A Primer on Pediatric Therapy

Early learning experiences are crucial, but sometimes certain conditions interfere with your child's ability to absorb information. Developmental delays, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, swallowing problems and many other conditions can be improved with the help of Sutter's network of pediatric therapy specialists.

After receiving a referral from your child's pediatrician, our team of specialists meets with you to assess your child’s needs. Working with you, we set a list of goals and create an individualized treatment plan for your child. You are also instructed on how to continue activities and treatments at home to further your child’s development.

Depending on your child's needs a physical therapist, occupational therapist or speech and language therapist works with you and your child. The specific activities your child participates in during each therapy session will be based on their goals and progress.

Speech and Language Therapy

We offer assessment and therapy for children with difficulty understanding language and communicating with others. Whether they struggle with vocabulary, concepts, directions, sentence formulation or grammar, we can help remediate the problem. Speech and language therapists address stuttering, voice difficulties, swallowing, eating and social interaction issues.

Occupational Therapy

Children struggling with everyday activities often benefit from working with an occupational therapist. We offer assessment and therapy for children who have fine and gross motor delays, sensory integration disorders or other symptoms suggesting possible autism. An occupational therapist can help improve hand-eye coordination, develop basic life skills and help children improve their focus and social skills.

Physical Therapy

We offer assessment and treatment for children who have problems such as decreased strength, limited range of motion, poor balance and decreased coordination. A physical therapist works with your child on exercises designed to help them regain strength and prevent future injuries. Flexibility, coordination and balance activities are also often incorporated.

If you think your child could benefit from pediatric therapy, contact your child's pediatrician for more information.