Navigating the first year of your baby’s life is filled with joy, challenges, and milestones. Among these milestones are crucial motor skills developments. As a parent, witnessing your baby not meeting these milestones can be worrying. Often, you’re advised to take a ‘wait and see’ approach, which can be frustrating.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through understanding the importance of early motor milestones, what it means if there’s a delay and actionable steps you can take to ensure your baby’s healthy development and progress.

What Are Motor Milestones?

Motor milestones are key developmental markers that indicate your baby’s progress in physical abilities during their first year.

These milestones reflect the growth of muscle strength, coordination, and motor skills essential for a child’s overall development.

They include skills like rolling over, sitting up without support, crawling, standing, and eventually walking.

These milestones are not just physical achievements; they are essential to cognitive and social development, laying the foundation for future learning and interaction.

Which Motor Milestones Occur First In Infants?

The journey through motor milestones begins with head control and progresses through a series of stages: from rolling over to sitting, crawling, standing, and walking.

Each step is a sign that your baby is developing their muscle strength and coordination.

Knowing this order helps you keep an eye on your baby’s progress and spot if they might need a little extra help along the way.

What Does Delay in Motor Milestones Mean?

Understanding the impact of delays in motor milestones is important. For example, if your baby takes longer to start crawling or walking, this might affect how they learn to move around and understand space, which is a big part of how they learn and play.

If you notice that your baby isn’t hitting these milestones on time, it’s a good idea to not just wait and see. Talking to us early can help you figure out what’s going on and make sure your baby gets the right support.

To speak to one of our experts for FREE, arrange a discovery visit at our specialist clinic by clicking HERE.

When Should I Worry About Motor Milestones?

Knowing when to worry about your baby’s development is crucial.

If your baby is not meeting milestones as expected, or if they start losing skills they had before, it’s time to take action.

Getting help soon can really make a difference in your child’s growth and their abilities in the future rather than a wait-and-see approach, as this can leave your child falling behind, and struggling to take part in activities with their friends.

Free Developmental Screening For Motor Milestones

If you have worries about how your baby is developing their motor skills and have been putting off coming to see us, we invite you to speak to our expert team for FREE.

We have a limited number of slots available at our clinic, but we are currently offering a special opportunity for a Free Development Screening for Motor Milestones.

This assessment isn’t just a check-up; it’s a valuable chance for you to get a clear picture of where your baby stands in their motor development journey.

Our team will take the time to understand your baby’s unique needs and discuss any concerns you might have. From there, we can guide you towards the most effective treatment options, designed to support your baby’s growth in a comfortable, stress-free way.

To schedule your Free Development Screening for Motor Milestones and take the first step in ensuring your child gets the best start in life, click HERE or call us on 908 543 4390.

Schedule Your Free Development Screening For Motor Milestones

More Free Resources for Parents of Babies Struggling with Motor Milestones

Read our blog – Babies & Head Control: What To Look For & How To Help

Read our blog – Crawling: Does It Still Matter?

On social media? Then Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips and advice.

Parents Holding Baby with Torticollis

Torticollis is a condition that can make the start of your baby’s life a challenge – with difficulty sleeping, self-soothing, and feeding.

But in this article, you can learn about a cuddle-friendly, tear-free torticollis treatment that has worked wonders for the parents, and baby’s at our specialist New Jersey clinic.

What Is Torticollis?

Torticollis is like an uninvited guest that disrupts your child’s early journey. It’s marked by a persistent tilt or turn of the head, and it can wreak havoc on their development.

You might also notice that your child hates tummy time, and has an uneven head shape due to the constant pressure on one particular area.

But don’t worry; you’re not alone in this.

Many parents like you face the same challenges, and there are natural, safe, and proven treatments for torticollis.

The “Wait and See” and “Do It Yourself” Approaches

When you’re looking to treat torticollis in your baby, it’s too common for parents to be told to “Just wait and see” which is an incredibly frustrating piece of advice to be given – you don’t want to wait and I totally understand.

Another common thing parents will be told is to “Watch YouTube for neck stretches” and then be expected to miraculously perform these safely and effectively at home…

That’s difficult for any untrained person.

Let alone a parent who is dealing with a screaming, wriggling baby, and feeling terrified about hurting their little one during these stretches.

The Long-Term Impact of Torticollis

Despite the flaws in the “wait and see” and “do it yourself” approach, it’s often something parents do initially.

But the cost of not treating torticollis as early as possible can be significant for your child.

Ignoring it or relying solely on neck stretches that you try to do alone and inconsistently can lead to delays in both visual and gross motor development, as well as physical adaptions.

Children with untreated torticollis can often struggle in later life to keep up with their peers in terms of motor skills and coordination, sensory skills, and visual development.

And this can have a big impact on their self-esteem and confidence at school due to their difficulty completing tasks others can manage with ease.

There is also the physical adaptions that a persistent head tilt can result in.

Baby’s heads are very malleable and when they are constantly sleeping, and putting pressure on one part of their head, the shape of the head and skull can change result in a flat spot.

Again, as well as the physical impact, there is an emotional impact to having a flat spot on their head which could be avoided with the right treatment for their torticollis.

Tear-Free Torticollis Treatment – Total Motion Release (TMR)

But here’s the good news: there’s a groundbreaking approach that can change the game for your child.

It’s something we’ve used in our specialist clinic for many years, and been life-changing for babies with torticollis, and ended a lot of stress, worry and anxiety for parents too.

It’s called Total Motion Release (TMR).

And addresses Torticollis with a whole-body approach.

By looking at the whole body, we can identify whether their torticollis is caused by tightness in the mouth, a tongue tie issue, or tightness in the pelvis from being squished in your uterus for nine months.

In many cases, the tightness that is causing the head tilt is not the only area of tightness in the body, and it often occurs because of another part of the body – such as the pelvis.

When our expert team uses this whole body approach, we can deliver sessions that treat torticollis in a fraction of the time, ensuring it doesn’t impact your baby long-term.

Plus, this approach is much more gentle, with no painful stretching, and no tears.

That means treatment is a much more enjoyable experience for parents and their babies.

Free “No Stretch” Screening For Torticollis

If your child has been diagnosed with torticollis and you’ve not received the treatment your baby needs, or you’re just noticing the warning signs of torticollis and haven’t been to your doctor, here is an invitation to speak to our expert team for FREE.

Demand at our clinic is very high, but we are creating 5 spaces for Free “No Stretch” Screenings For Torticollis.

This is a 100% free appointment designed to help you understand what’s happening with your baby, and how you can help them overcome torticollis before it leads to long-term consequences.

Plus, the right treatment plan can offer very quick results so you can soon get to more enjoyable tummy time, fewer tears during the night, and an easy time feeding for your little one.

To schedule your Free “No Stretch” Neck Screening for Torticollis and take the first step toward your child’s brighter future, click HERE or call us on 908 543 4390.

Schedule Your Free “No Stretch” Screening For Torticollis

Not Ready To Visit Our Clinic Yet?

Then download a copy of our free expert report – A Parent’s Guide To Torticollis – which contains 5 stress-free strategies to solve stubborn head tilts & turns.

It’s a digital copy and will arrive in your inbox as soon as you’ve entered your details.

More Free Help For Parents Of Baby’s With Torticollis

Read our blog – Torticollis – A Tearless Approach To Treatment

Watch our video – Torticollis and Total Motion Release (TMR)

On social media? Then Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips and advice.

Kid With A Sensory Processing Disorder

Every child is unique, and so are their sensory experiences.

For some children, the world can be an overwhelming place due to a condition known as Sensory Processing Disorder.

As parents, caregivers, and educators, it’s our responsibility to provide the support and understanding these children need to thrive.

In this guide, you can learn about Sensory Processing Disorder and explore effective strategies to help children with Sensory Processing Disorder not just cope, but thrive in the sensory-rich world we live in.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way the brain processes and responds to sensory information.

Sensory experiences are a fundamental part of our daily lives, encompassing everything from the taste of food to the feel of clothing against our skin and the sounds of the environment.

However, for children with Sensory Processing Disorder, these sensory inputs can become overwhelming or distorted, leading to stress, frustration and meltdowns in their daily lives.

How Sensory Processing Disorder Impacts Children

A Sensory Processing Disorder can manifest in various ways, including:

Sensory Overresponsivity

Your child may be hypersensitive to sensory stimuli.

And this can mean that they may react strongly to even mild sensations, such as certain textures, bright lights, or loud noises.

For you, and your child, this can make it really difficult when going into new environments, which are outside of your control, and lead to fear, anxiety, or tantrums.

Sensory Underresponsivity

In contrast, your child may be hyposensitive, meaning they have a reduced awareness of sensory stimuli.

They may seem oblivious to temperature changes, physical pain, or even their surroundings.

And while this may seem less of a challenging situation it can lead to harmful consequences – they don’t realize how cold it is when they’re playing out, or don’t realize they’ve injured themselves when playing on their bike.

Sensory Seeking

Another way Sensory Processing Disorder can impact your child’s life is that they are more likely to seek out sensory experiences than others.

So when they’re being shouted at, and told to sit still at their desk in class, their instincts are desperate for stimulation which means they are fidgeting, or seem like they can’t sit still.

For your child, this is very hard to understand because they are craving stimulation, yet being punished and feel bad for seeking it.

It’s easy to see why children with sensory disorders can lose their confidence and self-esteem.

Sensory Discrimination Challenges

Is your child struggling to tell the difference between different textures, tastes, or sounds?

This could be another way that a sensory processing disorder is impacting their life, and often can be seen in kids who are labeled “fussy eaters”.

Often, kids prefer to stick to bland or neutral-flavored foods because they can’t differentiate different tastes and prefer to stick to the familiar and safe options – especially when their confidence is low or they are feeling anxious.

Appreciating Your Child’s Sensory Needs

Living with a Sensory Processing Disorder can be emotionally challenging for not just your child, but also your family.

But it’s important to recognize that their frustration, anger, and behavior are their way to navigating through a world that is very different to that, you and I go through.

Their emotions are valid.

And a natural response to their unique sensory experience.

Importantly, your child isn’t broken, and doesn’t need fixing, despite what you made be made to feel by people who don’t understand.

However, while your child doesn’t need fixing, you can help them to cope, and thrive throughout their life with the right support.

How to Help a Child with Sensory Processing Disorder

Seek Guidance From Experts

Start by consulting with a pediatrician or occupational therapist who specializes in sensory processing issues. The team at our specialist clinic in New Jersey can give you an accurate diagnosis, and provide you and your child with the specialized and personalized support they need.

You can find out more about this in a Free Sensory Processing Screening by clicking HERE or calling us on (908) 543 4390.

Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment

You know your child better than anyone, so make adjustments to your child’s surroundings to reduce their sensory triggers.

This might include using soft lighting, noise-canceling headphones, or providing sensory-friendly tools like fidget toys.

Celebrate Small Victories

For children with special needs, life can be a very demoralizing place.

What is easy for other kids in their class, is incredibly difficult for them – through no fault of their own.

So when they do achieve something, no matter how small, make sure to celebrate.

Building their self-esteem and confidence is essential to their overall well-being.

Establish a Sensory Diet

Work with a therapist to develop a sensory diet tailored to your child’s needs.

This involves incorporating sensory activities into their daily routine to help them build their confidence, and regulate their sensory experiences with things that can be challenging for them.

One important thing is to not make the experience stressful for them, and if they are struggling, to move to something that they are stronger at doing.

Your child will develop much faster if you make it fun, and get them engaged rather than pushing them to do things they aren’t capable of doing.

Advocate for Your Child

Another way to help is to advocate for your child at school and in social settings.

Try to work closely with educators and therapists to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations and support.

Empathy and Patience

Understand that your child’s reactions are not intentional.

Be patient, empathetic, and validate their feelings.

And when they do have tantrums, provide a safe space for them to express themselves.

I know it can be very difficult, especially out in public with lots of strangers watching and judging, but do your best to keep calm and help them through their experience.

Education and Awareness

Educate yourself, your child’s teachers, and caregivers about your child’s Sensory Processing Disorder.

The more people understand your child’s needs, the better they can provide support.

And with the right support, your child can start to regulate their response to sensations that used to trigger them much better, or have plans in place to reduce the impact.

Get Personalized Advice From Experts On Sensory Processing Disorders

If you’re recognizing the behaviors in your child in this blog, even to a small degree that hasn’t led to an official diagnosis, we can help you get a much deeper understanding of the condition and the best ways to help your child move forward.

We appreciate that you are worried for your child.

How they cope in school.

How they interact with other kids in the neighborhood or at the park.

And what their future will look like.

But one way to begin to relieve your anxiety over this is to learn more.

And speaking to our experts for FREE is something we would invite you to do.

Right now, demand at our New Jersey clinic is very high, and we only have a limited number of spaces available for our Free Sensory Processing Screenings.

This appointment gives you 1-1 time with a leading expert, at our popular clinic, and allows you to share your story, get answers, and find out proven ways to support your child.

Call us now on (908) 543 4390 or click HERE to book yours.

More Free Expert Advice For Parents Of Kids With A Sensory Processing Disorder

Read our blog – Sensory Processing Disorders – Getting To The Core Of It

Read our blog – Top Tips For Sensory Savvy Parents

On social media? Then Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips and advice.


“He will only wear the same outfit EVERY SINGLE DAY!”

“The second he comes home from school he takes all of his clothes off!”

“She refuses to wear socks!  What do I do now that summer is over?”

These are things we hear everyday from parents calling us at Kid PT to ask for help.  There are many strategies our Occupational Therapists have to guide you and your child through these challenges, but one step can be to find clothing that is more tolerable to our children who are more sensory sensitive.

Choosing the right clothing for autistic children can greatly impact their comfort and confidence as they head back to school. Sensory-friendly and adaptive clothing can make a significant difference. Here are 8 autism-friendly clothing brands that prioritize comfort and style for a successful back-to-school experience:

  1. Tommy Hilfiger’s Adaptive

Tommy Hilfiger’s Adaptive line features clothing with hidden magnetic closures, adjustable features, and easy-to-use fastenings. These modifications promote independence while maintaining a trendy appearance.

  1. SmartKnitKIDS

SmartKnitKIDS specializes in seamless, irritation-free clothing that is perfect for children with sensory sensitivities. Their seamless socks, underwear, and tees minimize discomfort and sensory challenges.

  1. Mabel’s Labels

Mabel’s Labels not only offers practical name labels but also a collection of sensory-friendly clothing. Their tagless shirts and adaptive features cater to children’s unique needs, reducing sensory triggers.

  1. Target’s Cat & Jack Adaptive

Target’s Cat & Jack Adaptive line combines style with functionality. Their sensory-friendly designs, adaptive closures, and soft materials provide children with autism a comfortable and fashionable back-to-school wardrobe.

  1. Primary

Primary offers a range of clothing in solid colors without distracting logos or tags. These simple designs can be particularly appealing to children with sensory sensitivities, providing a hassle-free clothing option.

  1. BILLY Footwear

BILLY Footwear specializes in adaptive shoes with a unique zipper system that makes them easy to put on and take off. Their stylish and inclusive designs accommodate various needs.

  1. ABLE2WEAR

ABLE2WEAR focuses on clothing that addresses specific mobility and sensory needs. From open-back tops to easy-to-dress pants, their adaptive options cater to a variety of challenges that children on the autism spectrum may face.

We know that the right clothing won’t solve all of the challenges in your daily routine, but it could make a big difference. These brands prioritize sensory comfort, functionality, and style, allowing students to confidently navigate their school day while feeling their best.

Have you tried any of these brands yet?

If so, please share your story.  Let us know your likes and dislikes to help parents who are in similar shoes as you.

With kids returning to school soon, do you find yourself having sleepless nights worrying about how they’ll handle it?

And do you worry that they are going to fall behind their classmates further?

Lots of parents go through these emotions.

But it’s often much worse for parents of children with special needs.

And it can be a lonely time too.

Because as a parent of a child with special needs, it’s hard to find people who truly understand what you’re going through.

And that’s before we even consider how your kid is feeling…

Special needs children have to deal with the normal challenges every child faces in school, plus the additional challenges their conditions create.

Perhaps they struggle to concentrate in class, which means that they find it difficult to learn at the same pace as the other students.

Or they might have a hard time coping with the busy corridors, packed cafeterias, and hectic playgrounds.

And it can leave your child feeling isolated, getting upset, or unable to learn.

One reason that kids struggle for longer than they need to is our first myth…

Your Kid Will Grow Out Of It

This “wait and see” approach is incredibly frustrating for both parents and children because it’s so passive.

Even if your child will improve if left to their own devices, wouldn’t it be better to support them to accelerate their development, and help them become independent sooner?

For a lot of children with special needs, unless they get the right support, they will remain stuck.

Unable to progress.

And this is why the myth that your kid will grow out of it, or improve on their own is so harmful and misguided.

Getting Your Kid To Play Sports And With Other Kids Will Help

This is a damaging myth because alone, this won’t work for many children with special needs.

While it is great to have your child enjoy a sport, play with the neighbors’ kids, and get outdoors, it’s unlikely to be everything they need.

A child with special needs deserves special care, and a unique approach is where the real progress happens.

So if your child is struggling in school, forcing them to join a sports team or packing your calendar with playdates isn’t the answer.

Get Your Child to Try Harder

The final myth is another frustrating one because it’s so unfair.

Most children are trying as hard as they can, using their all energy, and failing.

And over time this really wrecks their confidence and self-esteem.

I’ve heard so many stories about parents and teachers motivating children by giving them rewards and pushing them to try harder, and not seeing any progress.

But what you want to do instead is start to focus on what your child can do.

And working on their strengths, as opposed to focusing on their weaknesses.

When we do this in our clinic, progress is often surprisingly quick because we take an approach that your child hasn’t experienced before.

And this also helps to rebuild your kids’ confidence if they’ve spent years being told that they need to try harder.

Help Your Child Catch Up In School, Be More Independent, And Rebuild Their Confidence

At our specialist clinic, we have a proven track record of helping children with special needs and a team of leading experts to help your family.

But we appreciate parents want to find out more before deciding on visiting us.

That’s why we offer Free Telephone Consultations where you can speak to our friendly team and share your story.

From this point, we can give you personalized advice, and let you know about the best options available to support your child’s development.

So if you’re child is struggling in school or having tantrums on the way to school, we can help!

And because this is a telephone consultation, you can speak to us from the comfort of your own home!

What are you waiting for?

Simply click HERE to arrange your free telephone consultation now, or call us on (908) 543 4390

More Free Expert Advice For Parents Of Kids With Special Needs

Read our blog – Why The School-Based Therapy Your Child Receives Doesn’t Seem To Be Helping

Read our blog – Struggling To Focus In The Classroom? 6 Tips To Help Kids Stay Focused

On social media? Then Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips and advice.

Sleep plays a vital role in the overall well-being and development of adolescents. However, many teenagers struggle with sleep-related issues due to factors such as academic stress, digital engagement, and changing biological rhythms. The Occupational Therapists (OTs) at Kid PT can play a crucial role in helping adolescents establish healthy sleep patterns through targeted interventions. Parents have told us over and over again that when they apply these strategies and their teens are sleeping better, the entire family feels happier and healthier.

1. Sleep Hygiene Education

   OTs can educate adolescents about the importance of consistent sleep schedules, comfortable sleep environments, and the negative effects of excessive screen time before bed. Teaching them good sleep hygiene practices empowers them to make informed choices about their sleep routine.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

   Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can help adolescents manage stress and anxiety that might interfere with their sleep. These techniques promote a calm and relaxed state conducive to falling asleep.

3. Sensory Regulation Activities

   Incorporating sensory-based activities into the daily routine can help adolescents transition to a more relaxed state before bedtime. Activities like soft lighting, calming scents, and gentle tactile experiences can signal the body that it’s time to wind down.

4. Physical Activity Integration

   Encouraging regular physical activity during the day can contribute to better sleep at night. OTs can suggest appropriate exercises that align with an adolescent’s interests and energy levels, promoting physical fatigue that aids in falling asleep more easily.

5. Cognitive Behavioral Strategies

   OTs can teach adolescents cognitive strategies to address negative thought patterns that might keep them awake at night. By challenging and reframing these thoughts, adolescents can develop a healthier mindset towards sleep.

6. Sleep Journaling

   Keeping a sleep journal helps adolescents track their sleep patterns and identify potential triggers for sleep disturbances. This collaborative approach enables OTs to tailor interventions to address specific sleep challenges.

7. Technology Management

   Adolescents often engage with screens late into the night, affecting their sleep-wake cycle. OTs can work with them to establish digital curfews and develop strategies to wind down without screen exposure in the hour before bedtime.

8. Routine Development

   Consistency is key to regulating sleep. OTs can collaborate with adolescents to develop personalized bedtime routines that signal the body that it’s time to sleep. These routines can include calming activities, such as reading or listening to soothing music.

9. Environmental Modifications

   Creating a sleep-conducive environment is crucial. OTs can provide recommendations for adjusting lighting, noise levels, and bedding to create a comfortable and calming space for sleep.

10. Family Involvement

    Engaging parents and caregivers is essential for successful sleep regulation. OTs can educate families about the importance of sleep and provide them with strategies to support their adolescents in maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

Pediatric OTs have a valuable role to play in helping adolescents regulate their sleep patterns. By employing a combination of sleep hygiene education, relaxation techniques, sensory interventions, and cognitive strategies, OTs can empower adolescents to overcome sleep-related challenges and develop healthier sleep habits. Through collaborative efforts with adolescents and their families, OTs can contribute to improved overall well-being and quality of life for adolescents.

Do you want to learn more about how the OTs at Kid PT can help things finally get better in your home? Email info@kidpt.com or Call Us at (908) 543-4390 and schedule a free phone consult to discuss what is going on and how we can help.

Young Child At The Airport

Vacations are incredibly important for families, and allow the opportunity to create fun, happy, loving memories with your children.

But as a parent of an autistic child, traveling and being on vacation can often be very stressful, lead to anxiety, and result in tantrums and meltdowns.

You may have heard, or read about, social stories for kids with autism in the past.

And this blog will help you understand what social stories are, how they can help autistic children handle unfamiliar situations, and specifically how you can use them to make vacations much more enjoyable for your entire family!

What Are Social Stories?

Social stories tell a tale of a particular event or activity and include specific details and information about what to expect, and why.

Social stories are great for a wide variety of things and aren’t only beneficial for children with special needs.

A few ways you can use social stories are:

  • Teaching children how to brush their teeth or wash their hands independently
  • Developing a child’s ability to understand how others behave, or respond in particular situations
  • Learning how to interact socially through sharing toys, or saying please and thank you

How Can Social Stories Help Children With Autism

As a parent of an autistic child, you’ll know that a big thing that can really help them is having a consistent routine.

However, following the same routine isn’t always possible.

Other people and external factors can get in the way.

And there will always be occasions when your family needs to do things outside of the normal daily routine you often follow – such as going on vacation.

This is where social stories can help autistic children – by helping them prepare for these unfamiliar situations, and cope with scenarios that fall outside of their normal routine.

How To Use Social Stories To Make Traveling With Your Autistic Child Much Less Stressful

If you are going on vacation soon, then creating and going through some social stories about the experience can really help your child handle the stress of travel.

It’s also worth remembering that traveling can be stressful for everyone – even us, so consider how challenging it can be for a young child, and then how it can be even more challenging for a young child with autism.

The social stories you create can focus on the areas that your child most struggled with last time – whether that’s getting through security, boarding the plane, or landing.

If you’ve never traveled with your child before – we know many parents with autistic children are terrified to travel and avoid it because they don’t feel like they can handle the pressure and stress – then pick the situations you think are most likely to challenge your child.

Once you’ve picked the specific situation, create short sentences with clear information about what happens.

It is best to include pictures too, which represent actions and provide a visual aid to learning.

The aim is to keep it as clear, easy-to-follow and focused so the stories don’t get lost or become too complex or confusing.

If you have a lot of scenarios, it’s best to break these up into multiple social stories, rather than one long, complicated social story.

Want To Take Your Autistic Child On Vacation But Too Anxious Or Worried?

If you don’t feel like you or your autistic child can cope with traveling and going on vacation, we can help.

Our expert team has worked with thousands of autistic children with a huge range of developmental challenges and has helped them become much more independent, capable, and confident.

This means much more fun on vacation for them.

And much less stress, pressure, and fear for you!

To find out more about how we can help, there are 2 free options you can choose from…

If you want to speak to an expert over the phone, from the comfort of your own home, and to save the travel, you can arrange a Free Telephone Consultation.

On this call, you can share your child’s story, and get personalized recommendations and advice from our team.

Or if you would like to get the full experience and visit our clinic, we would love to meet you and your child.

You can do this in a Free Discovery Session where you can see for yourself how specialized care can accelerate your child’s development and allow them to catch up with their peers, play on their own with friends at the park, and communicate better with you.

Simply click HERE to arrange your free discovery session now, or call us on (908) 543 4390

More Free Expert Advice For Parents Of Kids With Special Needs

Read our blog – 10 Fun Occupational Therapy Activities To Try At Home

Read our blog – Why The School-Based Therapy Your Child Receives Doesn’t Seem To Be Helping

Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips on your favorite social media apps.

Kid At The Playground

In summer, you may be one of the many families that are trying to make the most of the warmer weather and visit beaches, parks, and playgrounds with their kids.

But as a parent of a child with special needs, things are VERY different for you.

Rather than relaxing and chatting with the other moms and dads as the kids go off and play together…

You’re terrified in case they fall off the climbing frame or trip over as they run and hurt themselves.

For you, getting outdoors is actually a really stressful time, and you don’t feel like you can let them play on their own – even if they want to.

It’s tough for parents of kids with neurological disorders as well.

If your child struggles to interact and communicate, this can lead to them getting frustrated and having tantrums, or being left out of games by the other kids.

Worst of all is the fear of them being bullied by mean kids.

And a time that is supposed to be fun, and a highlight of your week is actually a lot of stress, anxiety, and worry.

Shouldn’t The Therapy My Child Gets At School Help With This?

A lot of parents who reach out to us have children who are receiving some form of therapy in school.

And they are frustrated that it’s not helping their child develop fast enough (or at all).

We understand that it’s frustrating, but it’s really important to remember two things about school-based therapy that your child is going to.

School-Based Therapy Is Too Infrequent For Many

At schools, therapy is often once a week for 30 minutes. This even includes the often 5 minute walk to and from the therapy room, leaving very little time for real work to get done.

This really is not a lot of time for your child to get the specialized care and attention that they need to make progress.

And many kids will struggle to make significant progress with such infrequent appointments.

School-Based Therapy Is Limited In Treatment Options

At our specialist clinic, we have a wide variety of treatment options and facilities available.

This means that we are able to help a wide variety of children with different needs.

Schools often have minimal equipment and treatment options, so unless your child is lucky and just happens to suit what’s offered, it can be really difficult for them to make progress.

School-Based Therapy Is Primarily Designed To Help Your Child In School

The main objective of school-based therapy is to help your child succeed in their school environment.

Getting to and from lessons, carrying their backpacks, eating their lunch, and behaving so they aren’t disrupting the other students are some of the main goals.

And while this is understandable for the school to focus on this, it doesn’t really help you outside of school.

Certainly, some improvements will carry over to other areas of your child’s life.

But when kids are in new environments, this can mean that they go back to square one and it feels like they’ve not made much progress for all their time and effort in school-based therapy.

Make Much Faster Progress With Experts At KidPT

Since 2016, KidPT has helped thousands of children with a variety of developmental challenges move better, learn faster and enjoy themselves more by becoming confident, independent, and capable.

As a parent of a child with special needs, I know you’ve seen lots of doctors, been given lots of advice, and may feel a little lost.

You want what’s best for your child.

You want them to be able to play safely and keep up with their peers.

You want them to feel more confident talking, interacting, and joining in with playtime.

And you also want to feel happier too – knowing that your family is able to enjoy more special moments at the park, on vacation, and at the beach.

So here’s what to do, to get a much clearer picture of the best steps for your child…

Arrange A Free Discovery Session with our expert team who can listen to you and your child’s story, learn about your family, and give you our expert guidance on the best services suitable for their needs.

From here, you will feel much more in control.

And you can decide what the next steps are.

Simply click HERE to arrange your free discovery session now, or call us on (908) 543 4390

More Free Expert Advice For Parents

Read our blog – Top Tips For Sensory Savvy Parents

Read our blog – 10 Fun Occupational Therapy Activities To Try At Home

Follow us on social media… Like Our Facebook Page or Follow Us On Instagram for more helpful tips.

Occupational therapy (OT) helps people of all ages to improve their ability to perform daily activities, also known as “occupations.” 

What does this have to do with children then?

Well, what is the “occupation” of children?  PLAY!

Occupational therapists (OTs) work with individuals who have conditions that affect their ability to perform activities of daily living, such as physical or cognitive disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. The goal of occupational therapy is to help individuals achieve independence and improve their quality of life. This may include activities such as dressing, bathing, eating, and using the toilet, as well as more complex tasks like work and leisure activities. Occupational therapists may also work with individuals to improve their fine motor skills, coordination, and balance.

In the pediatrics world, OTs work in a variety of settings, such as early intervention, outpatient clinics, and schools. They work with children with a variety of needs and diagnoses, including autism, hypotonia, sensory processing disorder, and genetic disorders.

Our occupational therapists at Kid PT work with children on a wide variety of ways. 

  • Improving fine motor skills: Occupational therapists can work with children to improve their dexterity and hand-eye coordination, which can help with tasks such as writing, cutting with scissors, and buttoning clothing.
  • Enhancing gross motor skills: Occupational therapists can help children to develop their balance, coordination, and body awareness, which can improve their ability to participate in sports and other physical activities.
  • Addressing sensory processing issues: Some children may have difficulty processing sensory information, such as sounds, sights, or touch. Occupational therapists can help children to develop strategies to manage these sensory sensitivities and improve their ability to participate in daily activities.
  • Improving attention and focus: Occupational therapists can help children to develop the attention and focus needed for tasks such as reading, writing, and completing homework.
  • Adapting the environment: Occupational therapists can help children by adapting the environment to make it more accessible and comfortable for them, such as recommending adaptive equipment, or making suggestions for modifications to the child’s home or classroom.
  • Addressing developmental delays: Occupational therapy can help children who are experiencing developmental delays to catch up with their peers by providing interventions to improve their abilities to perform age-appropriate activities.
  • Addressing behavioral concerns: Occupational therapy can help children with behavioral concerns by addressing underlying difficulties with sensory processing, self-regulation, and motor planning.
  • Supporting children with special needs: Occupational therapy can help children with special needs such as autism, Down Syndrome and cerebral palsy to develop the skills they need to participate in daily activities and reach their full potential.

Kid PT’s occupational therapists, Disha and Nina, have an endless supply of creative solutions to improve all of the areas of a child’s sensory, motor and emotional development. We love to integrate children’s interests into their therapy sessions as well. An engaged child is a learning child!

Here are top 10 activities to bring occupational therapy activities home with you:

Remember, ask your child’s therapist for individual recommendations, but here is a good jumping off point for you!

1. Playdough:

Playdough is a fun and versatile material that can be used to improve fine motor skills in children. Children can use their fingers to squeeze, roll, and shape the playdough, which can help to improve their dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and strength in the fingers and hands. They can even experiment with squishing it with their feet and toes too!

2. Sensory bins:

Fill a container with cooked spaghetti, raw beans, or rice. Use cups to fill and empty, hide sea creatures in it, and have fun! This activity helps improve fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, and sensory processing.

3. Beading:

Beading is a fun and engaging way to improve fine motor skills in children. Children can string beads of different shapes and sizes onto a string or pipe cleaner, which can help to improve their dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and strength in the fingers and hands.

4. Lego building:

Building with legos or any other small building blocks can be a great way to improve fine motor skills in children. It requires children to use their fingers to pick up small blocks and place them in the correct spot, which can help to improve their dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and strength in the fingers and hands.

5. Outdoor games:

Outdoor games such as tag, capture the flag, and soccer, which involve running, jumping, and coordination.

6. Swimming:

Swimming, which improves balance, coordination and endurance.

7. Obstacle courses:

Obstacle courses, which involve crawling, jumping, and climbing, and help to develop strength and coordination.

8. Pretend Play:

Dress up and role play, where children can act out different scenarios and characters using costumes and props.

Setting up a store, where children can pretend to be the cashier, customer, or salesperson, working on their math skills, social skills, and creativity.

9. Water Play:

Sand and water play, which can help children to develop their sense of touch and sense of proprioception (awareness of the position of their body in space)

10. Cooking:

Cooking and baking activities, which can help to develop children’s sense of smell, taste, and touch.

Remember to have fun, ask your child’s OT for advice on how to bring their therapy home into your daily routine!

How do babies develop head control?

Babies have just spent 9 months growing and developing in the womb, where they were just floating around!

As newborns, they are fully reliant on mom and dad to support where their bodies go and what they see, hear, touch and smell.

With practice, new experiences, and time, babies develop head control through a combination of increased muscle strength and coordination. As they grow, infants begin to control the movements of their head by strengthening the muscles in their neck, upper back, and throughout their bodies. They also learn to coordinate the movement of their head with their eyes, which allows them to fixate on objects and track movement. This stimulates the development of the vision system, which also develops as a result of movement experiences. Additionally, as babies spend time lying on their backs, lying on their stomachs, and even being carried, they have the opportunity to practice lifting and controlling their head movements.

When do babies hold their heads up by themselves?

Babies typically begin to hold their heads up by themselves around 3-4 months of age. This is a significant milestone in their development, as it indicates that they are gaining control over the muscles in their neck and upper back. However, it’s important to note that all babies develop at different rates, and some may start holding their heads up earlier or later than others. Some babies may be able to hold their heads up briefly as early as 2 months, while others may not be able to hold their heads up until they are 5 months old. It is important to also be mindful if a baby was born prematurely. We want to consider the skills of a baby who was born prematurely in comparison with their adjusted age and not just their chronological age.

It’s important to remember that skills will develop as babies have the opportunity to try out new skills. That means that babies need lots of time to experiment with movement! The best way to do that is on the floor on a blanket with both toys (consider black and white toys or cards for our youngest of babies) and also with us. Get down on the floor with baby to play and if there is a big brother or sister, have then get in on the action too. If you have barriers to getting down on the floor to play, you can do the same play activities on a couch where you can be sitting more comfortably.

Top 3 positions that are helpful for babies to strengthen their necks

Here are our Kid PT top 3 positions that can be helpful for babies to strengthen their necks:

  1. Tummy time: Lying on the stomach while supervised is one of the best ways for babies to strengthen the muscles in their neck and upper back. Think tummy down time though! Baby can be tummy down while being carried on your shoulder, on your lap, or on your chest. Tummy time does not have to be flat on the floor, especially during the first couple of months when maybe will have more success doing it on an inclined position.Tummy down positioning should start day one, but don’t stress about how it is done!
  2. Side-lying position: Lying on their side with their head supported can also help babies to strengthen their neck muscles, especially when they start to lift their head and shoulders. Lying on their sides will also stimulate rolling to either their backs and bellies. This gives babies the experience that they can move their bodies, which leads to them trying to make it happen again and again! When babies roll they are practicing controlling their necks in 3D positions to master head control in all planes.
  3. Playing on their backs: Although there is a lot of emphasis on tummy time, playing on their backs is also good for babies. This is not the same as playing in a bouncer, car seat, or other semi-reclined seat. Many of these semi-reclined seats limit head movement and block exploration. Playing on the floor on their backs like in the photo below is fantastic for the development of head control. You want to see the baby turning their head side to side, reaching for things, and moving their arms and legs in this position.
  4. Sitting on your lap: When babies are sitting on a loved ones lap, they are looking around at their environment or looking at their loved one cooing away. They are learning how to respond to movements to keep their head steady in one position as we rock and bounce during play.
  5. Carrying baby: Baby wearing or carrying your baby can also be helpful for the development of head control. When you are holding or wearing your baby and moving through space, the baby senses the movement and turns their muscles on in response. It’s a win-win for being close to you and getting stronger at the same time.

When should I get help if my baby isn’t holding their head up?

If your baby is struggling to hold their head up during tummy time or prefers to look in one direction, it is best to seek out professional advice. At Kid PT, Dr. Joni always tells parents that when they come in for a free screening they will either learn how to help their child or they will get piece of mind that everything is ok. There is nothing to lose!

To learn more about the developmental process in the first year and understand what to expect as your little one learns to move, check out Dr. Joni’s free guide, The 6 Keys to Gross Motor Development In the First Year. The goal of this guide is to help parents find out when their baby just needs more time and when their baby may need some help to meet their milestones!

If your worries about your baby’s development are keeping you up at night (and we know how precious sleep is right now!), then we would like to invite you to come in for a Discovery Visit to meet with one of Kid PT’s physical therapists. At a Discovery Visit, we will talk about your concerns and make a look at your baby’s movement skills.

You can request for a free visit HERE.

Do you want to learn more about pediatric physical therapy and what it is. You can read more about it here. I know as a parent it can scary to take your baby to a new medical appointment. Rest assured that our visits are generally filled with smiles, giggles, and play. Babies have no idea they’re “working”, but just know they’re having fun. In fact, one of our top values at Kid PT is for the therapeutic process to be not just effective from a movement perspective, but for it to be as easy and positive as can be along the journey.

If you have any questions, we are here for you. You can call us at (908) 543-4390 or email Dr. Joni directly at joni@kidpt.com.

Just remember parents, you go this!