This story originally appeared in SOAR365’s Spring 2026 NEWZ.
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, a 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 led her to SOAR365’s Pediatric Therapy program, the largest provider of early intervention services in Central Virginia. Early intervention is a federal program that supports young 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. SOAR365 is growing to help meet that need—serving 1,087 children last year, up from 618 in 2020.
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.
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!’”
With Emily’s help, Parker corrected her head tilt and her motor skills took off. By 14 months, she was cruising and standing—and has since graduated from services.
Eli’s path looks a little different. “He scoots and army crawls,” Rachel says. “We’re working on building strength so he can get to the next step.”
SOAR365 therapists meet families where children learn best— at home and in everyday routines.
“Emily shows us how to use what we already have,” Rachel says. Simple changes—like using couch cushions for support—have made a big difference.
Just as important, Emily brings peace of mind. Seeing so many specialists “can be overwhelming,” Rachel says. “Having someone you trust gives you confidence.”
For Rachel, early intervention hasn’t just supported Eli and Parker’s development—it’s supported her, too.
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