Pediatric Health and Wellness for Physical Therapists

Course overview

This course will provide a broad look at the concepts of health and wellness as they apply to the pediatric population. It begins with a review of the many aspects of fitness and a description of the relevant physiology and anatomy throughout a continuum of ages, from prematurity to adolescence. The course explores ways to assess fitness, in a formal clinic or on the playground, for typically developing children and those with disabilities. Specific concepts of fitness are applied to children with common diagnoses addressed by therapists. The course concludes with a discussion of intervention approaches and lifestyle and environmental considerations. This course is appropriate for pediatric physical therapists who work with children with any movement challenges or fitness needs. Pediatric occupational therapists may also find it helpful. It is specifically designed for therapists who want to extend their knowledge beyond the basic level or who are considering specialist certification.