Pediatric physical therapists' consultation with a community dance instructor: a case report

• Published in: Pediatric physical therapy Vol. 16; no. 4; p. 222
• Main Authors: Hunter, Kathleen G J, Piner, Shelley K, Rosenberg, Angela E
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 2004
• ISSN: 0898-5669
• DOI: 10.1097/01.PEP.0000145909.40863.51

This case report contributes to defining the role of pediatric physical therapists in promoting recreation for pediatric clients by describing the consultation methods employed by three pediatric physical therapists in a consultative partnership with a community dance instructor of children with disabilities. Consultants provided written and verbal recommendations intended to address the dance instructor's identified needs, enhance instructor technique, and improve quality of child participation. Instructor interviews, written surveys, observation of classes, and a consultation logbook were used to assess consultation services. Fifty-four percent of the total 24 consultation recommendations provided to the instructor were implemented at least once. Implementation of recommendations resulted in enhanced class structure and improved child participation, and the dance instructor reported high satisfaction with consultation services. Pediatric physical therapists have a range of valuable expertise to offer community recreation and leisure activity (RLA) providers, including expertise in physical, social, behavioral, system-level, and other parameters related to RLA participation.