric therapy. You’ll notice that I often involve your hands and body in the session, so you can continue using these strategies at home in a natural environment — bedrooms, backyards, kitchens, even car seats. At Haven Physiotherapy, we use the Parent Coaching Model, which helps give you the confidence to be a key part of the solution.

Final Thoughts: You’re in Safe Hands

And that’s it — the tough part is over! We’ll talk about your priorities, concerns, and hopes for your child, and then we’ll work together to create a therapy plan that suits your family’s needs. Remember, paediatric physiotherapists are here for children from infancy to adolescence. We understand the challenges of getting a child to participate in traditional therapy, so we’re flexible and used to sessions filled with paint, glitter, or pen marks. Don’t ever apologize for that — it’s our pleasure! Watching these little ones grow, develop, and learn is the most rewarding part of our job.