Every child develops at their own pace, and there’s a wide range of what’s considered “normal.” But sometimes, parents notice things that don’t feel quite right with their child’s movement or development. That’s where pediatric physical therapy (PT) comes in.
At Move U in Sioux Falls, our pediatric physical therapist specializes in helping children build strength, coordination, balance, and confidence with motor skills—so they can move, play, and grow to their fullest potential.
Why Pediatric Physical Therapy Matters
Pediatric physical therapists are movement experts. We focus on helping kids:
- Develop proper posture and alignment
- Improve muscle tone, strength, and endurance
- Learn new motor skills like crawling, walking, and jumping
- Build confidence in their bodies through fun, play-based activities
By addressing concerns early, we can often reduce frustration, prevent future challenges, and help kids catch up with their peers in a joyful and empowering way.
🚩 Red Flags That May Indicate a Need for PT
If you’ve ever wondered whether your child might benefit from a physical therapy assessment, here are some key signs to look out for:
Movement & Muscle Tone
- Very stiff (high tone) or floppy (low tone) muscles
- Always favoring one side of the body when reaching, crawling, or standing
- Trouble staying upright with head, trunk, and hips aligned during sitting or standing play
- Frequently leaning on surfaces, resting their head down, or relying on “W-sitting” without exploring other sitting positions
- Difficulty keeping up with peers, tiring easily, or avoiding active play
- Falling more often than peers
- Complaints of pain, fatigue, or discomfort during play
Functional Skills
- Persistent toe-walking past age 2
- Not jumping with two feet together by age 3 or hopping on one foot by age 5
- Struggling to alternate feet when going up or down stairs by age 4
- Difficulty catching, throwing, or kicking a ball by age 5
- Challenges with galloping, skipping, or coordinated movements by age 5
- Regression in motor skills, such as losing abilities they once had
Why Early Intervention Makes a Big Difference
Research shows that early pediatric physical therapy leads to better outcomes and shorter treatment times. Addressing movement challenges early helps children:
- Build a strong foundation for future milestones
- Prevent secondary issues like poor posture or pain
- Gain confidence and independence in play and school settings
Most importantly, your parental intuition matters. If something doesn’t feel right about your child’s movement, it’s always worth seeking a professional evaluation.
Pediatric Physical Therapy in Sioux Falls at Move U
At Move U, we believe every child deserves to move with confidence while having fun. Our sessions are play-based, child-led, and family-focused, so kids stay engaged while working toward their goals.
If you’re concerned about your child’s motor development, our team is here to help. We offer:
- Free 20-minute consultationsto answer your questions
- Comprehensive evaluationsto assess your child’s strengths and needs
- Personalized therapy plansdesigned to support developmental milestones
📍 Located in Sioux Falls, Move U proudly serves families across the region with pediatric occupational, speech, and physical therapy.
Take the Next Step
If your child is showing any of the red flags above—or if you just want reassurance that their development is on track—reach out today. Early support can make all the difference.
👉 Call 605-409-9533 to schedule your child’s consultation.
At Move U, we’re here to help your child move, grow, and thrive!
📚 Reference: Campbell SK, Palisano RJ, Orlin MN. Physical Therapy for Children. 6th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2024.
