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New Year, New Goals: Setting Developmental Milestones for Your Child

1/1/2025

As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the milestones your child has reached and set new goals for their development in 2025. Whether you’re working alongside one of our pediatric physical therapists or simply observing your child’s growth, understanding key developmental milestones and knowing when to seek professional guidance can ensure your child is on track to thrive. In this blog, Dr. Bassem shares a breakdown of common developmental milestones by age and signs to watch for that may warrant a discussion with your child’s pediatrician or PT.

Head Control by 3-4 months
Your baby should be able to lift their head while on their tummy and hold it steady when supported in a sitting position.
*If your baby has difficulty holding their head up independently in tummy time or shows signs of head lag when pulled to a sitting position, this could indicate weak neck muscles and may warrant a PT evaluation.

Rolling by 4-6 months
Babies typically roll from tummy to back first, and by 6 months, they should be able to roll in both directions (tummy to back and back to tummy).
*If your child consistently rolls in one direction but not the other, or shows difficulty rolling both ways equally, this may suggest an imbalance in muscle strength or motor coordination that should be discussed with your PT or pediatrician.

Sitting Independently by 6-9 months
By around 6 months, babies can often sit unsupported for short periods. By 9 months, they should be able to sit up without support for extended periods.
*If your child has trouble sitting independently by 9 months or has a tendency to fall over frequently without trying to catch themselves, this could be a sign of low muscle tone or developmental delay.

Crawling by 7-11 months
Most babies begin crawling between 7-10 months, although some may skip crawling and go straight to walking. Crawling develops strength in the arms, core, and legs.
*If your child isn’t showing interest in crawling by 10 months, has difficulty moving arms and legs alternately, or struggles to push up from a seated position, this may signal a need for evaluation.

Standing with Support by 9-12 months
By 9 months, many babies will begin pulling themselves up to stand while holding onto furniture. They may start cruising along furniture around 10-11 months.
*If your baby is unable to pull to a standing position or refuses to bear weight on one or both legs, this could indicate a muscle weakness

Walking Independently by 12-15 months
Most children take their first independent steps between 12 and 15 months. By 18 months, they should be walking steadily.
*If your child is not walking by 18 months or shows difficulty standing, walking, or falls often, it could indicate delayed motor skills or underlying physical issues that need attention.

Climbing by 2 years
At around 2 years, toddlers will begin climbing stairs (with support), climbing on playground equipment, and showing greater coordination with their movements.
*Difficulty with climbing or hesitation in trying new movements can signal developmental delay or issues with balance and coordination.

Running and Jumping by 2.5-3 years
By 3 years, most children can run, jump with both feet off the ground, and navigate uneven terrain with increasing confidence.
*If your toddler shows little interest in running, jumping, or avoids active play, this could indicate issues with muscle tone, strength, or coordination.

Balancing on One Foot by 4 years old
By age 4, children should be able to balance on one foot for a few seconds and have more control over their posture.
*If your child has difficulty balancing, trips frequently, or struggles with hopping, it might indicate poor muscle control or motor coordination, which could be addressed with therapy.

Running with Speed and Agility by 4-5 years old
Children should be able to run with more speed and agility, navigating around objects with increasing control.
*If your child has trouble running, tends to fall often, or lacks coordination in movement, it may be helpful to consult a PT to assess their balance and motor planning.

Skipping by 5 years old
Skipping, which involves alternating feet while hopping, typically develops around age 5 and is a sign of refined coordination.
*If your child is still unable to skip by age 5, this could indicate that they need additional support with coordination or muscle strength.

When to Seek Professional Advice:
While all children develop at their own pace, certain signs could indicate that your child may benefit from a discussion with their pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist. These include:

Delayed or Absent Motor Skills: If your child is significantly behind in achieving key milestones such as rolling, crawling, walking, or jumping, it may be worth discussing these delays with a professional.
Asymmetry or Imbalanced Movement: If your child consistently favors one side of their body (such as rolling only to one side or using one hand more dominantly), it could suggest muscle imbalances or weakness that a PT can help address.
Poor Muscle Tone or Weakness: If your baby or toddler shows signs of low muscle tone (floppiness or lack of muscle resistance during tummy time) or if your child has difficulty holding their own weight (such as struggling to sit up independently or stand), this may require an evaluation by a pediatric PT.
Balance and Coordination Issues: Frequent falls, difficulty with tasks that require coordination (such as jumping, skipping, or riding a bike), or resistance to active play may indicate a need for further assessment.
Lack of Interest in Physical Play: If your toddler or preschooler is uninterested in activities like running, climbing, or jumping, or shows fear when engaging in new movements, it could indicate discomfort, weakness, or sensory processing concerns.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Baby's First Christmas: A Guide by Age

12/1/2024

Christmas is a magical time of year, and for parents celebrating their baby’s first Christmas, it’s a time filled with wonder and joy. While babies are too young to understand the significance of stockings, this holiday tradition is still a perfect opportunity to introduce them to fun, functional, and developmental gifts. Here are some stocking stuffer ideas from Dr. Lindsey, tailored to different baby age ranges, ensuring that each little one gets something special and appropriate for their stage of growth!

0-3 Months: Newborn Wonder
At this age, babies are still getting used to the world around them, and their gifts should focus on sensory experiences and comfort as they develop their senses!

1. Soft Rattles:
Choose rattles made of soft materials, easy to hold (or grab) with tiny hands, and that produce gentle sounds. Rattles help with auditory development and hand-eye
coordination.

2. Infant Mittens:
Babies often scratch themselves during the early months. Soft, comfortable mittens
prevent this while keeping their hands warm.

3. Cloth Teething Toys:
Even though babies at this age aren’t teething yet, soft cloth teething toys or teething
rings can still be soothing for sore gums when they start.

4. Baby Socks or Booties:
Cozy, soft baby socks in cute patterns (like little animals or snowflakes) are a practical
stocking stuffer and always in demand.

5. Musical Plush Toys:
Small plush toys that play lullabies or soft music can be soothing for babies, helping to
calm them down before naps or bedtime.

4-6 Months: Developing Senses
At this stage, babies are beginning to explore their environment with more interest, and stocking stuffers can support sensory development and motor skills.

1. Textured Baby Books:
Soft, fabric books with bright colors and different textures stimulate babies' sense of
touch and sight. Look for ones with crinkly sounds, soft plush elements, or squeakers.

2. Soft Rubber or Silicone Teething Rings:
These are perfect for babies in the teething phase. Look for BPA-free, non-toxic rings in
soft, chewable materials that are easy to grasp.

3. Baby Mirrors:
Babies love to look at themselves and recognize faces, so a baby-safe mirror (often with
cute designs like animals) can be a fun and engaging gift.

4. Soft, Colorful Balls:
Lightweight, soft fabric balls with bright colors are easy for little hands to hold, roll, and
play with, helping to build motor skills.

5. Musical Toys:
Toys that play soft tunes when squeezed or pressed, like baby-friendly xylophones or
pianos, encourage auditory skills and fine motor development.

6. Tummy Time Mat:
Tummy time remains important at this age. A fun, plush mat designed for tummy time
can encourage babies to engage with the floor and lift their heads, while keeping them
comfortable while learning to roll!

7-9 Months: Little Explorers
At this age, babies are becoming more mobile and curious about the world around them,
reaching and grabbing at everything within their reach. Stocking stuffers should engage their newfound abilities.

1. Stacking Cups or Rings:
Colorful stacking cups or rings promote fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
They’re also great for bath time fun!

2. Soft Activity Balls:
Soft fabric or rubber balls that make noise or have different textures encourage babies
to roll, grab, and explore, promoting gross motor skills.

3. Baby Utensils & Plates:
Babies are starting to explore feeding and eating habits at this stage. A set of baby-
friendly utensils or a small, divided plate can be a fun stocking stuffer that’s also practical.

4. Sensory Toys:
Toys with lights, sounds, and textures will capture their attention. Look for ones that
allow babies to press buttons, flip switches, or squeeze.

10-12 Months: Active and Engaged
As babies approach their first birthday, they’re becoming more mobile, with many
starting to crawl or even walk. Stocking stuffers should encourage movement,
exploration, and communication.

1. Interactive Books:
Books with flaps to open, buttons to press, or textures to feel keep babies engaged
while supporting early literacy and motor skills.

2. Activity Cubes:
Activity cubes with spinning gears, bead mazes, and buttons can be perfect for
developing problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.

3. Musical Instruments for Babies:
Small tambourines, maracas, or xylophones designed for babies promote rhythm and
auditory development.

4. Teething Toys with Multiple Textures:
As teeth continue to come in, toys with a variety of textures and soft chewable parts
remain essential to keep babies comforted and entertained.

Baby's first Christmas is an exciting time, and stocking stuffers are a fun way to celebrate the season while supporting your little one’s growth and development. Whether it's soft toys for sensory exploration or interactive items that promote motor skills, each gift can be both fun and functional. By choosing age-appropriate stocking stuffers, you're ensuring that your baby gets
the most out of their first holiday season, while laying the foundation for the many milestones ahead. Happy holidays!

The Benefits of Family Involvement in Therapy

11/1/2024

As we embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving this November, the importance of family takes center stage. Family gatherings remind us of the crucial role our loved ones play in our lives, and this sentiment extends beyond just sharing meals and memories. In pediatric physical therapy, family involvement is more than just a bonus; it’s a vital component that can significantly enhance therapy outcomes for children. When families actively participate in the therapeutic process, they strengthen the support system around the child, making it easier for them to achieve their goals. In this blog post, Dr. Brianna explores the benefits of family involvement and practical ways parents can engage in their child’s therapy journey.

Why Family Involvement Matters

Enhanced Motivation: Children often feel more motivated when their family members are actively involved in their therapy. The presence of loved ones can provide encouragement and make sessions feel less intimidating.
Consistency and Reinforcement: Family members can help reinforce the skills learned in therapy at home. Consistent practice outside of therapy sessions is key to making progress, and parents can play a vital role in this.
Emotional Support: Navigating challenges in therapy can be tough for children. When families are involved, they provide the emotional support that helps kids feel secure and understood, making it easier for them to tackle difficult tasks.
Better Communication: When families participate in therapy sessions, they can communicate more effectively with therapists. This collaboration allows for a more tailored approach that meets the specific needs of the child.
Increased Understanding: Family involvement helps parents better understand their child’s challenges and strengths. This understanding fosters patience and empathy, which are crucial for effective support.

Ways Parents Can Get Involved

Attend Therapy Sessions: Whenever possible, parents should attend therapy sessions. This gives them a first-hand look at the techniques being used and allows them to ask questions and clarify any concerns.
Practice at Home: Therapists often provide exercises and activities to be practiced at home. Parents can schedule regular practice sessions, turning them into fun family activities to make it enjoyable for the child.
Set Goals Together: Collaborate with your child and their therapist to set achievable goals. Involving your child in this process can increase their motivation and sense of ownership over their progress.
Create a Supportive Environment: Make home modifications that promote independence and safety. This might include clearing obstacles for mobility, providing adaptive tools, or creating a dedicated space for practice.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate both small and large accomplishments. This not only boosts your child’s confidence but also reinforces the importance of their hard work.
Stay Educated: Learn about your child’s specific condition and therapy techniques. Understanding the underlying challenges can help you provide better support and encouragement.
Join Support Groups: Engage with other families who are navigating similar challenges. Support groups can provide valuable insights and help build a network of encouragement.
Communicate with the Therapist: Regularly communicate with the therapist about your child’s progress and any concerns you may have. This collaboration can lead to adjustments in the therapy plan that better suit your child’s needs.

Conclusion
As we reflect on gratitude during this Thanksgiving month, it's a wonderful reminder of the importance of family in our lives. Family involvement in pediatric physical therapy is essential for fostering an environment where children can thrive. By participating actively in the therapy process, families can enhance their child’s motivation, consistency, and emotional well-being, leading to improved outcomes. Every effort counts, and the journey is often more rewarding when families embark on it together. This November, let’s come together to support our children in achieving their therapy goals, celebrating not only their progress but the strength of our family bonds.

Initial Evaluations at Leaps & Bounds Pediatric Physical Therapy

10/1/2024

We understand starting therapy can feel overwhelming for both
children and parents alike, regardless of the child’s age or possible
diagnosis. Knowing what to expect during your first appointment with
us can help alleviate some concerns while setting the stage for a
successful physical therapy experience. Dr. Bassem has written a
helpful guide to prepare you and your child for the first visit to our clinic.

Before your appointment, we recommend gathering any information that may be relevant to your visit. Whether you have a physician’s referral, an X-ray, or a video showcasing a specific concern, we’re here to take a look and address your questions. We also recommend that you create a list of concerns in your child’s gross or fine motor development along with any other questions you’d like to discuss with your therapist.

Please also remember to bring your insurance information, identification, and any necessary paperwork to the evaluation as this will streamline the process. And while our clinic is filled with toys that your child will love, we encourage you to bring along a favorite toy for added comfort to the first session.

When you arrive at one of our three clinics, you’ll be welcomed by our front desk staff, who will assist you with the check-in process. Next, your physical therapist will introduce themselves to both you and your little one and guide you to the treatment area. To better understand your child’s needs, the therapist will conduct a brief interview with you, and they may inquire about your child’s medical history and any current challenges they’re facing. This is a great time to discuss your concerns as well.

During the evaluation, your therapist will observe your child’s movement patterns, coordination, and balance through engaging play-based activities. This could involve encouraging your infant to crawl toward their favorite toy or having your child navigate an
obstacle course with many different elements to check their balance. Depending on your child’s age and needs, the therapist may conduct a standardized test to assess their physical abilities, for example, the Alberta Infant Motor Scale & Movement Assessment Battery for Children. Nevertheless, you can expect a strong sense of play during the session, as our approach is centered around engaging activities to keep your child motivated. After the evaluation, the therapist will share their findings with you and collaborate on setting goals tailored to your child’s unique needs and family priorities. They’ll explain which goals are achievable in both the short and long term and will give ways that the therapist and the family alike may be able to measure the progress in these goals.

Your therapist may also give you a home exercise program (HEP) with some simple exercises that would be beneficial for your child to practice at home. Your therapist will guide you in learning how to best set up these activities at home and may even give alternative exercises as well. Your therapist will discuss the frequency and duration of future appointments and if needed, you can schedule additional appointments right then and there with our front desk staff. As always, we encourage you to ask any and all questions to any member of our knowledgeable staff.

Beyond your first appointment, we’re always just a call, text, or email away and we recommend families to reach out in whatever way is most convenient for them. You can start practicing the HEP in your daily routine to reinforce the hard work of your child during his or her physical therapy sessions.

If you have any concerns about your child's development, please feel free to fill out our contact form or call any of our three offices. We will get back to you with any out-of-pocket expenses and set up an evaluation at your earliest convenience.
We can’t wait to see your child grow by Leaps & Bounds!

Work Hard Play Hard: Keeping Your Child Active After Going Back to School

9/1/2024

As the summer ends and the school year kicks off, it can be challenging to maintain your child’s activity levels amidst the busy schedule. However, staying active is crucial for their physical health and overall well-being. Here are some practical tips from Dr. Lindsey to help keep your child moving and grooving throughout the school year!

1. Establish a Routine
Creating a consistent daily routine that includes physical activity can help your child stay active without feeling overwhelmed. Set aside specific times each day for exercise, whether it's a quick morning stretch, a short evening walk, or a fun weekend activity. Consistency is key to making physical activity a natural part of their day.

2. Incorporate Movement into Homework Time
Encourage your child to take short breaks during homework sessions. During these breaks, they can do quick exercises like jumping jacks, stretches, or even a short dance party. This not only helps with staying active but can also improve focus and productivity when they return to their homework.

3. Choose Fun Activities
Involve your child in choosing activities they enjoy. Whether it's a sport, dance class, or simply playing in the park, making physical activity fun will increase the likelihood of them sticking with it. Let them try out different activities to find what they love the most.

4. Be a Role Model
Children often mimic the behavior of adults. If you demonstrate an active lifestyle, your child is more likely to follow suit. Participate in physical activities together, whether it's hiking, biking, or playing a sport. Your enthusiasm will be contagious!

5. Utilize School Resources
Check if your child's school offers extracurricular activities or sports programs. These can be a great way for your child to stay active and socialize. If your child has a favorite sport or activity, encourage them to join or continue participating in these programs.

6. Incorporate Movement into Daily Tasks
Transform everyday tasks into opportunities for physical activity. Encourage your child to walk or bike to school, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or do a quick workout routine before bed. Small changes can make a big difference over time.

7. Set Goals and Celebrate Achievements
Setting achievable goals for physical activity can motivate your child to stay active. Celebrate milestones and achievements, whether it's mastering a new dance move or reaching a fitness goal. Positive reinforcement will help keep them engaged and excited about staying active.

8. Engage in Family Activities
Family activities that involve movement can be a great way to spend quality time together while staying active. Plan family outings that include physical activities like hiking, playing sports, or even just a walk around the neighborhood. It’s a fun way to bond and encourage an active lifestyle.

9. Create a Home Workout Space
Designate a specific area in your home for physical activities. This could be a small corner with exercise equipment, mats for stretching, or space for dancing. Having a dedicated area makes it easier for your child to engage in physical activity at home.

10. Monitor Screen Time
Excessive screen time can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. Set limits on how much time your child spends in front of screens and encourage them to participate in active play during their free time. Balance is essential for their physical and mental health.

Keeping your child active after going back to school doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By integrating physical activity into their daily routine, making it enjoyable, and leading by example, you can help your child stay healthy and energetic throughout the school year. Remember, the key is to make movement a natural and fun part of their everyday life. Here’s to a lively and active school year!

The Importance of Core Strengthening in the Pediatric Population: Building a Strong Foundation for Health and Development

8/1/2024

When we think about core strength, many of us picture elite athletes or intense fitness regimens. However, core strengthening is equally crucial for children, impacting their overall health, development, and everyday functioning. In Dr. Brianna's blog post, we’ll explore why core strengthening is vital for children, the benefits it offers, and practical ways to incorporate core-strengthening activities into their daily routines.

What is Core Strengthening?
Core strengthening involves exercises and activities that enhance the muscles around the trunk of the body, including the abdomen, lower back, hips, and pelvis. These muscles form the foundation of the body, providing stability and support for all movements and activities.

Why is Core Strengthening Important for Children?
1. Enhances Posture and Alignment Good core strength contributes to proper posture and alignment. For children, this means standing and sitting up straight, which can prevent and alleviate issues like slouching and back pain. Proper alignment is essential for overall physical health and can impact everything from breathing to digestion.
2. Supports Motor Skill Development Core strength is integral to the development of motor skills. As children engage in activities like running, jumping, and climbing, a strong core helps them maintain balance and coordination. This foundational strength supports more complex movements and athletic skills as they grow.
3. Improves Balance and Stability A strong core enhances balance and stability, which is crucial for everyday activities and sports. Children with a well-developed core are less likely to experience falls and injuries. Improved balance also supports the development of coordination, which is vital for physical activities and recreational pursuits.
4. Aids in Efficient Movement Core strength contributes to more efficient and effective movement patterns. For children, this means better performance in sports, more fluid movements in dance or gymnastics, and reduced fatigue during physical activities. Efficient movement also translates to better energy conservation and endurance.
5. Prevents Injuries Strengthening the core helps protect the spine and surrounding muscles from strain and injury. For active children, a robust core acts as a protective shield against common injuries related to sports and play. By reinforcing the core, children are less susceptible to injuries and can recover more quickly when they do occur.

How to Incorporate Core Strengthening into a Child’s Routine
1. Fun Activities and Games Incorporating core strengthening into play can make exercise enjoyable for children. Activities like animal crawls, balance beam walks, and playful games involving balancing objects or holding positions can engage core muscles while keeping kids entertained.
2. Yoga and Stretching Yoga is an excellent way to build core strength in children. Poses like the plank, boat pose, and child’s pose help develop abdominal and back muscles while promoting flexibility and relaxation. Many children’s yoga classes incorporate fun stories and themes, making the practice engaging and effective.
3. Interactive Exercises Using tools like stability balls or balance boards can add an element of fun to core exercises. Children can practice sitting on a stability ball or perform gentle exercises like ball passes or balance exercises to strengthen their core.
4. Everyday Activities Encouraging children to engage in activities that naturally promote core strength can be highly beneficial. For example, climbing on playground equipment, participating in sports, or even helping with household chores like carrying groceries or gardening can contribute to core development.
5. Core-Strengthening Sports Sports that require core engagement, such as gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, or dance, can be excellent avenues for building core strength. These activities naturally involve core muscles and provide structured opportunities for improvement.

Core strengthening is not just for adults or elite athletes; it plays a crucial role in the health and development of children. By enhancing posture, supporting motor skills, improving balance, and preventing injuries, a strong core sets the stage for overall physical well-being. Integrating core-strengthening activities into a child’s daily routine can be both fun and beneficial, laying a strong foundation for a healthy, active life. So let’s embrace playful exercises and engaging activities that help our kids build their core strength and thrive!

Dr. Bassem's Guide to Biking Fun and Safety for Kids

7/1/2024

With June flying by and summer truly underway, it’s the perfect time to encourage your little ones to embrace the outdoors and learn a new skill that promotes both physical activity and independence–bicycle riding. Bike riding is not only a great summer pastime but also a fantastic way to enhance your child’s balance, coordination, strength, and overall motor skills!

Choosing the Right Bike: Pedal Bike with Training Wheels vs. Balance Bike
When it comes to teaching children how to ride, parents often debate between pedal bikes with training wheels and balance bikes. Each option has its unique benefits as described below:

Pedal bikes with training wheels provide immediate stability, helping children feel secure as they learn to pedal. However, they can sometimes inhibit the development of balance and coordination.

Balance bikes—bicycles without pedals—focus on teaching children to balance first, often leading to quicker mastery of biking skills and a smoother transition to pedal bikes without the need for training wheels. However, some children have difficulty propelling themselves forward while sitting and balancing.

It is possible to modify a bike with training wheels to be utilized more similarly to a balance bike by; and there are also some models of balance bikes which allow you to add pedals later on!
To modify a pedal bike:

Remove the training wheels to focus on balance rather than relying solely on training wheels.
Lower the seat and remove pedals, cranks, & chain so your child’s legs are the main source of propulsion

Choosing the Right Time to Start
The ideal time to teach your child to ride a bike varies, most typically between ages 3 and 6. Look for signs of interest and readiness such as curiosity about bikes and a willingness to try new activities. Your little one should have the strength to pedal a bike prior to utilizing a pedal bike, and if that is not the case a balance bike may be a better option!

Ensuring Safety First
Safety is paramount when teaching your child to ride a bike. Choose a safe, flat location away from traffic. Ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet and comfortable clothing. And teach them the basic rules of the road.

Correctly Sizing the Bike
Proper bike sizing is crucial for comfort and safety:

Your child should be able to stand over the top tube with feet flat on the ground and have about 1 to 3 inches of clearance. Adjust the seat height so they can comfortably reach the pedals with a slight knee bend when fully extended. Avoid getting a bike that is too large in hopes of having them grow into it, as it can be harder for them to control.

Teaching your child to ride a bike is a memorable milestone that promotes physical health and independence. Whether you choose a pedal bike with training wheels or a balance bike for your little one, prioritize safety and ensure the bike is correctly sized. With patience, encouragement, and the right guidance, your child will soon be biking confidently towards new adventures this summer and beyond.
At Leaps and Bounds PT, we support your child’s development with personalized guidance on motor skill development. Consult your child’s physical therapist for expert advice tailored to your child’s needs, especially if you have concerns regarding their physical milestones or readiness leading up to bike riding.
Stay active, stay safe, and enjoy the ride this summer!

Summer Fun: Activities for New Walkers to Boost Motor Skills

6/1/2024

As the warm weather rolls in, parents of new walkers are eager to explore outdoor activities with their little ones. Summer presents a perfect opportunity to engage in activities that not only entertain, but also support the development of their child's newfound walking skills. Leaps and Bounds emphasizes the importance of movement and exploration in early childhood development. Here, Dr. Lindsey has curated a list of summer activities tailored specifically for new walkers to enhance their motor skills while having a blast under the sun!

1. Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Embark on a nature scavenger hunt in your local park or neighborhood. Create a simple list of items for your child to find, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, or sticks. Encourage them to walk independently as they search for each item. This activity not only promotes walking but also enhances observation skills and fosters a connection with the natural world.

2. Water Play:
Summer and water activities go hand in hand. Fill a small kiddie pool or water table with shallow water and let your new walker splash and play. Place floating toys or objects slightly out of reach to encourage them to take steps and reach for them. Walking in water provides resistance, which strengthens muscles and improves balance. Just remember, safety first—always supervise your child around water, no matter how shallow.

3. Sensory Walks:
Take your little explorer on a sensory adventure through nature. Parks, beaches, and even your backyard offer various textures, temperatures, and surfaces to stimulate their senses. Encourage your child to feel the grass under their feet, the sand between their toes, and the cool water as they splash around. Sensory experiences like these help improve balance, coordination, and proprioception.

4. Outdoor Music and Dance:
Put on some lively music and groove together in the backyard or local park. Encourage your child to move to the beat, taking steps and exploring different movements. Dancing helps improve motor planning, rhythm, and coordination. Plus, it's a fantastic way to bond and have fun together as a family.

5. Miniature Golf:
Miniature golf courses offer a perfect setting for new walkers to practice their skills in a structured environment. The gentle slopes, ramps, and obstacles provide opportunities to develop balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. Guide your child as they navigate through the course, celebrating each successful putt and step they take.

6. Sidewalk Chalk Art:
Unleash your child's creativity while promoting physical activity with sidewalk chalk art. Let them explore their artistic side by drawing shapes, lines, and squiggles on the pavement. Encourage them to walk around as they draw, practicing balance and coordination. You can even create a mini obstacle course or hopscotch to add an extra element of fun and challenge.

Summer is a season of exploration, growth, and fun for new walkers. By engaging in these outdoor activities, parents can support their child's physical development while creating cherished memories together. Remember to always prioritize safety, provide encouragement, and celebrate every milestone along the way. With each step taken and every adventure embarked upon, your little one is not only exploring the world but also building a strong foundation for a lifetime of movement and discovery!

Understanding Pediatric Hip Dysplasia: From Infancy to Adolescence

5/1/2024

Pediatric hip dysplasia is a complex condition that can affect infants, children, and adolescents, with significant implications for long-term musculoskeletal health. In this blog post, Dr. Brianna aims to shed light on this condition, discussing its causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and the latest research advancements.

What is Pediatric Hip Dysplasia? Pediatric hip dysplasia, also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), refers to an abnormal development of the hip joint. It can range from mild instability to complete dislocation of the hip joint. DDH can occur during fetal development, infancy, childhood, or adolescence, and its severity varies among individuals.

What causes hip dysplasia? The exact cause of pediatric hip dysplasia is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development. These include genetics, breech position during pregnancy, swaddling or tight wrapping of infants' hips, and certain environmental factors. Female infants are more prone to DDH than males, and it often runs in families.

How is hip dysplasia diagnosed? Early detection of hip dysplasia is crucial for effective management and preventing long-term complications. Newborns are routinely screened for hip dysplasia using physical examination techniques like the Ortolani and Barlow tests. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or X-rays may be used for confirmation if the physical exam is inconclusive. In older children and adolescents, clinical symptoms like limping, leg length discrepancy, or hip pain may prompt further evaluation with imaging studies.

What is the proper treatment for hip dysplasia? Treatment strategies for pediatric hip dysplasia depend on the age of the child and the severity of the condition. In infants, gentle manipulation and positioning techniques like Pavlik harness or Frejka pillow may be used to maintain proper hip alignment and promote normal joint development. For older children and adolescents, treatment may involve bracing, stretching, therapeutic exercise, or surgical interventions.

Have there been any advances in research regarding hip dysplasia? Recent research in the field of pediatric orthopedics has focused on improving diagnostic techniques, refining treatment algorithms, and understanding the long-term outcomes of hip dysplasia management. Advances in imaging technology, such as three-dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), offer better visualization of hip anatomy and aid in early diagnosis. Moreover, studies exploring the genetic basis of DDH provide insights into its underlying mechanisms and potential targets for future therapies. Longitudinal cohort studies tracking patients from infancy to adulthood help evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment modalities and identify factors influencing outcomes, such as age at diagnosis, severity of dysplasia, and compliance with treatment protocols.

Conclusion: Pediatric hip dysplasia is a multifaceted condition that requires early detection and tailored management approaches to optimize outcomes. Through ongoing research efforts and multidisciplinary collaboration, healthcare professionals aim to enhance our understanding of DDH, refine treatment strategies, and improve the quality of life for affected individuals from infancy through adolescence and beyond.

Starting Spring with Autism Acceptance Month

4/1/2024

As the weather gets warmer, and days grow longer, we also step into a very special time of the year, Autism Acceptance Month! The Spring season, symbolic of growth, offers a perfect backdrop to highlight the journey of children with autism, especially through the lens of physical therapy. Join Dr. Bassem as we celebrate these incredible children and the unique benefits that physical therapy can bring to their lives.

As a pediatric physical therapist, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable strides children with autism can make when supported with compassion, understanding, and personalized care. Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in the development of children with autism by encouraging motor skills, while also fostering a sense of independence, confidence, and engagement with the world.

Children with autism often face challenges with gross motor skills such as walking, running, or jumping. They may also struggle with fine motor skills, including grasping objects or performing delicate tasks. Yet, with personalized exercises and activities, we can nurture the development of these skills in a comfortable and conducive environment. Through active listening, empathy, and patience, the therapist can adapt their approach to suit the child's communication style, whether it involves verbal language, nonverbal cues, or alternative communication methods.

Spring also brings a symphony of sensory experiences, from the scent of flowers to the feel of grass underfoot. Similarly, physical therapy can help children with autism navigate their sensory experiences more effectively. Through controlled exposure to various physical stimuli in a safe environment, therapy can help reduce sensory sensitivities and improve sensory processing, making the world a less overwhelming place. Physical therapy sets the stage for children with autism to achieve greater independence. By improving motor skills and coordination including running, jumping, throwing & kicking a ball, children can gain the ability to perform daily activities with less assistance.

This April, as we watch the world around us burst into life, let's also celebrate every step, jump, and milestone achieved by children with autism. Their journey is a testament to the resilience and potential within each of them, waiting to blossom with the right support and nurturing. By advocating for inclusive environments and supporting therapies that cater to the unique needs of children with autism, we contribute to a world where every child can thrive.

The journey with autism, much like the unfolding of Spring, is filled with moments of growth and discovery. Celebrate differences and let us make Autism Acceptance Month a time of joyful celebration and commitment to acceptance!

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