Inpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation

Pediatric inpatient rehabilitation is a medically supervised, hospital-based program for children and adolescents who need intensive therapy after a serious injury, illness, or surgery. Unlike a general hospital stay focused on acute medical care, inpatient rehab is structured around rebuilding function — helping children regain mobility, communication, self-care skills, and independence. At Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, patients participate in at least three hours of therapy per day with a full interdisciplinary team supporting their recovery.

Inpatient rehabilitation takes place within a hospital and is designed for children who are not yet ready to return home safely. It combines medical oversight with intensive therapy, usually delivered over several weeks. Outpatient therapy is appropriate for children who are medically stable and can live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions. Our team helps coordinate a smooth transition from inpatient rehab to outpatient services when your child is ready.

The program treats a wide range of diagnoses, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, acquired brain injury (including post-tumor surgery), spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, orthopedic injuries, and complex medical conditions that result in a significant decline in the child’s ability to function.

Length of stay varies depending on the child’s diagnosis, severity of functional loss, and rate of recovery. The team sets individualized goals and monitors progress throughout the stay. Discharge planning begins early in the admission to ensure a smooth transition to home and any needed outpatient services.

Yes. Family involvement is a cornerstone of our program. Caregivers are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions, attend team meetings, and receive training to support their child’s recovery at home. Our child life specialists and psychology team also support families throughout the process.

A physiatrist (also called a rehabilitation physician or specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation) is a physician who specializes in restoring function after injury or illness. At Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, a pediatric physiatrist leads each patient’s rehabilitation plan, working alongside the full interdisciplinary team to guide medical and functional recovery. 

Yes. School re-entry and educational transition are part of our standard services. We work with families, school systems, and educational specialists to develop a plan that supports your child’s return to learning — including any accommodations or supports needed after discharge.

Referrals typically come from the acute care team caring for your child at Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital or another facility. Physicians, case managers, or care coordinators can initiate a referral. If you believe your child may need inpatient rehabilitation, speak with their current medical team or contact our program directly.