a kidZ life...

Hey everyone! We have not done one of these in a while, but it’s about time! We have had so many changes in the past couple of months. The great part of the change is we gained some new therapists. We are so excited for their journey with us! Let’s get to know one of our newest...well new but not really new therapist, Ashley! Ashley's story is a bit unique. She was one of our students but is now part of the KidZ krew!

Here’s her story!

Ashley Bartek PT, DPT

“I grew up in Temple, so this area is home for me. My littlest sister was diagnosed with autism when she was 2 years old and that is when my love for therapy started. I would always go to her physical therapy appointments and I just knew that is what I wanted to do when I grew up. I got my Bachelors in Pre-Physical Therapy at UMHB in Belton in 2013, Just months before graduation I got married to my husband and we both moved down to San Marcos, Tx where I got my doctoral degree in PT. I was first introduced to KidZ in January of 2016 when I was a student on clinical rotation. I enjoyed it so much that after graduation I decided to come back and work full time! The thing I love most about being a pediatric physical therapist, is the joy I see in my kid's and parent's eyes when they are able to do something for the first time, that for so long was not a possibility. Seeing the kids be proud of themselves is what makes all the hard work and long days worth it!”

Greetings everyone! 

A lot has been going on here at KidZ TherapEZE! I have been M.I.A with all the changes going on - BUT I have some great news to share!  New therapists have joined our KidZ krew which I will be introducing to you all soon! They have been working hard to provide the best care for our patients. 

Today I am featuring one of newest occupational therapists! Binita came here in the beginning of this year and the kiddos are already loving her! 

Let’s get to know her!!!

Binita Patel OTR, MOT

“I first learned about occupational therapy through my involvement in Best Buddies, an organization that pairs adults with disabilities with college students to encourage community socialization. I then shadowed a pediatric occupational therapist to determine if this career would be a good fit and was drawn to the idea of helping children engage in their preferred areas of play and be successful in different environments. I worked as an ABA therapist providing behavioral interventions for children with autism during my undergraduate career to get more exposure to children with special needs. I graduated with my masters and obtained a job at Kidz Therapeze shortly after. I love finding toys and activities that motivate my patients and get so excited when they make baby steps towards their goals! I look forward to learning more in order to be the best therapist for my awesome kiddos.”

This week we are featuring TWO apps that are FREE!

Take advantage of these amazing deals! Designed for your kiddos and family!

*Source: 

I’m excited to feature one of our amazing speech therapists! Jaimee came to the KidZ family in early 2015. She is a great team member and works extremely hard for patients. She’s sweet, fun, and dedicated to her kiddos! Let’s get to know Jaimee!

Jaimee Legg, SLP-CF

“As early as I can remember I had a strong passion to work with children, however I initially directed that passion towards the medical field and working as a pediatrician. I started my college career with a major in Biology, however I quickly realized that while I found the anatomy portion of the course interesting, I did not have a strong desire to pursue the profession. Being born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, my entire family has a very strong Brooklyn accent! I always found the variations in languages, accents, and dialects, in just New York alone, very interesting. I was then introduced to the field of Speech-Language Pathology, which combined my interests of anatomy, speech and language. I completed both my undergraduate and master’s degrees at the State University of New York at New Paltz. While in New York I met my now fiancé, who was quickly stationed to Fort Hood, Texas. So, after 3 years of a long distance relationship this city girl moved to Texas! I began working for KidZ in May 2015 and I have loved every minute of it! I could not have imagined being exposed to such a diversity of patients, and learning so much about the field, in just under a year. I look forward to learning and growing as a Speech-Language Pathologist in a clinic that is respected and adored by both its staff and its patients!”

With the new year blooming, we are excited to share some of our new faces here at the clinic!  Our new additions to the KidZ crew are settling in nicely and already making great progress with the kiddos.  

We are featuring one our newest physical therapists! Kamylle is a great team member and amazing with her patients! 

Let’s get to know her!

Kamylle Palomino PT, DPT

I have always loved working with children, and growing up, I fulfilled that passion by working in various daycare centers.  With a strong interest in science, I began looking into the different medical professions while attending high school.  Physical therapy stood out among the rest as it would allow me to develop a close relationship with patients, while helping them to achieve their goals towards improved strength and mobility.  While completing my undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University, I became involved with Special Olympics and a mentor program for young children allowing me to continue my passion of working with children. I also had the opportunity to volunteer at various hospitals and therapy clinics, later receiving a job as a Physical Therapy Technician which I continued throughout my undergraduate program.  After receiving my bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, I continued my schooling at The University of Texas Medical Branch, where I received a Doctorate of Physical Therapy.  I began working at Kidz Therapeze in September 2015 and I have loved every minute of it!  I have learned so much from my patients and colleagues, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience as a new Physical therapist!  I am so excited to continue expanding my knowledge and experience as a professional, while learning from the wonderful multidisciplinary team here at KidZ!  

Grandma’s Preschool!

Check out this super cute and fun app for children ages 3-6 yrs old.  Perfect for the toddlers and preschoolers! Over 12 various mini games and many further possible interactions are hidden in the classrooms, where kids do not only meet Grandma, but also a lot of other children, who can be moved as playing figures.

Child safe, educational, and best part- no ads! Download here! (or ITunes store) 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/grandmas-preschool/id920911845?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

I am so excited to start sharing some our patient’s stories of their amazing progress. This also shows how committed our therapists are to their patients. Let’s meet one of our superstars!

This little cutie’s name is Frankie. He came to the clinic in early 2014 to be treated for Cerebral Palsy. He had difficulty sitting up or rolling without help. He has two amazing therapists. Aileen, his physical therapist and Susan, his occupational therapist, who has been working with him for a little over year. We are happy to share he has met some amazing goals!

This past September he started to take his first steps! He now happily walks with little or no help! Go Frankie!!! He is always smiling and anyone who comes across him surely is affected by that bright smile!

Frankie with his team! We are so happy and proud of Frankie! Thank you to  Aileen and Susan for never giving up on him! He is now on his way to a more happy and normal life! :)

I’m so excited to introduce one of our newest Occupational therapists! We had a new crew that joined us couple of months ago and I’m happy to say Joelle was one of them! These new team members are working so hard to ensure a hard working and fun environment! 

Let’s get to know Joelle!

Joelle Urquhart, OTR

“For much of my childhood, I knew I would work in a health career where I could serve and empower others. I was introduced to occupational therapy in my high school years when I observed how it helped some of my loved ones to more fully engage in their lives. After research and observations in the clinic, I fell in love with how OT's distinct role can transform lives across the age spectrum. As an undergraduate at the University of Pittsburgh, I studied rehabilitation science, volunteered in a premier pediatric hospital, I observed occupational therapists in Ireland while studying healthcare systems abroad, and I was also a camp counselor for individuals with special needs. My heart has always been in working with children. My outpatient pediatric fieldwork in graduate school further solidified my desire to work in pediatrics. After my graduation in June from the Master of Occupational Therapy program also at my alma mater, I was eager to begin my career in a totally new region. I was led to Kidz Therapeze and knew that it would be the best place for me to continue to grow as a therapist, while having fun with some amazing kids in an exciting setting! I have gained extraordinary insight since arriving at Kidz Therapeze in September, and I continue to increase in knowledge from every child I treat and from this fantastic team.”

Today we are featuring another one of our physical therapists! During this month, we are teaching and learning about the importance of physical therapy while showing off some our amazing therapists. Chelsea came to KidZ fall of 2014 and is loved by her patients. We are so glad she is with us. 

Let’s get to know her! :) 

Chelsea Wahl PT, DPT

“Growing up, I was always interested in the health field. I knew early on I wanted to do something that involved helping others. I began to learn more about physical therapy and movement science while I was at the University of New Mexico earning my Bachelors of Science.  From there I had the opportunity to move to Galveston, Texas to attend UTMB and earn my Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2014. During my time in physical therapy school, I was lucky enough to have an amazing clinical in a pediatric setting. That was when my passion to work with children grew. I have been working here at KidZ since September 2014. I love having a job where I enjoy coming to work every day and being able to make a difference in each child’s life as well as their families.  I love being able to work with amazing colleagues and a multidisciplinary team who help me grow as a clinician and continue to inspire me day in and day out”. 

In lieu of Physical Therapy Month- we are thrilled to feature one of our new team members. Welcome Ruchi! She came to KidZ TherapEZE ready to change lives and make a difference. 

 Let’s get to know her! :)

Ruchi Bagrodia PT, DPT

Growing up, I was always interested in working in a profession where I would get to interact with people and help others. In high school, I was sort of a science nerd and became fascinated with the human body when I studied anatomy and physiology in college. Following undergrad at the University of Texas (Hook ‘em!), I had the opportunity to serve in a low-income public school in Seattle for one year as an educator and mentor for young children. Throughout these unique experiences, I learned a lot about myself. I learned that I wanted a career in which I could fulfill my passions for science, health, education, service to others, and working with children and youth. I happened to find the perfect field of work- I attended Regis University in Denver, CO and received my Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2015. As a physical therapist at KidZ, I am lucky enough to work with amazing colleagues and children who challenge me, make me laugh, and teach me new things every day. I am excited to keep growing as a clinician and moving the PT profession forward!

We love what we do here at KidZ TherapEZE and we’re proud to say we’re good at it! Our goal is to improve the lives and the well being of each patient here. They matter! 

One of our main disciplines we offer is physical therapy. Some may understand what it is and some may not entirely know what it consists of. Let’s find out!

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is the evaluation and treatment of physical impairments in children. The goal of physical therapy is to assist children with physical challenges to increase their independence and improve their mobility, and any other functional skills for daily living. Here at KidZ,  physical therapy is hands-on techniques and therapeutic exercises with play and recreational activities to reach this goal. Therapy is FUN!!!                                                                                                           

A typical physical therapy program for a child may include:

Exercises to facilitate gross motor development

Exercises to improve gait

Stretching

Strengthening weak muscles

Balance and coordination exercises

Exercises to improve endurance

Who can benefit from Physical Therapy?:                                                              

developmental delays

cerebral palsy

genetic disorders

orthopedic disabilities

heart and lung conditions

birth defects (such as spina bifida)

limb deficiencies

muscle diseases

What can it improve?:                                                                                                      

Improved gross motor development

Improved balance

Improved coordination

Increased muscular strength and range of motion

Improved walking pattern

Increased endurance

Normalization of muscle tone

Promotion of healthy and active lifestyle

Building relationships: 

Our kiddos are more than patients!  Every goal met, is a victory to the therapist. They want to see them succeed and live a life of confidence! Our therapist truly care for their patients and that is why we are best at what we do. 

The patients matter. 

#OctoberisPhysicalTherapyMonth 

This weeks’s FREE app is Alien Assignment ! This is a really cute app that takes your kids on an adventure!

This out-of-this-world app was created by the Fred Rogers Center and a kindergarten teacher and received a five-star review from Common Sense Media. Kids join the loveable Gloop family of aliens in a problem-solving adventure to repair their space ship so they can return to their home planet.

Ages 3 & up For iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch

Its that time again! Spotlight time!

 We are featuring one of our amazing Occupational Therapists! Brushing hair, improving on sensory skills or learning new skills- Brandi is happy to help! Being dedicated, caring, and loving what you do are just some of the components Brandi represents! When a patient overcomes their goals, the therapists share in that joy too! Let’s get to know her!

Brandi Featherston OTR

“Brandi began working with KidZ TherapEZE in July 2013. She received a Bachelor of Business Administration in December 2003 from Abilene Christian University.  After working in accounting for 6 years, Brandi knew the business arena was not where she belonged.  She met an occupational therapist who opened her eyes to a whole new world.  The OT’s passion and love for her job and patients led Brandi to seek all of the information she could about this career.  Brandi quickly began the journey towards becoming an OT and graduated from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in December 2012 with her Master’s in Occupational Therapy.   She loves working with children and is so excited about her future at KidZ. She learns something new every single day from each of her patients and loves that she gets to be a part of leading them to more meaningful, independent lives. “

This week I am featuring 2 FREE apps that are children friendly, educational and fun!!! These are either parent or teacher recommended! 

This weeks games are EduRoom and Funbrain Jr!: 

EduRoom: 

It has at least 7 puzzles that requires brain thinking skills. Its fun and colorful!  While you are with your kids waiting- this is a great fun option that will improve brain skills! For Ages 2+!

Funbrain Jr. : 

Numbers! Letters! Patterns! Yay! Preschoolers can dive into early learning with five games featuring quirky characters. In "Balloon Blowup," kids pop the balloon with the largest number set. In "Heat Wave", they connect pipes in alphabetical order to fill up a pool. In "Shape Shack", they click on the correct picture to complete a pattern.

*Links provided:

Funbrain Jr. is a collection of unique and vibrant games for preschoolers and kindergarteners that help jumpstart their journey of learning. Offering five separate fun and engaging games, Funbrain Jr. introduces little learners to several important skills while they play.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/funbrain-jr./id692246718?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Preschool EduKidsRoom-Free 7 Amazing Logic Learning Educational Games For Toddlers and Preschool Kids To Teach Time,Organizing,Colors,Shapes, Alphabets,Letters,Math,Geometry, Memory! Quiz App For Brain and IQ-Baby Toddler and Preschooler Education Game

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/preschool-edukidsroom-free/id612955883?mt=8

First impressions  are always important. Here at KidZ TherapEZE, we want to make sure we make a long lasting  impression! Greetings, questions, general help or information - you name it! Front desk is here to assist any way we can in providing the best care for your family! But front desk is not just our  main job - we’re problem solvers, insurance extraordinaires, billing experts and we’re here to listen to your concerns. We want to make sure your child gets the proper attention they need! 

Christine and Jessica are here Monday- Friday to provide the best patient care! 

Jessica is one our amazing billing specialist as well as our PRO Director. Any billing or statement questions- she’s your girl! She strategically creates and aides in  PRO classes designed to improve the well being of our patients outside of therapy! She has a Bachelors in Psychology with a minor in Kinesiology and is a mother to a beautiful little girl. 

Christine is the Office Coordinator as well as one of the waiting list coordinators. She has been in the hospitality profession for over 7 years and wants to ensure a safe, trusting, and fun environment for all families that come to KidZ! She helps and aides in referrals and patient care. She is active with her church, Faith Point, and the community. 

The new school year is here! Although, I’m pretty sure parents are more excited than the kiddos are. ;) 

 It’s time for books, homework, practices, exams and many more adventures as parents prepare for the new year! Our therapist spotlight today is a new mother to a sweet adorable baby boy!  I’m sure she can’t wait for the day to send her little one to his first day of school! I’m excited to share her story!

Let’s get to know Kim!!

Kimberly Benedict MS, CCC-SLP 

“I decided to become a speech pathologist in high school after doing a research project on different medical professions.  From the moment that I read about being a speech pathologist, I knew that it would be a perfect fit.  I completed my Bachelor and Master degrees at the University of Central Missouri.  I had clinicals with all age groups, but my true passion was working with the pediatric population.  I have been at Kidz since 2012 and absolutely love seeing all of my “kids” progress! The mystery of determining how to help each individual child is exciting and I absolutely love the challenge that comes with helping all my patients meet their goals and succeed! I spend my free time with my husband, Ryan, newborn son, Hayden and our spoiled pug, Manny! “