Dr. Tara Liddle, a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy, introduces the "Movement Mindset" concept to help raise confident children through motor skills and sensory experiences.
-- The Movement Mindset: Raising Confident Babies Through Physical Development
A simple smile on a child’s face when they take their first steps or master a new skill often reflects more than joy—it’s a glimpse into their growing sense of confidence. Dr. Tara Liddle, a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy with over 30 years of experience, understands the profound connection between motor development and emotional growth. She has spent decades helping children with diverse abilities reach their full potential through a unique approach she calls the "Movement Mindset."
The Movement Mindset emphasizes the importance of motor skills and sensory awareness in building confident, well-adjusted children. Dr. Liddle's philosophy is rooted in the belief that children need not only physical development but also a deep awareness of their own bodies, sensations, and the world around them. By incorporating movement and sensory experiences into daily life, parents and caregivers can foster an environment where children thrive physically and emotionally.
The Foundation of Confidence: Motor Skills and Sensory Awareness
Motor skills are the cornerstone of a child's development, influencing physical abilities and cognitive, social, and emotional growth. As children develop gross and fine motor skills—such as crawling, walking, running, precise finger movements, and object manipulation—they build a sense of control over their bodies and their environment. This mastery is crucial in developing self-esteem and emotional regulation.
Sensory awareness, or the ability to process and interpret sensory input, is equally important. Sensory integration, the brain's ability to organize and respond to sensory stimuli, is key for emotional regulation and focus. Children who effectively manage sensory input gain confidence in their interactions with others and in exploring the world around them. Parents can promote a healthy and balanced sensory system by engaging children in diverse sensory experiences from a young age, laying the foundation for confidence and self-awareness
Early Intervention: A Critical Step in Promoting Healthy Development
Early intervention is vital in setting the stage for a child’s future success. Dr. Liddle emphasizes that creating a sensory-rich environment at home and educational settings can support healthy motor and sensory development. By introducing varied textures, sounds, and physical activities, caregivers can provide the necessary stimuli to help children develop the skills to navigate the world.
An important part of early intervention is ensuring the child receives personalized care. Dr. Liddle's approach focuses on working with each child’s unique needs, tailoring interventions that support their individual development, and creating a deeper understanding of their sensory world.
10 Ways to Cultivate a Movement Mindset in Newborns and Babies
- Tummy Time: Encouraging tummy time is one of the most important activities for developing infant motor skills. It strengthens neck and shoulder muscles, essential for later milestones like crawling and walking. Use visually engaging toys or mirrors to encourage head-lifting and neck-strengthening.
- Floor Play: Let babies explore the floor freely, providing opportunities to practice rolling, reaching, and eventually crawling. Avoid keeping your baby in one position for extended periods. Vary their positions throughout the day; on their back, tummy, and sideplay.
- Sensory Exploration: Introduce babies to different textures, sounds, and visual stimuli. This helps develop sensory integration, vital for emotional regulation and motor development.
- Interactive Play: To encourage sensory and motor exploration engage in activities like playing with soft toys of varying textures, rolling balls of different sizes and weights, or using musical instruments with diverse sounds.
- Baby Yoga: Simple stretches and movements can support physical flexibility and coordination while the baby bonds with the caregiver. These activities also promote body awareness, relaxation, and digestion.
- Massage: Gentle massage can help babies become more aware of their bodies and develop a sense of comfort and relaxation. Baby massage also helps regulate the baby’s nervous system and promotes bonding.
- Movement Games: Play games that involve movement, such as gentle rocking, swaying, or swinging, which help develop balance and coordination. These activities stimulate the vestibular system, necessary for motor control. Babywearing is an excellent way to provide vestibular input while promoting a sense of security.
- Social Interaction: Encourage face-to-face interaction, as eye contact and mimicry help infants learn motor skills and social awareness. Pay close attention to your baby’s cues. If they seem overwhelmed, provide a calm environment. If they are restless, offer gentle movement.
- Parent-Child Bonding: Focus on activities that promote emotional connection. Secure attachment can lead to improved confidence in a child’s physical abilities. Interactions such as laughter, eye contact, and touch foster safety and trust.
- Modeling Movement: Babies are natural imitators. If you show them how to move and interact with the world around them, they will learn crucial skills by mirroring your actions. Show them how to reach for toys, wave hello, clap hands, or crawl, they will learn by imitating you.
Beyond the Milestone: Nurturing Confidence Through Motor and Sensory Experiences
While developmental milestones are important, Dr. Liddle stresses that they should not be viewed in isolation. The focus should not only be on achieving physical milestones but also how these achievements contribute to emotional and social growth. By emphasizing the connection between movement, sensory awareness, and confidence, Dr. Liddle helps parents understand that true success lies in nurturing a child’s sense of self through movement and exploration.
Parents can foster this movement mindset by providing a balanced approach that integrates play, sensory experiences, and emotional connection. Each small victory—whether a baby learning to roll over or a toddler mastering a new physical skill—is an important step in building confidence that will benefit them throughout their lives.
About Dr. Tara Liddle
Dr. Tara Liddle is a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy with over 30 years of experience helping children develop essential motor skills. She is the author of "Why Motor Skills Matter," a comprehensive guide to understanding the critical link between motor development and emotional well-being. Dr. Liddle founded Motor Skills Matter, where she offers private therapy services in New York City and the East End of Long Island, focusing on children with developmental disorders and diverse abilities.
In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Liddle has created the "Baby Beginnings" wellness program, which empowers parents with the tools to support their child’s motor and sensory development. She is also a sought-after speaker at hospitals, schools, and national organizations, sharing her child development and motor skills expertise.
Dr. Liddle resides in New York City and Westhampton with her family, where she enjoys fitness, outdoor activities, cooking, reading, and supporting the arts.
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Dr. Tara Liddle
PT, DPT, PCS Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapist
Motor Skills Matter
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