HP Clinical Update: Kids, JIA and Getting Through the Day: The Fundamentals of Allied Health Support

Date: Monday 23rd November 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM 
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Cost: Free
CME/CPD Points: Certificates of attendance can be provided for continuing professional development purposes on request.

Meet the Presenters

Nicole Pates – Paediatric Physiotherapist

Nicole is a Titled APA Paediatric Physiotherapist, Chair of the APA National Paediatric Committee, and founder of Western Kids Health. She serves on the Healthy Digital Child Expert Advisory Panel, The Autism Health Road Map, and the Ehlers-Danlos Society International Consortium Allied Health Working Group. Nicole works with children and their families and has extensive experience in paediatric musculoskeletal conditions, pain, movement, and physical development. She regularly provides professional development for allied health professionals, nurses, and doctors and presents at conferences and community events.

Emily Bruining – Occupational Therapist

Emily is a Senior Occupational Therapist with experience supporting children and young people with connective tissue disorders, chronic pain, and functional neurological disorders. She has also worked across early intervention, disability services, and aged care. Emily uses a supportive approach to help children participate in the activities that are important to them and is passionate about increasing awareness and understanding of invisible conditions. She has presented for organisations including Ehlers-Danlos Australia, ECIA, Playgroup WA, the Catholic Schools Association, and the Australian & New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry.

Event Overview

This presentation will explore the common challenges experienced by children and young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and their families. It will outline the roles of allied health professionals and highlight evidence-based interventions and best-practice approaches to support participation in everyday activities during and following disease flares.

What You’ll Learn

Participants will be able to:

• Identify common challenges experienced by children and young people with JIA and their families.
• Describe the roles of allied health professional in supporting children and young people with JIA.
• Recognise best-practice interventions to support participation in everyday activities during and after a flare.
• Identify practical strategies to promote independence, manage daily routines and support engagement in meaningful activities.

Who Should Attend?

This session is designed for GP’s and allied health professionals working with children and young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), including occupational therapists, physiotherapists and other professional supporting participation in everyday activities, function and wellbeing.

Session Schedule

• 5:30 PM | 1-hour presentation and Q&A discussion
• 6:30 PM | Session close

This event is free, but places are limited. Please register by 5pm Thursday 19th November to secure your place. 

For any questions, please email education@arthritiswa.org.au or call 1800 011 041.