Balance & Coordination in Bozeman

Pediatric Balance & Coordination Therapy in Bozeman, MT: Helping Kids Move with Confidence

Balance and coordination are the unsung heroes of childhood – essential for climbing playgrounds, riding bikes, and keeping up with friends. When these skills lag, children may struggle with frequent falls, frustration during sports, or avoiding activities they once loved.

At Root Pediatrics, our team specializes in fun, play-based therapy to help kids build confidence, master motor milestones, and move with ease. If your child trips often, avoids physical play, or needs extra support due to developmental delays, call (406) 219-5388 to start their journey toward steadier steps and brighter smiles.

Understanding Balance & Coordination Challenges

Balance and coordination rely on a complex interplay of:

• Vestibular System: Inner ear sensors for spatial orientation.
• Proprioception: Joint/muscle awareness of body position.
• Visual Processing: Eye-tracking and depth perception.
• Motor Planning: Sequencing movements (e.g., catching a ball).

Common Signs We Address:

• Frequent tripping or bumping into objects.
• Difficulty with stairs, hopping, or skipping.
• Poor posture or “W-sitting.”
• Avoidance of playgrounds, sports, or group activities.

Root Causes:
Developmental coordination disorder (DCD), cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing issues, or genetic conditions like Down syndrome.

Our Pediatric Balance & Coordination Program

We blend play, science, and creativity to help kids build foundational skills while having fun.

Phase 1: Comprehensive Assessment

• Motor Milestone Screening: Compare skills to age norms (e.g., standing on one foot for 5+ seconds by age 4).
• Sensory Integration Check: Identify vestibular/proprioceptive deficits.
• Functional Testing: Observe running, jumping, or ball skills in action.

Phase 2: Skill-Building Through Play

• Balance Challenges: Wobble boards, balance beams, or trampoline games.
• Coordination Drills: Balloon volleyball, obstacle courses, or rhythm sticks.
• Strength & Agility: Animal walks (bear crawls, crab walks) or resistance parachute play.
• Visual-Motor Integration: Beanbag tosses, catching scarves, or laser tag games.

Phase 3: Real-World Confidence

• Sports Readiness: Tailor drills for soccer, dance, or swimming.
• School Collaboration: Improve cafeteria navigation or playground safety.
• Home Play Plans: Turn daily routines into skill-building games (e.g., “Step on couch cushions to practice uneven surfaces”).

Why Choose Root Pediatrics?

• Kid-Centric Approach: Sessions feel like play, not therapy – keeping kids engaged and motivated.
• Parent Partnership: Learn simple strategies to reinforce progress at home.
• Experienced Team: Years specializing in neurodevelopmental conditions.

FAQs About Pediatric Balance & Coordination Therapy

“My child hates sports. Will therapy help?”
Absolutely! We focus on non-competitive, joyful movement. Many kids discover newfound confidence to join peers.

“Is this covered by insurance?”
Yes, if delays are medically diagnosed. We verify benefits and provide all necessary documentation.

“How young can you start?”
As early as 18 months! Early intervention prevents long-term challenges.

“Can therapy help with toe-walking?”
Yes. We address tight muscles, sensory aversions, and balance to promote heel-toe patterns.

“How long until we see improvement?”
Most families notice better stability in 4-6 weeks. Complex skills (e.g., bike riding) may take 3-6 months.

Help Your Child Step Confidently Into Life

Balance and coordination challenges don’t have to limit your child’s joy. At Root Pediatrics, we’ll turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones – one playful session at a time.

Call (406) 219-5388 Now to schedule a balance assessment. Let’s build a foundation for fearless movement!