Kids Wheelchair – Paediatric Wheelchair

A kids wheelchair (generally referred to as a paediatric wheelchair) is a mobility device designed to specifically meet the needs of children who require the aid of assistive technology. Most commonly used to support children with a physical disability. A kids wheelchair can also be used when recovering from an injury.

Paediatric wheelchairs prioritise safety, comfort and the ability to adjust and accommodate a child’s growth and changing needs. Paediatric children’s wheelchairs are available in both manual and power models. They are purpose designed for a child’s smaller frame to promote correct posture. And more lightweight and easier to manoeuvre than a full-size adult model.

Features & Benefits.

Customisation & Adjustability – Allowing for the change in postural and seating needs as a child grows, paediatric wheelchairs offer high customisability. Adjustable seat, backrest and footplates (and other features) provide correct postural, seating support and fit as the child grows.

Lightweight & Manoeuvrable – Most wheelchairs designed for children have lightweight materials and intuitive controls, offering ease of use and movement for child and caregiver.

Safety – The purpose-built design of a paediatric wheelchair not only supports increased correct posture and seating comfort. The safety features that traditionally include secure harness, anti-tip wheels and locking brakes ensure the safety of the child.

Promoting Independence – Built and engineered for ease of use. A paediatric wheelchair promotes greater independence by encouraging children to explore their environment and participate in activities.

Designed for Development – Designed to support a child’s physical and cognitive growth, paediatric wheelchairs help kids explore their world and interact with their surroundings. Whilst having the adaptability to continue to offer correct support as the child grows.

Variety of Designs & Options –   With models available in manual and power options. Different Frame styles like folding, rigid, tilt-in-space and drive configurations of front, mid (power only) and rear wheel. There are models available to suit each child’s individual needs and environmental requirements and offer the best support and independence.

When is a Paediatric Wheelchair Needed?

As the Child Grows – If a child has outgrown a stroller, or their stroller no longer provides the correct support or level of independence, and the child still requires significant mobility support. Wheelchairs are considered a more age appropriate solution from around 5 years of age.

Medical Condition – If the child has a medical condition like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy or spina bifida that affects their ability to walk or stand.

Limited Walking Function – When a child has good development with their hand function, however a limited endurance or capacity for walking.

Different Types of Paediatric Wheelchairs.

Manual Wheelchairs – Self propelled wheelchair that is pushed by the child or caregiver.

Power Wheelchairs – A battery powered wheelchair that provides greater independence for children with more significant mobility and positioning needs.

Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs – Wheelchairs that enable seat tilt that provides further postural support and pressure relief for individuals with complex seating and postural needs. Read more on tilt-in-space here.

Paediatric wheelchairs are specifically designed and engineered for toddlers to young adults. Available in a wide range of models and types of wheelchairs. Children’s wheelchairs offer a great range of solution types to cater for all individual requirements and needs. Their smaller and lighter frames offer true postural support and comfort for a growing child. Provide easier intuitive control and movement. Many kids’ wheelchairs are also built to accommodate the natural growth of the child and can be adapted to offer continued support and comfort as the child develops and grows. A paediatric wheelchair is far more than a downsized adult wheelchair, they come with special considerations and adjustment ranges for smaller bodies.