Chapter 2 - Stepping Stones
This is aimed at babies 6-12 months old
Movement and Milestones
There is great variation within child development and not all babies develop at the same rate. The focus at this stage is on rolling, sitting, transitional movements and mobility. Some babies may start working towards being up on their feet within this age range.
We offer a 'Baby MOT' standardised gross motor assessment. This is an observational assessment of your baby's developmental stage, as well as their movement patterning. Scores are plotted on a centile chart (just like height and weight in the red book). This lets you know where your baby is against the average population for age. It allows us to screen for any abnormalities or delays, formulate play-based treatment plans to optimise development and monitor developmental progress.
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Neurology
It is vital for babies with a neurological condition to access regular physiotherapy provision in order to manage symptoms and elicit the best outcomes.
Evidence strongly supports physiotherapy intervention to optimise muscle control, movement patterning and developmental milestones, as well as preventing muscle tightness and joint contractures.
If your child has a neurological diagnosis, we offer specialist neurological assessment, monitoring and rehabilitation to suit their needs.
Often, families choose to supplement NHS physiotherapy with private provision to boost input. We are able to work seamlessly with your NHS team to enhance outcomes.
Baby Orthopaedics
Orthopaedic conditions such as Plagiocephaly (abnormal head shape/flattening), Torticollis (preferential head turn) and Positional Talipes (abnormal foot position) are some of the most common complaints in this category. Paediatric Physiotherapy is the recommended treatment for these conditions, with evidence supporting early identification and intervention to elicit the best outcomes, and for prevention of associated developmental delay.
As babies progress towards standing and walking, some common lower limb alignment issues can become evident such as Pes Planus (flat feet), Metatarsus Adductus (inward turning foot), curly toes, toe gripping, out-toeing and toe walking. These conditions are often transient, but in some cases can be caused by an underlying issue and can be linked with developmental difficulties. Seeking professional assessment is always advised to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Developmental Play
Babies undergo significant developmental progression within this age bracket, therefore appropriate play opportunity is paramount.
We offer advice on developmentally supportive play positions, methods, toys and equipment to optimise development and motor learning.
Things to Look Out For
Whether your baby already has a diagnosis, or you’ve noticed something that is worrying you, it's important to seek advice from a Paediatric Physiotherapist.
Some things to check are:
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Does your baby move both arms and legs equally and symmetrically?
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When you move your baby’s arms and legs, does it feel the same on both sides?
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Do any of your baby's joints feel stiff?
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Does your baby turn their head fully both ways?
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Are your baby’s feet turned in or down?
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Is your baby developing a flattened area of their head?
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Does your baby make eye contact and smile at you?
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Is your baby making some vocalisations?
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Does your baby roll over both ways?
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Is your baby sitting unsupported by 9 months?
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Is your baby crawling or bottom shuffling by 12 months?
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Does your baby put weight through their legs when held in standing?
