Growing with mobility | Multimodal approaches for children and young people
Growing with mobility | Multimodal approaches for children and young people
Every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and explore. For children and young people living with mobility challenges, achieving that independence can sometimes feel more complicated.
That’s why a multimodal approach to mobility is so valuable. It gives families access to different tools and strategies as children grow and their needs evolve.
Why one chair isn’t enough
Children’s mobility needs change rapidly. What works for a five-year-old may not be right for a teenager. Growth, development, education and social life all bring new challenges. Relying on one piece of equipment can limit independence and place unnecessary strain on both the child and their carers.
A multimodal strategy means having access to a range of equipment, from manual and powered wheelchairs to standing frames, adaptive buggies, and specialist seating. Each plays a role in supporting health, independence and participation at different stages of development.
The benefits for children and families
1. Supporting development
Regular use of standing frames and adaptive seating can help maintain muscle tone, joint health and posture. Different equipment can also reduce the risk of long-term health complications.
2. Participation in everyday life
From the classroom to the playground, children need equipment that adapts to their world. Having access to multiple tools means they can join in with peers, access learning environments more easily, and enjoy play without unnecessary barriers.
3. Reducing carer strain
Parents and carers often carry the responsibility of managing equipment and ensuring their child’s independence. A multimodal set-up can make daily routines smoother and reduce physical strain, therefore helping families focus on living and not just managing.
4. Building confidence
Perhaps most importantly, multimodal mobility helps children feel more confident and capable. The ability to choose how to move and join in with friends has a huge impact on emotional wellbeing and social development.
Real-life impact
Families often tell us that having more than one option makes a huge difference. A manual wheelchair might work well at school, giving children independence in the classroom and the ability to navigate corridors and playgrounds with ease.
A powered option can then take over outdoors, offering the freedom to travel longer distances without fatigue. Whether that’s a trip to the park, a family day out, or simply keeping up with friends.
For younger children, adaptive buggies provide flexibility and comfort, especially when stamina or postural needs change throughout the day. As children grow, standing frames become an important part of maintaining health, encouraging bone strength, improving circulation, and supporting physical development in a safe way.
Other equipment, such as specialist seating systems or power add-ons, can make transitions between environments smoother and allow children to take part in a wider variety of activities, from after-school clubs to family holidays.
By combining these tools, children have the freedom to do more, with less compromise. It means they can participate more fully in learning, play and social life, while parents and carers gain reassurance that their child has the right support in place at the right time.
Working with families
At AJM Choice, we understand that paediatric mobility isn’t just about the child, it’s about the whole family.
That’s why we offer home visits, assessments and demonstrations to help parents explore equipment in a familiar environment. Our role is to listen, guide and support, ensuring that every child has access to the tools they need to grow, learn and thrive.
Want to explore paediatric mobility options?
Get in touch with our team to arrange a home assessment or demo. Together, we’ll find the right mix of equipment to support your child’s independence, health and happiness.
