February 2012 is an important month for this member of the pediatric therapy team at Child and Family Development:
Melinda Bumgardner, Speech-Language Pathologist – 1 year Melinda joined the team in 2011, but it seems like she’s been part of the team for much longer. While she’s practiced in the Charlotte community for about 13 years, C&FD gives her the ability to collaborate directly with other professionals and be holistic in her approach. She was accustomed to treating along with Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, this has been her first opportunity to work closely with Psychology and Education practitioners. She enjoys using our blog to share information and suggestions with the public. She completed Hanen training a few months ago and is hoping to offer parents groups this year. Melinda stays busy outside of the office too and is teaching a Junior Roller Derby class starting this month.
You are an important part of our mission- to provide comprehensive, quality and integrated services to children and families.
Happy C&FD Anniversary!
Looking for pediatric therapy services near Lancaster, South Carolina?
Child and Family Development has an office in South Charlotte that is less than 5 miles from the border and easily accessible from I-77 and the 485 loop.
Our multi-disciplinary clinic has been helping children and families since 1980. The team of experienced therapists can assess and treat a wide range of childhood concerns, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities or special needs.
We participate in many insurance plans. Also, some of our Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy providers accept South Carolina Medicaid.
The Contact Us tab on our website will link you to our address and Mapquest.
Looking for pediatric therapy services near Union County, South Carolina?
Child and Family Development has an office in South Charlotte that is from the 485 loop.
Our multi-disciplinary clinic has been helping children and families since 1980. Services include Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Child Psychology and Educational Support. The team of experienced therapists can assess and treat a wide range of childhood concerns, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities or special needs.
We participate in many insurance plans. Also, some of our Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy providers accept South Carolina Medicaid.
The Contact Us tab on our website will link you to our address and Mapquest.
Here’s what some parents had to say about Child and Family Development this week:
"We appreciate the accessibility of Gretchen Hunter, Child Psychologist, Martha Knight, Educational Therapist, and Amy Sturkey, Physical Therapist, since our interpretive conference. They have all been so helpful and available to meet our needs."
"We adore Amy Sturkey, Physical Therapist and Ellen Bruce, Occupational Therapist. They have been worth our 3-hour road trip each week for the past three years."
Thanks for the feedback!
Looking for pediatric therapy services near Rock Hill, South Carolina?
Child and Family Development has an office in South Charlotte that is less than 5 miles from the border and easily accessible from I-77 and the 485 loop.
Our multi-disciplinary clinic has been helping children and families since 1980. The team of experienced therapists can assess and treat a wide range of childhood concerns, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities or special needs. We participate in many insurance plans.
Also, some of our Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy providers accept South Carolina Medicaid.
The Contact Us tab on our website will link you to our address and Mapquest.
I have offered a Physical Therapy-based Karate group for many years at Child and Family Development in Charlotte. Last year, I was thrilled to grow this special program with the help of Black Belt Instructor, Riaan Van Scalkwyck. We have a number of regular groups and here is more family feedback about their experiences:
"My prayers have been answered in such a marvelous way. The Karate Program has been instrumental in my son's life by increasing positive character traits. Each Wednesday, because my son knows that he will attend the Karate Program, there is an exuberant sparkle in his eyes. He has always kept his room clean, but because of his increased independence, he asks to vacuum his room and other rooms in the house on this special day! Prior to the Program, negative characteristics existed such as anxiety, fear, nervousness, frustration, and a lack of focus. Currently, the positive character fruit produced within my son is patience, improved body strength, courage, confidence, increased maturity, increased independence, increased responsibility, and joy. I am thankful to God for Amy, Sensei Riaan and for the Karate Program. The love and compassion given to my son weekly is more than any parent could imagine. This Program has exceeded my expectations. It is a blessing. It is a gift from God.” - Mother of a 16-year-old boy diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome
"For over a year now, our son, who is on the autistic spectrum, has been attending a weekly karate class under the direction and tutelage of Sensei Riaan. He has never been in a structured group setting like this, and he is thriving more and more after each session. His confidence level has increased because he feels successful, and is able to be with and keep up with his peers. We have noticed significant improvement in his balance, motor skills, and coordination, as well as his social and play skills. One of the particularly commendable aspects of this program is the way it is organized with each child having an outside support person to work along with him and help and guide him, as necessary. I highly recommend this class to everyone; especially our special people who need extra love and support!" - Parent of a Karate Group Participant
Right now, I am planning another one for Young Adults and Adults with autism or Asperger's Syndrome.
Contact me to learn more by email (asturkey@childandfamilydevelopment.com) or phone (704.332.4834 ext 114).
Looking for pediatric therapy services near Fort Mill, South Carolina?
Child and Family Development has an office in South Charlotte that is just 13 miles from there and easily accessible from I-77 and the 485 loop.
Our multi-disciplinary clinic has been helping children and families since 1980. The team of experienced therapists can assess and treat a wide range of childhood concerns, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities or special needs. We participate in many insurance plans.
Also, some of our Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy providers accept South Carolina Medicaid.
The Contact Us tab on our website will link you to our address and Mapquest.
Walking/Moving
* Begins to run
* Walks backwards
* Begins to jump up or forward a few inches
* Jumps down off low objects
* Moves on ride on toy without pedals
* Climbs on adult sized furniture
* Stands on tiptoes
Stairs
* Walks up and down stairs with one hand held consistently
Ball Skills
* Kicks a ball in a forward direction, swinging his or her leg behind in preparation
* Throws a small ball over and under hand several feet forward
* Begins to hold his or her arms in front of their body to attempt to catch a ball
If have questions about your child's development or are concerned, a pediatric physical therapist can assist you and provide more information. Please feel free to contact Child and Family Development at (704) 541-9080.
I have offered a Physical Therapy-based Karate group for many years at Child and Family Development in Charlotte. Last year, I was thrilled to grow this special program with the help of Black Belt Instructor, Rian Van Scalkwyck. We have a number of regular groups and here is one family shared about their experience:
"My son has greatly benefited from the PT Karate group! His upper body, lower body and core strength are all improving, and his attention span as well as ability to stay on task has increased. I am so glad this class is offered and hope others will be positively impacted by it too." - Mother of a 12-year-old with autism
Contact me to learn more by email (asturkey@childandfamilydevelopment.com) or phone (704.332.4834 ext 114).
What is it?
The Physical Therapy-Based Karate group is a long-time favorite at Child and Family Development. It is led by Amy Sturkey, Physical Therapist, and Riaan Van Schalkwyck, Black Belt Instructor.
We have seen such success with teenagers with high functioning Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome that we want to expand and offer it to young adults and adults with high functioning Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome.
The goal is to help participants improve balance, strength, and coordination and control. There is also a focus on self defense moves.
How does it work?
Each participant is paired with a ‘shadow’ to offer verbal encouragement and instruction and simple physical redirection cues. It is important that each participant be able to follow directions and not have aggressive tendencies towards self or others.
Groups are formed according to skill level with age and size taken into consideration, to ensure the best opportunity for success and homogeneity. Groups are limited to 4 participants.
What can I expect?
The Karate group meets weekly at our Midtown Clinic for a minimum of 8 weeks. The group may continue passed 8 weeks if there is sufficient interest.
Session times will be offered on Wednesdays at 1pm and/or 12pm.
The private cost of the groups is $50 per session. All payments are due at the time of service.
Want to learn more?
Call Amy: 704-332-4834 ext. 114
Email Amy: asturkey@childandfamilydevelopment.com
Visit the C&FD website: www.childandfamilydevelopment.com
When researching where to take your child for occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, psychology, or educational services, it is important to know a little about where you are taking them. When I first joined the team here at Child and Familiy Development, I was eager to be part of such a warm and welcoming team that focused on maximizing the potential of every child with a holistic approach to therapy. I was even more impressed with the history of CFD.
Child and Family Development was founded in 1980 and was one of the first private practice settings for pediatric services in Charlotte. Over thirty years ago, a physical therapist and educator teamed up and founded CFD. What a unique idea they had! Since then it has grown and blossomed into what it is today - a place where children and parents can go and receive the support they need from a variety of services to help them reach their full potential.
I am proud to be a part of such a dynamic and supportive team and want to encourage you to check out our website and learn more about the amazing team that is Child and Family Development.
Here's what a Child and Family Development parent wrote about our pediatric therapy services recently:
"My child worked with Leslie Holmes for Physical Therapy for a year and with Lindsey Pritchard for Occupational Therapy briefly. They were excellent! The front office was always wonderful. I will highly recommend Child and Family Development to anyone anytime."
Thanks for the feedback!
Here's what a few Child and Family Development parents wrote about our pediatric therapy services this month:
"Jessica Hoffarth, Occupational Therapist, was wonderful to work with! She was always very responsive and provided me with lots of feedback! My child enjoyed working with her!"
"We love Amy Sturkey, Physical Therapist, she is the best!"
"Carol Capehart, Child Psychologist, was great!"
Thanks for the feedback!
January 2012 is an important month for these members of the pediatric therapy team at Child and Family Development:
Gail Fennimore, Physical Therapist – 18+ years Gail has been part of C&FD since the very beginning in the early 80’s. She tells me that she still loves what she does after all of these years. It is important to her to pay attention to the small details- the things that help a child do well and have fun outside of the physical therapy session. This spring, she is pursuing an APTA Certification for Pediatric Specialist. She will also become a grandmother in 2012.
Barb Hartshorn, Speech Therapist – 5 years Barb has been practicing for more than 20 years. She strives to make the most of speech therapy time with parents and a child. Barb says she ‘treats individually’ and we all see that philosophy in action daily. Over the past few years, she has developed a new clinical skill helping kids with feeding difficulties. Her SOS training and case experience is a highlight of her work. Right now, Barb and her family are hosting an exchange student from Italy.
Martha Knight, Educational Specialist – 4 years Martha describes herself as a detective. It’s her job to discover the strength in every student, despite the academic challenges they may face. Martha loves to see how educational therapy- more than tutoring- can help a family approach learning, school and homework in a positive and constructive way. She is very involved in the local Ronald McDonald House.
Jessica Hoffarth, Occupational Therapist – 1 year Jessica believes that occupational therapy should always be child-focused. She loves a clinical challenge and helping families deal with tough behaviors. Her C&FD blog about her own sensory processing difficulties as a child and an adult is a inspiration and insight for our team and others. She and her husband are expecting their first child in April.
Each of you are an important part of our mission - to provide comprehensive, quality and integrated services to children and families in Charlotte.
Happy C&FD Anniversary!
Happy New Year!
In 2012, Child and Family Development will continue to participate in these Insurance plans:
Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Speech Therapy
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC
Cigna
Med Cost
NC Medicaid
Primary Physician Care
SC Medicaid (OT, PT)
United Healthcare
Behavioral Health (Psychology) Services
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC
Primary Physician Care
Educational Services
(not filed to insurance)
We will file to other plans on an out-of-network basis. The front office team is available to assist in determining network coverage.
Established in 1980, Child and Family Development is a multi-disciplinary pediatric therapy practice with a mission to provide comprehensive, integrated and quality services. Our team of more than 35 therapists spans Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Education and Psychology.
Currently, there is a full-time position for an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist available at our Midtown office.
Visit the Careers tab on our website, www.childandfamilydevelopment.com, for more information.
Most often it is the more severely involved or neurologically injured child who is referred to physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy at an early age. However, an increasing number of infants and toddlers have mild to moderate developmental issues that will greatly benefit from the therapeutic expertise of a skilled pediatric therapist.
Some infants may have a known diagnosis or medical condition. However, some toddlers may simply be experiencing delays in walking, talking or overall socialization. We believe that once a child is identified, time becomes the most critical component.
When we are able to begin treatment with these children before the age of 3, progress often occurs more rapidly. Families find their stress and concern lessened because of the support they receive from our team of clinicians. There are agencies in the area that offer services in a home or natural environment, but Child and Family Development offers clinic-based therapy.
Our clinics are equipped with the tools, toys and equipment that are needed to evaluate and treat children. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate in the sessions and are trained to promote continuous progress in the other settings. We find that many children benefit from working directly with a therapist in a therapeutic setting which is designed to support new learning techniques.
We have about 30 physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists on our staff with two locations to serve the Charlotte region. Every staff member has specialized and advanced training in pediatric therapy with over 400 years of combined pediatric therapy experience across the practice. Many staff members also have advanced training in treating infants to address issues of respiration, feeding and movement.
Our practice accepts NC Medicaid, SC Medicaid, BCBS, Aetna, United Healthcare, Medcost and many other insurance plans.
Infants and toddlers are given a priority at our practice and we are able to schedule evaluations, and treatment within just a few weeks.
Contact us to learn more about our early intervention services for infants and young children.
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