Keeping a child with motor disabilities motivated to perform therapeutic tasks poses a challenge for the therapist and the parents, but keeping the sessions fun can help tremendously. With its resemblance to playground equipment, the All By Myself Therapy System encourages practicing the skills that help to develop motor function.

While the system's appearance adds to the appeal for the children using it, it helps them with strengthening muscles; body awareness; weight bearing and motor coordination; walking and other movement patterns; and balance to facilitate their ability to move independently. The system consists of five components and a lightweight wheeled cart for easy moving. The components and accessories may be purchased as either a set or separately.

Made of durable hardwood with non-slip cushioning, the Lift-Off Chair teaches the child how to sit with proper positioning as well as allowing them to perform exercises that involve standing. The ample seat provides plenty of room for the child to use his or her hands to push him or herself up to a standing position. Optional height adjustable arm rests are available for support while standing, too.

The Walk-On Base provides a soft, nonslip surface where little feet can safely practice walking. Multiple attachment points allow other system components to be attached securely.  It can be used alone, or in conjunction with the Rise and Shine Ladder, Trekie Poles, or ABMS Parallel Bars. 

The Rise and Shine Ladder is made of tubular steel with an easy to clean latex-free finish. Simply attach it to the Walk-On Base and it's ready to help the child learn to pull him- or herself into an upright position from either the Lift-Off Chair or the floor.  Available optional accessories include the acrylic Look At Me mirror to encourage interaction, and a wooden Accessory Shelf to facilitate a child's practice of reaching and grasping.

Also constructed of the durable tubular steel with the same finish are the ABMS Parallel Bars. They may be securely locked to the Walk-On Base at different widths and can be adjusted for a height of anywhere between fourteen and twenty-two inches. The bars provide a way for a child to balance him- or herself as skills involved in walking are learned, such as keeping the hips relaxed, bearing the weight on legs, and stretching the lower limbs in the process of taking steps.

The Trekie Poles may be used on their own or snapped into place on the Walk-On Base at different widths to provide support for children learning to balance while standing, or may be used in conjunction with the Lift-Off Chair to teach reaching and grasping. They have non-slip disc bases and handles made from foam to make holding them easier.  The Trekie Poles come in two lengths to accommodate a wide range of heights.

The All By Myself system comes in two sizes to allow children of many heights to learn the motor skills needed to move independently, ensuring self-confidence, a sense of empowerment and enhanced quality of life. 

Fran Jablway,
Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO