This week on the Untethered Podcast, Hallie welcomes Dr. Allison Mell, a pediatric physical therapist with a deep passion for child development. They dive into the topic of baby milestones, exploring how parents can better understand and support these important developmental stages from infancy onward. From tummy time to crawling and walking, the conversation highlights why the quality of movement is just as important as hitting milestones on a timeline.
Dr. Mell also discusses the recent changes to the CDC’s milestone guidelines and what they mean for both clinicians and caregivers. Understanding baby milestones isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about empowering parents with the tools and awareness to foster healthy, confident development.
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In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Allison’s transition into pediatric physical therapy and her mission to support families.
- The importance of recognizing and supporting quality of movement in early development.
- Tummy time as a foundational activity for motor skills and strength building.
- Practical, everyday strategies for encouraging movement and milestones at home.
- Discussion on rolling and how it can impact sleep and comfort.
- The effects of CDC milestone changes on early detection and intervention.
- Barriers parents face when seeking developmental evaluations and services.
- Encouragement for parents to trust their instincts and advocate for their child’s needs.
Whether you’re a parent, provider, or simply passionate about early childhood development, this episode is packed with valuable insights and support!
Related episodes you’ll love:
🔹 Ep 287: CDC Masking Milestones with Hallie Bulkin, MA CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™
🔹 Ep 156: CDC vs. OT – Crawling & Other Milestones You Should Care About
🔹 Ep 286: It’s Not Your Fault with Hallie Bulkin, MA CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™
LINKS
Get to know Dr. Allison on Instagram. Check out her website >>> https://www.totsontarget.com/
Be part of our Myo Fam! Join us inside The Myo Membership >>> www.themyomembership.com
Become a Certified Myofunctional Therapist™ (CMT®). Enroll here: www.themyomethod.com
Ready to turn your “myo eyes” on? Join our webinar
>>> https://www.feedthepeds.com/myo-webinar
Download a Free F.A.S.T. Myo Screening Packet Here: FastMyoScreening.com
Find a myofunctional therapist >>> www.themyodirectory.com
Connect with Hallie on Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIN
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