About Us
Adaptive Kids Australia
Play is at the heart of how children learn, grow, and connect with the world around them. It builds strength, coordination, confidence, and problem-solving skills—laying the foundation for everything from playground fun to sports and everyday independence.
At Adaptive Kids, we believe that every child deserves the chance to Play with Purpose—to move freely, explore their abilities, and develop the skills they need to thrive.
That’s why we’ve created expert-designed, play-based programs that help kids build core strength, balance, and coordination in a way that feels natural, engaging, and fun.
James Dowton
Paediatric Physiotherapist & Founder
Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) – University of Newcastle
- Masters of Advanced Paediatric Physiotherapy – Monash University
- Over 10,000 Hours of Experience as a Paediatric Physiotherapist
- International Ehlers-Danlos (EDS) Echo Training
- Member of the Australasian Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine
- NSW Paediatric Committee Member & Member of the Australian Paediatric Physiotherapy Group
- Hesta Excellence Awards Finalist – Allied Health
- NSW Physiotherapy Branch Award Winner for Contributions to the Physiotherapy Profession
💡 Evidence-Based, Purposeful Programs
1 in 10 children in Australia have a disability, yet all kids deserve the opportunity to move, play, and grow with confidence. Our programs are built on proven, research-backed strategies, helping children of all abilities develop strength, balance, and coordination through engaging, play-based activities. Whether at home, school, or out in the community, we’re here to support your child’s movement journey.
📚 Actionable Education & Support
Parenting can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We provide expert-led resources designed to make your life easier while supporting your child’s physical, social, and emotional development. Connect with our community through our Adaptive Kids blog and Instagram, where we share practical strategies, expert advice, and inspiration to help your child thrive.
🌊 Empowering Kids Through Movement & Play
James works with infants, children, and teenagers to develop strength, confidence, and independence through movement. Whether in one-on-one therapy or group-based adaptive programs, he supports children in learning, playing, and moving with purpose — at home, in school, and through community-based initiatives.
🏅 Bringing Adaptive Sports & Inclusive Play to Life
A passionate advocate for nature play and sensory-rich environments, James co-developed Port Macquarie’s first dedicated All-Abilities Surf Program. He also leads Adaptive Soccer, Tennis, and Cricket Programs, volunteers with Race Running Programs, and delivers Adaptive Learn-to-Swim, Water Safety, Bike Riding, and Athletics programs — helping children experience the joy of movement in every form.
Our Story
Adaptive Kids was founded to make a meaningful, lifelong impact on children and families by delivering evidence-based, high-quality, and accessible programs.
James Dowton, Australian Paediatric Physiotherapist, studied his Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) at the University of Newcastle and later completed his Masters in Advanced Paediatric Physiotherapy at Monash University.
Growing up in rural Australia, his early experiences shaped his vision for ensuring all children have access to expert-led therapy and play-based learning — no matter where they live.
Through working in rural Queensland and New South Wales, James saw firsthand the importance of empowering parents, carers, and children with the right support. That’s why Adaptive Kids was created—to help every child play, move, and grow with confidence.
Whether it is at our Port Macquarie Clinic or Online we are dedicated to helping kids live active, playful lives, so families everywhere can experience the power of movement and connection.
