Center For Pediatric: Teach Children To Swim

Center For Pediatric: Teach Children To Swim

Kids Health The Newsletter About Taking Care Of The Ones That Matter Most

Spring, 2018

“All The Fun Is In The Water, Not By The Water!” TEACHING YOUR CHILD HOW TO SWIM

Swimming is a huge staple of childhood. For kids lucky enough to grow up near the water, whether it is a pool or the beach, spending long summer days in and out of the water, going to summer camp, and all of the other experiences that go along with being near the water are the things that childhood memories are made of. Too many people make the mistake of thinking that if they aren’t living near the ocean or if they don’t have a pool in their backyard, then these childhood experiences aren’t relevant to their kids. Water is everywhere, and even kids who grow up in areas that aren’t surrounded by water will often find their way to the water for one reason or another. This is why it is so important to teach all children how to swim. Knowing how to swim is more than a hobby that can help your child have some fun during their holidays, it is a potentially lifesaving bit of knowledge that will stay with your child forever.

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Kids Health The Newsletter About Taking Care Of The Ones That Matter Most

Spring, 2018

“It’s Time To Conquer&Achieve The Task Of Swimming!” TEACHING YOUR CHILD HOW TO SWIM

Inside:

• Muscular Dystrophy & Why PT Is Important

• Staff Spotlight

• Writing A Review Is Just A Click Away

The Importance of Knowing How to Swim Life can change in the blink of an eye. One moment you can be enjoying a bit of relaxation in the sun, and the next moment chaos can ensue. Children gravitate towards the water—especially young children. And it doesn’t take a lot of water for trouble to occur. Children have drowned in their bathtubs before, and most instances of children drowning happen when a child has not been around water very much. Regardless of where you live and how often you think that you will be around water, it is important for your children to learn how to swim. Being safe in water is lifesaving knowledge, and can provide you with peace of mind as your children grow and become more likely to find themselves confronted with a water park, swimming pool, or trips to the beach. You don’t need to rely on your own knowledge to teach your child to swim. Swimming classes are a staple at community centers across the country. Here are a few things to look for as you begin considering water safety for your children: Classes can start as young as for infants. These classes are designed to help young children become exposed to water, and paves the way for greater comfort in the water later on.

Most programs will begin teaching actual swimming lessons to toddlers. Once they are old enough to walk and understand commands, they can start learning how to protect themselves in the water. If your child doesn’t begin classes at such an early age, they can start later. There are even introductory swimming classes for adults. Never assume that anyone is too old to learn how to swim! Water Safety: Taking it Seriously Every time your child is in the water it is an opportunity to remind them of the basics and ensure that they know how to swim. Focus on the primary techniques, such as the doggy-paddle and the breaststroke, as well as how to tread water. Being able to float on their back is another core strategy that all children should be able to do in the water from a young age. The more confident a child feels in the water, the more likely it could become that the child will want to find water to play in. Even after your children have been exposed to the water and have learned the basics of how to swim, they should never be left unsupervised in the water. An adult should always be present whenever a child wants to go into the water, regardless of how experienced or talented the child is perceived to be in the water. Consider, at public pools lifeguards are on duty even for adults!

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MUSCLE FUNCTION LIMITING SWIMMING ABILITY?

Physical therapy is integral to maintain muscle functioning and avoid joint problems. The goals of such therapy are to help a patient stay as flexible, strong and symmetrical as possible. A physical therapist works with the child to exercise, stretch, and maintain appropriate posture. They assist with hydro-based therapy, and continually observe a child’s spine, respiratory and musculoskeletal function. Physical therapists are also key in prescribing and monitoring adaptive seating and equipment. Many parents rely on the therapists to assist school staff with modifications, advocate for the family, and communicate with the insurance companies. Even when a person is relegated to a wheelchair, physical therapy can help improve a person’s abilities. Adaptive equipment and devices Children with muscular dystrophy have an increased risk of falls. Since the condition impacts visual abilities, muscle strength and overall mood, many patients require adaptive equipment to ensure safety and increase functioning. Physical therapists can help recommend and assist children in obtaining powered mobility devices, wheelchairs, canes and walkers. As general functioning declines, an occupational therapist can also guide children and adolescents in the use of long-handled sponges, button hooks, and pen cushions. Exercise Weakness is a natural component to muscular dystrophy. However, it can play a minor role compared to disuse. Physical therapists can help guide patients to the appropriate amount and type of exercise through carefully tailored routines. As muscles atrophy, a skilled physical therapist can provide adjustments to exercises as well. The therapist can recommend games and fun activities that increase strength, lessen the risk of obesity, and improve heart health.

Breathing Since muscular dystrophy affects respiratory functioning, physical therapists often lead patients in breathing exercises and activities designed to build respiratory strength. Developmental skills Physical therapists help children master vital developmental skills, such as crawling, jumping, climbing and eating . When looking for a physical therapist, it’s important to find someone who has experience in pediatric physical therapy and muscular dystrophy. She should be willing to work with other health care professionals and coordinate care with you, the parent or caregiver.

Staff Spotlight Jennifer Miller, MS, CCC-SLP SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Jennifer is a speech-language pathologist with over 30 years of experience providing services in a variety of settings including skilled care facilities, clinics, public schools, and early intervention. She joined the Center for Pediatric Therapies’ Lynchburg office in July 2013 and enjoys working with the early intervention population in Roanoke, VA and surrounding areas. Jennifer received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in speech-language pathology from James Madison University. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association, is trained in Beckman Oral-Motor Assessment and Intervention and is a certified Early Intervention provider. A Roanoke native, Jennifer and her husband enjoy hiking, traveling, VirginiaTech football (Go Hokies!) and spending as much time as possible with their three grown sons, daughter-in-law and grandson.

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DISCOVERRELIEF FOR THE ONESWHOMATTER THEMOST At Center For Pediatric Therapies, you will receive hands-on therapy treatments by our friendly, caring health experts during focused and individualized sessions. It’s time to get Center For Pediatric Therapies if: • You’re tired of your children living in pain 1. Call and talk to your therapist 2. Discover why your pain has come back

• You just want them to feel better and move better • They have any social, mental or motor skill issues • You want to prevent them from any injuries

3. Get your custom recovery program

Call A Clinic Nearest You To Talk To A Therapist Today

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WRITING A REVIEW IS JUST A CLICK AWAY!

Center for Pediatric Therapies values each of our patients and believes that every child is truly special. We invite you to share your child’s experience with CPT by leaving us a review on Facebook. Simply log onto Facebook, visit our page @centerforpediatrictherapies then click Reviews to tell people what you think. We’d love to hear how physical, occupational, and speech therapy have impacted your child’s life.

Review Us On Facebook Today!

“I love when my son’s PT comes for our home visits. She gives me good tips & for helping him especially since he has to wear braces for his legs & we take things step by step. I love it & with him I see more growth & he should be walking soon.” - RR, Parent of CPT child

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