VHJ Spring 2008
Change text size
Children's Therapy inspires progress
MeritCare Children's Therapy helps children of all ages, from babies to teens, reach their full potential.
"Whether a child faces a single challenge or several, our well-trained therapists have the expertise and experience to develop a coordinated, comprehensive plan to meet each individual's needs," says Dr. William Klava, board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor and medical director of MeritCare Rehabilitation. "They also bring patience, creativity and enthusiasm to each therapy session. They know how to inspire children's best efforts."
To a casual observer, a session with a children's therapist may look like play, but in fact this "fun activity" has been carefully structured to accomplish specific goals. A brief look at each type of therapy:
- Occupational therapists evaluate and assist babies and children with the development of physical, cognitive, sensory or psychosocial skills. These abilities impact their ability to play, carry out daily activities and participate in school.
- Physical therapists evaluate and work with children to improve muscle strength, balance, flexibility, mobility and coordination. These skills help them explore their environment, play with peers and improve their mobility at home and in the community.
- Speech language pathologists specialize in the evaluation and treatment of children to improve their speech, language, swallowing and cognitive abilities. Better-developed communication and/or feeding skills can make a key difference in the life of a baby or child.
Conveniently available
Children's therapists meet the needs of children in several settings:
- Hospitalized children can receive therapy while at MeritCare Children's Hospital.
- Children needing outpatient therapy can come to the child-friendly setting at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo.
- Children in Fargo, Moorhead or West Fargo can also get outpatient therapy in the comfort of their home or daycare.
To learn more about MeritCare Children's therapy services, call (701) 234-4300 or (800) 437-4010. Visit cmn.meritcare.com to view an online photo album detailing Cora's journey and for information about the comprehensive care available at MeritCare Children's.
Return to Front Page of Valley Health Journal.
Do you have comments or suggestions for Valley Health Journal? Email us