Move and Play Paediatric Therapy
Move and Play Paediatric Therapy is a children’s physiotherapy and occupational therapy service based in Mackay, Queensland, led by principal physiotherapist and owner Emily Hayles. We help babies and children of all ages and abilities learn to move and play as freely as possible, and empower parents to know they are doing the best they can for their child.
At Move and Play, we work closely with children, families, schools and communities to support children’s development and to help children and families to live happy and connected lives. To help children achieve their potential, our experienced therapists conduct comprehensive assessments, and develop individualised treatment programs that help children to move and play to the best of their ability. Our programs and services aim to optimise each child’s abilities, promote their already existing strengths, and focus on what is important to the child and family.
At Move and Play Paediatric Therapy, we believe that all children, regardless of their abilities or differences, have value and should be given the opportunities and advantages to realise that value. We are committed to contributing to a future where this belief becomes a reality for all children of all abilities.
Articles
Is your child struggling with drawing, writing, or sitting still at the table?
It might not be a focus issue — it could be their posture.
🪑 From craft time to homework, the way your child sits can affect everything from their concentration to their confidence.
✨ Discover simple home hacks and expert advice to support their growing bodies — and set them up for success in every seated activity.
Because when little bodies feel good, big things happen 💛
✨ Read now for expert-backed tips every parent should know.
Is your child a W-sitter? 🤔 You may be wondering if it’s a phase or something to be concerned about. 🌟 Our latest article reveals the truth about W-sitting and offers expert tips on how to help your little one develop healthy sitting habits. 🧠💪 Whether it’s part of normal development or something to keep an eye on, we’ve got the insights you need! ✨ Click the link and discover how to support your child’s growth every step of the way. 🧸💖
“Why do my toddler’s feet look flat?”
💬 If you’ve ever asked this at midnight while Googling symptoms — you’re not alone.
Those chubby little feet are adorable, but should you be worried? 🤔
👣 Learn what’s normal, what’s not, and what you should never do when it comes to kids’ feet — from a trusted paediatric physio.
Includes milestone timelines, expert advice, and the reassurance every parent needs.
💛 This article could save you unnecessary worry — or catch a real issue early.
👉 Tap to read now.
🚶♂️✨ Is your little one taking their time to walk? Some toddlers just need a little extra confidence before they’re off and running! 🏃♂️💨 Late walkers often develop better balance and coordination—so no need to worry! 💪😊
Discover fun, simple ways to encourage those first steps and celebrate this exciting milestone! 👣🎉💛
Read more 👉
“What is plagiocephaly?” you may ask. While few parents might have heard this ancient Greek word before, many would know or have about the condition that this word refers to – flattened or oblique head shape. Plagiocephaly, or flattened head… Continue Reading >
One simple skipping rope; ten fun ideas! You don’t need lots of fancy toys or play equipment to help your child to develop their gross motor skills. In this blog we will share 10 fun activities you can do with… Continue Reading >
Your ‘core’ is made up of the bones, joints and muscles of your trunk (eg: the ribs, the spine, the abdominals, the back muscles), your pelvic bones and the muscles in the pelvis, as well as the muscles involved in… Continue Reading >
For our first post, let’s start at the beginning shall we? Tummy time is the one of the first gross motor developmental activities that almost all parents know is important to do with our babies… However, tummy time can also… Continue Reading >
Written by Emily Hayles – Physiotherapist, Business Owner, and Author of ‘Braver than you think: How to help your child with a disability live their best life’ Are you quarantined inside the house due to the current COVID-19 social distancing… Continue Reading >
Bike riding is a popular and favourite activity for many children in Australia. Riding a bike enables children to play and get around with their friends, experience independence (for example when riding to school or the shops by themselves for… Continue Reading >
Many parents may not be aware that bowed legs and knocked knees are a common condition that forms part of a child’s normal bony growth and bony development. Here is what you need to know about knocked knees and bowed… Continue Reading >
Being able to catch a ball is a basic gross motor skill that can have a big influence on your child’s future motivation and ability to participate in sports with their friends and for fitness. For your child to successfully… Continue Reading >
Most kids love being outdoors and playing outdoors, especially when they are little. But why is playing outside so important for children? Here are some key ways children will benefit from playing outdoors: Gross motor skill development: An outdoor… Continue Reading >
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