Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela

Few milestones are anticipated with as much excitement—and anxiety—as those first independent steps. Watching other toddlers take off while your little one remains hesitant can leave you wondering if you should be doing more to help. One of the first things to keep in mind is that the age window for independent walking is wide. While average estimates hover around 12 months, taking first steps anywhere between 9 and 16 months is considered typical development. If your baby is approaching that...

If placing your baby on their belly instantly triggers fussing or crying, you are far from alone. As a pediatric physical therapist, "My baby hates tummy time!" is the single most common concern I hear from parents. While I can't promise your baby will never shed a tear during tummy time—lifting a heavy head is hard work!—there are real, clinical strategies to make the process smoother, build their tolerance, and ease the tension for both of you. Tummy time is the foundational engine for your...

If your baby is approaching 8 or 9 months and showing no interest in crawling—or is scooting on their bottom instead—you might be wondering if it’s something to worry about. A common myth in parent groups is that "crawling isn't a necessary milestone." While some medical guidelines focused solely on broad developmental windows have de-emphasized it, as a pediatric physical therapist, I consider hands-and-knees crawling one of the most critical foundational movements in early childhood....