By Dr. Talin Yacoubian, OTD, OTR/L, CAS – Founder & Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Uplift Therapy Center
If you’re a parent feeling unsure about your baby’s development, you’re not alone. One mother shared, “When the pediatrician recommended that my son see a physical therapist, I was scared and confused.” These emotions are natural—and knowing when to seek help can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to ease that stress by offering insight into when babies might benefit from pediatric physical therapy and what the journey can look like.
As Dr. Talin Yacoubian, founder and pediatric occupational therapist at Uplift Therapy Center, I’ve worked with dozens of families who were in your shoes—worried, unsure, and wanting to do the right thing for their child. I hope the information here helps you take the next step with confidence.
Free 15-Min Consultation: Schedule a time here to speak with our pediatric therapy team.
What is pediatric physical therapy?
Pediatric PT helps babies strengthen muscles, balance, and motor skills through play-based, therapist-guided movement, and is especially recommended for infants showing early signs of developmental delay (APTA¹).
Why Parents Might Consider Physical Therapy
Babies develop at their own pace, but sometimes delays in movement or muscle tone signal that a little extra support could help. Parents often begin considering pediatric physical therapy when:
- Their baby isn’t meeting developmental milestones (like rolling over, sitting, or crawling)
- A pediatrician suggests it during a wellness visit
- Their baby was born prematurely or has a diagnosed medical condition
Early action can help your baby catch up, thrive, and move more comfortably.
Understanding when to seek help begins with knowing what typical development looks like.
Milestone Watchlist: When to Reach Out
Here’s a general guide of red flags that may signal the need for an evaluation:
- By 6 months: Not rolling over or showing limited head control
- By 9 months: Not sitting independently or bearing weight on legs
- By 12 months: Not crawling or standing with support
- By 15 months: Not walking with support or attempting steps
| Concern | What’s Normal to Watch |
| Not rolling at 6 months | May roll inconsistently or prefer one side |
| Not crawling by 12 months | Some babies scoot or skip crawling altogether |
| Not walking by 15 months | Late walkers can be developmentally typical |
Quick Tip: Trust your instincts. If something feels off—even slightly—it’s worth a conversation with a professional.
Also, check out our guide on baby walkers and early movement to understand how assistive tools can impact development.
Common Medical Reasons for Baby PT
Physical therapy may be recommended when a baby:
- Was born prematurely (before 37 weeks)
- Has low muscle tone (hypotonia)
- Shows signs of torticollis (neck tightness)
- Has a neuromuscular disorder (like cerebral palsy)
- Is recovering from surgery or injury
PT can offer support like helping a flower bloom—gently, naturally, with care, and neonatal specialists are uniquely trained to assist infants with complex needs (APTA²).
What to Expect at the First PT Evaluation
What happens during a baby’s first physical therapy session?
Physical therapy at Uplift is rooted in developmental play—meaning your baby learns through interaction, movement, and exploration. We create an environment that feels natural and inviting while targeting key developmental skills. Early therapy leverages neuroplasticity, making ages 0–3 an ideal window for motor learning (CDC).
Your baby’s first session includes:
- A full developmental assessment
- Observations of how your baby moves, balances, and reacts
- A collaborative discussion about goals
- Recommendations on therapy services and frequency
- Gentle, play-based interactions
As one mom said, “The therapist did a thorough evaluation and made me feel a million times better about everything.”
Frequency and Duration: What’s Typical?
Plans are tailored, but you might expect:
- Frequency: 1–2 sessions/week
- Length: 60 minutes per session
- Duration: Several weeks to a few months
Cost-Saving Tip: Some families choose to attend 1–2 sessions to learn hands-on techniques they can use at home, then follow up with monthly check-ins. Be sure to ask about sliding scale options, insurance coverage, or Early Start programs that may help reduce costs.
At-Home Support: Simple Exercises
Therapists often teach parents gentle, daily routines like:
- Tummy time games
- Reaching exercises during play
- Scooting and crawling activities
The therapist will provide tailored activities to work on together at home. You become your baby’s daily coach—no pressure, just playful progress.
Real-Life Success Stories
- “Our son caught up on all his motor milestones!”
- “Our daughter can now chase her brother at the playground.”
The transformations are real—and often faster than expected. Research supports that early PT for motor delays enhances crawling, standing, and early movement problem-solving (NIH).
So, Should You Start Physical Therapy Now?
Knowing when babies should start physical therapy is a powerful way to support their growth from the very beginning. Early intervention is key.
If you’re asking this question, it’s a great time to explore further. You don’t have to navigate your child’s development alone, and taking the first step can be both comforting and empowering. A simple evaluation can offer peace of mind—or helpful next steps.
Soft Invite CTA: Curious if pediatric physical therapy might benefit your child? Contact our team or book a free 15-minute consultation.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal for a baby not to crawl by 12 months?
A: While every baby develops at their own pace, if your baby isn’t crawling or showing signs of mobility by 12 months, it’s a good idea to consult with a physical therapist. Early guidance can support healthy development and address any underlying concerns.
Q: Do I need a referral from a pediatrician to start baby physical therapy?
A: Not always—you can often self-refer.
Q: Is therapy painful for babies?
A: Not at all. Pediatric physical therapy is gentle, supportive, and often feels like guided play. Sessions are designed to be engaging and comfortable while helping your baby build strength and confidence.
Q: Will insurance cover pediatric physical therapy?
A: Yes. Most insurance plans cover pediatric physical therapy, especially when there is a referral or diagnosis. At Uplift Therapy Center, we are in-network with Kaiser and vendored with local Regional Centers. Contact us to see how we can help navigate your coverage options.
Q: Can I help at home if I can’t afford regular sessions?
A: Yes. Many therapists provide:
- Starter routines
- Printable exercise guides
- Progress check-ins every few weeks or months
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your pediatrician or a licensed healthcare provider regarding any concerns about your child’s development.
