Faculty and clinical education models of entry-level preparation in pediatric physical therapy

The need for pediatric physical therapists has escalated through the growth of physical therapy and the expansion of federally mandated programs for children and youth in the schools. The increased demands in early intervention and educational programs, which are already challenged by growth in student numbers and limited faculty, is a challenge in preparing entry-level practitioners ready to work in pediatrics. This article presents faculty and clinical education models currently being utilized in physical therapy education for pediatrics. The relationship of these models to the development of pediatric practitioners and the current trends in physical therapy education are also discussed.