Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a method where therapists use water as a tool to accomplish a variety of goals. At KoolKATTS, an Occupational Therapist will join your child in the water and use it as a medium to support them in reaching their goals. The Occupational Therapist will use the water to enhance their therapeutic skills to integrate and treat.
How being in a pool can help therapy sessions. Hydrotherapy is often used to reach the following goals;
Motor functions, strength, and coordination
Water has some amazing properties, like buoyancy and flow and deep pressure which helps us perform a range of gross motor skills more easily. This is because the water provides great postural support, lightens our weight, and helps our muscles relax. Plus, when we’re in the water, we get to practice coordinating our arm and leg movements to stay afloat and move around. Additionally, being immersed in water allows us to build muscle strength through gentle resistance without overloading our bodies. Through Hydrotherapy, children become more confident in moving their bodies.
Reduces sensory issues
The pressure of water can provide essential sensory input that some children seek while also mitigating sensory over-stimulation. This combination of proprioception and tactile input creates a comfortable and relaxing environment similar to the concept of a weighted blanket. By addressing sensory issues, there is a tendency for some children to exhibit enhanced concentration, increased emotional regulation and an increased attention span. Some of the children that have completed our program have overcome sensory challenges in relation to hair washing, showering/bathing, and/or putting their faces and heads under the water.
Improves social skills
Hydrotherapy promotes social skills as children work closely with instructors and peers. Communication, attention, and imitation are vital skills practiced in hydrotherapy. Additionally, children often improve their ability to regulate their emotions and breathing as they must remain calm to maintain buoyancy and avoid sinking.
Other Benefits
Hydrotherapy even supports the development of oral motor skills. Kids can pick up useful skills like blowing bubbles, holding their breath, and mastering breathing control—skills that help with regulation, attention/focus, and language development!
