There are many benefits to pediatric aquatic therapy, as it encourages physical, sensory and language development in children with varying needs. The pool setting is a highly motivating and physically supportive environment, so children often engage in tasks that they typically would not tolerate. It provides opportunities to work on skills such as dressing, grooming and hygiene that may otherwise be difficult for the child. Movement and multi-sensory input allow for children to work on speech and language when the child relies on the caregiver in the pool, verbal requests and good eye contact are facilitated. The pool is an excellent environment for children who are immobile or have muscle weakness to work on strengthening, weight bearing and balance skills. Such an environment also allows for caregivers to work safely with their children, as it is easier on the caregiver’s body to hold and assist a child in a supportive pool environment than at the edge of a mat table.
There are many articles that discuss the benefits of aquatic therapy with a pediatric setting. Here is a list of some articles and resources:
• Clinicians' perceptions of the benefits of aquatic therapy for young children with autism: a preliminary study. Vonder Hulls DS, Walker LK, Powell JM.Hoquiam School District, Hoquiam, WA, USA.
• Hot Trends in Warm Water: Aquatic Therapy for the Pediatric Patient. Andrea Poteat Salzman MS, PT
• The Effect of Aquatic Therapy on Functional Mobility of Infants and Toddlers in Early Intervention. McManus, Beth M. MSPT, MPH, PCS; Kotelchuck, Milton PhD, MPH
• http://www.aquaticnet.com/aquatic-sensory-integration-for-the-pediatric-therapist.htm
