Services

Early Development

Support from day one.

Babies learn skills and grow at different rates, but you know your baby best. If you’re concerned about your baby’s growth or development, Mary Free Bed Kids has an Early Development specialty program. Research shows early intervention can make a significant difference in a baby’s healthy development. 

Our team of specialists will evaluate your baby from head to toe to determine if he or she is developing normally. We may identify a problem that requires services and support.  

Rest assured, your baby is in good hands. Mary Free Bed Kids offers a combination of expertise and love for both you and your baby. We restore hope and smiles. 

Early Development

Who we serve 

We care for babies from birth to the age of three. And we can help any child, not just those born prematurely or those who had a traumatic birth. 

If you notice any signs of a possible developmental delay — or if you’re simply worried about your baby’s growth — don’t wait. The pediatric rehabilitation specialists at Mary Free Bed Kids can provide answers. 

Your team 

Your child’s team will be led a pediatric physiatrist, who is a physician that specializes in pediatric physical medicine and rehabilitation. They are experts in the treatment of neurologic, neuromuscular and developmental disorders in kids. 

Alongside the doctor, your baby’s care and the coordinated efforts of our specially trained team, which includes: 

  • Nurse practitioner 
  • Physical and occupational therapists 
  • Registered dietitian 
  • Medical assistant 
  • Care manager 

What to expect 

During your visit, each member of our team will spend time with you and your baby and assess every aspect of your baby’s development. 

  • You’ll meet with a medical professional who will listen to your concerns and observe your baby. 
  • A physical therapist will evaluate your baby’s movement and physical development. If your baby is three months old or younger, your PT will perform an emerging technique called General Movement Assessment, which analyzes movement patterns. GMA is a simple, non-invasive test that can detect neurological problems. 
  • An occupational therapist will assess your baby’s fine motor skills. 
  • A registered dietitian will evaluate your baby’s weight, length and diet, and determine if he or she is getting nutrition appropriate to best support growth. Together with the OT, they will also observe how your baby eats and address any of your concerns. 
  • Your care manager will help arrange any special services, talk to you about payment options, and provide other help you need. 

The team will meet to discuss their findings and determine if your baby is developing appropriately, or if additional tests or interventions are warranted. 

Comprehensive services 

Mary Free Bed Kids provides specialized diagnostic and intervention services to help your baby grow. Your team may recommend exercises you can do with your baby at home or tell you if more comprehensive services are needed. 

Depending on your baby’s needs, we may recommend: 

  • Physical therapy 
  • Occupational therapy 
  • Torticollis treatment 
  • Plagiocephaly treatment 
  • Nutrition services 
  • Feeding therapy 
  • Neurology 
  • Ophthalmology 
  • Audiology 
  • Orthotics 

When your child turns three years old, he or she will graduate from the Early Development specialty program. If you’re interested in continuing treatment, we have multiple options available. 

Contact Us 

616.840.8005
800.668.6001 

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