12/12/2025
Esteban traveled all the way from Ecuador, and his progress this week reminded us why speech, OT, and PT working together matters so much.
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When we collaborate as a team, we are not chasing isolated skills. We are working toward shared parent goals, with each discipline supporting the whole child in different but equally important ways.
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In PT, we focused on giving Esteban input through his hands and building shoulder girdle strength. That work supported the skills he was developing alongside OT and speech, allowing everything to connect in meaningful ways.
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Esteban has had experiences earlier in life that make him protective of his face and mouth. Anything approaching that space can trigger a strong protective response. But when he is in control, when his hands guide the experience, his body stays more regulated, more open, and more willing to explore.
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That is why self feeding is not just a milestone for him. It is a safety strategy. It gives him agency. It honors his boundaries. And it creates the conditions where real learning can happen.
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During this intensive, OT supported the motor foundations he needed to feed himself with confidence. On day one, we worked on developing a pincer grasp. On day two, we practiced pulling one item off another. Then he came into feeding therapy and used those exact skills with real food.
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He practiced his pincer grasp while exploring food on his own terms. He twisted the top of his pouch and pulled it off independently. He led the experience. His body stayed regulated. And the learning stuck.
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This is what happens when safety leads. Skills follow.
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This is why collaboration matters.This is why trauma informed care matters. This is how small business works for the betterment of your child. We still have openings in January. Email us at dana@allkidsperfect.com and Alli@cuetherapy.com
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