Physical therapists are involved in pediatric care, starting with babies in the hospital in neonatal intensive care units. Ann Hoffman, PT, DScPT, PCS, and Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP), discusses the role that physical therapists (PT) have in early intervention and resources for families in need of care.
Early Intervention Program
Every US state is mandated by the federal government to have early intervention programs for children aged zero to three. In Utah, the Baby Watch Program helps provide resources to parents who have children under the age of three who need specialized care for developmental concerns.
If a child isn’t making development gains in cognition or fine motor skills, or if there is a delay in grasping, walking, interacting with parents, making eye contact, or listening–any of those development concerns can qualify children for the early intervention program.
The program focuses on providing education for parents. The healthcare providers in the early intervention program act as facilitators by teaching parents how to care for their children.
Providing Support to Families
Families with children who have complex medical diagnoses can feel burdened as parents are required to carry out therapy programs in addition to daily cares. But there are local and state resources to help parents navigate those situations like parent support groups to social workers.
Research shows that children who need early intervention care and are able to receive it in the first three years are better prepared for entering school at the age of five years old.
After age three, there are continued resources to children still needing care as they navigate preschool years and entering school.
Learn more by listening to the full RMUpload podcast episode here.
