Specialized Paediatric Physiotherapy
Providing expert physiotherapy care for children in Cape Town. Helping your child reach their full potential through specialized movement therapy.
About Cathryn Fourie
Meet Cathryn, a passionate paediatric physiotherapist based in Cape Town with extensive experience in helping children of all ages reach their full physical potential.
Professional Background
Cathryn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in paediatric neurorehabilitation gained through her valuable experience at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and H.O.P.E Studio. Her specialized training includes:
- Neonatal care and early intervention therapy
- Aquatherapy (SASP qualified, 2022)
- MAES therapy for children with neurological conditions
- NDT training (completed September 2023)
Philosophy of Care
Cathryn is dedicated not only to supporting children with developmental challenges but also to helping normally developing children thrive. She creates personalized programs that focus on:
- Building strength for sports participation
- Improving posture for school activities
- Enhancing overall gross motor development
- Preventing injuries through proper movement techniques
With a child-centered approach, Cathryn ensures that each treatment plan is uniquely tailored to your child's specific needs in a supportive, playful environment that makes therapy both effective and enjoyable.
Our Services
Paediatric Neurorehabilitation
Expert care for children with neurological conditions using specialized approaches including MAES therapy and NDT techniques for optimal development.
Neonatal Care & Early Intervention
Specialized support for infants and young children to establish proper movement patterns and address developmental concerns early.
Aquatherapy
SASP qualified (2022) aquatic therapy that leverages water's natural properties to improve strength, mobility, and coordination in a fun, low-impact environment.
Sports Performance & Injury Prevention
Tailored programs to enhance strength, coordination, and proper technique for young athletes, reducing injury risk and improving performance.
Posture & School Readiness
Programs to improve posture, fine motor skills, and physical endurance needed for school activities, helping children focus better and prevent discomfort.
Gross Motor Development
Comprehensive assessments and playful interventions to enhance fundamental movement skills, coordination, and balance for children at all developmental stages.
Why Paediatric Physiotherapy is Essential for School-Going Children
Development During Critical Growth Years
School-going children are in a critical phase of physical development. Their bodies are rapidly growing, and proper physical development during these years lays the foundation for lifelong movement patterns and posture.
- Growth milestones are properly monitored and achieved
- Developmental delays are identified and addressed early
- Proper posture habits are formed during these formative years
Prevention of Long-Term Issues
Many adult musculoskeletal problems originate in childhood. Paediatric physiotherapy can identify and correct movement patterns before they become problematic, address minor issues before they develop into chronic conditions, and prevent compensatory movements that lead to secondary problems.
Enhancing Academic Performance
Physical wellbeing directly impacts academic performance. When children are physically comfortable and can move efficiently:
- Concentration improves as physical discomfort is reduced
- Classroom participation increases with better physical endurance
- Fine motor skills necessary for writing and other activities are enhanced
Supporting Sports and Physical Activities
For active children involved in sports or physical activities, physiotherapy provides injury prevention through proper movement techniques, sport-specific conditioning, and rehabilitation after injuries to ensure safe return to activities.
Addressing Modern Lifestyle Challenges
Today's children face unique physical challenges:
- Extensive screen time leading to "tech neck" and poor posture
- Heavy backpacks causing spinal stress
- Sedentary habits affecting core strength and overall fitness
Early Intervention for Special Needs
For children with developmental conditions, early physiotherapy intervention is crucial for improving mobility, enhancing coordination, supporting sensory processing issues, and providing adaptive strategies for various physical challenges.
Building Confidence and Self-Esteem
Physical capability significantly impacts a child's self-image. Improved physical abilities lead to greater confidence in physical activities, better posture positively affects how children carry themselves socially, and accomplishing physical goals builds overall self-efficacy.
Partnership in Your Child's Health Journey
Paediatric physiotherapists work closely with parents to educate on proper home exercises, provide guidance on ergonomic setups for homework and play, and offer advice on appropriate physical activities based on your child's specific needs.
"Don't wait until problems become obvious—preventative and developmental physiotherapy can make a significant difference in your child's physical wellbeing, academic success, and overall confidence during these important school years."
Contact Us
Get in Touch
Have questions about our paediatric physiotherapy services? Cathryn is likely busy helping little ones during the day, but she'd love to hear from you! Feel free to send an email or use the WhatsApp link below to start a conversation, and she'll get back to you as soon as possible.