Episode 321: Understanding Baby Milestones: A Pediatric PT's Guide to Early Development with Dr. Allison Mell, PT, DPT

This week on The Untethered Podcast™, Hallie welcomes Dr. Allison Mell, a pediatric physical therapist with a deep passion for child development. Allison shares her journey from general physical therapy to specializing in infant development, focusing on empowering parents with the tools and knowledge to support their child’s growth. 

The conversation dives into essential early milestones such as tummy time, rolling, crawling, and walking, emphasizing the quality of movement over just meeting checklists. The episode also tackles the recent removal of certain milestones from the CDC guidelines and the implications for early intervention and parental confidence. 

If this episode has resonated with you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening, post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag Hallie @halliebulkin

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!

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

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