How access to pediatric therapy is changing what’s possible for children—and the families who love them.
Cheesy eggs and sausage, cuddling up with a favorite book, and dancing to a good beat – these are a few of Reyna’s favorite things. At home, her big brother pushes her around in her stander, as they laugh and chase their dog together.
The stander and her ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) help provide Reyna with stability. Reyna was referred to early intervention at her nine-month checkup. “We reached out to the Infant and Toddler Connection of Virginia for an evaluation,” says her mom, Lani. “It was such a quick and easy process!” From there, they were connected with SOAR365’s Pediatric Therapy program and Emily Rosenberger, her physical therapist.
SOAR365 is proud to be the largest provider of early intervention services in Central Virginia, serving children from birth to age three. We offer speech, occupational and physical therapy and developmental services. And the need for these services is growing, as more children are being diagnosed with disabilities and developmental delays.
Currently, Virginia is only serving 4.35% of the birth to age three population in early intervention. Studies suggest that, nationwide, 8.5-17% of children in this age group need these services.
Since starting therapy last May, Reyna has been working hard to build strength in her arms and core so she can sit independently. She’s also practicing new skills like moving in a circle during floor play, pulling up onto her hands and knees, and rocking back and forth—important steps toward mobility and independence.
A trusted therapist helps make that hard work fun. “Emily is a great teacher. I am able to easily follow her exercises with Reyna,” says Lani. “I like how she focuses on different movements each session, and it all builds up and connects. She’s so knowledgeable, and I immediately felt comfortable having Emily lead Reyna.”
With Emily’s guidance, Reyna has learned to roll, push up during tummy time, and reach for and grasp toys using both hands. In her stander, she now explores her world in new ways—building with blocks, flipping through books, and digging into sensory bins filled with dry beans.
“It is absolutely amazing to see the carryover from session to session because Reyna and her family have been working on the strategies provided,” says Emily. “They empower her to reach her full potential, and it is so inspiring to see. I’m honored to coach them through these skills every session!”
For parents wondering about an evaluation, Lani’s advice is simple but powerful. “Do not hesitate and do it as soon as possible,” she says. “The support and care of people who want to help your child is one of the best feelings. It has put my mind at ease knowing we are providing Reyna with the tools and skills for her to succeed.”
