Category: Pediatrics

A common misconception surrounding American Sign Language is that only individuals in the Deaf Community use it. However, sign language can be used for children who are non-verbal and require other methods of communication, including children with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and other diagnoses that are often accompanied by speech delay. There is also…

With Halloween quickly approaching, we want all children to be able to communicate and participate in the holiday’s activities. Most families encourage their children to request candy using the phrase “Trick-or-Treat!” However, we know that speech can be very difficult for some children. Let’s explore ways that use all modalities to communicate while trick-or-treating!  Sign…

Food is one of the basic human needs that we need to survive. We all have our favorites in each of the five food groups – fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy –  but it is important to eat food from each group for proper nutrition. However, picky eaters may not be getting the proper…

Food comes in all shapes and sizes. It comes in different colors and textures as well. Most people may not think about these properties when eating, but for a child with sensory sensitivity, food textures do matter!   Why is texture important for children’s food?   As a child’s oral motor skills develop, they progress through…

Social skills are a way of communicating with others that creates healthy and positive interactions. Children with age-appropriate social skills can communicate clearly, calmly, and respectfully with adults and their peers. They also show consideration for the feelings and interests of others.   It’s important that social skills for children are built on and developed…

This content was updated for accuracy and relevance on 04/02/2024 Pediatric movement disorder is a broad term used to describe children’s quality, fluidity, and ease of movement. An abnormal movement can be an unintended extra or involuntary movement. These types of developmental disabilities in children can exist independently or as a symptom of another condition.…

This content was updated for accuracy and relevance on 1/3/24. A developmental disability may be more common than you might think. One in six children, or 15%, have a developmental disability or delay. While many children have a developmental disability or delay, there is an increasing understanding of how to help. Let’s look at what…

A pediatric physical therapy clinic looks a little bit different from the adult setting. This is a guide to some of the popular pieces of equipment that you will see pediatric physical therapists use with kids of various age groups and diagnoses in a clinic. Some of these pieces are also available to purchase in…

Visual perceptual is a term that refers to how our brain processes information through our eyes to interact with the world around us. Our eyes have a bigger role than just being able to see. They help to take in all the information and: Determine sizes Recognize different shapes and formations of letters Follow patterns…