How early therapy empowers kids like Prescott
Prescott is a determined, joyful little girl living in Kelowna. She was born prematurely and diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia and a gross motor delay—conditions that affect her strength and mobility.
“Her diagnosis doesn’t get to define her,” says Prescott’s mom, Lindsey. “She’s still a happy, energetic four-year-old girl. And all we can do is just make her stronger.”
And with regular physiotherapy, Prescott is growing stronger every day. Her therapy is helping her build strength and mobility to do more of what she loves: dancing and playing with her sister.
During National Physiotherapy Month, we’re celebrating the vital role physiotherapy plays in helping kids with developmental or physical disabilities move more freely, live more independently, and reach important milestones. Whether a child has cerebral palsy, autism, muscular dystrophy, or another complex condition, physio provides care that is specially designed just for them.
Physio programs are designed around a child’s age and stage of development, with goals like learning to sit, crawl, stand, or use their hands. Prescott’s physiotherapy includes regular, repetitive exercises to increase movement in her legs, arms and fingers. These exercises help improve motor skills and muscle strength.
Physiotherapy can ease ongoing pain, muscle tightness, and tension and help prevent long-term problems like stiff joints or poor posture. For kids with sensory or neuromuscular conditions, physio can help their body work better together, making daily activities easier.
Why early intervention matters
A child’s brain develops rapidly in the first three years of life. That’s why starting physiotherapy early can make such a big difference—it helps shape motor pathways during this important growth period.
Research shows that early intervention leads to better results in motor function, cognitive skills, and independence. It also helps prevent secondary issues like contractures, joint misalignments, or pressure injuries by addressing movement challenges before they become long-term problems.
Family-centered care is key here. Physiotherapists work with parents to set goals, practice exercises at home, and create helpful daily habits. That consistency makes therapy more effective.
For Prescott, early therapy is doing more than building strength. It’s giving her more freedom to dance, play, and do all the things she loves. And her story is just one of many. Physio helps kids participate in life with greater ease, confidence, and independence. At Variety, we’re proud to help make therapy like this possible—so families can access the care their kids need when they need it most.