Blog Archive

April marks not only Occupational Therapy Month but also Autism Acceptance Month, making it an excellent opportunity to discuss how occupational therapy plays a vital role in supporting children on the autism spectrum.  If you're the parent of a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, you're likely navigating a unique...

March 20th is Behavioral Analysis Day, an international celebration of behavior analysis science, which looks at how biology, life experiences, and medication affect behavior in people. Behavioral analysis profoundly impacts various aspects of society, from education and health care to business and personal development.  Behavioral analysis delves into the principles...

As we navigate the digital revolution, it’s critical not to overlook the importance of handwriting in child education and development. While typing and swiping have become the norm, handwriting still provides tremendous value. Handwriting is a critical tool in cognitive development and motor skills enhancement. At PediaPlex, our team of...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects behavior and communication. Symptoms of autism typically appear in the first two years of life, and early intervention is highly beneficial.   Knowing the signs to look out for can help you identify whether your child might be on the spectrum...

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a highly effective and research-backed developmental and behavioral therapy approach. Primarily tailored for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental conditions, ABA therapy focuses on improving specific behaviors, social skills, communication, reading, and adaptability to environmental changes.  If your child is diagnosed with autism,...

When children are learning to speak, they frequently stutter. As a parent, it’s wise to spot the difference between typical speech development hurdles and chronic stuttering. Knowing what is and isn’t typical means you’re more likely to know when it’s best to have your child evaluated. Stuttering is usually noticeable...

Struggles with handwriting often get dismissed as unimportant, but the reality is far more complex. Poor handwriting may signal underlying issues that require attention, ranging from fine motor skills to cognitive and emotional challenges.  At PediaPlex, we offer handwriting evaluation and specialized therapies, including occupational therapy, to address the root...

If your child misses a milestone, it’s perfectly normal to question whether something more is at play. With rising awareness of autism, many wonder whether their child might be on the spectrum. While every child's development is unique, recognizing when it's time for a professional evaluation is crucial. The multidisciplinary...

When children turn away from their plates, you can dismiss it as fussy eating. However, persistent mealtime problems could signal a more serious issue - a feeding disorder. These disorders go beyond typical food preferences and can profoundly affect a child's nutrition, growth, and development. At PediaPlex, we understand how concerning...

Stuttering is not only challenging and frustrating for children but also for their parents trying to navigate the vast information and treatment options.  Understanding the process of speech therapy for stuttering can go a long way in making the path smoother for parents and children. At PediaPlex -- a multidisciplinary...

It can feel overwhelming for families navigating their child's sensory processing disorder (SPD) diagnosis. But there is a silver lining in this journey. Pedia Plex, a top-quality clinic offering a wide range of therapies, is dedicated to supporting and empowering families impacted by SPDs.  With Pedia Plex's compassionate and knowledgeable team,...

When it comes to reading and writing, some children face unique challenges that can be difficult to detect. Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that makes reading and writing a daunting task, and parents must know what to look for to guide their children to get the support they need. ...

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to enhance awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior.  At PediaPlex, our multidisciplinary team provides a cohesive plan to help...

March 20th marks Behavior Analysis Day! This day focuses on spreading the word about the science of behavior analysis, which helps us understand how our environment affects our behavior. Behavior analysts use this knowledge to develop interventions to help people live happier, healthier lives.  If you suspect that your child...

Articulation is the process of producing sounds, syllables, and words. It’s typical for young children to have trouble saying words correctly as they start to talk. Most children learn to make all speech sounds by the age of four or five. Children who have difficulty pronouncing certain words after age...

Feeding challenges are common in children, especially toddlers. However, some children have difficulties eating that can benefit from therapeutic intervention. As a parent, it’s important to spot the signs that your child’s feeding difficulties may require professional evaluation and treatment.  The PediaPlex team offers comprehensive, specialized care to children with various feeding...

Autism exists on a spectrum, and within this spectrum, there are five types of autism (three main forms and two less common), each with its own characteristics and differences. Autism affects each child differently, and early intervention is vital to improving functioning and quality of life. Working with an autism...

Parents are often concerned that taking their child to speech therapy increases their awareness of the stuttering and has a negative impact. Other parents are eager for their child to begin speech therapy but are unsure about when is the best time to start. While there are no firm guidelines...

Because autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder, early therapy can make a significant difference in helping your child build skills that improve quality of life. Thanks to early assessment, more children are receiving a timely diagnosis and getting the care they need.  On average, children with autism are...

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) encompasses a range of different strategies and techniques aimed at helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to learn new skills and behaviors. The techniques are based on scientific ideas and focus on making observable progress through repeating acts.  The multidisciplinary team at PediaPlex offers various...

Some children have a hard time handling information coming through their senses. Too much or too little stimulation from sound, touch, taste, smell, and sight can cause distress. Besides the five common senses, there are also two less well-known senses — the sense of body awareness (proprioception) and vestibular, which...

Don’t ignore it if you notice that your child has poor handwriting. It may signal that your child needs some specialized help. Handwriting difficulties are common in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and dysgraphia.  The multidisciplinary PediaPlex team evaluates and provides a full range of therapies for children who need help with fine motor...

While autism has been reported to occur more frequently in boys, differences in characteristics of autism in girls leads many girls to go undiagnosed. Because early diagnosis and intervention is key to supporting children with autism and improving their ability to function as adults, it’s vital to spot the signs...

During the first 12 months of their lives, children develop at tremendous speed. Within the first six months, they should be babblers, and by their first birthday, they should have said their first word. As a parent, it's natural to be concerned if your child isn't saying as many as...

This month Texas Business Hall of Fame (TBHF) is spotlighting Sonia Kirkpatrick, a 2011 Future Texas Business Legend Award recipient from University of Dallas. We asked Sonia to share her entrepreneurial journey and offer some advice for aspiring business leaders. What inspired you to start PediaPlex and what was your...

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) varies significantly in its symptoms from child to child and because it is developmental in nature, initial symptoms may not appear in the first few years of life. If symptoms do arise within your child’s first few years, they may go unrecognized if you don’t know...

World Autism Day is an annual celebration of autistic people to raise awareness of developmental disorders and neurodivergence. You can show support on World Autism Day by posting about autism, celebrating neurodiversity at local events, and listening to the stories of neurodiverse individuals. What Is World Autism Day? Since autism...

The ability to communicate clearly is essential for normal growth and development during childhood. When your child can tell you what they need, life becomes much easier! And, by the time they enter school, clear speech helps them learn important skills.  At PediPlex, with locations in Frisco, Fort Worth, and...

Spring break means sun, warmth, and freedom, but for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, it could mean unstructured time, regression of skills, and an increase in undesirable behaviors. If you're the parent of a child with autism, you know that the "break" in Spring break can be misleading;...

What is a sensory room? A sensory room or sensory integration room is designed to provide calm, focus, and comfort to people with sensory processing problems, which often includes people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Children on the spectrum may be hyper-sensitive to harsh lighting, strong odors, and loud music....

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impacts the normal development of areas within the brain that affect a child’s social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. It’s typically diagnosed in early childhood, usually before age 3, and may cause difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication, thinking skills, and leisure, play,...

Meet the Cheerful Chevy! Chevy is 3 years-old and attends our Frisco PediaPlex therapy clinic for occupational therapy and speech therapy. About Chevy Chevy is a cheerful 3-year-old who loves to play chase, flip around, and wrestle with his mom and dad! When he’s not at PediaPlex you can find...

Gobble Gobble! The holidays are creeping up on us and for many families this might be one of the first times traveling and being around a larger group of family in a while. During COVID many families did not travel for the holidays so this year might be filled with...

We know it all too well- “We had a rough night of sleep so we might be a little drowsy today.” It’s a frequent conversation we have because sleeping challenges for children with special needs is very common. (Honestly, for all kids!) So, to help our parents out we wanted...

Meet the outgoing and fun Steffanie- a BCBA at our Frisco location! A BCBA is a board certified behavior analyst who works in our ABA Therapy department. In addition to being a BCBA, Steffanie is the Ongoing Performance Manager for PediaPlex. About Steffanie Steffanie is originally from Dayton, Ohio. She...

As the Halloween season approaches we often get questions about the history of the Teal Pumpkin Project. This is a popular Halloween trend that started in 2014 by FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to help create an allergy-safe Halloween that will make more children feel included. Often when trick-or-treating there are...

What is ABA therapy? How do you come up with a child’s plan of care for therapy? These are two common questions that our parents ask us before starting ABA therapy at PediaPlex. ABA therapy, applied behavior analysis, is an evidence-based scientific method that is used for children on the...

Meet the spunky Bryson! Bryson is 2.5 year old and attends PediaPlex for speech therapy. About Bryson Bryson is a fun and bright 2.5-year-old! He loves to read books, play with puzzles and pretend play. His mom says that his imagination is really starting to show as he plays because...

School is now back in session for most school districts. For some children this will be their first time ever to school, for others this is their first time back in over a year due to COVID-19. With the start of a new school year comes back to school challenges....

When your child first starts ABA therapy you will hear many different phrases. One we talk about often with our parents is the importance of generalization from clinic to home settings. It is crucial that we provide parent trainings for children in our ABA therapy program so that their parents...

Allow us to introduce you to the amazing Brayden. Brayden is an RBT and RBT mentor at our Southlake PediaPlex clinic. About Brayden Brayden was born and raised in Southlake, Texas. She graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo where she received a degree in Elementary Education. She is...

As a parent you’ve noticed how your child will mimic many things you do- whether it’s hand gestures or phrases, your children are certain to learn the good, and the bad, things that you say or do. That’s why using imitation to teach speech is a great way to start...

A common conversation we have with parents is the difference between a medical autism assessment and an educational assessment. If you are a parent going through the process of getting your child an autism diagnosis, it’s important to do your research and make sure that the specific assessment being performed...

It’s time to spotlight the one and only Megan! If you’ve been at PediaPlex for a while you probably have met Megan, or at least know of her. But for those who don’t, allow us to introduce you to her! About Megan Megan is Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) here...

Join us on Saturday, July 24th for our Frisco Open House Event! From 5PM-8PM we will be opening up our tours to show the Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and surrounding areas our new clinic. Our address is 4855 Ohio Drive, Frisco Texas 75035. Our newest pediatric therapy clinic offers ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, Feeding Therapy, and Occupational Therapy....

Going to bed at 8PM, waking up and eating breakfast, and going to school are all examples of things that are worked into our daily routine. Routines are especially important for kids on the autism spectrum, because it helps to create and maintain consistency and provide a sense of security....

Playing games with others, sharing toys with siblings, and playing on the jungle gym with peers are all examples of play-based skills that your child develops at a young age. When a child is playing, they are learning and developing important skills that they are going to use throughout their...

Meet the fantastic Flynn! Flynn has been at PediaPlex since April of 2020 when he started with speech and occupational therapy. In December of 2020 he started doing ABA therapy at PediaPlex in Southlake. About the Fantastic Flynn Flynn is 3 years old and is always full of energy! His hobbies include...

Starting conversations, showing empathy, listening, and nonverbal communication are just a few examples of social skills that kids develop as they get older. Being able to communicate with others is a huge part of our lives which is why it’s such an important skill for children to work on with...

Summer is coming which means it’s time for summer vacations. Many children on the autism spectrum have challenges when it comes to traveling, either in the car, trains, or flying. When traveling there are crowds, unpredictability, changes in routine/schedule, and new noises and sights. All of these factors can make...

PediaPlex friends and families, we’d like to introduce you to the wonderful Harriet! Harriet is a Speech-Language Pathologist with us. She joined our Southlake team in January 2020 and has since transitioned to our new Frisco location! About Harriet Harriet has such a fun story and we can’t wait to...

If you are new to the ABA world, you’re going to hear a lot of initials and terms used in ABA therapy. There is ABA, RBT, BCBA, BCaBA, and so much more. So, what are all of these terms used in ABA? Some of these are roles and some are terms...

Babbling, smiling, gesturing, and putting words together are just a few examples of language your child will start to learn in their first few years of life. Language is the way we communicate with others; verbally or nonverbally. It is the way we share ideas, tell what we want, and...

Meet the wonderful Evan! Evan is 5 years old and comes to PediaPlex for ABA therapy, speech, and occupational therapy. About Evan Evan is 5 years old and he loves to go on walks, visit his grandma in Bandera, and play hide and seek with his older brother! His hobbies...

NBC Texas Today host Kristin Dickerson stopped by with her camera crew this week for a tour of our new Frisco, Texas location. April is Autism Awareness month and the Texas Today show has been honoring the month by highlighting autism awareness, autism treatment, sensory friendly events, and living options for adults...

Spring is here, and so is April, which means it is Occupational Therapy Awareness Month! We love our occupational therapists here at PediaPlex and so appreciate them for all their hard work! They teach children so many different skills that will use for the rest of their lives! Things like...

World Autism Day is observed on April 2nd each year. This is a day to raise awareness and acceptance around the world for people with autism. To go along with World Autism Day, we use the month of April to recognize our friends and family with autism, as well as those...

We are so excited to introduce you all to the creative and talented Chloe! Chloe works in our ABA therapy department at our Southlake PediaPlex. About Chloe Chloe is from Keller, Texas and went to school at Texas Woman’s University where she graduated with her degree in Child Development. A few fun...

Our new PediaPlex location is set to open in Frisco, Texas on March 15, 2021. We are very excited to be offering pediatric therapy services for families in the Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Allen, Richardson, The Colony, and surrounding areas. PediaPlex is an all-inclusive pediatric therapy center in Frisco, Texas that offers ABA therapy, occupational therapy,...

Tags on clothes, cold food, and loud noises are all examples of things that children with sensory processing disorder might be sensitive to. Sensory processing disorder can present itself in a variety of different ways because it can look different for every child. Plus, it can affect all of your...

Each March we observe National Developmental Disability Awareness Month and raise awareness for those with developmental disabilities. This is also a great time to educate others on what a developmental disability is. At PediaPlex, we see a variety of different developmental disabilities so raising awareness for this is very near...

We are thrilled to introduce everyone to the sweet and kind Taylor Klinke! Taylor is a BCaBA at our Southlake PediaPlex location and works in our ABA Therapy program. About Taylor Taylor has worked at PediaPlex since May of 2018 (2.5 years!). She was born and raised in Coppell, Texas...

Now that it is officially 2021 we have been getting questions about our Frisco location! When will we open? Where exactly is it? What services will this location offer? What therapy rooms do you have planned? We know you are excited- trust us, we are too! We are here to...

The day has finally come for your child to start ABA Therapy. You’re probably wondering what a day in the life at PediaPlex is going to look like for your child. While this experience will vary for each child, we want to give you a rundown of what a day...

Meet Sonia Kirkpatrick, CEO, and founder of PediaPlex! Many of you know Sonia, but for those of you who are new here we want to take some time and tell you about the wonderful PediaPlex founder, Sonia! About Sonia Sonia is a mom to three gorgeous girls, Megan, Katherine, and...

It can be overwhelming getting a new diagnosis for your child. You’re probably wondering what do to with a new diagnosis for your child, what your options are, and how you will afford it. As a parent you feel a sense of urgency to pinpoint the best way to treat...

As your child is growing, there are developmental milestones you will be watching for them to meet. These child developmental milestones are based on your child’s age and include skills that children typically reach by a certain age. Skills such as first steps, smiling, waving, and so much more are...

PediaPlex family, meet the bubbly and fun Leo! Leo is an (almost) 5-year-old who attends PediaPlex for ABA, speech, and occupational therapy. He has attended PediaPlex since early 2020. About the Bubbly Leo Leo is a super bubbly 5-year old and fun kid! Some of his favorite things to do are...

Frequently, when we are talking about speech therapy, parents assume that it just means their child has trouble pronouncing words with “r” or “s” sounds. But there is so much more that speech can work on! Speech and effective communication are essential skills for daily life. It is a skill...

Road trips during the holidays are always a fun time! This year more than ever families will be packing up their cars and traveling to see their families for Thanksgiving and Christmas so that they can avoid the crowds at the airports. While this is a great way to social...

We are pleased to introduce you to the wonderful Olivia Kern, OTR! Olivia is an occupational therapist at our Southlake clinic and has worked at PediaPlex since August 2018. About Olivia Olivia is an occupational therapist at our Southlake PediaPlex location. She received her bachelor’s degree and her master’s degree...

As always, the holidays are sneaking up on us. While things might look a little different this year because of social distancing and COVID-19, many families are still preparing for the holidays and fun filled times with loved ones. When it comes to preparing for the holidays with a child...

Virtual learning is the new reality for many families across the Dallas/Fort Worth area, as well as all of America. Many parents and teachers are facing challenges when it comes to virtual learning because, for many younger children, this is not an ideal way to learn. There are many distractions...

Meet the incredible Ryan! Ryan is 10 years old and attends PediaPlex for ABA therapy and occupational therapy. About Ryan Ryan is an incredible kiddo who attends PediaPlex! When Ryan isn’t at PediaPlex you can find him watching videos, swimming, and learning about animals. One of his favorite PediaPlex activities is craft time...

Joining our Fort Worth and Southlake clinics, PediaPlex is excited to announce our new Frisco clinic will be opening soon! PediaPlex Frisco4855 Ohio DriveFrisco, Texas 75035Info@PediaPlex.netOffice: 817.442.0222Fax: 817.442.0223 PediaPlex Frisco will provide children with the same customized one-on-one treatment for autism and other developmental delays that we provide in our...

Meet the dedicated and kind Julia! Julia is a registered behavior therapist (RBT) mentor at our Southlake PediaPlex clinic! As an RBT mentor she works in our ABA Therapy department as well as helps to train our new hires at PediaPlex. About Julia Julia is a Registered Behavior Therapist mentor...

When you are raising a child with special needs, or any child, it can be a lot of work. As parents you want to set them up for success and provide them with all of the support and services that they will need. Your goal is to help maximize their...

Summer break has ended, and school is back in session. After a few months off, it’s normal for your child struggle a bit with getting back into the swing of things. One challenge many children face when returning to school is their handwriting. For some it can go right back...

Pickles, avocados, watermelons, bananas. What do all of these foods have in common? They all have a weird texture to them! Of course, there are many other foods that also do, those are just a few common ones you might have noticed that your child doesn’t like. The question many...

It’s time for another client spotlight! Meet Jerome! He is 7 years old and attends PediaPlex for ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. About Jerome Jerome is a super energetic 7-year-old who lights up the room! His favorite thing to do while at PediaPlex is arts and crafts time with his friends....

Starting ABA Therapy, or really any therapy, for the first time at a new place can often be scary and overwhelming for all parties involved. For parents, you’re leaving your child in a new place with new people. For children, they are coming into a brand-new place with unfamiliar people. We...

Occupational Therapy (OT) is one of our therapies that we get the most questions about! The name alone confuses many parents because they automatically think of a job, or occupation, when they hear it. Yes, your child is too young for a real job, but as children it’s important for...

Meet the outstanding Hudson! Hudson is 5-years-old and receives ABA, Speech, and Occupational Therapy at PediaPlex. About Hudson Hudson’s parents describe him as a “professional cuddler” who loves to jump, swing, eat, and go on road trips with his family. Some of his favorite things to do are play with blocks, blow bubbles, read, do...

With all of the constant change in America and the DFW Area, it’s normal for your children to be confused or frustrated with all of the uncertainties and changes they are experiencing. From staying at home for 2 months, to only being able to leave while wearing a mask, it’s...

Are you looking for some fun at home things to do with your children this summer? We’ve made a list of some yummy summer cooking ideas for you to try with the kids. These recipes are all very hands on for your kids which makes for a great way to...

Meet the wonderful SLP, Courtney! Courtney is a Speech-Language Pathologist at our Alliance PediaPlex location and she has been a part of the PediaPlex family since February 2019. About Courtney Courtney studied at the University of North Texas and then went on to get her masters at Abilene Christian University. When she’s...

Every child loves arts and crafts time, but sometimes certain projects are harder on kids with sensory processing disorder. Different crafts might be suitable for one child, while another might strongly dislike it. At PediaPlex, we are very familiar with creating fun sensory art and science projects for all of...

As the weather starts to get warmer and the pools and lakes start to get more crowded, it’s extremely important to talk to your children about water safety; especially if you have a child on the autism spectrum. Water safety is extremely important for all kids to be well trained...

PediaPlex friends, we are so excited to introduce you all to the wonderful Judson! Judson is 4 years old and has attended PediaPlex since February of 2019 receiving Speech, Feeding, ABA, and Occupational Therapy. He splits his schedule with his preschool; he attends PediaPlex 3 days a week and then preschool 2 days a...

May is National Better Hearing and Speech Month! May is all about raising awareness about communication disorders and highlighting our awesome speech language pathologists at PediaPlex and all over the country! Communication disorders are present in children and adults. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 40 million Americans have some sort...

Happy Better Hearing and Speech Month! Since the month of May is dedicated to all of the amazing speech therapists out there, we wanted to recognize one of our own for our staff spotlight this month. Meet the fun and wonderful Karen! About Karen Karen is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) here...

We are very excited to offer teletherapy at PediaPlex! With all of the recent changes in the Dallas & Fort Worth area, we want to be able to accommodate all of our families to the best of our abilities. As many of you know, we’ve added in teletherapy for speech therapy, occupational...

Did you know that Occupational Therapy and ABA Therapy go hand-in-hand? Yes! These two therapies work great together for the development of children for behavior skills, self-care skills, and social skills. April is Autism Awareness Month and Occupational Therapy Awareness Month so we wanted to bring the two therapies together and show you just how important...

It’s time for some PediaPlex sensory box fun! If your child attends PediaPlex for therapy then chances are they’ve gotten the chance to use one of our sensory boxes (or sensory bottles or bags) while in session. But have you ever made them at home?! These are a super fun, and therapeutic,...

Meet the amazing COTA Shannon! Shannon is a COTA (Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant) here at PediaPlex! She works at our Alliance location and has been part of the PediaPlex Family for a year and half now. What Is A COTA? A COTA is a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant.  COTAs help clients gain the skills...

It’s time for one of our favorite events, Sensory Aware Saturday! Join the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History on March 21st for their annual Sensory Aware Saturday event! This is a super fun (FREE) event at the museum where families of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities can...

Meet the adorable and sweet Kate! Kate attends our Fort Worth/Keller PediaPlex location for ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Feeding Therapy. When Kate isn’t at PediaPlex, you can find her playing outside at the park, feeding the ducks, or walking their puppy. Some of her hobbies are swimming, singing, making funny sounds...

Did you know that March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month? Each year we take the month of March to raise awareness for our friends and families with developmental disabilities. We also use this month to educate the community on developmental disabilities. Chances are you probably work with someone who has...

We are so excited to introduce everyone to the super fun and energetic Jaymee! Jaymee has been coming to PediaPlex for coming up on 3 years now! He receives ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy with us. Jaymee is 9 years old and loves to go swimming, hiking or traveling with his family!...

This is the go-to question of the morning and night for parents with little ones. February is National Children’s Dental Health Awareness Month and we want to help tell you why brushing your teeth is so important. We are super excited because during the month of February we have two...

Yes, Play Therapy is a real thing and it’s extremely beneficial for children! You’re probably wondering what play therapy is and how there could be benefits of play therapy. But think about it… isn’t your child so much happier once you give them a toy after they were throwing a fit? Ok- that’s not...

Does your child have a super power? We know all about that! Often at PediaPlex we have questions from parents about how to address their child’s autism diagnosis with their children, family, friends, etc. We know that this can be a tricky conversation and sometimes the idea of telling your family that...

Picture this: it’s 30 degrees outside, but with the windchill it’s probably closer to 20 degrees. It’s 7:45AM and you have to have the kids at school and therapy by 8:30. Your children are NOT cooperating … and why should they? Who really wants to put on that huge uncomfortable...

We would like to introduce everyone to our Staff Spotlight, Dara! Dara is a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) here at PediaPlex and she has worked with us for about a year and a half now. About Dara Dara started her college career in the medical field and then found her way to...

December is here which means your children are home for a few weeks while they are on winter break. This is, of course, a joyous time for family to come together and celebrate. But, it’s also a change in routine which can be pretty tough on kids… especially for kids...

The holiday season is often referred to as the Season of Giving. Here at PediaPlex, we love to give back and each year we like to partner with people in the DFW Community to help where we can. This year we have partnered up again with Right on Time Ministries...

We are pleased to introduce everyone to the energetic Billy! Billy is 7 years-old and attends PediaPlex for ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Feeding Therapy. He started his therapy with us in February once they moved here from Australia and they’ve been with PediaPlex ever since.   About Billy Billy is an...

The time is coming yet again for another Thanksgiving spent with all of the family! This is both a joyous and fun time- but can also be a tad overwhelming if you have a sensory friendly child.  It’s important to plan as much of this day as you can so...

It’s that time of year again- open enrollment for health insurance/healthcare plans. Maybe this topic is familiar to you, maybe this is your first time even having to deal with finding a plan. Not for PediaPlex though, we have dealt with insurance and come out on the other side! We...

We are so excited to introduce you to Angelica! Angelica is a Registered Behavior Therapist (RBT) in our ABA Therapy program at PediaPlex! She has worked with us for a year and has been an amazing asset to our family! Angelica chose to become an RBT because “it was my first step...

The annual PediaPlex Trick-or-Treat Halloween event is just a few short weeks away! We’ve created this sensory friendly Halloween event for you and your kiddos so that you can all enjoy a fun, non-spooky, Halloween at our clinic. Why Sensory Friendly? Halloween is a huge tradition for families, which means...

We are so excited to introduce you all to the sassy and adorable Stella! This little girl is truly a part of the PediaPlex family. Everyone knows her and is so excited to see her whenever she walks in! Stella has been a member of our family for two years...

Our guest blogger today is Megan Kirkpatrick who is the daughter of Sonia Kirkpatrick, the founder of PediaPlex. If you have been to PediaPlex before you probably know our story and you probably know Megan! But, for those who don’t, here is the quick rundown. Megan is the main reason...

Fall is upon us which means there are lots of sensory friendly events coming up for you in the DFW Community! We know you have to keep the kiddos busy on the weekends, and during the week, so we are here to help you with some ideas for the next...

School has started, summer is slowly coming to an end (even though you can’t really tell with this heat), so now what? We have found all of the best fall sports for your child and want to share the importance of your child getting involved in sports and other activities!...

Everyone meet the fun and silly Aurora! Aurora is 7 years old and receives Speech Therapy at our Alliance PediaPlex clinic. When she isn’t receiving speech services, you can find her playing video games, writing stories, reading, or playing with her dog! Her favorite subject in school is math and she loves to play...

We at PediaPlex are always looking to team up with organizations locally and nationally who support a sensory-friendly experience for our kiddos with autism and sensory challenges. We are excited to announce The Dallas Zoo as part of that group!   “Modifications around the Zoo will include sound adjustments and quiet zones to create...

Parents across the land (in North Texas, anyhow) are slowly starting to take a collective deep breath. The kind of deep breath we take in anticipation of a busy season which, in this case, is the soon-to-be new 2019-2020 school year. SEE – I caught you holding your breath just...

Every year, DFW Child magazine has a survey for parents in the DFW Community to fill out and vote for their favorite healthcare professionals. Not only does this give the therapist recognition in the community, but it also helps other parents find the right therapist for their child. And, of course, gives...

Its summer travel season! We know that isn’t always an exciting statement for families with autism. Will a summer travel kit for kids with autism be handy for your family now? Help is here! We’ve put together five must-have items to pack as you prepare for your summer activities. Summer Travel...

Who said being a dad was going to be a walk in the park? I know I didn’t! But when you have a newborn and it is your first child, what are your expectations for that child? As a dad, you see your child growing and doing things that you think...

If you’ve spent any time at either the PediaPlex Southlake or Fort Worth office, you’ve met our most friendly therapist – Otis. He’s recognizable mostly because of his four paws and long tail! Yep, Otis is our resident therapy dog and he spends his days greeting our superstar patients and leaving...

2019 Fun Summer Activities for Autistic Children Congratulations. You’ve made it through another school year! Let the summer fun begin. PediaPlex understands that summer break can be challenging for kiddos on the autism spectrum as breaking away from their routine and pace can sometimes trigger behavioral changes. The DFW metroplex is offering...

Everyone meet the fun and energetic Jett Patrick! We are so excited to introduce everyone to Jett! You might remember seeing him in our speech therapy video from last month! Jett is 3 years old and has been attending PediaPlex for almost a year now receiving ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. When Jett...

Each month, we publish blogs, articles and graphics intended to be a tool for parents who are navigating their walk through ASD. However, in honor of Mother’s Day we appropriately dedicate this month’s article to all of you MOMS out there who make this wide, wild world spin around! As...

We are so proud to introduce our patient spotlight for May.Please meet the courageous Mr. Kingston! Kingston is an adorable and energetic 2-year old who loves to color and like many toddlers, can’t wait to get home and jump on the trampoline. Our entire staff looks forward to watching Kingston...

Do you dread summer travel? For kiddos on the autism spectrum, most highly desired vacation destinations are simply too crowded and chaotic. Finding destinations that don’t stray too far away from their normal routine is vital. Staycations can provide both the chance to change up the standard scenery and create new memories! We’ve...

We often find our biggest fears in the unknown areas of life.Few things can feel as insecure and unknown as the possibility of your child being somewhere on the ASD scale. As a parent who has lived this scenario, we fully understand the questions you have and the “what ifs”...

Please meet the energetic and joyful Mr. Jean-Paul! JP is an active 9 year old who attends ABA therapy combined with speech therapy and occupational therapy. We never get tired of hearing about the incredible breakthrough stories from our parents. We sat down with JP’s mom to learn about their journey with PediaPlex. Describe your...

At PediaPlex one thing we know, and are reminded of daily – learning is ongoing and never fully achieved. Meaning, we are ALWAYS learning new things from our young stars as much as we are trying to teach them. So, we never expect anyone to “know it all” when it...

March is National Social Worker Month! Here at PediaPlex, we love social workers and all that they do to help our families! We want to give a shout-out to Jenny who is a social worker and a play therapist here at PediaPlex! Jenny has worked at PediaPlex for almost 2.5 years as...

You are not alone, we hear this question nearly every day in our office. So, we want to give you a sense of exactly what play therapy is and how it helps children everyday. In fact, one of the things that makes PediaPlex such a wonderful place for our kiddos to be is...

Meet ABA New Hire Training Lead Amy Vandegriff!Amy has worked at PediaPlex for almost 1 year now in our ABA Therapy program. Amy’s favorite part about working here is getting to see the clients’ progress.   “I get so excited when my clients achieve a new goal or reach a...

So many events to choose from!  The DFW metroplex is packed with sensory-friendly events in February and March this year! Here are a few we thought you might enjoy: Sensory Friendly Presentation of Ella Enchanted: Dallas Children’s Theater on February 16th DFW Autism Conference: February 25th & 26th Register here: https://www.dfwautismconference.com/ Sensory Saturday at the Fort...

Welcome to 2019!  Here are several sensory-friendly events happening soon in the DFW metroplex:   Aqua Stars at Heritage Aquatic Center Swimming for children with Special Needs: January 13th, February 10th, March 10th, April 14th, & May 12th from 11:30AM-1PM DFW Autism Conference (https://www.dfwautismconference.com/): February 25th & 26th  Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park hosts an event...

The holidays are well underway!  Here are several sensory-friendly holiday events happening in the DFW metroplex: Dallas Childrens’ Theater: January 5th at 1:30PM: The Snowy Day & Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats Panther Island Ice: At Coyote Drive-In, Panther Island Ice is ice skating for the entire family. They welcome wheelchairs skaters!...

We welcome you to our Holiday edition of PediaPlex’s monthly newsletter, as we are now firmly in the grip of one of the most anticipated and fun times of the year! While we can surely hope for freshly fallen December snow here in North Texas, the other sure signs Christmas is upon...

Please meet Miss Olivia Garcia! This spunky personality won our hearts the very first day. Miss Olivia is an energetic 7 year old who attends ABA therapy combined with speech therapy and occupational therapy. We love hearing all of the amazing progress stories from our parents. The Garcia’s are no different!...

One very common thread which weaves through the lives of each and every ASD family is the thread of chaos. Our schedules are not typical. Our daily pace is not normal. We learn to operate on an elevated plane of disorder and contingency plans. Speaking for myself, in our early years of therapy and diagnosis, I remember...

For those of you whose kids are now leaving high school behind, you may be wondering, as I did, “How did we get here so QUICKLY?” You may also have some degree of anticipation as to how in the world you and your child are now going to navigate the big,...

Glance through our construction gallery to see the great progress we’re making at our new Ft. Worth location! We are still on schedule to open October 2018 and would love our PediaPlex family to spread the word. Thank you for your overwhelming support.   August Progress September Progress August Wide...

As a parent of a child with autism you already know as well as I do there are no easy paths. I’m not suggesting we cling to any sort of “victim mentality”… no boo-hoooing around here! But you understand what I mean when even the simplest daily activities can sometimes turn...

Please meet Miss Ava Cloud! This precious smile melts our hearts each and every time we see it. Miss Ava is an energetic animal loving 5 year old who attends ABA therapy combined with speech therapy and occupational therapy. Ava’s mom tells us, “Ava has grown tremendously within the past month. After starting at PediaPlex,...

School is almost in session!  Here are several sensory-friendly September events happening in the DFW metroplex: AMC Theaters offers Sensory Friendly Family Films on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. You will want to check your local AMC Theater for specific showtimes! #AMCSensoryFrien…dly Amon Carter Museum hosts their Sensory Saturday event the 2nd Saturday...

When I stopped and considered the subject of this article, one obvious and repeating word came to mind: Chaos. It was not difficult for me to recall the emotions and overwhelming feelings of disorder and chaos in our world when we began seeking help for our first toddler, Megan. “How will...

Updated Blog: Our new Fort Worth / Alliance PediaPlex is opening and accepting new clients! This new location is offering all of the same services as our Southlake Clinic. Visit the location page to get detailed information on services! 4537 Heritage Trace Pky, Bldg 11A Fort Worth, TX 76244  

The heat comes before the fun… every year. Nonetheless, summer happens to all of us and eventually do come the long nights, summer BBQ’s, and pool parties. And inevitably that sometimes entails vacations and traveling outside of our local comfort zones. By land, air or salty sea PediaPlex knows traveling...

Please meet Will & Stevie! We absolutely love hearing about our client’s progress after they graduate from our program. Will and Stevie are no exception.   We recently met up with their courageous mother, Nicole Laswell. Pediaplex has been such a blessing for us!  I must say I was complacent and...

Need a few fun outing ideas before summer is over?  Here are several sensory-friendly August events happening in the DFW metroplex:   AMC Theaters offers Sensory Friendly Family Films on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. You will want to check your local AMC Theater for specific showtimes! #AMCSensoryFrien…dly Amon Carter...

Meet Behavioral Therapist Taylor Cook!Taylor has worked at PediaPlex for a little over 3 months now in our ABA Therapy program. Taylor’s favorite part about working here is getting to watch all of the progress that our clients make.   “It makes me feel proud of their achievements and proud that I...

Summer is now in full swing! Here are several sensory-friendly July events happening in the DFW metroplex:   AMC Theaters offers Sensory Friendly Family Films on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. You will want to check your local AMC Theater for specific showtimes! #AMCSensoryFrien…dly Amon Carter Museum hosts their Sensory Saturday...

This June, we are thrilled to turn the spotlight towards some very very important people, who may not always get the recognition and visibility they deserve. Fittingly, we will highlight our FATHERS in this article who play such a crucial role in their kids’ lives as their families navigate the ever-complicated...

Summer will soon be in session! Here are several sensory-friendly events happening in the DFW metroplex: AMC Theaters offers Sensory Friendly Family Films on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. You will want to check your local AMC Theater for specific showtimes! #AMCSensoryFrien…dly Amon Carter Museum hosts their Sensory Saturday event the...

One of our frequent and very appropriate questions we hear from interested parents is “What is ABA?”.We love that question because we absolutely LOVE talking about our Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program and LOVE how it helps our fabulous patients! ABA traces its roots to the 1960’s when early techniques were developed...

Meet Sierra Phillips!Sierra is a Registered Behavior Therapist and also our Leading Training Therapist here at PediaPlex in our ABA Program. Sierra has worked at PediaPlex for a year and four months.  She would describe PediaPlex as a positive and rewarding place to work! Her favorite part of work is...

Children all develop at their own pace. Some hit milestones earlier or later than their peers. This can make identifying developmental disorders, motor disorders, autism, feeding and toileting issues, and related psychological disorders more challenging because parents may not always recognize when something is amiss.  In addition, some of these conditions...

You know that moment, in a grocery store or a restaurant, when a child is scream crying and throwing a huge fit and it seems the parent just can’t make them stop! We have all experienced something relatively similar to this and you probably watched the reactions of others in...

As a parent of a child with special needs, you want to ensure your child is receiving the best care and support possible to help them thrive and make the most of each day. Every child is different and has their own unique strengths, challenges, and needs. They often benefit...

Caring for a child with special needs can feel like a full-time job – and sometimes it is. Your child may have appointments with various specialists, therapies, school, activities, and more. You’re constantly trying to do what is best for their care and development, supporting them in functioning as independently as...

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss Being a social worker means being able to help change people’s lives and help to give them the answers that they are looking for. They truly are saving lives! The month...

Getting a good night’s sleep is beneficial for the whole family. When children sleep better, parents often sleep better, and then everyone wakes up feeling rested and energized. However, when you have a child with special needs, bedtime can be a struggle. Children with autism in particular may have trouble falling or...

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” – Mother Theresa International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th to recognize and celebrate the achievements women have made throughout history and across the nations.  We wanted to bring that...

Waiting can be hard for any kid, but it can be especially challenging for those with autism who may by hyper-focused on something or not understand social cues very well. When faced with having to wait for what they perceive to be too long – or when doing a task that takes...

Many parents are hesitant to have their child “labeled” with a diagnosis, whether it’s autism, dyslexia, ADHD, or a learning disability. They fear what repercussions come with being deemed as having special needs. However, an official diagnosis can actually be very beneficial and open doors to a wide range of services, therapies,...

The Association for Play Therapy (APT) defines Play Therapy as “the systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process where trained Play Therapists help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.” Play Therapy provides therapist and parents an opportunity to further explore...

Sensory activities are a great way to get kids used to experiencing different textures and using their imaginations. From simple scoop and pour tasks to making art to getting their hands messy, there are countless options. Winter can be a great time to switch up some of the activities you...

Hi, I’m Megan. I’ve lived with Autism for most of my life and I recently finished my first semester at Parker University. It was a time of adaptation and a time of improvement on my own self-awareness. College is a whole new ballgame compared to high school. Although I maintained...

It can be life-changing for families to receive a diagnosis that their child has a disability, whether it be physical, mental, learning, developmental, or otherwise. Every parent wants the best for their child and may wonder what a diagnosis means for their child’s future. It is important to keep a positive...

Hi, I’m Megan and I’ve lived with autism most of my life. College is that next step that every high school student dreams about, but the transition is not as easy as simply getting accepted into one. Going to college has always been something I have always wanted to experience,...

As another year comes to an end and a new one begins, many people rush to come up with ways they’re going to improve themselves and their lives. New Year’s resolutions are often filled with lofty goals of exercising more, eating healthier, or achieving better work-life balance. For parents of children...

In celebrating the holidays, many families find themselves traveling to see relatives. While this can mean piling everyone in the car and going for some, when you have a child with special needs, it’s not that easy. There are a lot of things that must be taken into consideration ranging...

While kids are celebrating no school for a week (or more), parents are often wondering how they’ll fill the time and keep chaos from erupting. As much as kids may whine about school sometimes, they often like the familiarity of routine. They know what to expect each day. But with...

Raising children is tough. It becomes even more difficult when you have multiple children and one (or more) has special needs. There is a balancing act that must take place for dividing your time and attention. Sometimes siblings without special needs can feel as though they’re being overlooked or are not as important....

Social skills are something that children develop over time. It starts when they are young and progresses as they become more involved in interacting with others. While it is recognized that children with autism spectrum disorder may struggle with appropriate social skills, other kids can too. Children may have trouble understanding non-verbal cues,...

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, but also a time to share with family, friends, food, and football. This can make for a lot of noise and activity. There are people everywhere, everyone is trying to help prepare or keep kids entertained, and routines are different from other days....

Reading is supposed to be fun for kids. It’s a way to explore new places, imagine silly characters, and learn lessons in a fun and engaging way. But when your child struggles with reading, it may become an activity they dread. While there could be many reasons why your child...

Learning that your child has special needs – whether it’s autism, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorder, learning disabilities, or anything else – can take time to accept. While it can provide a sense of relief because now you have answers, it can also unearth a variety of new questions. Plus,...

Halloween is just around the corner and is an exciting time for many kids. They get to dress up as their favorite characters, go trick-or-treating with family and friends, and see all of the houses decorated. Plus, they may get to attend some Halloween parties or other festivities. But when...

Stuttering is a very common problem in children. Many children go through a period where they may repeat certain sounds or words, prolong sounds, or be unable to form specific sounds. They may seem to struggle forming words or getting out what they want to say. Fortunately, this problem often resolves...

As adults, we often know how to recognize bullying and deal with these situations in an appropriate and respectful manner. However, for children, this can be a new and scary experience. When someone is picking on them (or a friend) for how they look, the way they act, what they say,...

When your child will only eat certain foods, it can be frustrating. You feel bad feeding them macaroni and cheese or chicken nuggets every day, and you know they’re not getting all of the nutrition they need. But differing from what they like can cause a meltdown. Oftentimes selective eating...

Just because your child is in a wheelchair or has other physical disabilities does not mean that they can’t stay active. Physical activity is important for children (and adults!) of all ages and abilities. Strive to adapt activities to ensure that all children are included and can participate. Partnering up children...

Just because a child is non-verbal doesn’t mean they have nothing to say. They take in the world around them just like other children and are sure to have plenty of thoughts, ideas, and opinions of their own. However, they need support in expressing themselves in other ways to get their message...

Is writing an activity your child dreads? Is it hard to make out what they’ve written because their handwriting is so sloppy? While in some cases this could just be because your child is rushing through and not making the effort to write neatly, there is often more to it...

The start of a new school year can be both exciting and a little scary for children and parents alike.  There are many changes occurring, and this can be a lot to take in. It can be even more difficult if your child has special needs that you must contend with. But...

Good mental health is a critical part of everyone’s well-being, young and old alike. But whereas adults are often better able to recognize and communicate their struggles, children don’t always know how to express themselves as well. It’s up to parents to be proactive and recognize signs that something may be wrong....

The start of a new school year can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Kids usually can’t wait to see their friends but may be nervous about what to expect with a new teacher, new material, and maybe even a new school. And while the freedom of summer can...

Children with autism spectrum disorder often do very well with structured schedules and routines. They like knowing exactly what to expect and what will happen when. However, life can be unpredictable, and sometimes they must adjust to changes in their daily routine. This can be upsetting and throw them off, but there...

Our minds all wander from time to time, but for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it can be especially challenging to maintain focus on a task. They are easily distracted, and their mind goes in a million different directions. This lack of attention can lead to making careless mistakes,...

As adults, when we become frustrated, angry, upset, excited, or nervous, we often talk through these feelings with others, or even in our own minds. You may use a journal to write about the situation and help yourself think more clearly. However, children have not yet developed these coping skills....

Consistency is important in therapy to help your child maximize their results. They can’t only follow a certain routine or practice certain skills while with the therapist – these activities need to carry over to home and school as well. Getting the whole family involved not only supports progress, but...

As much as you want to be there for your child all the time, in reality, life does not work that way. You can’t always be there. They have to learn how to fight their own battles and advocate for themselves. This can also be very motivating and empowering for...

Raising a child with special needs can be a lot of work. You want to provide them with the best support and services to maximize their potential while protecting them from being hurt. Depending on the nature of your child’s needs, you may become overprotective in an effort to help...

Learning that your child has autism can bring up a host of emotions. You may be confused, scared, curious, angry, relieved, or a mix of other feelings. However, remember that you are not alone and there are multiple places you can turn for information and support. There are so many people in...

Sensory input never stops. We are constantly bombarded by sights, sounds, smells, movement, and textures. For some kids, this can be very overwhelming. Or perhaps certain things are unbearable, like touching something squishy. During school, children engage in daily sensory processing activities. But over the summer, they may lack the same stimulation....

No two children with autism are exactly the same, therefore approaches to treatment differ as well. One practice that has become more popular is applied behavioral analysis, or ABA therapy. This is an intensive program that supports children in learning functional skills through evidence-based methodologies. Treatment is tailored to each child’s unique...

Whether it seems like it or not, kids thrive on structure and routine – especially those with special needs. You’ve probably noticed that when your days are chaotic and filled with lots of change, your kids are a little out of sorts too. That’s no coincidence. They like to know what to...

Children develop at their own pace, but it’s a wonderful feeling when your child says their first words and starts building their vocabulary and conversational skills. They’re able to better express their needs, emotions, and thoughts. From the time your child is very young, you can start setting them up for...

In addition to challenges with picky eating or food aversions, another issue parents are often concerned about is food allergies. Depending on the severity of the allergy, exposure to certain foods can be life-threatening. The last thing you want to do is put your child in a dangerous situation. May is Food...

Raising a child is hard work. You are always trying to do what is in their best interest and support them in being as successful and independent as possible. This is especially true if you have a child with special needs. It’s normal to feel as though you are always...

Spring break is a wonderful time to relax and spend quality time with your family, but it can also be challenging because it takes kids out of their normal routine, even if only for a few days. They’re used to the structure and activity of being at school and seeing their...

No parent wants to see their child struggle in school. But resolving problems is not always as easy as having them study harder or practice more. The reasons behind difficulties in school can be vast. Educational testing is a valuable way to gain a comprehensive understanding of your child’s strengths, areas of...

April is Autism Awareness Month and a busy time when organizations and individuals are raising funds, increasing understanding, and breaking down stigmas regarding autism. It is a wonderful time to reflect on your own awareness and behaviors and that of your family. But autism awareness shouldn’t be limited to just...

As an adult, you’ve likely come across individuals with autism in the workplace or out in the community. If you have school-age children, chances are, they have classmates who have autism. Understanding how to effectively interact with these individuals and build positive relationships is important and can help break down stigmas. Teach...

Birthday parties are the annual celebration that kids dream about all year long. Who will be there? What will my cake look like? What presents will I get? For kids on the autism spectrum or with sensory issues, adjusting their birthday parties to fit their needs is fairly simple. You...

PediaPlex child development and pediatric therapy is based on a collaborative approach that involves not only a team of professionals, but also parents and family. As your child progresses into early adulthood, PediaPlex hopes to continue to be a resource as new challenges such as employment opportunities arise.   Lowest...

Every person that is diagnosed with Autism is unique. Autism is known as a spectrum disorder. ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a general term used to encompass a variety of complex disorders of brain development. The term covers several autism disorders that are diagnosed separately, including: autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome,...

Applied Behavioral Analysis or ABA, is a scientifically validated approach to understanding behavior and intervention that helps children with autism learn a variety of functional skills, such as following directions, communication, and toileting. The focus in ABA therapy is in arranging the environment in ways that accelerate and promote success with...

“You just kind of feel lost,” recalls Darren. “You know that there’s something wrong, and you don’t have a clue as to how to fix it, or who to ask, or where to go.” Darren and his wife Sherry were worried about their daughter Lauren. Her first word, “apple,” was...

Getting the most out of speech therapy can open up new conversations for the new year. Effective speech therapy will improve your child’s communication skills, but it can also enhance their social skills and correct sensory processing disorders and feeding and swallowing issues. Whether your child is non-verbal, talks continually or falls...

Visions of Planes, Trains and Automobiles chaos with Steve Martin and John Candy swirl around in my head as I envision planning our holiday travel. Traveling during the holidays can be stressful, and getting from point A to point B is more likely point A…to Z! So, here are a few travel...

It’s that time of year when everyone’s spending time with friends and family and trying to make everlasting memories. The holidays can be a bit stressful when your child has special needs, but don’t let that damper the joy that you and your child should experience during the holidays. With...

Raising kids is no easy task, but it can become even more challenging when your child has special needs. This requires a whole other level of planning. It can be tough when your child faces difficulties their peers may not, or when your family does things differently than others. Finding acceptance...

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that means planning for a day filled with family, food, and fun. Depending on how many people attend, things can get a bit crazy. Instead of shuffling your children off to the play room or trying to get them to sit quietly and...

The emotions we feel throughout the day are always changing. Sometimes, you may be feeling more than one emotion at a time – you may be happy that a friend won first place, but also sad, jealous, or frustrated that you didn’t win. Understanding this range of emotions can be...

Autumn has arrived, and with it comes cooler temperatures and changing leaves. Let your kids get outside to burn off excess energy while having fun, practicing coordination and balance, sharing or working together with others, reducing stress, and socializing. There are so many wonderful activities for families to do together while the weather...

Children diagnosed with autism typically have difficulties interacting appropriately with the world around them. They require more structure, repetition, and positive reinforcement to develop skills that children without autism pick up from others. Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA therapy can support children in building and applying these skills in their everyday lives....

Sharing; It’s part of everyday life and an essential social skill. However, for young children, sharing is a skill that must be taught and modeled and can sometimes be hard to understand. You can be proactive in helping your children learn to share and take turns so that it becomes easier as they...

Stuttering can be a frustrating problem for children, especially when it keeps them from effectively expressing themselves or makes them feel different. According to The Stuttering Foundation, around 5 percent of children experience stuttering for at least six months or more, but approximately 75 percent recover by late childhood. Only about 1 percent...

PediaPlex is hosting a free Halloween event for children and their families on Thursday, October 27, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The PediaPlex facility will have festive decorations, games to play, prizes to win, vendors offering food, and more. Children will have the opportunity to trick-or-treat through the facility in their costumes...

Halloween can be an exciting time for your kids to dress up in their favorite costume and go trick-or-treating with friends and family. It’s a night where they get to yell, laugh, be silly, and have fun. However, it’s also important that they are staying safe. This applies to everything...

Halloween is an exciting time for kids to dress up as their favorite characters and trick-or-treat from house to house with friends. But if your child has food allergies, you know that Halloween can also be challenging. It’s hard to tell your child that they can’t have the treats they spent...

Mental health plays an important role in a child’s development. It supports learning, communication, behavior, social skills, emotional well-being, and more. When there are problems with mental health, it can affect the child at home, in school, and in the community. It may interfere with how they relate to others, how...

There’s a common saying that goes, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is exactly that – a spectrum. No two children are affected in exactly the same way. Some children experience only mild symptoms while others are more significantly affected. It...

We live in a busy world. There is so much for kids to see and do and so many challenges and rewards they experience on a daily basis. Getting them involved in yoga can be a great way to strengthen their body and mind while also promoting stress relief. September is Yoga...

PediaPlex is committed to providing exceptional care and support to its clients and their families. A recent poll in DFW Child recognized three PediaPlex therapists as mom-approved choices for exceptional service. Kelsey Clark, speech-language pathologist (SLP), Monica Johnson, occupational therapist, and Sonia Thwaites, SLP assistant, were all chosen by DFW Child readers as 2016 Mom-Approved Medical Providers. They were...

All children experience a little anxiety from time to time. They may be nervous about the first day of school, a big test coming up, or the neighbor’s dog that likes to bark. Oftentimes children are able to push past this fear and it doesn’t have a lasting impact on their...

Language development is an important part of childhood. Children learn new words every day and improve their ability to communicate effectively. All children learn at their own pace, but as a parent, there are many ways that you can support your child’s speech and language development. This can create a richer environment...

You look away for a minute and when you turn back, your child is gone. This can be terrifying for any parent, but for some parents with children with autism, it is a constant fear. Some children with autism have a tendency to wander, also known as bolting or eloping. This...

Being a kid can be tough. Kids are still learning the ways of the world and how to cope with the challenges they face. However, just like adults, children can struggle with depression too. It is important that parents know how to recognize the signs of depression and do not...

If you or your child has food allergies – or know someone who does – you know what a serious issue this is. For some children, even minimal exposure can trigger a life-threatening reaction. Keeping children safe when it comes to food allergies is a top priority. This can prove...

The world is full of all kinds of people and everyone has something to contribute. Children are constantly observing and absorbing information from the world around them. It is inevitable that one day – and perhaps everyday – they will see someone who is different than they are. Some parents...

One of the things that makes the world such an amazing place is that no two people are exactly the same. Everyone brings their own spark and contributions. Children with special needs are no exception. They may do things differently, but they have their own talents, strengths, and things to...

PediaPlex will be sponsoring, attending, and hosting events throughout August as families and educators prepare for the start of a new school year. On August 9 at 6 p.m., PediaPlex will be holding its own “Gearing up for School” event to educate and support families on how to effectively prepare for...

Summer is peak travel time for many families, but when you have a child with special needs, it may seem a little daunting. You’re used to the comforts and familiarity of your own community, knowing that you have everything you need close by. With some advanced planning and preparation, you can...

A new school year is just around the corner, and summer vacation is winding down. While parents are rejoicing, kids are not always as eager to get back to school. The first few weeks can be tough as you try to get your kids back into the swing of things...

Every child learns to read and write at their own pace. Just because your child is not at the same level as their friend does not necessarily mean that there is anything wrong. However, if you notice signs that your child is struggling with learning new words, pronouncing words correctly...

On Saturday, July 30, PediaPlex will be hosting its 2016 Summer Games from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will be fun and exciting games for children to play and a wide selection of vendors to choose from for food and refreshments. It is a wonderful opportunity for families to...

Life is unpredictable and things can change in a heartbeat. You simply cannot plan for everything. However, there are many things that you can plan for, and this sense of order and routine can be very beneficial for children and families in general. Children tend to thrive more when there is structure,...

Parenting is tough. Every child is different and there is not one path that works for every family. You have to go through trial and error to figure out what works best for you and your family’s needs. However, taking a more purposeful approach to parenting can help you to...

In the spirit of the 4th of July, take a moment to reflect on – and celebrate – how much your child has grown and matured. It does not have to be leaps and bounds; even the little steps count. Maybe they pick out their own clothes in the morning or...

There is a common saying that goes “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. No two people are exactly alike. Though some symptoms are more common than others, how they affect a person and to what extent...

One of the challenges of raising a child with autism is coping with meltdowns, which can be unexpected. Something as simple as a change in routine or environment or the rubbing of a new shirt can be hard for children to deal with. Meltdowns can happen anytime, anywhere, but there...

Children with ADHD are not purposely trying to break the rules or make you frustrated. It can be very difficult for them to control their impulses, manage their time, and get things done. Their energy can be boundless at times, but that does not mean they do not want to...

Raising a child with special needs can be a tough job – but so can being the sibling of a child with special needs. Sometimes siblings feel left out or overlooked because parents spend more time focusing on their brother or sister who requires more help. They may also feel...

Summer break is just around the corner, and the kids are eager to be done with school while parents may not be quite as excited. Having some down time can be nice, but researchers estimate that some children lose anywhere from two to three months of learning in reading and math. Teachers...

I did it, I finally did it. On Friday, June 20, I donned my robe and cap along with my National Honor Society cords and crest, and my Blood-Donation cords. I joined my fellow classmates and we came together as the graduating class of 2016. After attending the Hill School...

It is normal to worry about your child’s well-being and want to protect them from being hurt or upset. However, you cannot protect them from every up and down in life. Oftentimes these bumps in the road are short-lived and your child learns to adjust and move on. This is...

It can be hard as a parent not to compare your child to someone else’s. This goes for all parents, regardless of whether their child has special needs. However, when your child does have special needs, their developmental milestones can be on a schedule all their own. If your child is not...

Raising a child with special needs can be difficult. You are continually left wondering what the future will hold. You want to give your child the world and support them in becoming as independent and self-sufficient as possible. With the right support and patience, your child can succeed, as Sonia’s...

Improving Social Skills for children with Learning Disabilities Socializing was never my favorite activity to partake in. I was always quiet and reserved, mostly keeping to myself to prevent any awkward or unwanted situations. Eventually, I had to talk to other kids when we were put into groups of four...

Imagine living each day with overwhelming anxiety or having trouble engaging in social situations with others. These are challenges that some children face all the time. For children with special needs, therapy animals can provide much needed relief and support. Adding a dog, cat, rabbit or other small animal to your family...

Children with sensory processing disorders (SPD) often have a difficult time interacting with the world around them. They may be overly sensitive to certain textures, smells, sounds or sights; this could cause trouble filtering the stimuli out to focus on what the child is doing. Other children may be under sensitive to...

Occupational therapy (OT) supports children in becoming more independent and developing their cognitive, fine motor, physical, and sensory skills. When a child feels more confident and capable of doing things on their own, this can also have a positive impact on their behavior and self-esteem. Occupational therapists often focus on activities...

Walking was not easy for me, even going back until I was about eighteen months, which was the age when I took my first step. Up until the fourth grade, I was constantly falling down; I fell down between thirty to forty times a day, and there was not one...

While spring break is a time of celebration for many kids because it means a week off school, it can be a time of both joy and dread for parents – especially those with special needs children who thrive on routine and structure. Time off school and away from a...

I was not good at sports as a child and am currently still in the same situation. I may not have been good at sports, but I still enjoyed them just as I would have if I had been given Athletic potential to be good at a sport. I was good at...

Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are terms that have become more prevalent in recent years as research and understanding of this condition improve. This increased focus may also raise your concerns as a parent wondering whether your child may be affected. Recent studies show that 1 in 68 children have...

To kids (and even adults!), making the mess is half the fun! However, when you try to get them to clean up afterward, that is when the battles begin. Putting things away and washing up is more daunting than the fun they were having using everything. It can seem easier...

In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, we are examining some of the myths that still surround this condition today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one out of every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome. Down syndrome is...

Sleep is very important in a child’s growth and development. Their body needs time to relax and heal, as does their mind, but when bedtime is a fight, sleep can be disrupted. Too little sleep can interfere with many aspects of your child’s day from poor learning and concentration to behavior...

Spring is just around the corner and that means warmer weather and longer days. It’s time to brush off those winter blues and enjoy all that springtime in Dallas has to offer. Spending time together as a family can make great memories that last a lifetime, build stronger bonds and keep...

All parents want their kids to be compassionate, thoughtful and caring. You want them to be nice to others because they know it is the right thing to do. Kids learn by example and by watching how others behave and interact. Use Leap Day as a time to jumpstart your...

When many people think of speech therapy, they think about the literal act of speaking. While this is part of speech therapy, it also includes language disorders and social skills. Children who are non-verbal can benefit from speech therapy because they still need to be able to effectively communicate, even if it’s...

PediaPlex Expands ABA Therapy Room in Response to Growth of Personalized Program for Children with Autism PediaPlex is excited to be expanding its ABA therapy room and program to accommodate more children with autism in receiving this beneficial, evidence-based therapy. ABA therapy can help children to learn and develop positive...

Valentine’s Day is coming up and what a wonderful time for arts and crafts with your kids. Let them be creative and practice their fine motor skills as they make cards and snacks to share with the people they love. From toddlers to school-aged children, you can have a blast...

With a society that’s more technology-driven than ever, it’s important to keep your kids active and moving. Instead of letting your kids veg out in front of the television or computer – even if they’re doing something educational – make it a point to engage them in at least 60 minutes...

Keeping Focus During Pictures Pictures were not my strong suit and they still aren’t. It takes all of my strength not to look away and look at something slightly more interesting. It would bother my sisters when I would look away because I didn’t want to sit still for very...

Caring for a child with special needs can be stressful even with the help of a spouse. But what do you do when your spouse is called up for active duty and deployed halfway around the world? You’re left as the primary caregiver and decision maker, trying to do what is best...

Motor Skills for Children with Low-Functioning Motor Skills When I was little opening cans was definitely a challenge for me. My little sister who was about six or seven years old at the time always had to show me how or she would do it herself. The next day I...

One of the classic signs of autism is having difficulty interacting appropriately in social situations. As such, it would seem that sports and team activities would be off the table. However, there are many athletes proving that autism hasn’t held them back on the field and they are achieving their dreams. These...

Different Taste Buds for Special Needs Kids When I was little I always gravitated toward sour candy. I was desperate to eat something so sour that I couldn’t stand it. It was like what other kids thought was sour, I thought was sweet. Things like Warheads were not even a...

Meal time can be frustrating when your child only wants macaroni and cheese or refuses to eat anything green. No matter how you try to negotiate, their food preference is limited. Do you make a separate meal just for them or keep hoping they’ll warm up to something else? Picky...

Recognizing Fears in Special Needs Kids As a kid, I hated sitting up anywhere that was high up enough to where my feet couldn’t touch the ground. I hated the thought of getting hurt because I didn’t want to deal with the pain if I fell. If I was up...

Parenting a child with developmental challenges can be tough, but it’s not impossible. You have your share of good days and bad days, successes and challenges. Learning to take it in stride and become more resilient can allow your whole family to thrive. A new year means a fresh start and the...

It’s very easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of the holiday season. The parties, the school concerts, the decorations, and especially for kids: the gifts. In the flurry of activity, we can lose sight of the real meaning of this time of year. Draw your kids back in...

Understanding why a child fixates on a certain book As a child I loved to read. It took me places I never thought I could go—places like the Prehistoric Age and Medieval times. I got to see what life was like from the eyes of a cat, like in the...

In the last blog, we looked at some specific communication devices and strategies that can support non-verbal children in expressing themselves. But outside of technology, there are other ways that you can encourage communication and interaction. Most importantly, keep your child involved. You want them to be a part of daily activities...

How important friends are. Having friends is important—not just to normal kids, but to special needs kids as well. Having a friend got me through the hard times in school. I had two friends; one who was a year older than me and one who is 18, the same age...

Speaking is one of our primary forms of communication. But what do you do when you have a non-verbal child? How can you understand their needs and enable them to express their thoughts and emotions in a way that makes sense? Just because they don’t speak doesn’t mean they have nothing...

Learning that your child has been diagnosed with autism can be difficult to accept. You are left with many unanswered questions and may experience grief and a feeling of loss. What you envisioned for your future and the future of your child is changing. But that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Keeping...

A long time in the making, the iconic children’s TV show, Sesame Street, has finally debuted a new, very special, member of the Muppet family. Julia, a little girl with Autism is making waves in social media outlets, but not for the reasons you might think. Though adding a special needs child to...

Being bad at sports, but still enjoying the game. Being good at a sport and hating it is one thing, but being bad at a sport and loving it with all your might is something completely different. Take the relationship between me and Tennis; I was awful at it but...

Having a child with special needs creates obstacles that typical children do not usually encounter, especially in the academic setting. There are many specific accommodations that could be helpful for your child in advancing their academics but the following are some general things to keep in mind when helping your child throughout their day....

How animals are important for Children on the Autism Spectrum What’s the first thought that comes to your mind when you think of your first pet? Mine is that of my first dog. Buddy is the first love of my life and one of my best friends! He is still...

Halloween Horrors for children with sensory integration disorder Who likes itchy outfits? I know I didn’t as a child and I certainly still don’t like them now even as an adult. The worst I remember is Halloween. Being in an itchy costume definitely made me seem witchy. I remember that...

Halloween is quickly approaching and children everywhere are preparing to put on quirky costumes and devour considerable amounts of sugar. Although Halloween night can be a child’s dream, parents are often less-than-enthusiastic to spend the night walking, adjusting costumes, managing tantrums, and maintaining a safe environment for their eccentrically clad...

How to help a child that has bad motor skills. I have tried to block out much of my childhood because it brings back many unhappy memories that I would rather not remember. Nobody likes bad memories especially ones that make you feel different from everybody else. Sitting alone at the...

In recent news, an 8-year-old child was handcuffed after disrupting a class and exhibiting challenging behaviors. Disciplining children can be a very sensitive topic, but handcuffing a child is blatantly traumatic and entirely unnecessary. School staff and parents’ immediate reaction to a challenging behavior is critical because an anxious response...

Dear PediaPlex Team, I cannot tell you what your group has meant to our family! You were open and available right when we needed you, and have given us a wonderful start on our journey. I want to thank each member of your staff who patiently worked with us along...

We are proud and excited to be participating in conjunction with Oncor at the 2015 Dallas Heart Walk, sponsored by the American Heart Association. PediaPlex staff and volunteers will set up a booth at the event to add to the activities available for Oncor employees. The Heart Walk will be...

“Applied behavior analysis” sounds like a chapter in a textbook I had to cram for and forgot after the exam. You may hear words like reinforcement, conditions, and punishment and may remember the experiments on the mouse in electronic box, but ask me how that relates to my child and...

There is no denying that having a child with autism adds a little extra effort to your already complicated life. When you’re raising a child with special needs, nothing is really ‘normal’ and it’s an anomaly when things ‘go as planned.’ Those of you that have attempted to plan family vacations, holiday...

When you think of the word ‘therapy’ it’s natural to envision a strait-laced business professional with a notepad and a theory on why you’re like your mother. However, for children with special needs therapy isn’t always dressed in a three-piece suit and toting theories of repressed memory. In fact, play therapy specifically,...

What was your first word? More than likely it’s collecting dust in a baby book somewhere in your mom’s attic. Ironically, my parents fought over which of them came first, “momma” or “dada,” like I was already “taking sides” at tender age of 1. Unfortunately, not every parent gets to...

Recently, if you logged in to any major social media network or turned on any news station you probably encountered the headline: “Mom of Autistic Girl Kicked Off Plane Speaks Out.” This story hit the ground running and immediately encouraged a heated compassion vs. discrimination debate amongst the public. The consensus...

PediaPlex has been a blessing to our family and is now like our second home. My son Walter loves and enjoys his therapy and has come a long way thanks to the help provided by Angela, Monica and Lauren.My son was diagnosed with SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) in 2012, our...

Online communities are a great resource for parents looking to connect with other families and discover resources to support their child’s development. Parents will usually flock to Facebook and blogs as a source of inspiration, but you should consider Twitter as a rich well of information that boasts the wonderful work that...

Thank you for providing such great service to our daughter in her time of need. We are grateful for your kindness and expertise. We want everyone to know your facility is second to none. Anonymous

Pediaplex has been an amazing experience for our family!  When we walked in the door, my child was nonverbal, severely dyspraxic and anxious.  Today he is a thriving little boy, now able to speak, write and demonstrate skills previous therapists never thought possible.  Sonia and the Pediaplex team are kind,...