Balance is a skill that begins to develop in infancy and continues to become stronger throughout childhood. From balancing in sitting, to standing, to walking, it continues to evolve over time. Let's dive into balance, why it is important, and what we can do as caregivers to support good balance at home. What is Balance? Balance is the ability to keep the body stable and controlled. This can happen in several circumstances: Static Balance Static balance is the ability to main

The start of a new school year is fun yet busy. While families often focus on school supplies, schedules, and classroom routines, it's equally important to prepare children's bodies for the physical demands of the school day. Every child of every ability can benefit from thoughtful preparation to help them move confidently, participate fully, and feel successful at school. Here are some practical tips to help make the transition back to school smoother for every child. Get in

To Help Boost Gross Motor Skills Summer is here- and it is the perfect season for movement. If your kids are anything like mine, they thrive outside in the summer. As a physical therapist and mama of 2, I wrote this post to encourage gross motor play outside to strengthen muscles, improve balance and coordination, enhance endurance, and support overall motor development. None of the toys and items that I mention in this blog post are absolutely necessary, but if you'd like to

There is so much pressure on buying the perfect shoe for your toddler. As a mom and a physical therapist, I fell into this trap too. It is important to support toddler feet the best we can because their little bones are developing until six years old! However, it is all about balance! So I’m here to lay it all out for you and answer your questions. Is Barefoot Really Best? Yes and no. For typically developing little feet, barefoot is often best to help the bones and cartilage

What is Overstimulation?: Overstimulation, also known as sensory overload, can happen to anyone, but it’s especially easy for children...

Written by Sarah Peavy, SPT from Elon University Information: Orthotics are commonly used for children to assist with mobility and range...

Been working overtime trying to get your baby away from that flat spot with what doesn’t seem like a lot of improvement? Thinking about...

It seems silly, right? But it’s true! Doors can help kids improve core strength. But first, why is core strength even important? Core...

It is perfect weather to spend some time outside! Did you know that while you are outside, your child can be strengthening at the same...

Here in Durham county (where Emily works), there has been some recent backlash to Durham Parks and Recreation. There is a new playground...

Prescribing foot orthoses (FOs), supramalleolar orthoses (SMOs) and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) for pediatric clients goes beyond what one...

So you're practicing standing, but it seems difficult for the child and you can't figure out why. Or maybe they become fussy with...

Potty training with toddlers is difficult, but potty training those who have physical challenges seems like uncharted territory. You...

In-toeing, commonly referred to pigeon toeing, is an orthopedic condition in children. It causes the feet to turn inward while walking...

Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions that happen in infancy. About 1 in 100 infants are treated for hip...

Have you ever wondered what your 4 year old should be doing? Look no further! Here is a perfect example of gross motor skills at this...

Hey PTs! Wanna know my guidelines for recommending SMOs? Here is a little cheat sheet I use! Step 1 Look for indications of foot/ankle...

Chooing a daycare can be one of the most stressful tasks for new parents. It’s hard to find a perfect daycare. However, a daycare that...

Baby containers are products that limit movement when you put your baby in them. Examples of baby containers are jumpers, swings, bumbo...

Let me be the 156917th person to remind you that you should NEVER GO TO GOOGLE for medical advice. This includes pediatric milestones!...