How to Use NDIS Physiotherapy for Your Child: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming, especially for parents seeking the best support for their child’s unique needs. If you’re exploring how NDIS physiotherapy can help your child thrive, you’re in the right place. At Brave Bodies, we understand the importance of clear guidance and compassionate care. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to use NDIS physiotherapy for your child, whether you’re plan-managed or self-managed, and explain how services like ours in Western Australia can support your family’s journey.
What is NDIS Physiotherapy?
NDIS physiotherapy is a funded allied health service designed to support individuals with disabilities in improving their physical function, mobility, and overall quality of life. For children, this can include tailored interventions to enhance movement, strength, coordination, and balance, helping them achieve developmental milestones, participate in play, or manage physical challenges. The NDIS funds physiotherapy when it is deemed “reasonable and necessary” to support your child’s goals, as outlined in their NDIS plan.
At Brave Bodies, our paediatric physiotherapy services focus on empowering children aged 0-18 years to reach their full potential through engaging, evidence-based, and family-centred care. Whether your child has developmental delays, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, or other conditions, NDIS physiotherapy can be a game-changer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using NDIS Physiotherapy for Your Child
Step 1: Understand Your Child’s NDIS Plan
Your child’s NDIS plan is the foundation for accessing physiotherapy services. The plan outlines their goals, needs, and the funding allocated to supports like physiotherapy. NDIS plans fall into three management types:
● Plan-Managed: A plan manager handles payments to service providers on your behalf.
● Self-Managed: You have full control over paying providers and managing invoices.
● Agency-Managed: The NDIS directly pays registered providers.
Review your child’s plan to identify funding under categories like “Improved Daily Living” or “Improved Health and Wellbeing,” which typically cover physiotherapy. If you’re unsure about your plan, contact your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) for clarification. Brave Bodies supports both plan-managed and self-managed families, making it easy to access our services regardless of your plan type.
Step 2: Identify Your Child’s Physiotherapy Needs
Every child’s journey is unique, so pinpointing their specific needs is key. NDIS physiotherapy can address a wide range of conditions, including:
● Significant developmental delays (e.g., significant delays in crawling or walking)
● Neurological conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, acquired brain injuries)
● Genetic disorders e.g. Down’s Syndrome
Consider your child’s goals, such as improving mobility, building strength, or participating in school activities. Discuss these with your NDIS planner or a trusted provider like Brave Bodies, where our experienced paediatric physiotherapists can assess your child and recommend tailored interventions.
Step 3: Find an NDIS-Registered Physiotherapy Provider
Western Australia, Brave Bodies offers mobile and clinic-based services in Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough, Margaret River, and Katanning, ensuring care comes to you.
When selecting a provider, consider:
● Experience: Ensure the team has specialised training in paediatric care.
● Approach: Look for engaging, play-based sessions that motivate your child.
● Accessibility: Check if the provider offers mobile services or clinic locations near you.
● NDIS Compatibility: Confirm they support your plan type (plan-managed or self-managed).
At Brave Bodies, we pride ourselves on our compassionate, evidence-based approach, working closely with families to create therapy plans that align with NDIS goals.
Step 4: Book an Initial Assessment
Once you’ve chosen a provider, schedule an initial assessment. This session allows the physiotherapist to evaluate your child’s needs, discuss their NDIS goals, and develop a tailored therapy plan. At Brave Bodies, our assessments are thorough yet playful, ensuring your child feels comfortable while we gather essential information.
Bring your child’s NDIS plan to the assessment, as it helps the physiotherapist align therapy with funded goals. You’ll also discuss session frequency, whether intensive, regular, or maintenance-based, based on your child’s needs and your family’s capacity.
Step 5: Engage in Therapy Sessions
NDIS physiotherapy sessions are designed to be engaging and goal-oriented. For children, this often involves play-based activities that make therapy fun while targeting specific skills like balance, coordination, or strength. At Brave Bodies, our therapists create a positive environment where children love to learn, ensuring they look forward to each session.
Parents are encouraged to participate, as your involvement can enhance outcomes. Our team provides tools and strategies to support your child at home, reinforcing progress between sessions.
Step 6: Monitor Progress and Adjust the Plan
Regular reviews ensure your child’s physiotherapy remains aligned with their evolving needs. Your provider will track progress against NDIS goals and provide reports for plan reviews. If your child’s needs change, you can request a plan reassessment through the NDIS to adjust funding or goals.
At Brave Bodies, we collaborate with families to monitor progress, celebrate milestones, and adapt therapy as needed, ensuring your child continues to thrive.
Step 7: Maximise Your NDIS Funding
To make the most of your child’s NDIS funding:
● Track Spending: Monitor your budget to ensure funds last the plan’s duration.
● Combine Supports: Pair physiotherapy with other NDIS services, like occupational therapy, for holistic care.
● Communicate with Providers: Discuss funding constraints with your provider to prioritise key services.
Brave Bodies offers flexible scheduling and mobile services to maximise convenience and value, helping you stretch your NDIS budget further.
Why Choose Brave Bodies for NDIS Physiotherapy?
Located in the heart of Western Australia, Brave Bodies is dedicated to empowering children and families through expert paediatric physiotherapy. Here’s why we stand out:
● Family-Centred Care: We partner with you to create a supportive, collaborative environment.
● Mobile and Clinic-Based Services: Access therapy at our clinics in Busselton or Bunbury, or through mobile services across Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough, Margaret River, and Katanning.
● Playful, Engaging Sessions: Our therapists make therapy fun, ensuring your child enjoys the process.
● Multidisciplinary Expertise: We combine physiotherapy with occupational therapy for comprehensive support.
● NDIS Expertise: We support both plan-managed and self-managed families, simplifying the process.
Tips for Parents Navigating NDIS for the First Time
If you’re new to the NDIS, here are some tips to ease the journey:
● Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to contact your NDIS planner or provider for clarification.
● Keep Records: Document your child’s progress and therapy outcomes for plan reviews.
● Involve Your Child: Encourage their input in setting goals to boost engagement.
● Connect with Support Networks: Join local NDIS parent groups for shared experiences and advice.
● Partner with Providers: Work closely with trusted providers like Brave Bodies for guidance and support.
Get Started with Brave Bodies Today
Navigating NDIS physiotherapy doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right support, your child can unlock their potential and shine in their unique way. At Brave Bodies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, offering expert, compassionate care across Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough, Margaret River, and Katanning. Ready to get started? Contact us today to book an assessment and begin your child’s journey to thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is NDIS physiotherapy, and how can it help my child?
NDIS physiotherapy is a funded service that supports children with disabilities in improving movement, strength, and coordination. It can help with developmental delays, neurological conditions, or injuries, enabling your child to achieve goals like walking, playing, or participating in school activities.
How do I know if physiotherapy is included in my child’s NDIS plan?
Check your child’s NDIS plan for funding under “Improved Daily Living” or “Improved Health and Wellbeing.” If unsure, contact your NDIS planner or reach out to Brave Bodies for assistance in navigating your plan.
Can I use NDIS physiotherapy if I’m plan-managed or self-managed?
Yes, both plan-managed and self-managed NDIS participants can access physiotherapy. Brave Bodies supports both management types, handling invoicing and payments seamlessly.
How often will my child need physiotherapy sessions?
Session frequency depends on your child’s needs and NDIS goals. Brave Bodies offers flexible options, from intensive therapy to maintenance sessions, tailored to your family’s schedule and capacity.
Can parents participate in NDIS physiotherapy sessions?
Absolutely! Parent involvement is encouraged to enhance outcomes. At Brave Bodies, we provide tools and strategies to support your child at home, empowering you to be part of their progress.
What conditions can NDIS physiotherapy address?
NDIS physiotherapy can support a wide range of conditions, including developmental delays, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, scoliosis, hypermobility, and more. Contact Brave Bodies to discuss your child’s specific needs.
How do I start NDIS physiotherapy with Brave Bodies?
Simply contact Brave Bodies to schedule an initial assessment. We’ll review your child’s NDIS plan, assess their needs, and create a tailored therapy plan to help them thrive.
