What is a pediatric physical therapist salary?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average pediatric physical therapist salary is $101,020.   Several factors can influence a pediatric physical therapist's salary, including their work setting, experience, and location. Here, we'll explore more about the salary of a pediatric physical therapist, what you can expect from a typical day on the job, the benefits of working as a school-based pediatric physical therapist, and how working with Pediatric Therapeutic Services can help you make the most of your career. 

Factors that can affect the salary of a pediatric physical therapist.

Some factors that can influence the salary of a pediatric physical therapist include: 

• Geographic location: Salaries for pediatric physical therapists tend to be higher in states with a higher cost of living. Pediatric physical therapists in California, Nevada, Alaska, New Jersey, and Texas earn, on average, more money than those in other states. 

• Years of experience: As with most professions, years of experience can make a difference in your salary. Pediatric physical therapists with decades of experience typically make more than those who have recently completed their education. 

• Work setting: The location in which you choose to practice can affect your earnings as a pediatric physical therapist. As a pediatric physical therapist, you'll have many options for your work setting, including schools, hospitals, early intervention programs, outpatient clinics, and private practice. 

• Education and certifications: Advanced certifications (like a Board-Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist certification) can increase your earning potential as a pediatric physical therapist. In many cases, individuals with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree have more earning potential than those with a master's degree in pediatric physical therapy. 

• Full-time vs. part-time: Pediatric physical therapists who work full-time may make more than those who work part-time, depending on certain factors that affect earnings, including those listed above. 

A day in the life of a school-based pediatric physical therapist.

School-based physical therapists play a vital role in helping students with physical challenges access their education. A typical day might begin with collaboration with teachers, administrators, and parents. You may start by reviewing individualized education plans (IEPs) to ensure that students in your care have achievable yet ambitious goals and are making progress.  You may also move from classroom to classroom, or work in a designated therapy room, depending on the needs of your students. You'll have the opportunity to create engaging games and activities that keep students motivated during therapy, allowing them to have fun while achieving their goals. You may work with students who need help maintaining proper sitting posture, participating in recess or gym class, navigating stairs, or walking in hallways. 

Benefits of working as a school-based pediatric physical therapist.

Working in a school setting has many advantages that extend beyond the salary of a pediatric physical therapist.   Many physical therapists who work in schools enjoy the predictable schedule, which typically includes summer and holiday breaks. You can use this time to relax with loved ones, further your education, or work a part-time job.  Therapists in schools also find their work rewarding. We get to integrate our therapy into school events like science fairs or holiday festivals. Also, instead of seeing patients once every few weeks, as you would in a private practice or hospital, you'll get to see them regularly, sometimes daily. This allows you to develop positive relationships and celebrate student success frequently.  Finally, schools offer a wide network of support for their students. This can help boost student outcomes and allow the entire education team to provide the support needed to ensure that the strategies you recommend are properly implemented. 

At Pediatric Therapeutic Services, we're here to help you make a difference. 

More and more schools are realizing the benefits of working with companies like Pediatric Therapeutic Services to hire their school-based therapists. We work with occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, mental health professionals, and other clinicians dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children.   When you work with PTS, we'll help you find the right school-based placements for your scheduling needs and career goals. We’ll also provide clinical support as well.  If you're interested in learning more about becoming a school-based pediatric physical therapist, click here to learn more about joining our team.    I'm interested