Making a Splash: How Aquatic Physical Therapy Helps Kids Move and Groove!

I’m sure many of you have seen our gym spaces at BAC, but have you ever wondered what goes on in our aquatic therapy sessions in the pool? Just like in our gym space, we are working on our gross motor skills and having fun - like a pool party with a purpose!

So, what does an aquatic therapy session in the pool look like? Every session will look a bit different because every child is different, but it all starts with suiting up and getting into our warm 88 degree therapy pool. First up, we figure out our approach to get acclimated to the water. That might look like walking on our specially designed platforms, doing some wall walks on the pool’s edge, or going straight for a dunk! Then, we might sit or kneel on a floating mat (or a pirate ship with some imagination!) and splash around, all while working on core strength and reaching. Then, we might grab a noodle and play some red light, green light to work on our motor planning skills and sitting balance. Next, a little fishy practices some kicks or blast offs, building leg strength without even knowing it. High-fives and goodbyes wrap up each session. By the end, we are soaked but smiling, knowing we got closer to our goals—one splash at a time!

Aquatic therapy has so many benefits, including soothing sensory input, gentle water resistance, and overall ease of movement with the help of buoyancy. What do we think is the biggest perk? Kids often don’t even feel like they’re doing “therapy” because water play is naturally fun!  So, if your child could use a boost in strength, balance, or confidence, why not let them dive into therapy—literally? With aquatic PT, progress happens one splash at a time!

Learn more about aquatic physical therapy and occupational therapy sessions at the Boston Ability Center by visiting our Aquatic Therapy page, by calling 781-239-0100, or by emailing frontdesk@bostonabilitycenter.com.

Written by Boston Ability Center physical therapist Elizabeth McLean, PT, DPT