I am reflecting on my observation at the Eccles Early Child Development Lab School for

the PTA 2510 signature assignment. The purpose of this assignment was to observe early
developing children, applying our knowledge of typical and atypical developmental milestones
to better understand environmental variables, motor control, cognition, and developmental
delays that may affect growing children. For this assignment, we were split into groups of four
students and were assigned to observe four year olds at a local daycare facility.

Although I am still undecided as to which specific patient population that I would like to
serve in my future career, this observation was an important experience to add to my ‘tool-box
of knowledge.’ This examination of motor control and child development can be utilized in my
future profession, regardless of the population age that I choose to work with. As my clinical
rotations approach, I will use this knowledge in treating all ages of clientele that I may serve in
the future.

What I found to be the most beneficial part of this observation with the younger
population, was my realization that recognizing components of fine and gross motor
development, cognition, environmental barriers, and impairments can be commonly
interpreted and applied to any population age in regards to normal development. The
correlation of development and proper functioning can be applied throughout all ages using the
individualized motor learning and motor control approach that we were exposed to this
semester. Although the type and level of ability may vary at specific ages, the methods in which
we measure, test, and provide interventions to restore movement and function are very much
relatable. The goal of physical therapy is to promote a healthy lifestyle across all life stages,
provide treatment of disease or disability, improve or maintain function to promote a better
quality of life for all, apply evidence in selecting and prescribing exercise for individuals, and
work as part of a community-based team to improve health outcomes for populations of all
ages.
My favorite part of pediatric physical therapy is the aspect of a child friendly playful
environment. The main goal of this type of therapy is to administer proper functioning,
movement reeducation, feedback, and instruction in a playful environment. Although I think it
may be difficult to witness the pediatric population in which children are struggling in various
areas of function, I think I am better prepared to handle whatever impairment they may have,
considering the instruction and guidance that I have received in this course.

Overall, the signature assignment for PTA 2510 taught me that the application of our
studies throughout this program can be actively applied in any and all practice settings that we
may encounter. I am excited about the education I have been provided with and how I can
utilize it in my future career as a physical therapist assistant.