Early Intervention: Why It Matters

Every milestone matters when it comes to child development. Early intervention can make a world of difference because those first few years are filled with growth opportunities. Identifying and addressing developmental concerns during this time helps children build essential skills they’ll carry throughout their lives.

Watching children grow and learn is one of life’s greatest joys. Every child develops in their way, and all those milestones mark the exciting steps along the journey. By staying aware of developmental progress, parents and caregivers can better support their child’s unique needs. Early action nurtures confidence and sets the stage for lifelong success. Let’s explore why recognizing the importance of early intervention can have such a profound impact on a child’s future.

What Is Early Childhood Intervention?

It’s amazing how much children grow and change in their early years. Every child’s growth is an incredible adventure, filled with learning and exploration at every turn. But when developmental progress is delayed or if certain challenges arise, it’s important to act early. So, what is early intervention?

Early childhood intervention is a process of recognizing developmental concerns in children from birth to age five and providing specialized support and therapies to meet their needs. These early years are a crucial time when children’s brains and abilities develop rapidly, making timely assistance essential. With early intervention, parents are empowered to support their child’s progress, paving the way for meaningful growth and future success.

Why Early Intervention Is Critical for Child Development

From the moment a child is born, their growth is nothing short of remarkable. Did you know that nearly 80% of brain development happens within the first five years of life? This is a time of rapid progress when children begin to discover their unique abilities – socially, emotionally, and physically. That’s why early childhood intervention matters so much.

By identifying potential areas where a child may need extra support, families can seek effective resources and therapies tailored to their developmental progress. These early years are crucial for providing positive learning experiences that encourage growth in every sense.

Early childhood intervention helps address potential delays or difficulties and equips families with the tools and knowledge to nurture their child’s potential. The earlier the support begins, the brighter the path forward becomes, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and development.

Signs That Your Child May Benefit From Early Intervention

Every child grows at their own pace, but sometimes, you might notice a skill or ability isn’t quite developing as expected. If you observe your little one displaying any problems or developmental challenges, it’s imperative to seek clinical guidance to help pinpoint areas of concern. Here are a few signs to pay attention to:

• Challenges with feeding, such as difficulties chewing, biting, or sucking
• Struggles with daily activities like getting dressed, eating, or using the toilet independently
• Delays in speech or language, such as trouble forming words or sentences
• Trouble pronouncing specific sounds clearly
• Difficulty coordinating hand movements, like picking up small objects or using utensils
• Challenges in understanding or following directions or answering questions
• Difficulties with gross motor skills, such as running, jumping, or climbing
• Problems planning or sequencing tasks that involve using their hands and feet together
• Behavioral concerns such as frequent frustration or difficulty managing emotions
• Difficulty forming connections with peers and interacting in social settings

The Benefits of Early Intervention Services

An early childhood intervention program gives children the tools and support they need to stimulate their growth, development, and full potential. Below are some key benefits of early intervention:

• Improved Physical Skills – Early support strengthens a child’s ability to move, balance, coordinate, and participate better in daily activities and play.
• Enhanced Fine Motor Abilities – Focused strategies improve a child’s control over small-movement skills like gripping objects, drawing, and self-care tasks like buttoning clothes.
• Strengthened Gross Motor Skill Coordination – Intervention improves larger movements like running and jumping, helping children build confidence in physical activities with peers.
• Advanced Communication – Children learn to better express themselves, develop a broader vocabulary, and understand more complex language.
• Better Problem-Solving Abilities – Early intervention supports cognitive development, enabling children to approach challenges logically and apply critical thinking as they learn and grow.
• Regulation of Emotional Responses – Early assistance helps children identify, process, and manage emotions, creating a strong foundation for coping with life’s hurdles.
• Improved Social Engagement – Focusing on social skills allows children to form meaningful relationships, participate in group settings, and feel comfortable in social settings.
• Strengthened Self-Confidence – Addressing developmental challenges gives children a sense of accomplishment that boosts their self-esteem and encourages positive behavior.

How Early Intervention Works – What to Expect

• Screening & Assessment
  Sometimes, understanding your child’s unique needs begins with a closer look. Screenings and assessments are the first steps of an early intervention program. A specialist conducts an in-depth evaluation through observations, discussions with parents, and collaboration with other professionals. This process identifies developmental areas to focus on to establish a clear starting point.
• Personalized Intervention Program
  Every child deserves a plan designed just for them. Once the assessment is complete, an intervention program is created to suit your child’s unique strengths and goals. Experts collaborate with families to craft a personalized plan, outlining actionable strategies and tracking progress. This solidifies a supportive path forward for both your child and your family.
• Early Intervention Services
  Support comes in many forms, and early intervention services are tailored to meet a child’s unique needs. These services may include occupational therapy, speech therapy, and parental guidance. The program can be home-based or center-based and will be monitored and reviewed regularly.

Overcoming Common Myths About Early Intervention

Hearing the words “early intervention” might bring a few misconceptions to mind. But don’t worry – you’re not alone. It’s time to clear up some of the most common myths so you feel confident and informed.

One myth is that early intervention is only for children with severe challenges. That’s not true – any child who needs extra support in areas like communication, motor skills, or social development can qualify. Another concern is cost, but many services are available at no charge under federal law or through affordable options like sliding fee scales.

Think you’ll be stuck in a waiting room all day? Not the case. Intervention services often happen in familiar places like your home or nearby park in your neighborhood. And if you think your child will be overlooked if they’re not eligible, there are still community resources available to explore.

Early intervention is about empowering families and helping children prosper as they grow. The truth is, that intervention is designed for every child who could use a little extra support.

How Daisy Kids Care Supports Early Intervention

Every child’s potential deserves nurturing, and we’re here to lend a helping hand when you need it most. At Daisy Kids Care, we’re proud to provide personalized early intervention services to children across Houston, TX, and throughout the DFW area. Our experienced home care therapists and private pediatric nurses are committed to fostering growth and confidence in your child’s everyday life. Contact us today to learn how we can support your family.

ATNR & STNR: The Learning Reflexes

Have you ever noticed how a baby’s movements seem almost instinctive? These early motions are more than just adorable – they’re primitive reflexes hard at work, guiding development during the first months of life.

Among these reflexes, the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) and the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) play important roles in laying the groundwork for movement and motor skills. These reflexes help babies grow and prepare for activities like crawling, sitting, and eventually walking. Learning about these vital reflexes provides insight into how infants progress and thrive at every stage of their early development.

In this article, we’ll explore ATNR and STNR reflexes, how they impact learning and development, signs that they may still be present in older children, and effective ways to support their integration. Let’s unpack this topic to understand the complexities of primitive reflexes.

What Are Primitive Reflexes?

Ever wonder how infants seem pre-programmed with certain movements from the start? Primitive reflexes in children are those early, involuntary movement patterns that develop before birth to help newborns survive and grow. These reflexes play a crucial role in foundational development, paving the way for skills like balance, coordination, and posture. Think of primitive reflexes as nature’s way of giving infants a head start.

Typically, primitive reflexes fade away – or integrate – within the first year or two of life, allowing more advanced motor skills and learning abilities to form. If integration doesn’t occur as expected, higher-level skill development may require extra support to stimulate progression.

What Is ATNR (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)?

The ATNR reflex begins developing at 18 weeks in utero, is present at birth, and typically integrates by six months of age. When an infant turns their head to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend while the opposite side’s limbs bend.

This reflex plays a vital role in early motor skill development and supports movements needed during the birthing process. Research highlights the ATNR reflex as a key factor in learning and attention, making ATNR reflex integration essential for foundational developmental skills.

What Is STNR (Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)?

The STNR reflex begins developing around six months of age and is typically integrated by 9 to 11 months. This reflex helps babies transition into crawling by allowing them to separate upper and lower body movements. When a baby is on hands and knees, lifting the head will straighten the arms and bend the legs, while lowering the head results in bent arms and straightened legs.

The STNR strengthens neck and back muscles, supports posture, and helps develop vision skills, hand-eye coordination, and a sense of balance, making proper STNR reflex integration fundamental.

Why Are ATNR & STNR Important for Learning & Development?

As kids grow, their brains and bodies build important connections that shape how they see and interact with the world. Reflexes like ATNR and STNR are the natural, hidden mechanisms responsible for creating these critical foundations. They support key areas of development crucial for success in school and everyday activities.

If these reflexes are retained beyond the typical integration period, areas like fine motor skills, gross motor skill development, and even focus can be affected. Addressing these reflexes through targeted ATNR and STNR integration exercises can enhance natural progression in skills related to learning, physical activity, and self-regulation.

Signs That ATNR & STNR May Be Present in Older Children

When ATNR and STNR reflexes don’t fully integrate, children may experience challenges in various areas of their development. These signs can be observed in physical abilities, behavior, learning, and communication skills, highlighting the importance of seeking professional care to address these concerns.

Physical Signs

• Poor posture or trouble keeping their back straight
• Weak upper body strength, making activities like pushing or pulling difficult
• Preference for sitting in a W-position or wrapping legs around a chair for support
• Leaning over a book or supporting the head with a hand when reading or writing
• Limited or absent crawling during early development
• Difficulty focusing vision at different distances, which can make reading harder
• Challenges with coordination when tracking or catching a moving ball

Behavioral and Learning Signs

• Struggles with crossing the midline, affecting writing and other tasks
• Balance issues when turning the head to the side
• Problems learning to ride a bike or similar motor skills
• Pressing too hard with a pen or pencil, leading to slow or difficult handwriting
• Challenges with reading, spelling, or math skills that require focus or precision
• Confusion about which hand to use for tasks

Speech and Communication Signs

• Delays in speech clarity or fluency
• Difficulty organizing thoughts when speaking
• Trouble maintaining steady eye contact during conversations

How to Support the Integration of ATNR and STNR

Multisensory activities can assist in integrating retained primitive reflexes. Working with an occupational therapist is highly recommended, but you can also try simple activities at home to support your child.

• Crawling Exercises
  Crawling activities like navigating tunnels or practicing animal walks are excellent for promoting reflex integration. These movements encourage arm and leg coordination while strengthening core and limb muscles.
• Climbing Activities
  Climbing on playgrounds or traversing rock walls builds strength and encourages the coordination of both sides of the body. These activities also engage focus and motor planning skills.
• Ball Games
  Rolling, bouncing, or throwing a ball improves hand-eye coordination and enhances visual tracking. Start with a larger ball to make these activities easier and gradually adjust as skills improve.
• Superman Pose
  This pose is done by lying on the stomach and lifting both arms and legs off the ground simultaneously while keeping them straight. Holding this static position strengthens muscles and helps develop reflexes.
• Cat-Cow Stretch
  The cat-cow stretch from yoga is helpful for STNR integration. On all fours, arch the back while looking down, then curve the back while looking upward. Perform this movement slowly for maximum benefit.
• Obstacle Courses
  Creating obstacle courses with tunnels, cushions, or chairs promotes crawling, climbing, and body awareness. These are simple and fun and support bilateral integration and improve physical coordination.

When Should You Be Concerned About Retained Reflexes?

Sometimes, small developmental delays can feel like just a part of growing up, but if you’re noticing consistent struggles with movement, focus, or coordination, it may be worth exploring whether primitive reflexes have been retained in your child. Speaking with your pediatrician is a great first step – they may recommend an evaluation by an occupational therapist.

At Daisy Kids Care in Houston, TX, our skilled therapists specialize in primitive reflex integration techniques. We work with children and families throughout the DFW area to build essential skills for everyday success. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child achieve milestones and thrive in every aspect of life.

How to Encourage Pincer Grasp in Babies

Watching a baby grow is both exciting and full of milestones that parents eagerly anticipate. Among the many skills they begin to master, learning how to develop a pincer grasp in babies is an important step in their fine motor development. This small but mighty achievement builds the foundation for greater independence and skill-building as they explore the world around them.

Supporting your little one during this stage can make learning fun and engaging while fostering confidence in their abilities. Encouraging this milestone is easier than you might think, and it all starts with understanding what your baby needs most during this phase.

What Is Pincer Grasp in Babies?

Imagine all the little things we do with our hands each day. Buttoning a shirt, picking up tiny objects, eating finger foods – these actions begin with a pincer grasp. This skill involves using the tips of the thumb and index finger to grip and hold small items.

Before learning this movement, babies use their whole hand, combining their fingers and their palm to grasp objects. Over time, they develop the ability to pick up smaller objects, like a single piece of cereal or a small toy. Mastering this skill often happens between 9 and 12 months of age.

As babies practice self-feeding using a pincer grasp, they also improve their ability to chew and handle smaller food sizes. It’s an exciting time as they grow their fine motor skills, setting the stage for even more independence and precise hand movements.

Why Is Pincer Grasp Important for Baby’s Development?

Little fingers mastering big skills – what could be more rewarding to watch? Developing a strong pincer grasp in babies opens the door to greater independence by helping them feed themselves and explore their world. It’s also a critical step in building baby fine motor skills, laying the foundation for tasks like writing and drawing in the future. Every tiny pinch is progress toward your baby’s growing coordination and confidence.

Signs That Your Baby Is Ready to Develop the Pincer Grasp

Have you noticed your baby reaching for smaller objects or showing an interest in picking things up with their fingers? Before you know it, you may see your little one attempting to pick objects up in what can be described as a raking motion using a mitten or claw-like grip. These are wonderful clues that they’re ready to begin developing the pincer grasp.

Around 6 to 9 months, babies often start attempting to grasp smaller items, moving beyond the whole-hand technique. Watching your little one hone their motor skills through these actions is an encouraging sign of growth. Keep an eye out for those tiny fingers working together – it’s all part of their incredible developmental progress.

How to Support and Encourage Pincer Grasp Development

Watching tiny fingers discover the world is an incredible experience for any parent. Learning how to encourage pincer grasp development is an important step in helping your baby gain the dexterity they need for everyday tasks. This foundational skill allows babies to pick up small objects, explore textures, and practice the delicate hand movements vital for their growth.

With a little creativity and patience, there are many ways to support your baby’s progress in this area. Nurturing this development can be a fun and engaging way to support your little one’s learning and independence.

• Offer Safe, Small Objects to Pick Up
  Little Hands, Big Chances
  Babies are naturally curious, and placing safe, small objects within their reach can ignite their interest. Try options like soft fabric toys, lightweight blocks, or large beads under close supervision. These items are easy to grip, encouraging precise finger movements and building the strength they need to master their pincer grasp.

• Model the Action
  Show, Don’t Tell
  Babies learn by watching you, so demonstrate pinching motions during everyday activities. Pick up small objects slowly using your thumb and index finger while they observe. Seeing this motion repeatedly helps your little one connect the dots and start practicing it themselves during playtime moments of their own.
• Create Opportunities for Practice
  Planting Seeds of Skill
  Create situations where babies can practice grasping items intentionally. Scatter small, safe pieces of fabric or toys nearby for exploration. Add variety by including different sizes and textures – they’ll love discovering the challenge of picking up new objects, all while improving their fine motor control each time they try.
• Encourage Self-Feeding
  Snack Time, Skill Time
  Although it can get messy, snack time is one of the best activities to encourage pincer grasp and develop dexterity. If your little one loves exploring with their hands (and mouth), eating can double as skill-building time. Provide safe bites like soft peas, tiny banana chunks, or small crackers. These manageable foods allow them to refine their pincer grasp and develop self-feeding confidence – one little pinch at a time.
• Use Sensory Play
  A Touch of Discovery
  Sensory play combines having fun and sparking development. Introduce items like soft playdough, shallow bowls of dry rice, or textured balls for your baby to manipulate. Exploring with their hands helps refine their grasp while engaging their senses. Sensory activities make building fine motor skills dynamic and interactive.
• Fine Motor Activities
  Tiny Tasks, Big Reward
  Keep those fingers busy by incorporating fine motor tasks into their routine. Finger puppets, simple stacking games, or puzzles with large pieces are excellent kids’ toys that encourage pincer grasp. These activities make coordination a focus while keeping their attention fixed on fun. Over time, these moments encourage enhanced control and confidence.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Difficulty with Coordination
  Sometimes, those little fingers seem to have a mind of their own, and that’s perfectly okay. Babies develop at their own pace, but coordination struggles can sometimes signal the need for extra support. Encouraging activities that involve picking up small, safe objects, like soft blocks or finger foods, can help them practice. Consult a professional if extra guidance is needed.
• Delayed Development
  Noticing smaller milestones take longer than expected? That can feel concerning, but there are ways to support your baby’s growth. An occupational therapist can provide tailored strategies to encourage motor skills. At home, try introducing activities like passing toys from hand to hand or stacking rings. With patience and practice, big improvements can happen.
• Overcoming Frustration
  Babies may get frustrated when things don’t go as planned, but this is all part of learning. Offering gentle encouragement and maintaining a calm environment can help reduce stress. Break tasks into smaller steps and celebrate every little success. Turning these moments into playful interactions keeps their interest and builds confidence along the way.

When to Reach Out for Professional Support

Sometimes, a little extra guidance can make all the difference. If you feel like your child’s motor skills aren’t developing as expected, it’s always okay to reach out for professional guidance. At Daisy Kids Care in Houston, TX, our pediatric nurses and occupational therapists are here to help your child thrive. We work closely with DFW area families to create personalized plans that make everyday activities more accessible and meaningful. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s unique developmental journey.

Infant Physical Therapy in a Box

Benefits of Infant Physical Therapy

When you have a baby, you note every milestone and get excited watching your baby’s development. It’s natural to be excited because, during the first twelve months of life, your baby is growing and learning, developing thinking, communication, and motor skills. They need help learning these things, and most of the time, parents can work on developmental activities with their children, and these will be sufficient to promote the necessary skills and physical development. However, for little ones who are delayed, disabled, have a genetic condition, or who have suffered a birth injury, infant physical therapy may be necessary.

What is Pediatric Physical Therapy?

Infant or pediatric physical therapy is a treatment used to help children learn to move their bodies in healthier ways. Under the term “pediatrics,” physical therapy is for children under age 18, from newborns to teenagers, and it is used to treat kids for a variety of reasons, from sports injuries to genetic disorders. Physical therapy for infants typically focuses on helping babies gain muscle control, learn to balance, and either reach or catch up to important developmental milestones. This is especially helpful for infants with conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Down syndrome, torticollis, neuromuscular disorders, Erb’s palsy, spina bifida, and prematurity.

Importance of Infant Physical Therapy

In physical therapy, infants are treated by physical therapists, who help them improve their range of motion, movement patterns, strength, and flexibility.

Baby Development Milestones by Month

The first year is one of rapid growth and development. Physically and mentally, babies are changing all the time. It’s important to know developmental milestones so that if your little one isn’t hitting them on time, you can seek help and treatment. While every child develops differently, this is an overview of typical cognitive and motor development during the first year:

• One month old: Babies move their heads from side to side during tummy time. They can track movements with their eyes, and the stare at their hands and fingers. A one-month-old baby already has a strong grip.
• Two months old: Babies play with their fingers, smile responsively, open and close their hands, and can hold their heads and necks up during tummy time, briefly.
• Three months old: Babies reach and grab at objects and can grip them in their hands. They make cooing noises and will imitate you if you stick out your tongue.
• Four months old: Tummy time gets more exciting, as babies learn to push up on their arms. They can grab objects and hold them, they laugh out loud, and they enjoy playing so much that they sometimes cry when it stops.
• Five months old: Babies begin to roll over, reach for their parents, transfer objects from one hand to another, and blow raspberries.
• Six months old: By now, babies are great at rolling over and can do it in both directions. They use their hands to rake small objects, they recognize familiar faces, and they babble.
• Seven months old: Most babies begin to crawl, scoot, or army crawl by this age, and they are learning to use their thumbs and fingers together. Their babbling becomes more complex, and they respond to other people’s emotional expressions.
• Eight months old: At this age, most babies can sit well without support, respond to familiar words, play peekaboo, and clap their hands.
• Nine months old: Babies can use the pincer grasp, working their thumbs and forefingers, and they may try to climb things or crawl upstairs. Most nine-month-old babies understand object permanence and many experience stranger anxiety.
• Ten months old: Making strides physically and cognitively, babies this age pull to stand, wave bye-bye, raise their arms to ask to be picked up, begin to understand cause, and effect, and learn to stack and sort toys.
• Eleven months old: Babies cruise around the house, using the furniture for balance, and they can turn pages when you read to them. They start becoming opinionated about food, and they’ll play mealtime games like dropping a spoon, to see how their parents will react. Most also say mama or dada, though most use these interchangeably for either parent.
• Twelve months old: Around the first birthday, babies can stand on their own and may take their first steps. They can say an average of two to five words, and they’re beginning to pretend, playing imitative games like pretending to talk on the phone. They can even help get themselves dressed, by pushing their hands into their sleeves.

The Concept of ‘Infant Physical Therapy in a Box’

While children can benefit from the interventions of a pediatric physical therapist, there are also infant physical therapy exercises that can be done at home. In fact, you can do a wide array of developmental activities with your baby, using nothing more than cardboard boxes as equipment. Demonstrate the following activities to your little one, then practice until your baby learns what it means and how to do it. By doing this you will be helping your infant learn cause and effect while also encouraging physical activity and promoting motor skill development.

• Stacking boxes: Use small boxes, helping your baby stack them up and then knock them down.
• Unwrapping boxes: Use colorful paper to wrap boxes, then show your baby how to unwrap them.
• Peek-a-boo: While your baby is having tummy time, hide behind a box and peek out.
• Reach and grasp: Decorate boxes to look bright, shiny, fun, and appealing, then place them just out of reach during tummy time. Show your baby how to reach for them and touch or grasp them.
• Where did it go? Take items the baby likes, and hide them in boxes, then demonstrate how opening or lifting the boxes reveals each object.

Developmental Activities for Infants

Just by playing with your baby, you’re helping your little one to learn, grow, and develop. If your baby needs a physical therapist, the activities the therapist will choose will be dependent on your child’s condition. Typically, exercises will include head control exercises, gentle stretching, using an exercise ball to train for crawling, muscle kneading and massaging, balance and flexibility exercises, and alternating hot and cold compresses on joints and muscles.

Communication with Healthcare Providers

When should you talk to a doctor about the possibility that your baby needs physical therapy? If your child has an injury or a genetic condition, or your doctor notices something that needs to be adjusted, the doctor will probably mention physical therapy before you do. However, you can keep an eye out for signs that your child may need physical therapy from a licensed, accredited, experienced physical therapist, board-certified in pediatric physical therapy. These signs include:

• Failure to meet key developmental milestones in the first year of life
• Favoring a certain side of the body, or tilting the head to one side
• Poor muscle tone
• Poor posture
• Difficulty with balance
• Too much or too little joint mobility
• Diagnosis of one of the conditions mentioned above

Choose the Daisy Way for the Highest Quality Care

If you are looking for infant physical therapy, we can help. Locally owned and operated, Daisy Kids Care works hard to maintain a reputation as the best pediatric healthcare provider in the region. Our team of licensed and certified professionals is here to help, dedicated to meeting your child’s needs, whether that entails private-duty home healthcare or any of our wide array of therapy services, including physical and occupational therapy in pediatrics. We do same-week evaluations, and you will never be put on a waitlist, but will always get the support you need when you need it. We’ve been voted one of the TOP Pediatric Home Health Agencies in Houston, and our mission is to improve the lives of patients 0 to 21 years of age, offering personalized care for the children we serve and a reliable support system for their families. Contact us through our website for more information, or call (713) 766-3849 for nursing or (346) 536-5834 for therapy.

Speech-Language Pathologist in Home Health: Everything You Need to Know

Could Your Child Benefit from a Speech Language Pathologist?

Speech-language pathology is a broad field, and many people don’t know what speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can do for children. People tend to refer to these specialists as speech therapists, but SLPs are much more than that. Pediatric speech therapy can help children with a variety of delays and disorders, from mild delays in articulation to complex disorders like hearing impairment, autism, or Down syndrome.

What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist?

A speech-language pathologist is a highly trained specialist who has been through several educational layers to obtain licensure and certification. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees, a speech-language pathologist must complete a post-graduate clinical fellowship before undergoing rigorous testing to obtain an SLP license. The final step is earning the Speech-Language Pathology Certificate of Clinical Competence, from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and then maintaining this certification through continuing education. Speech-language pathologists work with many different types of patients, including people who speak with a stutter. In pediatrics, speech therapy is often provided for babies who have difficulty swallowing, and children with language delays.

What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do?

Speech-language pathologists evaluate communication or swallowing difficulties, diagnose problems, create a personal treatment plan, provide therapy, and maintain records tracking their patients’ progress. Pediatric speech and learning therapy often involve fun activities that strengthen certain weaknesses but feel like play. Speech therapy for kids could be games that stimulate word comprehension, retrieval, or conversation, or activities like blowing a whistle. Early intervention speech therapy activities can include sensory play, reading to the child, and singing. Common types of kids’ speech therapy services include early intervention speech therapy for toddlers who are slow to develop speech, therapy for apraxia, which is the difficulty with producing certain sounds, or aphasia, the difficulty with language expression and understanding. It can also include therapy for children who stutter, or who have trouble swallowing.

Communication and Language Disorders

Speech therapy is often associated with fixing a speech impediment, like a stutter. There are actually two types of communication disorders addressed by speech therapy: cognitive and social. Cognitive disorders make it difficult for a person to speak, listen, read, or write, while social communication disorders affect things like greetings, asking questions, speaking appropriately for a situation, and engaging in conversation. Pediatric speech therapy addresses a wide array of communication and language disorders, including:

• Aphasia– This occurs when damage to the brain causes difficulty speaking or understanding others.
• Auditory Processing Disorder– This is difficulty understanding the meaning of sounds.
• Apraxia– This is a condition in which the brain struggles to direct the movements of the muscles used to speak.
• Articulation Disorders– What you may think of as speech therapy, is the inability to form certain sounds, like “th” or “r”.
• Stuttering– This occurs when the flow of speech is broken by pauses and repetition.
• Resonance Disorders– An obstruction such as a cleft palate causes these disorders.
• Dysarthria- A weakness in the muscles used in speech can be caused by a brain injury.

Essential Personality Traits for Speech-Language Pathologists

Especially for pediatric or early childhood intervention speech therapy, a speech-language pathologist must be loving and caring, with a strong drive to help others. An SLP’s job requires encouragement, understanding, and patience, often with patients and families who are emotionally demanding. Successful speech-language pathologists are people who are curious and genuinely interested in problem-solving, as well as driven to stay informed and pursue further education in their field. SLPs need to be responsible, reliable, mentally stable, and physically healthy because while this career is very rewarding, it can also be draining. A stable, healthy speech therapist can successfully help others with therapies that lead to physical and mental improvement.

The Role of a Speech-Language Pathologist in Home Health Care

There is a wide range of career opportunities for speech-language pathologists, from providing speech therapy, early intervention, and other programs in schools, to working in doctor’s offices, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. One particularly beneficial type of speech-language therapy is provided through home health care services, with the SLP working in the patient’s home. Because people, particularly children, are more comfortable in their home environments, home health care SLPs can make great progress with their patients. What’s more, having a speech-language pathologist come to the person’s home makes it easier for caregivers to join in the therapies. For elderly people and children who rely on their caregivers, this is especially important. In-home speech-language pathologists must be flexible and at ease working in new environments, as their role involves seeing a variety of patients while commuting to their homes on rotating schedules. A day in the life of a speech-language pathologist typically includes seeing seven or eight patients in their homes, providing initial assessments, therapy, and ongoing reassessments, all in the service of helping patients with speech, language, augmentative communication, and feeding. Home health SLPs also coordinate with other therapists, doctors, and specialists, to provide comprehensive care to their patients.

Choose the Daisy Way for the Highest Quality Care

If you’re looking for a specialist trained in pediatric and early intervention speech therapy techniques, look to Daisy Kids Care. Locally owned and operated, Daisy Kids Care works hard to maintain a reputation as the best pediatric healthcare provider in the region. Our team of licensed and certified professionals is here to help, dedicated to meeting your child’s needs, whether that entails private-duty home healthcare or any of our wide array of therapy services. We do same-week evaluations, and you will never be put on a waitlist, but will always get the support you need when you need it. We’ve been voted one of the TOP Pediatric Home Health Agencies in Houston, and our mission is to improve the lives of patients 0 to 21 years of age, offering personalized care for the children we serve and a reliable support system for their families. Contact us through our website for more information, or call (713) 766-3849 for nursing or (346) 536-5834 for therapy.

Reducing Anxiety in Children: A Detailed Approach

Anxiety in Children and the Importance of Comfort

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but for many people, it can become overwhelming. Childhood anxiety has become a major health challenge in modern society, with one in five children experiencing clinical-level anxiety by adolescence. What causes anxiety in children? More importantly, if your child is anxious, how can you help? Knowing the signs of anxiety in children can help you identify it in your own child so that you can be a source of support and comfort. Here, we’ll discuss anxiety symptoms in children and how childhood anxiety can be effectively treated and managed.

Understanding Anxiety in Children

Sometimes, adults are perplexed about what causes anxiety in children. After all, children don’t have bills, taxes, or any of the other cares that cause adults to feel anxious. However, all children experience anxiety from time to time. Meeting new people, being away from their parents, and changes in routine can be causes of anxiety in children, making them feel insecure and afraid. With normal anxiety, the child is able to overcome these anxious feelings and know that everything will be ok. For children with severe anxiety, however, their level of discomfort causes them to fear circumstances where negative emotions may be triggered. When this discomfort is not addressed, anxiety can become excessive and unmanageable, leading to poor school performance, inability to relate to peers, loss of sleep, physical symptoms, and sometimes even eventual substance abuse.

Types and Symptoms of Anxiety

At the heart of anxiety is fear, and some fear is healthy because it protects us from danger. For anxious children, though, common fears are amplified, and their minds are constantly in a state of vigilance, on the lookout for a future threat. Anxiety in young children can be rooted in a natural fear of strangers, and separation anxiety is common for preschoolers, but if the child suddenly experiences this at age 8 or 9, it is likely a sign of anxiety. Risk factors for anxiety include genetics and environment, and the median age for anxiety disorders is 11. Parents need not be concerned if the anxious feelings only last a few weeks, but if they go on for more than a month, they need to be addressed. There are several different types of anxiety:

• Separation anxiety is typical when children are first away from a parent. However, if a child can’t overcome the fear of separation, it can become an anxiety disorder. This fear can lead to clingy behavior, tantrums, and even refusal to go anywhere if one or both parents won’t be present. Fear of separation can become so severe that it can cause physical symptoms like stomach aches or insomnia.
• Social anxiety involves a fear of interacting with peers and meeting new people. It can be easy to confuse introversion with social anxiety, but a child who is introverted or shy may not be afraid as much as overstimulated and overwhelmed. Social anxiety carries with it a fear of judgment that makes children avoid situations in which they feel vulnerable. They may avoid social events entirely, speak quickly or stutter, and have few friends outside of the family.
• Generalized anxiety occurs when children have many fears, rather than one specific fear. This can be frustrating because they may not be able to pinpoint the cause of their anxiety, but just always feel on edge. Generalized anxiety in children can often cause children to feel lethargic and restless, as a result of a state of heightened awareness. It can also cause difficulties with concentration and insomnia.
• Panic disorder often accompanies other types of anxiety disorders. Panic leads to anxiety attacks, with physical symptoms like shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and pins and needles feeling that spreads to the extremities and face. Teenagers are more likely to experience anxiety attacks than young children, but anyone experiencing this kind of attack knows it’s a terrifying experience, especially the first time.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) leads children to try to alleviate their anxiety by following self–imposed rules. A person with OCD tries to fight obsessive thoughts by compulsively performing an action or ritual. Sometimes, people are diagnosed with an obsessive or compulsive component separately.
• Specific phobias are common. People can be afraid of all sorts of things, from spiders to heights to being alone in the dark. When these fears become phobias, it’s because the specific fear is beginning to interfere with day-to-day activities. Phobias are extreme fears, and children with phobias may have such significant anxiety that they do whatever they can to avoid the subject of their fears.

What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

It can be distressing to see your child suffering, and you may wonder if it could have been prevented. However, it’s almost impossible to determine a specific reason why some children suffer from anxiety and others don’t. Many factors are at play, from genetic predisposition, chemical imbalances, and traumatic life experiences. Often, a combination of things leads to anxiety, which makes it very difficult to prevent.

How is Anxiety Diagnosed and Treated?

For anxiety in children, treatment begins with a diagnosis from a therapist. The therapist will talk to the child, ask questions, take notes, and refer to the DSM-5, in order to make an accurate diagnosis. In some cases, the therapist may recommend an appointment with a psychiatrist to discuss medication options, while other children benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on talking and learning skills that will help retrain harmful thought patterns that result in anxiety.

How Can I as a Parent Help My Child?

Parents can help soothe children who are struggling with anxiety, and a good first step is to work with a trained therapist to learn how to use the methods taught in therapy to assist your child. Talking with your child, listening to his or her concerns, and never dismiss these fears, but validate them as frightening feelings. When children feel heard and respected, they are better able to overcome anxious feelings. If your child is panicking, it’s important to establish a feeling of calm, and an effective way to do this is with deep belly breathing. Respecting your child’s fear does not mean giving into it, though, and once your child is calm, it’s important to encourage facing those fears. It’s important for children to know that feeling scared is normal, and that we have to push past these fears and do the things, even if they are difficult.

Choose the Daisy Way for the Highest Quality Care

If you need help addressing childhood anxiety, we are here for you. Locally owned and operated, Daisy Kids Care works hard to maintain a reputation as the best pediatric healthcare provider in the region. Our team of licensed and certified professionals is here to help, dedicated to meeting your child’s needs, whether that entails private-duty home healthcare or any of our wide array of therapy services. We do same-week evaluations, and you will never be put on a waitlist, but will always get the support you need when you need it. We’ve been voted one of the TOP Pediatric Home Health Agencies in Houston, and our mission is to improve the lives of patients 0 to 21 years of age, offering personalized care for the children we serve and a reliable support system for their families. Contact us through our website for more information, or call (832) 895-3400 for nursing or (281) 664-7100 for therapy.