This story originally appeared in SOAR365’s Summer 2026 NEWZ. Click here to view a digital version of the newsletter.
For twins Eli and Parker, early intervention supports each child’s unique journey.
Rachel’s twins, Eli and Parker, started life in the NICU. At one of their early check-ups, their doctor handed Rachel a form with several outpatient therapy locations circled.
In the margin, “they also wrote ‘early intervention,’” Rachel recalls. “It was very confusing. What is ‘early intervention’? That means nothing to a new mom.”
Her research eventually led her to SOAR365, the largest provider of early intervention services in Central Virginia. Early intervention is a federal program that helps identify and support children with developmental delays, from birth through age three.
The need for these services is growing, and research shows that the earlier children have access to therapy, the higher their rate of success.
Through its Pediatric Therapy program, SOAR365 is helping meet that need. Last year alone, the organization served 1,087 children across the region, up from 618 in 2020.
Emily Rosenberger, a SOAR365 physical therapist, completed the twins’ initial evaluation—and Rachel felt reassured right away. “I thought, ‘She’s really great with the kids. I would love to have her as their therapist!’”
Eli was referred to therapy first due to low muscle tone. Soon after, a pediatrician noticed Parker had a head tilt and recommended therapy for her as well.
Once Parker’s head tilt was corrected, her motor skills took off. She began crawling, pulling up, and standing. At 14 months old, she’s cruising and standing—and no longer needs services.
Eli’s goals look a little different.
“He army crawls and scoots, but he doesn’t crawl on his hands and knees yet,” Rachel explains. “We’re working on kneeling and strengthening his hips, core, and shoulders.”
Research shows that children learn best in their natural environment—where they play, eat, and sleep. That’s why SOAR365 therapists meet families where they are, whether at home, daycare, or out in the community.
“I love that it’s in our home,” says Rachel. “Emily shows us how to use what we already have.” Simple adjustments—like stacking couch cushions—have made a big difference.
Just as important, Emily brings peace of mind. “She’s helped reduce my anxiety at doctor appointments,” Rachel says. “It can be overwhelming with all those opinions thrown at you. But having that rapport—and seeing how she works with the kids—gives me confidence.”
For Rachel, early intervention hasn’t just supported Eli and Parker’s development—it’s supported her, too.
To learn more about Pediatric Therapy at SOAR365, click here. And to keep up to date on all things SOAR365, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
