The Effects of Sugar on the Growing Human Body Did you know that the daily maximum amount of added sugar that the American Heart Association recommends for children ages 2 to 18 years old is 6 teaspoons or 25 grams? That is equivalent to 1 mini can of coke (7.5 ounces), 3 regular-sized Reese’s Peanut…
The Importance of Climbing for Kids Children begin climbing early in life to explore their environment. This can start as soon as a baby starts to crawl or pull up to stand. As a child ages, they may climb surfaces to copy other children or just to engage in play. General Benefits of Climbing and…
Should You Be Worried About Gross Motor Delays in Your Child? Your pediatrician tells you that your newborn is at risk for gross motor delays. What are gross motor delays? A gross motor delay refers to the large motor movements of the body and the ability to move through space. In practical terms, this…
We understand that starting any pediatric therapy at Kids Place is challenging and slightly intimidating. Parents and children alike are nervous. This is normal – and ok! To better prepare you for your first visit, let’s talk more about what you can expect at your first pediatric therapy session. What to Expect at my Child’s…
Letting Your Child Fall Safely During Developmental Play by Abby Thompson, PT, DPT Pediatric Physical Therapist at Kids Place West Your child is now pulling themselves into standing, but they haven’t quite figured out how to lower themselves from a standing position. What should you do? Is it okay to let them fall or should…
3 Simple Home Exercises to Help Your Baby Walk By Jeanette Cartafalsa, DPT Kids Place West Pediatric Physical Therapist Are you concerned that your baby is not walking? According to the CDC, most babies should be taking a few steps on their own by 15 months old. The most common reasons we see for your…
What is a Healthy Amount of Media Use for Your Child? Media, including TV, computers, smartphones, tablets and video games, can affect how your children learn, feel, think, and behave. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages you to help your children develop healthy media use habits. “Nudges” to consider that help with healthy media…
What to Expect During Your Baby’s Pediatric Physical Therapy Evaluation Your doctor recommends a pediatric physical therapy evaluation for your baby. We understand this can feel overwhelming. We hope this blog will help calm your fears so you can approach your evaluation with less anxiety and stress. Your licensed physical therapist will begin the evaluation…
Does My Baby Need Knee Pads for Crawling? by Nicole Campbell, PT, DPT Does your baby need knee pads for crawling? The short answer – probably not! While as an adult, it can hurt to crawl on hands and knees due to pressure on the patella (commonly called the ‘kneecap’), a baby’s patella is made…
Shoe Recommendations for New Walkers and Toddlers Those first steps your child takes is an exciting time – watching them develop from those first, uneasy steps to eventually running! As your child begins walking, parents will need to begin purchasing shoes to help your little ones. Below are recommendations based on where your little one…
