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In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, I’m joined by pediatric physical therapist Allison Mell, founder of Tots on Target. We talk about baby motor development in a way that’s both reassuring and practical — including what milestones typically look like, what matters more than the exact age, and how parents can support development at home without overthinking it (or overbuying ).

We cover common reasons pediatricians refer to PT — like torticollis and head preference, tummy time struggles, late crawling, and toe walking — and Allison explains what’s normal, what deserves attention, and what a pediatric PT actually does to help. We also clear up myths (including the idea that late crawling causes ADHD or autism), talk safety around walkers, and share simple, low-tech strategies that can make a real difference.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this normal… and what should I do next?” this conversation will give you practical guidance on what to look for, and ideas for what you can do at home to help support your child.

Show notes:

• Milestone ranges (& why steady progress matters more than “deadlines”)
• Simple ways to support motor development at home (hint: floor time beats most gear)
• Walkers: the important safety distinction (sit-in vs push walkers)
• Torticollis: what it is, what parents can look for, and why early help matters
• Tummy time: what “counts,”  and when to pause (reflux/pain)
• Late crawling: myths vs what we actually worry about 
• Toe walking: tight muscles vs sensory seeking, and practical home ideas
• Lightning round: shoes vs barefoot, favorite low-tech movement toys, and a message for anxious parents

Tots on Target website: totsontarget.com

03:24 Milestone Timelines: Rolling, Sitting, Crawling, Walking

05:41 Simple At-Home Setup: Floor Time, Fewer Gadgets, Better Toys

08:46 Walkers Explained

11:04 Torticollis

18:30 Tummy 

21:53 Late Crawlers: Debunking Myths + Why Crawling Matters

29:03 Toe Walking 

31:56 Lightning Round: Walking Myths, Barefoot vs Shoes, Best New-Walker Footwear

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

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The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditi...