Jen and Bethany are joined by Dr. Allison Mell, pediatric physical therapist and founder of Tots On Target. In this episode, Dr. Mell shares how parents—especially those with C-section babies—can advocate for their child's physical development from the very beginning.

Drawing on her experience as a mom of four, including preemie twins born via C-section, Dr. Mell dives into motor milestones, the effects of prematurity, and how to best support healthy development. She breaks down the benefits of tummy time, the importance of open floor play, and why limiting time in containers like bouncers and swings matters. The conversation also explores the differences and overlaps between pediatric physical therapy and occupational therapy, and how both play key roles in early development. Dr. Mell answers common questions about milestone delays, baby products, and concerns many parents face in the first year.

Whether you're navigating the NICU, supporting a late crawler, or simply wondering how to set your baby up for success, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice. Dr. Allison Mell is a pediatric physical therapist with over 15 years of experience helping babies and young children reach their developmental milestones. She is the founder of Tots On Target, an online resource dedicated to supporting parents and professionals in fostering motor development. Through her popular Instagram account (@totsontarget), she shares expert tips on movement and milestone progression.

Dr. Allison also runs The Tot Spot Membership, a comprehensive program designed to help babies roll, crawl, and walk. The membership includes step-by-step courses and direct access to her for ongoing guidance, ensuring parents feel confident in supporting their child's development. As a mom of four- including preemie twins born via C-section who are now teenagers—she understands the challenges parents face and is passionate about empowering them to be strong advocates for their children. For more information and several free resources visit totsontarget.com. Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.