Developmental Services for Infants and Young Children

Pediatric Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists have expertise in working with infants and young children to:

• Identify problems with development of movement, play skills and eating/feeding
• Promote movement and development
• Teach parents and other caregivers ways to encourage development

Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy
Children's of Alabama - McWane Building
1600 7th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233
205-638-9645

Children's on 3rd Outpatient Center
1208 3rd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233
205-638-6289

Download Developmental Milestones

Infants and young children typically learn and develop in a predictable way. Early milestones have been identified to guide parents’ expectations of when and how young children will develop movement, play, and eating/feeding skills.* Parents know their children best. If you are concerned that your child is developing at a different pace, help is available.

Some infants and young children have conditions at birth or in the first 2 years of life that may affect development of movement, play and eating/feeding skills.

Such conditions may include:

• Brachial Plexus Injury
• Torticollis (stiff neck with head turned to one side)
• Plagiocephaly (irregular shaped head)
• Complications from prematurity such as Bronchopulmunary Dysplasia, Gastro-esophageal Reflux, Interventricular Hemorrhage and Hydrocephalus
• Spina Bifida/Myelomeningocele
• Cerebral Palsy
• Arthrogryposis (stiff joints)
• Genetic Syndromes
• Injuries and illnesses affecting development

*References:

• Parent magazines and baby books
• “Building Blocks”, resource from Children’s of Alabama Patient Health and Safety Information, 1-866-800-7259.
• pathways.org