Paediatrics

How paediatric equipment differs from adult mobility equipment

Paediatric mobility equipment is purpose-built for children, not scaled-down versions of adult products. The frames are sized correctly for smaller bodies, the seating systems support postural and developmental needs at different growth stages, and the configurations account for the changing physical, cognitive and social demands of childhood. Equipment is also built to allow significant adjustments as the child grows, often spanning several years of use without requiring full replacement.

Choices made at the prescription stage influence more than just current fit. Paediatric mobility equipment supports motor development, social participation, transport in family vehicles, and integration into school and therapy environments. These factors typically guide both the prescriber’s recommendations and the family’s day-to-day priorities.

Types of paediatric mobility solutions

The paediatric range covers several distinct categories, each addressing different functional needs.

• Mobility bases and seating systems such as the Cobra Hi-Lo Base and Ottobock Kidevo Adapt allow seating systems to be paired with different bases as the child’s needs evolve. This modular approach extends the life of seating investments and supports complex postural management 
• Paediatric strollers are specialised mobility solutions for younger children or those who don’t yet self-propel. Models such as the Hoggi Duro, Bingo Spex and Ottobock Kimba offer postural support, growth adjustment and ease of transport for families managing daily logistics 
• Paediatric walking aids support gait development and ambulation for children working toward or maintaining walking ability. The Ottobock Nurmi Neo is an example of a paediatric gait trainer used in early intervention and rehabilitation contexts 
• Paediatric power wheelchairs introduce independent powered mobility, which research has consistently shown supports cognitive, social and developmental outcomes when adopted early. Paediatric powerchair prescription often draws from the broader power wheelchair range, with models such as the Magic 360, Quantum Edge 4, Quantum Q6 Edge 3 and Quantum Q6 Edge 3 Stretto configured to paediatric specifications 
• Paediatric manual wheelchairs are lightweight, foldable and configured for self-propulsion or attendant-propulsion depending on the child’s strength and motor capability. Models in the Zippie range are designed for active children who can propel independently, while attendant-propelled options suit younger children or those with more complex support needs.

Designed for growth

A defining feature of paediatric equipment is the need to accommodate growth. A wheelchair that fits a five-year-old won’t fit the same child at ten. Quality paediatric equipment builds in adjustability across seat width, seat depth, back height, footrest length and wheel position, allowing the same chair to grow alongside the child for several years before replacement.

This matters both clinically and commercially. Clinically, growth provision supports continued postural alignment, comfort and function as the child develops. Commercially, equipment with strong growth provision is more cost-effective over time and may be looked upon favourably when it comes to funding decisions. We work with prescribing therapists to specify equipment with appropriate growth allowance for each child’s projected needs.

Working with prescribers and families

Paediatric mobility equipment is almost always prescribed by an occupational therapist or physiotherapist working alongside the family. The therapist assesses physical capability, postural needs, environmental factors and developmental goals. The family contributes the knowledge of what the child needs, where the equipment will be used, and how it will fit into everyday life. Power Mobility’s role is to bring deep product knowledge to that conversation, helping match the clinical brief to the right equipment configuration.

We can arrange trials in home, school or therapy environments where appropriate, and our team works alongside prescribers throughout the assessment and configuration process.

Funding paediatric mobility equipment

Most paediatric mobility equipment in Australia is funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), typically under the Assistive Technology category within a participant’s plan. Power Mobility is a registered NDIS provider and works with families, support coordinators and plan managers to source the right equipment within plan budgets. Private funding is also an option.

You can rely on the Power Mobility team

Choosing the right paediatric mobility equipment is an important decision. The correct setup makes a meaningful difference to a child’s daily life, and getting it right involves the prescribing therapist, the family, and a supplier with genuine paediatric experience. Our team has supported Queensland families with paediatric mobility solutions for decades, and we welcome the opportunity to be part of that conversation.

To discuss your child’s mobility needs, arrange a trial, or speak with the team, contact Power Mobility or visit our Geebung showroom.