Key Takeaways 1. Tummy time can be challenging due to limited head and neck control, unfamiliar positioning, reflux or gas, sensory overload, or muscle imbalances (such as with torticollis). 2. Alternatives include chest-to-chest positioning, tummy time on a lap, side-lying play, tummy time with props (towels, nursing pillows), baby wearing, and upright holding/burping positions. 3. Don't forget to start early and often! And don't practice tummy time during sleep and

Key Takeaways 1. Free movement is key for development in the first year, but can be difficult when juggling multiple kids or tasks. 2. Prolonged time in bouncers, swings, or walkers can be harmful for you child's development. 3. Play yards, gated space, large play mats, baby-wearing, and crib play are some alternative options that allow movement.

Key Takeaways: 1. Plagiocephaly is a flat spot on the head that can occur from positioning in womb or repeated pressure on same spot of the head after birth. 2. Torticollis occurs when a muscle is tight in the neck causing infants to tilt their head to one side and rotate (usually the opposite side). Torticollis can cause plagiocephaly. 3. After birth, torticollis and plagiocephaly can be prevented with tummy time during awake periods, floor time, and frequent pos

Key Takeaways: 1. Walkers can delay motor development and increase risk of persistent toe walking. 2. Walkers can be dangerous with high injury risk. 3. Walkers can limit exploration and learning.

Key Takeaways: 1. Occasional toe walking is important to build calf muscles for running & jumping, improve balance, and support foot arch development. 2. Toe walking is problematic if it is persistent, especially after 2 years old. 3. Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric physical therapist if you’re concerned about how often your child walks on their toes.

Key Takeaways: 1. Nursery rhymes are an important adjunct to play, especially when parents sing. 2. Songs teach lessons & skills such as self-care, speech sounds, and counting. 3. They can energize your baby to increase play or calm your baby to rest or focus. 

Key Takeaways: 1. The sensory system can be more or less responsive in different kids. Knowing your child’s sensory responses help you support their play more effectively. 2. Kids who avoid sensation (sensory avoiding) may become overwhelmed by bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures.  3. Kids who seek sensation (sensory seeking) may crave movement, loud noises, and touch.

Key Takeaways: 1. Tone is the natural resting tension of your muscles. It helps your body be ready to move and maintain posture. There is a spectrum of tone. 2. Low tone (hypotonia) is when the muscles are more “floppy." 3. High tone (hypertonia) is when the muscles are tighter or stiffer.

Key Takeaways: 1. Floor time includes tummy time, back time, and interactive play. 2. Floor time helps babies build their muscles, improve coordination, and build early social skills. 3. Aim for a few 5-10 minute sessions throughout the day.

Key Takeaways: 1. Preventing harm is essential, as is encouraging curiosity and growth. 2. Falling and failing are important parts of learning. 3. There are many preventable injuries that can impact your child in the long term if there is not enough supervision.

Key Takeaways: 1. Flat feet, bow legs, in-toeing, and toe walking are normal in the first 2 years. 2. If you notice asymmetries between right and left side, follow up with your child’s pediatrician and/or pediatric physical therapist. 3. If the postures persistent beyond 2 years, seek out a pediatrician and/or pediatric physical therapist consultation.

Key Takeaways: 1. Sitting balance exercises strengthen muscles and prepares babies for crawling. 2. Change the base of support, apply perturbations, or make their seat uneven to challenge your baby's balance. 3. Falls are common and important for learning, but should be made safe with supervision and soft surroundings.

Key Takeaways: 1. W Sitting gives toddlers a wide base of support making balance easier for play. 2. Persistent W Sitting can put a strain on the hips, knees, and ankles. 3. Variety in sitting postures is important.

Key Takeaways: 1. Barefoot is good! 2. Some studies show better foot and ankle alignment and movement with barefoot play. 3. Shoes may be necessary for outdoor hazards or for orthotic treatment in rare cases.

Key Takeaways: 1. Pediatric physical therapists will do more detailed examination for infants flagged with delays by their pediatricians. 2. Home exercises with caregivers are vital for success. 3. Many factors can cause delays and not all will have a lasting impact on your baby, especially with early intervention.