Question 1

My child seems delayed in crawling or walking: is this normal?

Accepted Answer

It is completely understandable to feel concerned. Every child develops at their own rhythm, but sometimes extra support is helpful. Through pediatric physical therapy, we guide gross motor skills with engaging, playful exercises suited to your child's pace. The earlier we start, the smoother the journey.

Question 2

My child struggles with fine motor skills: writing, cutting, and crafts are very difficult.

Accepted Answer

Many parents recognize this challenge. Fine motor skills are complex, requiring bilateral coordination, hand strength, and motor planning. We focus specifically on handwriting, cutting, buttoning, and crafting through playful therapy. Small steps lead to significant progress.

Question 3

My baby is slow to roll over, sit, crawl, or walk.

Accepted Answer

Every baby develops at their own tempo, but if you notice that key milestones are delayed, it is wise to have this evaluated. With targeted guidance and gentle exercises, we gently stimulate motor progression.

Question 4

My baby often arches their back or hyperextends (overstrekken).

Accepted Answer

Frequent hyperextension can indicate increased muscle tension or postural discomfort. Through physical therapy, we investigate the root cause and work toward a relaxed, symmetrical posture.

Question 5

My baby always turns their head to the same side.

Accepted Answer

A positional head preference (voorkeurshouding) is more common than you might think. Early physical therapy guidance with gentle stretches and postural advice prevents skull flattening (plagiocephaly) and encourages symmetrical development.

Question 6

My child is noticeably clumsy and trips or falls often.

Accepted Answer

Some children need extra support to develop balance, coordination, and body schema. Through play-based therapy and targeted motor exercises, we take meaningful steps forward at your child's pace.

Question 7

My child does not seem ready for the transition to first grade (lagere school).

Accepted Answer

Entering primary school asks a lot: fine motor control, pencil grip, focus, and independence. Together we evaluate where your child can benefit from support to start school with confidence.

Question 8

My baby frequently suffers from bronchitis or chest congestion: can physical therapy help?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Pediatric respiratory physical therapy (autogenic drainage) helps babies and young children clear mucus gently and effectively. We apply evidence-based techniques that are safe, gentle, and comfortable.

Question 9

My child gets easily overwhelmed: busy environments feel like a nightmare.

Accepted Answer

You are not alone in this experience. Children with sensory processing differences experience the world intensely. We offer a safe sanctuary where we develop step-by-step strategies for daily life.

Question 10

We suspect our child might be on the autism spectrum, but we don't know where to start...

Accepted Answer

Taking the first step is often the hardest, and reaching out is a courageous move. Whether a diagnosis is present or not, we offer personalized guidance focusing on predictability, emotional regulation, and family support.

Question 11

My child has received a diagnosis (ADHD, ADD, ASD, DCD, regulation disorder,…)

Accepted Answer

A diagnosis often raises many questions. We provide tailored therapy suited to your child's individual profile, working closely with you, schools, and medical specialists.

Question 12

My child finds it difficult to wind down and sleeps poorly: how can you help?

Accepted Answer

In a fast-paced world, children increasingly experience stress. Our relaxation therapy teaches breathing techniques, body awareness, and visual calming tools. This noticeably benefits sleep, concentration, and family peace.

Question 13

My child has fear of failure and low self-esteem.

Accepted Answer

Fear of failure is common and can hinder a child's natural curiosity. Through relaxation therapy and body awareness, we nurture inner calm, resilience, and positive self-worth.

Question 14

My child is very sensitive to stress.

Accepted Answer

Children who experience high stress benefit from concrete tools to ground themselves. With breathing games, visualization, and body mindfulness, we guide them back to balance.

Question 15

What is pediatric physical therapy?

Accepted Answer

Pediatric physical therapy (kinesitherapie) specializes in evaluating and treating babies, toddlers, children, and teens with motor, functional, or developmental difficulties. At Praktijk De Puzzel in Retie, we support development playfully, from fundamental motor milestones to complex psychomotor coordination.

Question 16

How do I make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can easily schedule an appointment by calling us, sending a WhatsApp message, or emailing us. We discuss your child's needs and find a suitable time for the initial session.

Question 17

Do I need a doctor's prescription?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Belgian health insurance requires a doctor's prescription for physical therapy reimbursement (from your GP, pediatrician, or specialist). The prescription states the diagnosis, number of sessions, and frequency. Unsure if you have the right document? Contact us, we are happy to assist.

Question 18

How long does a therapy session take?

Accepted Answer

A standard pediatric physical therapy session lasts 30 minutes. Depending on clinical indications, diagnostics, or complex rehabilitation needs, sessions may be extended to 45 or 60 minutes. We always outline the recommended approach during the intake.

Question 19

From what age can my child visit the practice?

Accepted Answer

Children are welcome from early infancy onward. Every treatment plan is tailored to the child's developmental age. Whether supporting a newborn of a few weeks or a teenager, we customize everything to your child's needs.

Question 20

I am experiencing increasing pelvic or lower back pain; is this just part of pregnancy or can it be treated?

Accepted Answer

Pelvic girdle and back discomfort are very frequent during pregnancy, but you certainly don't have to just endure them. With targeted exercises, postural advice, and gentle manual therapy, we alleviate pain and help your body adapt.

Question 21

How can I best prepare physically and mentally for labor and learn effective breathing techniques?

Accepted Answer

Good preparation makes a world of difference. We teach you breathing and pushing techniques, improve posture and core stability, and focus on relaxation so you can approach birth with calm confidence.

Question 22

Which exercises are safe for me and my baby as my body changes?

Accepted Answer

Exercising during pregnancy is beneficial, but not all movements are appropriate. We craft an exercise program tailored to your gestational trimester, keeping you fit safely.

Question 23

I feel a heavy sensation or experience involuntary urine leakage when sneezing or lifting; how can I strengthen my pelvic floor?

Accepted Answer

This is a very common postpartum concern. With specialized pelvic floor exercises at your pace, we systematically rebuild strength so you can move with complete confidence.

Question 24

My abdominal muscles don't seem to close properly (diastasis recti). How do I safely heal this?

Accepted Answer

Diastasis recti frequently occurs after birth. We guide you with safe, progressive exercises that draw the rectus abdominis muscles back together and restore deep core stability.

Question 25

I have neck and shoulder pain from nursing and carrying my baby: what can I do?

Accepted Answer

The physical demands of nursing and carrying are often underestimated. Through ergonomic posture corrections, stretches, and strengthening, we relieve discomfort and prevent chronic strains.

Question 26

When is my body ready to resume my favorite sport?

Accepted Answer

Every mother's recovery timeline is unique. We conduct a thorough assessment of your pelvic floor, core integrity, and general recovery to build a safe, personalized return-to-sport plan.

FAQs

Motor skills & development

"My child seems delayed in crawling or walking: is this normal?"

"My child struggles with fine motor skills: writing, cutting, and crafts are very difficult."

"My baby is slow to roll over, sit, crawl, or walk."

"My baby often arches their back or hyperextends (overstrekken)."

"My baby always turns their head to the same side."

"My child is noticeably clumsy and trips or falls often."

"My child does not seem ready for the transition to first grade (lagere school)."

"My baby frequently suffers from bronchitis or chest congestion: can physical therapy help?"

Sensory processing & neurodiversity

"My child gets easily overwhelmed: busy environments feel like a nightmare."

"We suspect our child might be on the autism spectrum, but we don't know where to start..."

"My child has received a diagnosis (ADHD, ADD, ASD, DCD, regulation disorder,…)"

Wellbeing & self-confidence

"My child finds it difficult to wind down and sleeps poorly: how can you help?"

"My child has fear of failure and low self-esteem."

"My child is very sensitive to stress."

For mothers

During pregnancy

"I am experiencing increasing pelvic or lower back pain; is this just part of pregnancy or can it be treated?"

"How can I best prepare physically and mentally for labor and learn effective breathing techniques?"

"Which exercises are safe for me and my baby as my body changes?"

Postpartum (Postnatal care)

"I feel a heavy sensation or experience involuntary urine leakage when sneezing or lifting; how can I strengthen my pelvic floor?"

"My abdominal muscles don't seem to close properly (diastasis recti). How do I safely heal this?"

"I have neck and shoulder pain from nursing and carrying my baby: what can I do?"

"When is my body ready to resume my favorite sport?"

Practical information

"What is pediatric physical therapy?"

"How do I make an appointment?"

"Do I need a doctor's prescription?"

"How long does a therapy session take?"

"From what age can my child visit the practice?"

20+ years of experience

Child & family centered

Playful & personalized

No question is out of place

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