Inclusion, Participation, Belonging = Surviving, Thriving, Flourishing

Abstract

Purpose: To share my perspectives on how pediatric physical therapists support children with disabilities and their families to maximize their potential to flourish. Key Points: Best practice supports the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Policy statements from governmental agencies, research universities, advocacy, and non-governmental organizations all support inclusion. The concept of belonging and how pediatric physical therapists can promote belonging is less familiar to pediatric physical therapists than inclusion and participation. Essential elements necessary to bring about a sense of belonging in young children will be presented, leading to a discussion on the role of the pediatric physical therapist and key implications for the early childhood system of care. Conclusions: Pediatric physical therapists support children with disabilities and their families to maximize the potential of every child. I propose that to do this, we must focus our interventions to promote a child’s active participation in community life and build programs and relationships that promote belonging. Clinical Relevance: Interventions for children with disabilities will be successful by focusing on the outcomes that promote inclusion, participation, and belonging.