Pediatric Occupational Therapy Expert Kathy Schleifer of Pueblo Explains How Motor Skills Develop and When to Seek Help for HelloNation
PUEBLO, Colo., Sept. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- When should parents be concerned if their child isn't meeting movement milestones like crawling, jumping, or catching? A HelloNation article answers this question with guidance from Kathy Schleifer, Pediatric Occupational Therapy Expert in Pueblo. The article explores how gross and fine motor skills Pueblo children develop over time and how early intervention occupational therapy can help address motor delays before they affect confidence or daily life.
Motor skills are the foundation of how children explore and interact with their surroundings. Schleifer explains that gross motor skills include large movements such as sitting, walking, or running, while fine motor skills involve smaller, more precise actions like buttoning a shirt or using a pencil. Each stage of development builds on earlier abilities, creating a steady progression of coordination, strength, and control.
The HelloNation article highlights that every child develops differently, but consistent delays can signal that additional support may be needed. A baby who is not crawling by ten months or a child who struggles with climbing, catching, or balancing might benefit from a professional evaluation. In Pueblo, pediatric occupational therapy offers families insight into these patterns and guidance for building skills through play and movement.
Gross and fine motor skills Pueblo professionals focus on helping children move efficiently and confidently. Schleifer describes how therapy begins with a thorough assessment of how a child moves, plays, and manipulates objects. The occupational therapist observes posture, muscle tone, and coordination to identify strengths and areas needing improvement. This individualized process ensures that each child receives support tailored to their developmental level and specific challenges.
Once an occupational therapy plan is in place, sessions often look like play but are intentionally structured for growth. The HelloNation article explains that a toddler may crawl through tunnels or climb soft ramps to strengthen core muscles, while an older child might work with clay or tweezers to refine fine motor control. These engaging, play-based exercises help children develop both physical ability and emotional confidence in what their bodies can do.
Motor delay can result from a variety of factors, including muscle weakness, low tone, or sensory processing differences. Schleifer emphasizes that identifying the cause early allows therapists to target the right areas for improvement. Early intervention occupational therapy helps children make measurable progress in daily activities such as feeding themselves, writing, dressing, or keeping up during recess.
The HelloNation article also underscores that addressing motor skills early can have lasting emotional benefits. When children gain control over movement, they often experience a boost in self-esteem and independence. Schleifer points out that small successes—like catching a ball or zipping a jacket—can have a big impact on how children see themselves. These moments of progress encourage a positive attitude toward learning and trying new things.
In Pueblo, occupational therapy for children is designed to be both effective and enjoyable. The therapy process combines professional guidance with activities that feel like play. Movement games, obstacle courses, and creative tasks keep children motivated while developing coordination and balance. Parents are involved in each session, learning techniques they can practice at home to reinforce progress in everyday routines.
Gross and fine motor skills Pueblo programs evolve as children grow. Schleifer and her team adjust therapy goals to match each child's developmental stage, ensuring continued growth. Some children need short-term support, while others benefit from ongoing therapy to strengthen complex motor patterns. The key, according to Schleifer, is consistency and patience. Every new skill builds on previous ones, and improvement often happens through repetition and encouragement rather than pressure.
Early intervention occupational therapy in Pueblo gives families tools to understand and support their child's growth. The HelloNation article emphasizes that seeking help early can prevent frustration later on. When children develop stronger coordination and balance, they participate more fully in school and play, setting the stage for long-term success.
The article concludes by reminding parents that motor development is a journey, not a race. While every child's timeline is unique, expert evaluation can offer reassurance and direction. Schleifer's work at Pueblo Pediatric Therapy Center shows that with early support and playful engagement, children can thrive physically and emotionally. Each milestone, from crawling to catching, reflects the combined effort of therapy, family involvement, and a child's determination to grow.
From Crawling to Catching: How Motor Skills Develop and When to Seek Help features insights from Kathy Schleifer, Pediatric Occupational Therapy Expert of Pueblo, CO, in HelloNation.
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