Learning how to ride a bike is a hallmark of childhood, a skill that brings freedom, confidence, and fun. But when it comes to teaching kids to ride, one question often arises: Should you start with a balance bike or go straight to training wheels? As a pediatric physical therapist, my perspective leans towards a more traditional approach—using training wheels on the same bike they will eventually ride without them. While balance bikes have their merits, I believe training wheels are a cost-effective, practical, and straightforward way to help children learn this milestone skill.

As a pediatric physical therapist, I often see how the wrong pair of shoes can affect a child’s development and comfort. Shoes are more than just a fashion statement—they play a critical role in supporting a child’s growing feet, promoting proper alignment, and enabling pain-free movement. Let’s explore how to select the best shoes for your child and why making the right choice matters.

As a pediatric physical therapist, one of the most frequently asked questions I receive from parents is: “Does my child really need to crawl before walking?” While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its developmental milestone guidelines, no longer considering crawling a prerequisite for walking, I firmly believe that crawling holds immense value for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Let’s dive into why crawling is more than just a phase—it’s a cornerstone of healthy development.

The first year of life is a period of rapid growth and development, particularly when it comes to motor skills. From lifting their heads to taking their first steps, these milestones provide valuable insights into a baby’s physical development. As a pediatric physical therapist, I often work with parents to monitor their child’s progress and identify any areas where extra support might be needed. Below, I’ve compiled a detailed guide to the gross and fine motor milestones to look out for in the first year, based on my milestone checklist.

In many classrooms, children exhibiting behaviors like constant fidgeting, crashing into objects, or making loud noises may be quickly labeled as "disruptive" or "noncompliant." However, these behaviors are often misunderstood. What may appear as a child acting out is often a sensory-seeking behavior—an attempt by the child to regulate their own body in response to sensory needs. As a pediatric physical therapist, I frequently work with children who demonstrate sensory-seeking behaviors, and one of the biggest challenges is helping adults—teachers, parents, and caregivers—understand that these behaviors are not rooted in defiance but in an unmet sensory need.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While the exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, ongoing research suggests a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. One area of interest among therapists and researchers is the potential correlation between ADHD and retained primitive reflexes. In this blog post, we'll delve into what primitive reflexes are, how they relate to developmental processes, and the possible connections to ADHD.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was working in a school for children with special needs. The virtual setting presented a unique challenge—many of my students found it difficult to remain focused during our physical therapy sessions. With their home environments full of distractions, they would often run away from the screen or avoid the work altogether. I thought to myself, How can I get my students more engaged and excited to participate in these virtual PT sessions?

As a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), I have had many parents come to me after expressing concerns to their pediatricians, only to be told, "Just wait and see, they’ll be fine." Unfortunately, not every child ends up being “fine.” While pediatricians play a critical role in the overall health of children, the “wait-and-see” method can sometimes lead to missed opportunities for early intervention. When it comes to developmental delays, time is crucial. Waiting too long can lead to more significant delays and challenges in the future.

Hi, BLS Family! I am so thrilled to be here launching our new blog series.

As we celebrate Physical Therapy Month this October, it feels only fitting to introduce myself to those who don’t know me yet and to share the story of how I became a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). My name is Dr. Brittany Nardone, and I’m passionate about working with children, and helping them achieve their potential through physical therapy. My journey into the profession wasn’t a straight path, but I couldn’t be more grateful for where it’s led me.