Pediatric Rehabilitation

When a child needs special therapies, it is important to work with a team of specialized professionals. Our pediatric therapy services at Children's Hospital at Providence are delivered by an experienced, multidisciplinary team made up of registered physical, occupational and speech therapists, and registered dietitians. Consultations are also made with a developmental pediatrician when needed.

Convenient location and flexible programs
Quality pediatric care for children of all ages is provided in outpatient, inpatient and community settings. Our team works with the family, child and physician to develop an appropriate course of treatment. A social worker is also available to help families access other services available at Children's Hospital and in the community.

Evaluation and treatment
Our goal is to maximize the skills of infants, children and teens in the areas of mobility, self-care, recreation, communication and socialization. These skills are developed through a combination of physical, occupational and speech therapy.

Physical Therapy

• Gross motor skills, such as balance, sitting, crawling, walking and running
• Casting and orthotics management of the legs, feet and ankles
• Equipment needs for mobility within the home, community and school setting

Occupational Therapy

• Fine motor and hand functions
• Self-help skills, such as cause and effect for babies and pre-schoolers
• School skills such as following directions and problem-solving
• Social skills
• Positioning, adaptive equipment and upper body splinting needs
  

Speech Therapy

• Language disorders
• Communication disorders, such as stuttering, voice problems and speech delay
• Thinking skills, such as problem-solving and reasoning
• Writing skills
• Social skills
• Swallowing, feeding and oral motor skills
  

Nutrition Counseling
Specialists work with families to assess the nutritional needs of young patients and develop a program that meets those needs. In this process, parents receive instruction on nutritional issues and learn about community resources available for continuing support.

Outreach Services
Our therapists serve rural communities with comprehensive evaluations and recommendations for community providers, parents and schools. Specialized equipment, feeding and skills assessments are also available.

Swallow/Feeding Assessment and Management
Therapists work to improve oral motor skills, swallowing safety and positioning to ensure effective feeding and swallowing.

Adaptive Equipment and Corrective Tools
Services include recommendation of and training for maximum use of adaptive equipment. This includes alternative seating and positioning systems, assistive devices and safety instruction to improve your child's functional abilities and independence.  Our therapists evaluate, fabricate and modify upper and lower body splints to optimize your child's development and offer follow-up assessment for fit and function.

Equestrian Therapy
This program is affiliated with the University of Alaska, Anchorage and 4H. It is directed by a team of certified riding instructors and consulting therapists. Children benefit from improved circulation, mobility, balance and strength. Communication and peer interaction skills are also enhanced. Specialized riding equipment is provided for maximum participation and safety.