Paediatric Power: Access, Positioning and Growth (Sydney)

Join GTK and Permobil for a day in which you will be immersed in all things paediatric and the how, when, and why of introducing powered mobility to infants, toddlers, and children. Mobility at an early stage in life aids in the development of functional activities including play. Critical changes occur during development when a child is able to move in a self-directed way. This session will look at the developmental importance of mobility and the reciprocal learning that occurs during mobility and interactions with people and the environment. 

Evidence now shows that access to powered mobility be considered as part of a comprehensive early intervention program. Best practice and strategies, which can be used by the entire team, will be discussed in detail and case studies reviewed. The practical application of positioning, managing growth and postural changes will also be discussed with hands on learning opportunities. Alternative access methods, switches and controls will be reviewed and how the user may get more out of their chair and more importantly increase their mobility will be also discussed. Come along for a great day of paediatric learning.

Our objectives for the day are to: 

• Understand the key developmental milestones which can occur when an infant is engaged in age-appropriate mobility
• Understand the relationship between sensory input and motor output
• Be able to use the recommended strategies within a multidisciplinary team to assist in implementing on time mobility for infants
• Understand how and when to consider implementing alternative access and switches
• Understand considerations and functional application of power seat functions when prescribing powered mobility for older children