Preparing for your first visit

1. 1

   Forms, beforehand

   Once your appointment is booked, you'll receive a link through Jane, our practice system, to complete a short consent form and background form on your phone or computer before you arrive. Filling these in ahead of time means more of the appointment is spent with your child rather than on paperwork.

2. 2

   What to bring

   Any relevant letters or reports you already have (from your GP, health visitor, paediatrician, school or another therapist), your child's red book if you have one handy, and anything that keeps your child comfortable, such as a favourite toy or comforter. You don't need a referral or a diagnosis to come.

3. 3

   What to wear

   Comfortable clothes that are easy to move in. For babies, a vest or easy layers help us see how they're moving without a lot of undressing. Socks are fine, but bare feet are useful for anything involving the feet.

4. 4

   What happens at the appointment

   The initial assessment lasts 90 minutes. We start by talking through your child's history and what you've noticed, then move into assessing how your child moves, almost always through play rather than a clinical routine. You leave with a clear, honest explanation, agreed goals, and a written summary.

5. 5

   You stay in the room

   A parent or responsible adult stays present throughout every session, always. You are part of your child's therapy, never asked to wait outside.

6. 6

   After the visit

   You'll leave with a written summary of what we found and agreed. If a home programme is part of the plan, we'll talk it through with you before you go, and it's also available afterwards through your parent portal.

Helping an anxious child

Lots of children feel a little unsure about a new place and a new person, and that's completely normal. A few things that help:

• Talk about it beforehand in simple, positive terms: "we're going to see someone who helps children move and play."
• Bring a comforter, favourite toy, or snack if that helps your child settle.
• There's no need to rush your child into anything; the session is built around play, and we go at your child's pace.
• It's fine to hold your child, stay close, or simply be present without them needing to "perform" for us.
• Tell us beforehand if your child finds new places, people or textures difficult; a little warning helps us adjust how we start the session.

Where we see families

We also offer home and school visits across North Norfolk, and online consultations, if that works better for your family.