Navigating Developmental Milestones with your Child

Thursday, May 17, 2018

By Meghan Prouse

From the moment that children are born, mums and dads become investigators, learning to decipher different cries and noises for what they really mean, like hunger or sleepiness. And the investigation continues as parents watch for things like rolling over, sitting, crawling, and using hands together. Milestones, such as these, follow children through their infancy and well into elementary school. Reaching these steps can cause parents and their children worry and stress.

Families who I’ve worked with often come to me with questions like:

  • Is my child hitting her milestones?
  • My child is able to identify the letters of the alphabet, but he can’t write them. Why?
  • Is it normal that my daughter bumps into everything and seems to have no idea where her body is in space?
  • Why isn’t my son reading at the same level as his peers?
  • Do other kids her age need as much direction as my daughter to work?

Do these types of questions sound familiar? Navigating the world of development and skill acquirement can be tough, especially if you feel like your child is struggling. But there is help, for you and your child.

Occupational therapists can help mum, dad, and children learn new strategies and build skills. I also work with teachers, when possible, to develop comprehensive strategies.

An OT who specializes in paediatrics, like me, can help in some of the following areas:

  • Infant Development
  • Self-Care Skills
  • Play and Social Skill Development
  • Fine Motor Skills and Printing / Handwriting
  • Visual Perception and Visual Motor Integration
  • Sensory Processing, Attention, and Self-Regulation using a trauma-informed practice lense
  • Concussion and Brain Injury Rehabilitation
  • Equipment recommendations
  • Kindergarten readiness
  • Environmental assessment and observations at home, school or the community and recommendations

I have experience working with children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. And I have the specialized skills in working with children with needs like a variety of developmental, neurological, psychological and physical factors.

To learn more about how I can help you and your child, please get in touch.