TheraDance is a group physical therapy program designed for children with physical limitations, such as impaired balance, body awareness, coordination, flexibility, strength and endurance. The program is offered by the Center for Independence at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Professionals from Physical Therapy will work with children who participate in this program.
Who Should Participate?
The program is designed for children who enjoy dancing but whose abilities limit their participation in community-based dance classes. Children participating should be able to walk and move throughout their environment safely and independently, and should require minimal prompting to maintain attention. Children will be grouped with peers of similar age.
What Will They Learn?
TheraDance can help children:
- Improve body awareness
- Increase overall flexibility and strength
- Improve endurance through ongoing moderate intensity aerobic exercise
- Promote appropriate static and dynamic balance strategies
- Improve coordination to enhance safety, confidence and independence
At the conclusion of the program, the children will perform a choreographed routine to music.
How Do I Get More Information?
The program is offered in two locations. Please contact us at the location closest to you for more information:
