Pediatric Aquatic Therapy in Fort Smith, AR
Helping Children Thrive Through Movement in Water
At Ray of Sunshine Pediatric Therapy, our aquatic therapy sessions are led by trained professionals in a safe, warm water environment designed to unlock your child’s full potential.
We partner with a nonprofit, River Valley Sports Academy in Fort Smith, AR and utilize their commercial, grade pools to provide our therapeutic aquatic therapy sessions
What to Expect During Aquatic Therapy with Ray of Sunshine
Your Child’s Safety and Comfort Come First
Individualized Care
Each session is one-on-one with a licensed therapist and typically lasts 30–45 minutes. This personalized attention ensures safety, comfort, and progress at your child’s pace.
Water-Based Activities
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Gentle stretches and guided movement through water
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Strengthening exercises using flotation devices and resistance toys
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Games to improve coordination and balance
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Core stability drills
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Motor planning and spatial awareness activities
Family Participation
Parents are always welcome to observe and encouraged to ask questions. We believe your involvement helps your child feel supported and builds trust, both in and out of the water.
What Is Pediatric Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is a form of physical or occupational therapy conducted in a temperature-controlled pool. The water provides a natural resistance that strengthens muscles while reducing the impact on joints. This is ideal for children who may struggle with traditional land-based therapy or need additional sensory input.
Benefits of Water-Based Therapy
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Buoyancy reduces joint pressure, supporting pain-free movement
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Warm water relaxes muscles and improves circulation
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Resistance builds strength without risk of overload
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Water play enhances motivation and engagement
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Sensory stimulation improves body awareness and regulation
Conditions That May Benefit from Aquatic Therapy
Customized Therapy for Each Child’s Unique Needs
Aquatic therapy can be particularly helpful for children with:
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Cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders
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Autism spectrum disorders
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Sensory processing challenges
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Developmental delays
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Torticollis and orthopedic concerns
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Traumatic brain injuries
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Post-surgical rehabilitation
Our therapists tailor each session to your child’s specific needs and comfort level, building trust while targeting key developmental areas.
Is Aquatic Therapy Right for Your Child?
Let’s Take the Next Step, Together
We’ll start with a full evaluation to determine if aquatic therapy is appropriate for your child’s diagnosis and therapeutic goals. From there, we’ll craft a personalized care plan in alignment with our broader therapy services.
Pediatric Aquatic Therapy in Fort Smith & the River Valley
Serving Families Across Western Arkansas — In-Clinic & Mobile Options Available
Contact Us
We make it simple to begin physical therapy for your child, whether at home or in our clinic. Click below to check availability in your area or schedule a free consultation.
Choose Your Location
We partner with a nonprofit, River Valley Swim Academy in Fort Smith, AR and utilize their commercial-grade pools to provide our therapeutic aquatic therapy sessions
Begin Therapy
Start your child’s personalized physical therapy plan with our expert clinicians.
Pediatric Aquatic Therapy FAQs
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Research Supporting Aquatic Therapy for Children
Aquatic therapy has been studied across a range of conditions, with clinical support showing improvements in strength, coordination, and functional mobility:
We integrate evidence-based strategies to ensure your child receives effective, compassionate care.