Does my child need physio? A parent's guide to paediatric physiotherapy

As parents, we watch every wobble, roll and first step. Most of the time, kids find their own way and their own pace. Sometimes a little guidance makes a big difference, and that's where paediatric physiotherapy comes in.

Paediatric physio helps babies, kids and teens move, play and take part with confidence. At Flow Physio + Wellness our registered paediatric physiotherapist Kendra Gowdy, PT, MScPT, sees children from newborns to teens on Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings.

Signs it's worth a check-in

For babies

  • Always turning their head to one side, or a head tilt (torticollis)

  • A flat spot on the back or side of the head (plagiocephaly)

  • Strongly disliking tummy time

  • Feeling very floppy or very stiff

  • Rolling, sitting or crawling later than expected

For toddlers and kids

  • Late walking, or toe walking most of the time

  • Frequent trips, falls or clumsiness

  • Trouble with running, jumping, stairs, riding a bike or catching a ball

  • Tiring much faster than friends

  • Flat feet, in-toeing or knee pain

  • Growing pains, Osgood-Schlatter or Sever's disease

What happens at the first visit

The 60-minute initial assessment starts with a conversation. You tell Kendra about your child's history, what you're noticing and your goals. Then she watches your child move and play, and checks strength, balance, flexibility and coordination.

You'll leave with a clear explanation of what's going on, a plan, and activities to do at home.

Therapy that feels like play

Kendra's sessions use obstacle courses, balance games, jumping challenges and toys. Each activity is chosen on purpose to build a specific skill. Kids stay engaged, and parents learn how to keep the progress going between visits.

Book with Kendra

If something has been on your mind, you don't need to wait and see. No referral is needed for physiotherapy in Ontario.

Thursdays 3:00 to 7:00 PM and Fridays 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

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Meet Kendra Gowdy, PT, MScPT: Paediatric and Dance Physiotherapy in Bowmanville