The Importance of Early Intervention
KAARI PIEPER, PT, DPT
Clinic Director
Ask any parent, just pick one, and you’ll get a universal answer. Having a newborn just go home with you from the hospital is TERRIFYING. Regardless of how well prepared you are. I’m here to tell you “You got this.” It’s scary at first but you’re built to figure it out, it’s just going to take time, patience, and listening to what your little is saying, doing, and feeling. As your child grows, you’ll grow with them, and you will notice things. You’ll notice things they do well, and things they don’t. You’ll eventually compare them to other children. This is normal and while it’s important to let your child grow at their own pace there are times when you might need to step in with therapy to help put that baby back on track. We have a development milestone guide to help you better understand when your child should be crawling, standing, and walking, etc.
If you notice continued delays in the development of your young one, chat with your physician about it, and trust your instincts. You may be told that your child will “grow out of it.” While in many cases that is true, it isn’t a foolproof plan of action. That’s where our therapy tip of the week comes in: Early Intervention.
What is Early Intervention?
Early intervention refers to the process of providing specialized support and services to infants and young children who are at risk of or are experiencing developmental delays. For physical therapy, this means addressing issues related to movement, strength, and coordination as early as possible to ensure your child develops the skills they need to thrive.
Why is Early Intervention Crucial?
Maximizing Developmental Potential
The first few years of life are a period of rapid growth and development. During this time, the brain and body are incredibly adaptable, making it the perfect window for intervention. Early physical therapy can help your child develop essential motor skills like rolling, sitting, crawling, and walking.
Preventing Future Issues
Early intervention can help identify and address potential problems before they become more significant issues. For example, if your child tends to favor one side of their body, early physical therapy can correct this asymmetry, preventing future complications such as scoliosis or uneven muscle development.
Building Confidence
Achieving physical milestones can greatly boost a child’s confidence. By helping your child develop these skills early on, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of positive self-esteem and independence.
Supporting Overall Health
Physical development is closely linked to other areas of health, including cognitive and social-emotional growth. By engaging in early physical therapy, your child can improve their overall well-being, leading to better learning and social interactions.
Signs Your Child Might Need Early Intervention
As a new parent, it can be challenging to know what’s typical and what might be a sign of a delay. Here are a few indicators that your child might benefit from early intervention in physical therapy:
Difficulty holding their head up or controlling their movements
Delays in reaching milestones such as sitting, crawling, or walking
Stiffness or floppy movements
Favoring one side of the body over the other
If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to consult with your pediatrician or a physical therapist. Trust your instincts – you know your child best.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Physical therapy for infants and young children is all about play! Therapists use fun, engaging activities to encourage movement and strength. This might include:
Tummy Time Exercises: These help strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles while improving the child’s tolerance of the position.
Play in a variety of positions: To improve postural endurance and strength
Reaching and Grasping Games: To improve hand-eye coordination while motivating the child to complete functional activities such as rolling, sitting, crawling or walking.
Balance and Coordination Activities: Such as crawling or walking over obstacles or on uneven surfaces in a symmetrical pattern to improve coordination.
Therapists work closely with you to create a plan that fits your child’s unique needs, ensuring therapy sessions are both effective and enjoyable.
Your Role as a Parent
As a parent, you play a crucial role in your child’s therapy journey. Here are a few ways you can support your child’s development:
Engage in Therapy Activities at Home: Consistency is key. Your therapist will provide you with exercises and activities to do with your child at home.
Create a Safe Environment: Ensure your home is a safe space for your child to explore and practice their new skills.
Stay Positive and Encouraging: Celebrate every small achievement and encourage your child to keep trying.
Early intervention is a powerful tool to help your child reach their full potential sooner. By addressing developmental delays early, you’re giving your child the best possible start in life. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Our team at Prairie Grit Therapy is here to support you every step of the way.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development or want to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to reach out and come in for a free screening. Together, we can help your child thrive.
