In this raw and heartfelt podcast, a mother shares her experience balancing parenting with being a special needs caregiver to her 14-year-old son who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy. Hosted by Dr. Christine Astarita with Breakthrough Intensive Physical…
5 Great Service Dog Breeds for Kids
If your child has special needs, specific service dog breeds may be a wonderful trained helper to assist with daily activities. Most importantly, a loyal companion to fit into your family’s lifestyle and child’s needs. So you may be wondering…
4 Types of Treatments for Cerebral Palsy
You may be wondering what are the treatments for cerebral palsy? More importantly, what type of treatment is right for your child? There is not just one type of treatment method available to you but multiple options. These options may…
What Is the Most Common Type of Cerebral Palsy?
Let’s explore the most common type of Cerebral Palsy diagnosed in children today. But before we do, it’s important to know that Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability in childhood (1). It is defined as brain damage…
Sensory Processing Disorder Checklist and Symptoms
Sensory processing! We take in information and learn about the world around us through sensory-based experiences. It is important to note that everybody, regardless of the degree of ability, age, gender, etc., has what we call a unique sensory profile,…
5 Easy Proprioception Exercises by a Physical Therapist
In this blog, NAPA pediatric physical therapist Larissa is here to share some easy proprioception exercises for toddlers and children. Good proprioception is an important part of everyone’s life whether you are 1 year old or 99 years old. What…
How To Get A Disney Disability Pass
Did you know if you have a child or family member with a disability you may be eligible to receive a Disney Disability Pass? That’s right. If you are planning a magical vacation to one of Disney’s theme parks like…
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
What is AAC Communication? AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Many individuals of all ages use AAC due to expressive communication disorders. AAC can either be temporary or permanent and can come in all different types and sizes (ASHA,…
10 Must-Know Signs of Cerebral Palsy in an Infant
One of the main signs of cerebral palsy in an infant is when brain damage occurs during pregnancy or shortly after. But how can you know for sure? When a baby is welcomed into this world it can be an…
Top 12 Special Needs Swings (Powerful Therapeutic Tool)
Special needs swings are powerful adaptive tools to encourage a child’s development. Especially when it comes to sensory integration and therapy use. But you may be wondering what are adaptive swings and why should you use one? If you have…
7 Trick-Or-Treating Tips for Parents of Kids with Disabilities
Trick-or-Treating is creeping upon us! While most kids can’t wait to dress up and prowl the neighborhood for candy, Halloween can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for kids with disabilities. All the lights, masks, crowds, and costumes can…
18 Fun and Festive Kids Halloween Costume Ideas
Do you need kids Halloween costume ideas to DIY or quickly buy? Maybe your child has special needs and you need a costume for their wheelchair? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we’ve got you covered. No…
