The Role of the Pediatric Rehab Provider in Promoting Healthy Weight Management
Friday, October 23, 2026
11:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT; 10:00 am – 11:00 am CDT;
9:00 am – 10:00 am MDT; 8:00 am – 9:00 am PDT
Register Here
Presenter Bio:
Sonya Johnson-Branch, PTA, WMS, is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and certified Weight Management Specialist/Personal Trainer with over 25 years of clinical experience specializing in pediatric health and wellness. Driven by a passion to provide a safe, family-centered approach, she blends clinical movement expertise with compassionate care to build health-focused habits that counter the onset of chronic conditions.
In her daily practice, Sonya partners with families to design sustainable exercise routines and practical health habits that fit into busy everyday lives. She understands that a child's health journey thrives on encouragement, community support, and realistic goals rather than strict restrictions. As an advocate and supporter of pediatric health, Sonya loves providing fellow rehab and medical professionals with the uplifting, evidence-based tools they need to inspire lasting health, body positivity, and wellness in the next generation.
Objectives:
Following this session, the learner will:
- Apply permission-based communication models (such as the 5As Framework) to effectively navigate sensitive growth and weight trajectory discussions with patients, parents, and caregivers;
- Formulate strength-based, functional rehabilitation goals that focus on motor milestones, biomechanics, and play-based achievements rather than scale weight or appearance;
- Execute an environmental audit of the pediatric gym to ensure physical equipment, medical supplies, and visual media support and dignify children of all body shapes and sizes; and
- Promote multidisciplinary care to include all caregivers of the patient in the advocacy and medical support of the patient.
Audience:
This webinar is intended for all interested members of the rehabilitation team.
Level:
Beginner-Intermediate
Certificate of Attendance: Certificates of attendance are available for all attendees. No CEs are provided for this course.
Complimentary webinars are a benefit of membership in IPRC/RCPA.
Registration fee for non-members is $179 (per organization). Not a member yet?
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