Pediatric physical therapists lack effective interventions for toddlers who can pull to stand and cruise but refuse to walk independently, despite parent pressure and multiple failed strategies.

Workarounds Described

• uses short sitting and joint compressions to encourage standing
• uses vibration plate (child hated it)
• places toys on higher surfaces to motivate
• parents physically pushing child despite refusal
• therapist attempts hand-holding facilitation (child resists)

Implied Software Gaps

• Interactive play-based walking encouragement device that replaces failed forced facilitation and static environmental modifications

StepSense: Pediatric Walking Motivator

A smart floor mat with interactive lights and sounds that rewards independent steps with positive reinforcement. The mat detects weight shifts and steps, providing immediate gamified feedback to encourage voluntary walking without adult hand-holding. Allows therapists to customize difficulty and track progress remotely.

Existing Solutions Mentioned