Summary of Pediatric/Adolescent Development

Pediatric and adolescent development occurs between birth and 18 years of age. Between these ages, many physical and psychosocial changes occur. When a baby is born, he/she is born with reflexes, i.e. moro and startle reflexes, which are meant to protect him/her from harm. However, if these reflexes are not integrated, overall mobility is affected. Sitting, standing, and walking is difficult. Developmental tests such as the Denver II and PDMS II can help identify these issues and show PTs/PTAs what they should work on with their patients.

Throughout development, the nervous, muscular, skeletal, somatosensory, ophthalmic, and vestibular systems begin to mature and grow in size. The PTA plays a big role with the physical development. Strengthening/endurance, coordination, and balance activities can be implemented into the plan of care but should initially be directed towards play. Play allows the child to explore the environment in his/or her own way and move around with little restraint. It can also help foster social interactions between the child and other person. It can first be initiated with the parent, which helps establish trust with the outside world (Trust vs. Mistrust). Later on, that trust becomes important when the child is learning to interact with his/her peers and developing a sense of self.

As an adolescent, it becomes important to determine what kinds of activities he/she enjoys (Identity vs. role confusion). PTAs can direct activities towards accomplishing goal specific/functional/complex tasks, such as being able to properly execute a lay-up in basketball. Activities such as these continue to help improve strength and balance, while being able to accomplish these tasks boosts confidence. Support from family and friends can help encourage them to do their best, which may continue into adulthood.