Then we learned he would need a special seating insert to position him properly, and that there were lots of other options to consider. We didn t realize it was such a complex process and that there were so many components to think about. It s also not a family-friendly process because funding rules differ depending on where you live. Add to that the painful emotions a first wheelchair can trigger for some parents, and it can be an overwhelming experience. It is helpful to focus not so much on how your child is moving whether walking or wheeling but on the fact that your child will be able to move, Leibel says.
Children learn through moving, and movement is critical to their development.
Using a wheelchair means your child won t miss out on all the cognitive learning and social interaction that goes along with exploring the environment. That will be an occupational therapist or physical therapist. That allows you to discuss all of the options with the vendor. If possible, ask the vendor for a two-week trial of a chair you are considering, and have your child maneuver it in different settings. Depending on their needs, most children get their first wheelchair between the ages of 2 and 4.