As pediatric physical therapists, we commonly treat babies that have atypical or asymmetrical head shapes as a result of positioning or a variety of other factors. With early intervention, a number of techniques and positioning strategies can halt this asymmetrical shaping and avoid corresponding facial asymmetries that are often seen in conjunction with abnormal head…
Lift the flap, turn the page, lift the flap, turn the page. This is what many of us think about when envisioning an interactive story time with our kids. But, there are numerous other ways to engage your child in books! Building a bond with books can start when babies learn to hold objects in…
Encouraging your child to assume more developmentally appropriate positions during play I see W-sitting everywhere – in my daughter’s play group, at the park and even on TV commercials. As a PT I often get questions from parents asking, “Is W-sitting really a problem?” or “My child seems most comfortable when W-sitting. Should I really…
Copyright 1995/2022 by Dr. Kay A. Toomey Does your child choke or gag during meals? Does he/she have difficulty eating any of the foods in a texture group or a nutrition group? The SOS Approach to Feeding is a developmental feeding therapy that allows a child to interact with and learn about foods in a…
What is going on in my child’s brain? Can you believe that scholars and researchers used to believe that babies were born with no mind as if they were blank slates? Many parents back then were perplexed by such conclusion, if not accusation. We see how capable our children are each minute we spend time…
If you watch a typically-developing seven- or eight-month-old child for an hour, you will see them move and assume a wide range of positions. There is an amazing amount of variety in their movement. Variety is important – we want our children to be comfortable and able to play in sitting, on their back, on…
Feeding development is a complex topic that can be confusing for many parents to navigate. With hundreds of information sources out there, it becomes difficult to understand your child’s feeding development and the strategies you can use to help raise a healthy eater. Below we offer some helpful tips to support your child’s feeding during…
Your speech-language pathologist/speech therapist may recommend that your child could benefit from AAC, but what is AAC? Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a term used to encompass all forms of communication, other than oral speech, to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC to communicate throughout the day. We may use gestures…
Children with autism or with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) typically display difficulties in the areas of communication, social, and behavior. In regard to communication, a child may present with significantly delayed receptive, expressive, and pragmatic language skills. A child with ASD often has difficulties processing information which makes it difficult for him or her to…
MY CHILD WONT EAT! Some tips/techniques to help! No parent imagines that feeding their child is going to be a difficult task. I look back at my own childhood and thought about how much I loved to eat at a young age, and there was no food that I would refuse. However, after becoming a…
With a background in early childhood special education, I have spent so much time studying about disabilities and diagnoses. However, the most invaluable lessons that allow me to effectively support caregivers and their children with developmental differences always come from the parents of these amazing children. Since World Down Syndrome Day is quickly approaching (March…
Tax season is here! As a parent of a child or children with special needs, you face additional weekly expenses to assist your child in meeting their educational, gross motor and social goals. If you or someone you know cares for a child with special needs, you may qualify for a variety of tax credits,…
Supplies: Yogurt Food Coloring Plastic bowls Spoons Paper Painting…and making…edible finger paint is a great activity for toddlers! Measuring, mixing and painting gives them the opportunity to practice early math and science skills, while experiencing the sensory input of paint on their hands. It was a hit! Steps: Have your child spoon out a few…
By: Chicago Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Center Author: Nat Vikisreth DT, Ed. M, CEIM Here is one parenting dilemma: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended parents avoid any screen time for children younger than two years old; however, you are passionate about maximizing your child’s learning while they are sitting on the floor waiting…
A young child’s mission is primarily adjusting to their new world outside of their mothers’ wombs and understanding the new environment around them. They explore the environment through play. Isn’t that the most fun way to learn? You might notice how babies put things in their mouths as they learn about the properties of those…
