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What to Do When Your Child Is Struggling in School

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What to Do When Your Child Is Struggling in School

Maybe your child’s grades have started slipping.

Maybe homework takes hours, even when the assignment seems simple. Perhaps your child is becoming frustrated, avoiding schoolwork, or saying things like, “I’m just not good at this.”

It can be difficult to know what to do next.

Should you wait and see if things improve? Contact the teacher? Hire a tutor? Request an educational assessment? Could the difficulty be connected to attention, reading, language, handwriting, anxiety, or another area?

When a child is struggling in school, the most important first step is not immediately choosing a service.

It is slowing down long enough to understand what the child is experiencing and what type of support they may actually need.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling Academically

Not every academic concern shows up as a failing grade.

Some children work extremely hard to maintain average grades. Others hold their emotions together at school and fall apart once they get home. A child may appear to be doing well in one subject while missing foundational skills that become more noticeable as schoolwork becomes more difficult.

Signs that your child may need additional academic support can include:

  • Homework regularly takes much longer than expected
  • Your child needs an adult beside them for nearly every assignment
  • Grades or test scores have started declining
  • Your child avoids reading, writing, spelling, or math
  • They frequently forget assignments, directions, or materials
  • They understand information when it is explained verbally but struggle to complete written work
  • They have difficulty remembering skills that were previously taught
  • They guess at unfamiliar words instead of sounding them out
  • They become tearful, angry, or shut down during schoolwork
  • They say they are bad at school or unable to learn
  • Teachers report concerns about attention, work completion, or academic progress
  • Your child is working hard but still not making the expected progress

One difficult week does not necessarily mean that a child has a learning problem. However, when the same patterns continue, it is worth looking more closely.

Begin by Talking With Your Child

Children do not always have the words to explain why school feels difficult.

A child may say, “I hate reading,” when reading feels slow and exhausting.

They may say, “Math is boring,” when they are embarrassed that other students seem to understand the lesson more quickly.

They may refuse to complete homework because they do not know where to begin.

Try approaching the conversation with curiosity rather than correction.

You might ask:

  • What part of school feels easiest right now?
  • What part feels the hardest?
  • Is there a time during the day when you feel confused or worried?
  • What happens when you do not understand something?
  • Do you feel comfortable asking your teacher for help?
  • What helps you learn something new?
  • Is the work too difficult, too long, or hard to organize?

The goal is not to interrogate your child or solve everything in one conversation.

It is to let them know that you see their struggle, you believe them, and you are going to help them find a better path forward.

Talk With the Teacher and Ask Specific Questions

Your child’s teacher can provide important information about what is happening in the classroom.

Instead of only asking, “How is my child doing?” ask questions that may reveal more specific patterns.

Consider asking:

  • Is my child struggling in one subject or several?
  • Are they working at grade level?
  • Do they understand lessons during instruction?
  • Can they complete work independently?
  • Do they need frequent reminders or individual assistance?
  • Are they finishing assignments within the expected amount of time?
  • How do they perform on tests compared with everyday classwork?
  • Are there specific skills they appear to be missing?
  • What interventions or strategies have already been tried?
  • Does my child’s classroom performance match what you are seeing in their grades?

A child can perform differently at school than they do at home or during tutoring. The teacher’s observations are one important part of the overall picture.

Identify What Kind of Support Your Child Needs

Not all academic support is the same.

Understanding the difference between services can help families avoid spending time and money on an option that does not address the actual problem.

Homework Support

Homework support focuses on helping a child understand directions, organize assignments, complete current schoolwork, and stay accountable.

This may be helpful when a child generally understands the material but struggles with organization, attention, motivation, or completing work independently.

Individual Tutoring

Individual tutoring focuses on building academic skills and addressing learning gaps.

A tutor may reteach concepts, strengthen foundational skills, provide additional practice, or explain information in a different way.

Tutoring may be appropriate when a child consistently struggles with reading, writing, spelling, math, study skills, or another academic area.

Specialized Reading or Dyslexia Support

Some children need more than general reading practice.

Children with persistent difficulty in phonics, decoding, spelling, fluency, or written language may benefit from structured and explicit reading instruction.

Carolina Therapy Connection provides Orton Gillingham reading support for students with dyslexia, reading difficulties, spelling challenges, and other language based learning differences.

Educational Assessment

An educational assessment may help identify a child’s current academic strengths, areas of difficulty, and the specific skills that need support.

Assessment may be helpful when:

  • The reason for the struggle is unclear
  • Concerns affect several academic areas
  • Tutoring has not produced the expected progress
  • School performance does not seem consistent with the child’s abilities
  • The child performs well verbally but struggles with written work
  • Parents and teachers are seeing different patterns
  • The family needs more information before creating an intervention plan

Not every child needs a comprehensive educational assessment before beginning tutoring. Sometimes a consultation, review of schoolwork, or informal skill measure provides enough information to begin.

When Should You Consider Hiring a Tutor?

Tutoring is not only for children who are failing a class.

Early support can prevent a smaller learning gap from becoming more difficult to address later.

A tutor may be helpful when:

  • Your child continues to struggle despite extra help at school
  • Homework has become a nightly source of conflict
  • Your child has lost confidence
  • Foundational skills appear weak
  • Your child needs more repetition than the classroom can provide
  • They benefit from information being explained in a different way
  • They need help developing organization, study, or test taking skills
  • They are preparing for a transition to a more demanding grade level
  • They need enrichment or additional academic challenge

The right tutor should not simply help a child finish worksheets.

Tutoring should help the child understand concepts, build independence, and begin to see themselves as capable of learning.

Why a Collaborative Approach Matters

No single adult sees every part of a child’s learning experience.

Parents see homework struggles, emotional reactions, and how much support is needed at home.

Teachers see classroom performance, grade level expectations, group participation, and how independently the child completes work.

Tutors have the opportunity to slow down, observe patterns, and provide individualized instruction.

When appropriate and with parent permission, other professionals may also contribute valuable information.

For example:

  • A speech language pathologist may recognize language or comprehension difficulties affecting academic work
  • An occupational therapist may identify handwriting, fine motor, sensory, or executive functioning concerns
  • A mental wellness professional may help address school anxiety, confidence, or emotional regulation
  • A reading specialist may identify decoding, spelling, or fluency patterns

The purpose of collaboration is not to make the child’s support system more complicated.

It is to help the adults around the child understand what is happening and work toward consistent goals.

What Effective Collaboration Looks Like

Good collaboration does not require constant meetings or lengthy emails.

It can be simple, focused, and practical.

Sharing Relevant Information

Parents may choose to share:

  • Report cards
  • Teacher comments
  • Recent assessments
  • Individualized Education Programs or 504 Plans
  • Work samples
  • Previous evaluations
  • Information about homework patterns
  • Strategies that have or have not worked

This gives the tutor or educational specialist a better starting point.

Creating Specific Goals

A goal such as “improve reading” is too broad to guide effective instruction.

A more specific goal may include:

  • Improving decoding of unfamiliar words
  • Increasing reading fluency
  • Strengthening reading comprehension
  • Learning spelling patterns
  • Improving math fact recall
  • Organizing written responses
  • Completing assignments more independently

Specific goals make it easier to plan instruction and measure progress.

Using Consistent Strategies

Children can become confused when every adult uses completely different language or methods.

A tutor does not need to copy the classroom lesson exactly. However, understanding the strategies being used at school can help the tutor reinforce important concepts while filling in missing skills.

Consistency may also help the child use a successful strategy in more than one setting.

Providing Practical Updates

Parents do not need a lengthy report after every session.

A useful tutoring update may include:

  • What the child worked on
  • What they did well
  • Where they needed support
  • Which strategy helped
  • What can be reinforced at home
  • Whether the tutoring plan should be adjusted

The best communication is clear, useful, and focused on helping the child move forward.

Could Something Other Than Academics Be Affecting School Performance?

Sometimes a child understands the academic material but struggles with the skills required to show what they know.

School performance may also be affected by:

  • Attention
  • Executive functioning
  • Language processing
  • Handwriting or fine motor skills
  • Sensory regulation
  • Anxiety
  • Sleep
  • Vision or hearing concerns
  • Difficulty with transitions
  • Low confidence
  • Fear of making mistakes

This does not mean that every child who struggles academically needs therapy or a diagnosis.

It means that looking at the whole child can help families avoid assuming the problem is laziness or lack of effort.

For example, a child may know the answer but struggle to organize it into a written paragraph. Another child may understand math but be unable to read the word problem independently. A third child may know the material at home but become overwhelmed during tests.

Understanding the reason behind the difficulty helps families choose the right support.

What Parents Can Do at Home

While you are gathering information and deciding on next steps, there are several things you can do to support your child.

Protect Their Confidence

Avoid describing your child as lazy, careless, or unmotivated.

Children often internalize these descriptions. Once a child begins believing they are bad at school, they may stop trying because trying feels too risky.

Instead, say:

“This is difficult right now, but we are going to figure out what kind of help you need.”

Break Work Into Smaller Steps

Large assignments can feel overwhelming.

Help your child identify the first step instead of focusing on the entire task.

For example:

“Let’s open your folder.”

“Let’s read the directions together.”

“Let’s complete the first three problems.”

Small steps can reduce anxiety and create momentum.

Create a Predictable Routine

Choose a consistent homework time and location.

Some children need a snack, movement, or quiet time before beginning. Others work best when they complete assignments immediately after school.

The best routine is one that works for your child and can be followed consistently.

Communicate Honestly With the Teacher

When homework takes an unreasonable amount of time, let the teacher know.

A simple note explaining how long the assignment took, how much assistance was needed, and where the child became stuck can provide important information.

Know When to Pause

There is a difference between encouraging perseverance and continuing an interaction that is no longer productive.

When a child is highly upset, learning is unlikely to happen effectively. Take a brief pause, help everyone calm down, and return to the assignment when possible.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Supports Children Who Are Struggling in School

Carolina Therapy Connection provides personalized educational support for children and teens in Greenville and New Bern, North Carolina.

Educational services may include:

  • Individual tutoring
  • Homework and academic support
  • Reading, writing, spelling, and math instruction
  • Orton Gillingham reading support
  • Dyslexia support
  • Study skills and organization
  • Test taking strategies
  • Educational consultations
  • Educational assessments
  • Homeschool support
  • Collaboration with families and teachers, with parent permission

Our tutors use individualized instruction, hands on learning activities, visual supports, and educational tools to help children remain engaged while building skills and confidence.

Because Carolina Therapy Connection also provides occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and mental wellness services, families can access additional support when those services are appropriate.

Educational services and therapy services remain separate. However, with parent permission, communication among professionals may help create a clearer understanding of the child’s strengths and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need a tutor if they are not failing?

No.

A child may benefit from tutoring to strengthen foundational skills, improve confidence, prepare for more advanced work, develop study skills, or prevent a learning gap from becoming larger.

How do I know whether my child needs tutoring or an educational assessment?

Tutoring may be a good place to begin when the area of difficulty is clear.

An educational assessment may be helpful when the reason for the struggle is unclear, several academic areas are affected, or previous support has not resulted in expected progress.

Can a tutor communicate with my child’s teacher?

Communication may be possible with written parent or guardian permission and according to the teacher or school’s communication procedures.

What if my child refuses tutoring?

Children may resist tutoring because they feel embarrassed, overwhelmed, or worried that it will be more schoolwork.

Explain that tutoring is not a punishment. It is an opportunity to work with someone individually, ask questions, and learn in a way that may feel easier.

The right tutoring relationship should help the child feel supported rather than judged.

How long does tutoring take to work?

Progress depends on the child’s needs, the skills being addressed, the frequency of sessions, and whether the child can use those skills in other settings.

Families should expect regular communication about goals, progress, and whether the tutoring plan needs to be adjusted.

Your Child Is More Than Their Grades

Watching your child struggle can be painful, especially when you know they are trying.

But difficulty in school does not mean that a child is incapable, lazy, or destined to fall behind.

Sometimes children need more time.

Sometimes they need a different explanation.

Sometimes they need direct instruction in a missing skill.

Sometimes they need the adults around them to compare what they are seeing and work together.

The right support can improve academic performance, but it can also restore something just as important…a child’s confidence and belief that they are capable of learning.

Ready to Find the Right Support for Your Child?

Carolina Therapy Connection offers personalized tutoring, homework support, educational consultations, educational assessments, Orton Gillingham reading support, and homeschool support in Greenville and New Bern, North Carolina.

Explore Educational Services

Submit an Educational Services Inquiry

Learn About Educational Assessments

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One-on-One Tutoring vs. Homework Support

How to Help a Child Who Is Frustrated With Homework

Homework Battles: How to Help a Child Who Gets Frustrated With Homework

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Homework Battles: How to Help a Child Who Gets Frustrated With Homework

It begins with a simple question.

“Have you finished your homework?”

Suddenly, your child is crying, arguing, hiding the assignment, insisting they do not have homework, or declaring that they are terrible at math and will never understand it.

What should take 20 minutes stretches into the entire evening. You become frustrated. Your child becomes frustrated. Before long, everyone is upset, and no one is learning much of anything.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.

Homework frustration does not automatically mean that a child is lazy, defiant, or unmotivated. It often means that something about the assignment, the environment, or the skills required feels overwhelming.

The goal is not simply to make a child comply. The goal is to understand what is making homework so difficult and help them develop the skills, confidence, and support they need to move forward.

Why Does My Child Get So Frustrated With Homework?

Children can struggle with homework for many different reasons. Two children may display the same behavior while needing completely different types of support.

One child may understand the material but have difficulty getting started. Another may be missing a foundational academic skill. A third may be mentally and emotionally exhausted after holding it together throughout the school day.

Here are several common reasons homework can become a battle.

The Assignment Feels Too Difficult

A child may not fully understand the concept being taught, even if they appeared to follow the lesson at school.

Homework often requires students to use skills more independently. A child who managed with classroom examples, teacher prompts, or support from classmates may feel lost when completing the same type of work alone.

This may be especially noticeable when a student has gaps in foundational reading, spelling, writing, or math skills.

Your Child Does Not Know How to Begin

Sometimes the hardest part of homework is not the work itself. It is figuring out where to start.

An assignment containing several questions, directions, or steps may feel like one enormous task. Children who have difficulty with planning, organization, attention, or sequencing can become overwhelmed before they write the first answer.

Your Child Is Tired

Children are asked to listen, transition, follow directions, interact with others, manage emotions, and complete academic work throughout the school day.

By the time they arrive home, their capacity for another demanding task may be low. Hunger, fatigue, a busy afternoon schedule, or a lack of movement can make an already challenging assignment feel impossible.

Reading or Language Demands Are Getting in the Way

A child may understand a math concept but struggle to read the word problem. Another student may know the answer but have difficulty organizing their thoughts into a written response.

Reading, spelling, vocabulary, language processing, handwriting, and written expression can affect performance in subjects that do not initially appear language based.

Your Child Is Afraid of Making a Mistake

Some children avoid work because they do not want to be wrong.

They may erase repeatedly, refuse to attempt an answer, ask for constant reassurance, or become upset when corrected. For these students, homework can feel like a nightly test of whether they are “smart enough.”

Homework Has Become Emotionally Charged

After enough difficult evenings, children begin to associate homework with conflict.

They may become anxious or defensive as soon as a parent mentions schoolwork, even before seeing the assignment. Parents may also enter the interaction expecting another battle.

At this point, the family is not only dealing with the academic task. They are also dealing with the emotional history surrounding it.

What Homework Frustration Can Look Like

Homework struggles do not always look like a child quietly asking for help.

Frustration may look like:

  1. Crying, yelling, or shutting down
  2. Refusing to begin
  3. Leaving the table repeatedly
  4. Saying the work is pointless
  5. Losing assignments or forgetting materials
  6. Guessing quickly to get the work finished
  7. Requiring constant reminders and reassurance
  8. Taking significantly longer than expected
  9. Complaining that they are “bad” at reading, writing, or math
  10. Becoming upset before the assignment has even been opened

Behavior is often communication. Instead of only asking, “How do I make my child do this?” it may help to ask, “What is making this feel so hard?”

How to Make Homework Less Stressful

There is no perfect homework routine for every child, but a few thoughtful changes can help families create a calmer and more productive experience.

1. Give Your Child Time to Reset

Moving directly from a full school day into homework may not work well for every child.

A short transition may include a snack, water, movement, outside play, quiet time, or a few minutes to connect with you. The reset does not need to consume the entire afternoon. It simply gives your child a chance to shift out of school mode before being asked to focus again.

2. Create a Predictable Routine

Choose a general homework time and location that work for your family.

Some children work best immediately after a snack. Others need more time before beginning. The best routine is one your family can follow consistently without turning every evening into a negotiation.

Keep needed materials nearby so the child is not searching for pencils, paper, headphones, or a calculator every night.

3. Start With One Small Step

“Go do your homework” can feel enormous.

Try making the first direction smaller:

“Let’s open your folder.”

“Show me what is due tomorrow.”

“Let’s complete the first problem together.”

Beginning with a manageable step creates momentum. Once a child gets started, the remaining work may feel less intimidating.

4. Break Longer Assignments Into Sections

Cover part of the page, fold the worksheet, or create a short checklist.

Instead of focusing on 20 problems, begin with the first five. Instead of asking the child to write an entire paragraph, begin by talking through the main idea.

Breaking work into sections does not lower expectations. It makes the path toward meeting those expectations easier to see.

5. Offer Choices Within the Routine

Children often respond better when they have some control.

You might ask:

“Would you rather begin with reading or math?”

“Do you want to work at the table or the desk?”

“Would you like to write the answers or tell them to me first?”

The adult maintains the expectation that the work will be addressed, while the child has a voice in how to begin.

6. Ask Better Questions

When a child says, “I don’t get it,” asking them to explain the entire lesson may increase their frustration.

Try asking:

“Show me the part that stopped making sense.”

“What did your teacher do in the example?”

“Is it the directions, the reading, or the problem itself?”

“What is one thing you do understand?”

These questions can help identify whether the child needs clarification, encouragement, academic instruction, or simply help organizing the task.

7. Praise the Process, Not Just the Answer

Notice when your child begins without arguing, tries a strategy, asks for help appropriately, corrects a mistake, or continues after becoming frustrated.

Specific encouragement sounds like:

“You kept working even when that was difficult.”

“I noticed that you checked the directions before asking for help.”

“You made a mistake and fixed it. That is part of learning.”

Children need to know that their value is not determined by how quickly they complete a worksheet or whether every answer is correct.

8. Know When the Evening Is No Longer Productive

There is a difference between encouraging perseverance and continuing a situation that has become completely unproductive.

When a child is highly upset, they may not be able to learn effectively in that moment. Pause, help everyone calm down, and return to the work when possible.

If an assignment regularly requires an unreasonable amount of time or support, communicate honestly with the teacher. A factual note about how long the assignment took and where the child struggled may provide useful information.

What Parents Should Avoid During Homework

Even loving parents can fall into patterns that increase stress, especially at the end of a long day.

Try to avoid:

  1. Calling your child lazy or unmotivated
  2. Comparing them with siblings or classmates
  3. Repeating the directions louder when they do not understand
  4. Completing the work for them
  5. Turning every incorrect answer into a lengthy lesson
  6. Using recess, sleep, meals, or important family connection as punishment
  7. Treating homework difficulty as a reflection of your parenting

You and your child are on the same team. The assignment is the problem to solve, not the relationship between you.

When Is Homework Help Not Enough?

Occasional homework frustration is common. A consistent pattern may signal that your child needs more support.

Consider speaking with the teacher, tutor, or an educational specialist when:

  1. Homework regularly takes far longer than expected
  2. Your child requires an adult beside them for nearly every question
  3. The same academic skills remain difficult despite repeated practice
  4. Your child avoids reading, writing, spelling, or math
  5. Their confidence is noticeably declining
  6. They understand information verbally but struggle to put it on paper
  7. Teachers are also reporting concerns
  8. Homework conflict is affecting your relationship with your child
  9. Your child is working hard but making limited progress
  10. You are unsure whether the difficulty involves academic skills, attention, organization, language, handwriting, or another area

Could Individual Tutoring Help?

Homework support focuses on helping a student understand and complete current assignments.

Individual tutoring can go deeper by identifying missing skills, reteaching concepts, introducing effective strategies, and providing practice at a pace that makes sense for the child.

Carolina Therapy Connection provides individualized tutoring and homework support in Greenville and New Bern for students in public school, private school, and homeschool programs. Services may address reading, writing, spelling, math, handwriting, organization, study skills, test preparation, learning differences, and confidence with schoolwork.

Tutoring should not simply become another hour of frustration added to a child’s schedule. The right support should help learning feel more understandable, encouraging, and achievable.

Does My Child Need an Educational Assessment?

Not every student needs a comprehensive educational assessment before beginning tutoring.

Sometimes a consultation, review of concerns, or placement measure provides enough information to develop an individualized tutoring plan. Other children may benefit from a more comprehensive assessment to better understand their academic strengths, learning needs, and appropriate next steps. Carolina Therapy Connection begins by helping families determine which option is most appropriate for their child.

An educational assessment may be helpful when the reason for the struggle remains unclear, concerns affect several academic areas, or previous interventions have not resulted in expected progress.

The purpose is not to place another label on a child. It is to gather information that can help parents and educators make more informed decisions.

Specialized Reading and Dyslexia Support

Children with persistent difficulty in phonics, decoding, spelling, reading fluency, comprehension, or written language may need more specialized reading instruction.

Carolina Therapy Connection offers Orton Gillingham reading support in Greenville and New Bern for students with dyslexia, reading challenges, spelling difficulties, and language based learning differences. Sessions are individualized and use structured, multisensory instruction to strengthen foundational literacy skills.

Supporting the Whole Child

Academic difficulty rarely stays contained to a worksheet.

Repeated struggles can affect confidence, motivation, family relationships, and the way a child sees themselves as a learner.

That is why meaningful educational support begins by looking beyond the grade. What skills does this child have? Where are they getting stuck? What teaching methods help concepts make sense? What strengths can we build upon?

Carolina Therapy Connection’s educational program combines personalized instruction, hands-on learning, visual supports, and collaboration with families. CTC also offers educational assessments, homeschool support, and eligible scholarship funding options through its Greenville and New Bern programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homework Struggles

Should I sit beside my child during all of their homework?

The amount of support a child needs depends on their age, skills, and independence.

Younger students may benefit from having an adult nearby. Older students may do better with a brief planning conversation followed by periodic check-ins. The goal is to provide enough support for success without creating long-term dependence on an adult for every answer.

What should I do when my child completely refuses to work?

Begin by helping everyone calm down. Once the situation is less emotional, try to determine whether the child does not understand the assignment, feels overwhelmed by the amount of work, is exhausted, or is afraid of getting it wrong.

Begin with one small step rather than arguing about the entire assignment.

Am I helping too much?

Helping becomes too much when the adult is doing the thinking, writing, reading, or problem solving for the child.

A helpful parent asks questions, clarifies directions, organizes materials, and encourages effort. The student should still complete the academic work as independently as possible.

Does my child need tutoring if they are not failing?

No. Tutoring is not only for students who are failing a class.

A child may benefit from tutoring to strengthen foundational skills, prepare for more advanced work, improve confidence, develop organization strategies, or prevent a small learning gap from becoming larger.

Can ESA+ funds be used for tutoring?

Eligible North Carolina families may use ESA+ funds for qualifying live tutoring and supplemental instruction in approved academic subjects when services are provided through an enrolled provider. Carolina Therapy Connection identifies itself as an approved site for eligible educational funding programs, but families should confirm their child’s eligibility and the specific services covered before enrolling.

Homework Does Not Have to Define Your Evenings

Your child is more than a grade, a test score, or an unfinished worksheet.

Struggling does not mean they are incapable. It may mean they need a different explanation, more direct instruction, smaller steps, additional practice, or someone who can help identify the missing pieces.

The right support can improve academic skills, but it can also protect something just as important…your child’s confidence and belief that they are capable of learning.

Ready to Make Homework Feel More Manageable?

Carolina Therapy Connection offers individual tutoring, homework support, educational consultations, reading and dyslexia support, and comprehensive educational assessments in Greenville and New Bern, North Carolina.

Explore Educational Services in Greenville and New Bern

Begin an Educational Services Inquiry

Read our other blog!  “One-on-One Tutoring vs. Homework Help: What Does Your Child Really Need?“

Types of Mental Wellness Counseling: Understanding Common Therapy Approaches

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Types of Mental Wellness Counseling: Understanding Common Therapy Approaches

By Suzanne Raines, MSW, LCSW-A | Carolina Therapy Connection

Mental wellness counseling plays an important role in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether someone is experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, behavioral concerns, or simply seeking personal growth, counseling provides valuable support and practical tools for lasting change.

One of the most common questions people ask when considering counseling is: “What type of therapy will I receive?” The answer depends on the individual’s unique needs, goals, strengths, and experiences. Mental wellness professionals use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help clients better understand themselves, regulate emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping strategies.

Mental wellness counseling can benefit individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. In this blog, we’ll explore several commonly used therapeutic approaches and how they support emotional growth, behavioral change, and overall well-being.

Why Therapeutic Approaches Matter

Every person experiences life’s challenges differently. Effective counseling recognizes these differences and tailors treatment to meet each individual’s needs.

Therapeutic approaches provide structured methods for helping clients:

  • Understand thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
  • Develop healthy coping strategies
  • Improve communication and relationships
  • Build emotional resilience
  • Create meaningful and lasting change

By using evidence-based interventions, therapists can help clients make progress toward their goals while feeling supported throughout the process.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Understanding the Connection Between Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and actions. This evidence-based approach helps individuals identify negative or unhelpful thinking patterns and understand how those thoughts influence feelings and behaviors.

Through CBT, clients learn to:

  • Recognize unhelpful thought patterns
  • Challenge inaccurate or negative beliefs
  • Replace unhealthy thinking with balanced perspectives
  • Develop practical coping skills
  • Manage anxiety, depression, and stress more effectively

CBT is highly goal-oriented and equips clients with tools they can use both during and outside of therapy sessions.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Building Emotional Regulation and Distress Tolerance Skills

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps individuals manage intense emotions while balancing acceptance and change. Originally developed to support emotional dysregulation, DBT now benefits individuals facing a variety of emotional and behavioral challenges.

DBT focuses on four key skill areas:

Emotional Regulation

Learning to understand and manage strong emotions effectively.

Distress Tolerance

Developing healthy ways to cope during difficult situations without becoming overwhelmed.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Building communication and relationship skills that support healthy interactions.

Mindfulness

Increasing awareness of thoughts, feelings, and experiences in the present moment.

DBT provides practical strategies that help clients navigate stress, improve relationships, and respond to challenges with greater confidence and control.

Play Therapy Techniques

Supporting Children’s Emotional Growth Through Play

Children often communicate differently than adults. They may not have the words to express complex emotions, experiences, or concerns. Play therapy techniques provide developmentally appropriate ways for children to communicate and process their feelings.

Through activities such as:

  • Play-based interactions
  • Art activities
  • Storytelling
  • Games
  • Creative expression

Therapists gain valuable insight into a child’s thoughts and emotions while helping them build important skills.

Play therapy techniques can support:

  • Emotional regulation
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Social skills development
  • Self-expression
  • Coping skill development

By creating a safe, supportive environment, therapists help children explore feelings, build confidence, and practice healthy behaviors through play.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Encouraging Positive Change Through Collaboration

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling approach that helps individuals explore ambivalence and strengthen motivation for change.

Rather than directing clients toward a specific outcome, therapists using MI work collaboratively to help individuals discover their own reasons for making positive changes.

Motivational Interviewing uses:

  • Open-ended questions
  • Reflective listening
  • Encouragement and affirmations
  • Goal exploration
  • Collaborative problem-solving

This approach helps clients build confidence, increase self-awareness, and develop a stronger commitment to personal growth and behavior change.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Uses Evidence-Based Counseling Approaches

At Carolina Therapy Connection, mental wellness therapists understand that every client’s journey is unique. One of our highest priorities is meeting clients where they are and creating treatment plans that reflect their individual needs, strengths, and goals.

Our therapists integrate evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT, play therapy techniques, and Motivational Interviewing to provide personalized support throughout the counseling process.

This flexible, individualized approach allows therapists to:

  • Support emotional regulation
  • Build healthy coping skills
  • Increase self-awareness
  • Strengthen resilience
  • Encourage meaningful personal growth

Through collaboration, ongoing assessment, and individualized treatment planning, our therapists help clients achieve progress that feels attainable, sustainable, and meaningful.

Benefits of Mental Wellness Counseling

Mental wellness counseling can help individuals:

  • Manage anxiety and depression
  • Improve emotional regulation
  • Develop healthier coping skills
  • Build stronger relationships
  • Increase confidence and self-awareness
  • Navigate life transitions and challenges
  • Improve overall emotional well-being

Counseling is not only for times of crisis. Many individuals seek therapy to enhance personal growth, improve daily functioning, and build lifelong skills that support emotional wellness.

Getting Started with Mental Wellness Services

Taking the first step toward counseling can feel overwhelming, but support is available.

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our therapists are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that helps individuals and families thrive.

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, our team can help determine the best therapeutic approach based on your unique needs and goals.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit our referral page to learn more about mental wellness services and schedule an appointment with a member of our team.

We look forward to supporting you on your journey toward improved emotional health, resilience, and well-being.

References

DIY Sensory Bins for Kids: Easy Summer Play Ideas

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By Brittney Bulluck, COTA/L | Carolina Therapy Connection

Many parents look for ways to keep their children engaged during the summer without relying on screens. When school routines pause, it can feel challenging to balance fun and development at home.

The GOOD NEWS? DIY sensory bins offer a simple, affordable, and effective way to support your child’s growth while keeping play exciting and meaningful. In this guide, you’ll learn why sensory play matters, how to create sensory bins at home, and how to adapt them to fit your child’s needs.

Why Sensory Play Matters

Sensory play helps children learn by engaging their senses – touch, sight, sound, smell, and movement. During the summer, when routines shift, sensory play provides structure while still feeling like FUN!

Sensory bins can help:

  • Improve fine motor skills (grasping, scooping, pouring)
  • Support attention and focus
  • Encourage language and social interaction
  • Promote emotional regulation
  • Build problem-solving skills

Therapists often use sensory play in occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy because it supports development in a natural, low-pressure way.

What Is a Sensory Bin?

A sensory bin is a container filled with materials that encourage hands-on exploration. You can keep it simple or get creative based on your child’s interests.

Common Sensory Bin Bases

  • Rice, beans, or pasta
  • Sand or dirt
  • Water
  • Shredded paper
  • Gelatin (Jello)
  • Pom-poms
  • Kinetic sand

Tools and Add-Ins

  • Cups, spoons, and funnels
  • Small toys or figurines
  • Tongs or tweezers
  • Letters, numbers, or pictures

How to Make DIY Sensory Bins at Home

Creating sensory bins doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. You can use everyday household items to create meaningful play experiences.

Step 1: Choose a Theme

Themes help spark interest and keep children engaged. Start with a base and build around it.

Fun Summer Themes:

  • Beach: sand, shells, pebbles
  • Ocean: water, toy fish, strainers
  • Bugs: dirt, plastic insects, magnifying glass
  • Ice Cream Shop: pom-poms, scoops, bowls
  • Lemonade Stand: yellow shredded paper, white pom-poms

Step 2: Pick the Right Tools

Tools support fine motor development and coordination.

Try:

  • Scoops and spoons for pouring
  • Tongs for grasping
  • Cups for measuring and dumping

Step 3: Add Learning Opportunities

Turn play into learning by naturally incorporating skills such as:

  • Naming colors and textures
  • Counting objects
  • Practicing turn-taking
  • Describing what your child sees and feels

Keep the play open-ended. There’s no “right” way to explore!

Tips for Sensory Play Success

  • Start small if your child feels sensitive to textures
  • Supervise play, especially with small items
  • Set clear boundaries (keep materials in one area)
  • Follow your child’s lead
  • Focus on fun… NOT perfection

Remember: messy play is MEANINGFUL play.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we believe play is a powerful tool for growth. Our team supports children and families through:

If you’re wondering whether your child could benefit from therapy or want personalized ideas tailored to your child’s needs, we’re here to help!

👉 Visit our website to learn more or schedule a consultation today.

Concussions in Children: What Parents Should Know

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Children of all ages can experience concussions, even during everyday play. Knowing what to look for and how to support recovery can help your child heal safely and confidently.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild injury to the brain that can occur when a child hits their head or experiences a sudden movement that causes the brain to shift inside the skull. While concussions often happen after a direct hit to the head, they can also occur during falls, car accidents, or sports activities when the body stops or changes direction quickly.

Common Concussion Symptoms in Children

Concussion symptoms can vary from child to child and may appear immediately or hours later. Some common signs include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or balance difficulties
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Changes in sleep (sleeping more or less than usual)
  • Difficulty concentrating or keeping up at school
  • Increased irritability or emotional changes

For babies and toddlers, watch for:

  • Decreased interest in play
  • Eating less than usual
  • Changes in bathroom habits
  • Increased crying, frustration, or clinginess

What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion

If you think your child may have a concussion, seek medical care as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can evaluate your child and determine the next steps for care. While imaging tests may be used in some cases, many concussions do not require them.

Early medical guidance helps protect your child’s brain and supports a safer recovery.

Supporting Recovery at Home

Once your child returns home, the brain needs time to rest and heal. The first 24–48 hours play a critical role in recovery.

During this time:

  • Limit screen use (TVs, phones, tablets)
  • Avoid physical activity
  • Encourage quiet, low-stimulation activities
  • Allow rest and sleep as needed

If symptoms increase, reduce stimulation further and consult your child’s provider.

Returning to School and Activities

After the initial rest period, your child can gradually return to daily activities based on how they feel. Recovery should always move at your child’s pace.

Some children may need:

  • Shortened school days
  • Extra breaks
  • Reduced homework or screen time

Sports and active play should only resume with medical guidance. If symptoms return, activity levels should decrease.

When Symptoms Last Longer Than Expected

Most children begin to feel better within one to three months, but every child heals differently. If symptoms persist, such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, or discomfort with movement, physical therapy may HELP!

How Physical Therapy Supports Concussion Recovery

Physical therapy plays an important role in concussion recovery, especially when symptoms linger. A physical therapist evaluates how your child moves, balances, and responds to motion. This may include checking posture, eye movements, walking patterns, and coordination.

Based on these findings, the therapist creates a personalized plan that supports safe healing.

Physical therapy can help by:

  • Improving balance and coordination
  • Reducing dizziness and motion sensitivity
  • Supporting safe return to daily movement and sports
  • Building confidence during recovery

Therapists guide children through a gradual return-to-activity process, adjusting the plan if symptoms reappear.

Education and Ongoing Support

Physical therapists also teach families how to manage symptoms at home, recognize signs of overexertion, and understand when rest or activity is appropriate. They often collaborate with doctors and schools to support a safe return to learning and play.

When Is Physical Therapy Complete?

Your child may finish physical therapy when they:

  • Experience no symptoms during rest or activity
  • Participate fully in school, play, and sports
  • No longer need accommodations or restrictions

With the right care, patience, and support, most children fully recover and return to the activities they enjoy.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

At CTC, we help children recover from concussions through personalized physical therapy programs designed to restore balance, coordination, and confidence. Our licensed therapists support children throughout recovery and guide families every step of the way.

If you have concerns about your child’s recovery or ongoing symptoms after a concussion, we’re here to help!

👉 Visit our website to learn more or schedule an evaluation today.

Feeding Tube Awareness: Inclusive Mealtimes for Children

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Written by: Qiana Jones, COTA/L 

Feeding Tube Awareness Week offers an opportunity to raise understanding, reduce stigma, and celebrate children who receive nutrition through feeding tubes. At Carolina Therapy Connection, we believe feeding is about more than intake… It’s about connection, participation, dignity, and honoring each child’s unique needs.

From an occupational therapy perspective, the use of feeding tubes does not represent a failure. They serve as supportive medical tools that help children grow, conserve energy, and engage more fully in daily life.

Understanding Tube Feeding Through an Occupational Therapy Lens

Children may require feeding tubes for many reasons, including:

  • Medical complexity
  • Sensory processing differences
  • Oral-motor or swallowing challenges
  • Difficulty regulating during mealtimes

Tube feeding can:

  • Support adequate nutrition and hydration
  • Reduce stress and pressure around eating
  • Allow children to focus energy on play, learning, and development

Some tube-fed children also eat by mouth, while others do not, and both experiences are VALID. As occupational therapists, we focus on safety, regulation, and meaningful participation, rather than forcing a single feeding outcome.

Creating Inclusive Mealtimes at Home

Family meals can remain meaningful and inclusive, even when the way we feed looks different.

🍽️ Togetherness Matters More Than Sameness

Children do not need to eat the same way to belong at the table. Sitting together, participating in routines, and sharing conversation reinforces connection and a sense of belonging.

🧃 Normalize Tube Feeding Within Daily Routines

When appropriate, families can include tube feeds during shared mealtimes rather than separating them. This approach helps normalize tube feeding and reduces feelings of difference or isolation.

Having Healthy Conversations About Tube Feeding

How adults talk about tube feeding shapes how children understand their bodies and needs.

💬 Use Neutral, Confident Language

Supportive phrases may include:

  • “This is how your body gets the nutrition it needs.”
  • “Everyone’s body works differently.”

Avoid language that frames tube feeding as something to “fix” or apologize for.

🌱 Welcome Curiosity

Siblings, peers, and adults often have questions. Simple, factual responses help normalize tube feeding and reduce stigma:

  • “This helps their body grow strong.”

Feeding Is About More Than Food

From an occupational therapy perspective, feeding involves more than eating. It includes:

  • Sensory processing
  • Motor coordination
  • Emotional regulation
  • Past experiences
  • Feelings of safety and trust

For some children, oral feeding feels overwhelming—or may not be safe. Tube feeding allows the nervous system to regulate, so exploration, if and when appropriate, can happen without pressure.

Progress may look like:

  • Reduced anxiety at meals
  • Increased tolerance of food-related experiences
  • Longer participation at the table
  • Improved family routines

These gains matter, and they deserve recognition and celebration.

Supporting Families With Compassion

Families of tube-fed children often navigate:

  • Emotional stress
  • Conflicting advice
  • Social pressure
  • Fear of judgment

Choosing tube feeding reflects care, advocacy, and responsiveness to a child’s needs, NOT a lack of effort. Families deserve support grounded in empathy and respect.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

Our occupational therapy team supports:

  • Inclusive, child-centered mealtime routines
  • Individual feeding journeys without judgment
  • Family partnership grounded in compassion
  • Dignity, understanding, and meaningful participation

Feeding tubes help children THRIVE… not just survive.
If you have questions about feeding, regulation, or participation at mealtimes, our occupational therapy team is here to help.

Schedule your free consultation by clicking here.

Picky Eating or Something More? Signs Your Child Needs Feeding Support

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Does your child avoid certain foods, gag at new textures, or flat-out refuse entire food groups? Mealtimes shouldn’t feel like a battle, but for parents of picky eaters, it can be one of the most stressful parts of the day. Pediatric occupational therapy can help transform mealtime from a struggle into a positive experience by addressing the root cause of your child’s food aversions.

What Is a Picky Eater?

Picky eating is more than just being “a little particular.” It can include avoiding specific textures, colors, smells, or temperatures of foods, often resulting in a restricted diet. While some pickiness is typical during development, extreme food avoidance or distress around eating may signal an underlying sensory or developmental challenge.

Children may be labeled “picky” when they:

  • Eat fewer than 20 foods
  • Refuse entire food groups (like fruits or vegetables)
  • Struggle with food textures or strong smells
  • Experience anxiety or meltdowns at mealtimes
  • Have difficulty chewing or swallowing certain foods

Why Occupational Therapy for Picky Eaters?

Pediatric occupational therapists (OTs) are trained to look beyond eating behaviors and uncover the “why” behind picky eating. Often, it’s tied to sensory processing difficulties, oral motor challenges, or poor postural control that makes eating physically uncomfortable.

Sensory Processing and Feeding

Children who are sensitive to textures, smells, or temperatures may experience a sensory overload when introduced to new foods. For example, a soft banana might feel “mushy” and unpleasant, or the smell of broccoli might feel overwhelming.

OTs help children explore these sensitivities in a supportive environment through sensory integration therapy. They work to slowly and safely desensitize kids to new sensations so that food becomes less threatening.

Oral Motor and Postural Skills

Eating also requires strong oral motor and postural control. Children with weak jaw muscles, poor tongue coordination, or low muscle tone may find chewing difficult or exhausting, which can make food less enjoyable. OTs support these underlying motor skills to help children feel more confident and capable during meals.

Red Flags That May Indicate a Need for Help

If your child’s picky eating is affecting growth, nutrition, or daily routines, it might be time to speak with a professional. Some red flags include:

  • Difficulty transitioning to solid foods
  • Coughing, gagging, or vomiting during meals
  • Eating the same foods every day without variation
  • Poor weight gain or slow growth
  • Avoiding social situations involving food

Strategies OTs Use with Picky Eaters

Occupational therapy doesn’t just take place at the clinic—it empowers families with practical strategies to use at home. Here are a few common approaches used by OTs:

  • Food Chaining: This method helps children transition from preferred foods to new foods by making small, manageable changes. For example, moving from plain crackers to whole wheat crackers, then to toasted bread.
  • Play-Based Exposure: Children explore new foods through play and sensory activities—touching, smelling, and eventually tasting foods at their own pace. Removing pressure and expectations allows kids to feel safe and curious.
  • Positive Mealtime Routines: Therapists help families create consistent routines and eliminate everyday power struggles during meals. This might include visual schedules, timer-based meal times, or family-style dining to model good behavior.
  • Environmental Modifications: Simple changes, such as adjusting seating posture, minimizing distractions, or using adaptive utensils, can make a significant difference in a child’s willingness to participate in meals.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand how frustrating and emotional it can be to raise a child who struggles with eating. Our pediatric occupational therapists specialize in identifying the underlying causes of picky eating and providing customized strategies that make a real difference.

Whether your child needs support with sensory processing, oral motor skills, or building positive routines, we are here to help. We offer free screenings to determine if your child would benefit from therapy, and we can schedule a comprehensive feeding evaluation to get started. Let us help turn mealtime into a time of connection, not conflict.

Building Strength from the Start: The Benefits of Tummy Time for Babies

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Have you ever heard of tummy time? If you have a baby or know someone with one, you might have! Tummy time is when your baby spends time lying on their belly while they’re awake and supervised. It might not seem like a big deal, but it’s super essential for your baby’s growth and development!

What Is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is simple: place your baby on their belly while they’re awake and keep a close eye on them. This helps strengthen their neck, shoulders, and back muscles, allowing them to grow strong and achieve significant milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, and crawling.

Why Is Tummy Time Important? Babies spend a lot of time on their backs when they sleep, which is great for safety! But if they don’t get enough time on their tummies while awake, their muscles might not develop as well. 

Tummy time helps:

  • Strengthen muscles – It builds the muscles needed for activities such as sitting, crawling, and walking.
  • Prevent flat spots on the head – Babies’ heads are soft, and spending too much time on their backs can increase pressure on the back of the head, ultimately causing flattening.
  • Improve motor skills – Tummy time gets babies ready for significant movements like rolling and reaching.
  • Support visual development – Looking around from a new angle helps babies learn and explore!

How to Make Tummy Time Fun

Tummy time isn’t always a favorite at first, but don’t worry! There are ways to make it fun for your baby:

  • Use toys – Place colorful, high-contrast, or noisy toys in front of them to encourage reaching and exploring their surroundings.
  • Get on their level – Lie on the floor with your baby so they can see your face and hear your voice.
  • Try different surfaces – A soft blanket, tummy time mat, or even your chest can make it more comfortable.
  • Make it short but frequent – Start with a few minutes a couple of times a day and work up to longer sessions.

When Should You Start Tummy Time?

You can start tummy time as soon as your baby is born! Even newborns can spend a little time on their bellies each day. By around 3 to 4 months old, babies should aim for about an hour of tummy time spread throughout the day.

Need Help? Carolina Therapy Connection has you covered! 

If your baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time or has trouble lifting their head, our pediatric physical therapy team is here to help! We can give you fun tips and exercises to make your little one’s tummy time easier and more enjoyable.

Tummy time is a small activity with enormous benefits! Give it a try, have fun, and watch your baby grow stronger every day!

How Sleep Impacts Mental Wellbeing: The Essential Connection Between Rest and Emotional Health

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In today’s fast-paced world, sleep often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. Late-night scrolling, demanding work schedules, and constant stimulation make it easy to push bedtime later and later. But sleep isn’t just a way to recharge physically — it’s one of the most powerful tools we have for maintaining mental health and emotional balance. 

The Powerful Connection Between Sleep and Mental Health

Sleep and mental well-being are connected in many ways. During sleep, especially in the deeper REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stages, our brains process emotions, consolidate memories, and clear out neurotoxic waste — all essential for cognitive functioning and emotional regulation. 

Lack of sleep can throw off this delicate balance. Just one night of poor sleep can make you feel irritable, anxious, and unfocused. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to the development or worsening of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and even bipolar disorder. 

How Sleep Affects Mood and Emotional Resilience

Have you ever noticed how everything feels a bit more overwhelming after a restless night? That’s because sleep plays a crucial role in regulating our mood. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions; this area becomes more reactive when we’re sleep-deprived. This means we’re more likely to overreact to stressors or feel emotionally unstable. 

Sleep helps us “reset” the emotional brain, giving us the resilience we need to face daily challenges. With adequate rest, we become better equipped to manage stress, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive outlook. 

Anxiety and Sleep: Breaking the Vicious Cycle

The relationship between anxiety and sleep can be complex. Anxiety can make it hard to fall or stay asleep, and not getting enough sleep can, in turn, increase anxiety levels. This creates a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. Research shows that insomnia is not only a symptom of anxiety but also a potential trigger. 

Prioritizing healthy sleep habits, such as maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and minimizing screen time before bed, can help alleviate anxious thoughts and enhance overall sleep quality. 

Sleep’s Role in Cognitive Function and Mental Clarity

Mental clarity, focus, and decision-making are all cognitive abilities affected by sleep. During deep sleep, the brain strengthens neural connections and clears away unnecessary information, which helps improve learning and memory. 

When we’re sleep-deprived, it becomes harder to concentrate, solve problems, or make sound decisions. This mental fog can contribute to feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, and emotional exhaustion. 

When to Seek Help: Therapy and Sleep Support

While it is essential to consult a sleep specialist to address physical ailments that restrict or impact sleep quality, working with a mental health therapist can help alleviate stress and incorporate practical coping skills to promote better and more consistent rest. Here are just a few ways a therapist can work with you to improve your sleep: 

  • Creating a routine. 
  • Developing skills to facilitate a sleep-friendly environment. 
  • Work to address substance use and excessive phone use. 
  • Develop somatic tools to help the body and mind connect and regulate. 

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

Sleep isn’t just rest — it’s mental nourishment. At Carolina Therapy Connection, our licensed mental health therapists work with you to develop a personalized and collaborative action plan that supports improved sleep and emotional well-being. We offer in-person counseling at our Greenville, New Bern, and Morehead City locations, as well as teletherapy services to individuals across the entire state of North Carolina. Whether you’re struggling with sleep-related anxiety, mood swings, or stress, our team is here to help you build healthy habits that lead to better rest and a healthier mind. Get started today with a free 15-minute consultation!

 

Understanding Infant Torticollis: Causes, Symptoms, and How Therapy Can Help

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Have you ever noticed a baby tilting their head to one side and having trouble turning it the other way? This might be a condition called torticollis! It’s a big word, but don’t worry—we’re here to break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

Torticollis happens when a muscle in the neck, called the sternocleidomastoid (say that three times fast!), becomes tight or shorter on one side. This makes it hard for a baby to turn their head. Some babies are born with it, while others develop it after birth.

What Causes Torticollis?

There are several reasons why torticollis can occur. Some babies have it at birth because of how they were positioned in the womb or if there was limited space for them to move around. At other times, babies can develop torticollis if they spend too much time in one position, such as in a car seat, crib, or if they receive one-sided feedings.

How Can You Tell If a Baby Has Torticollis?

Here are some signs to look out for:

  • The baby’s head tilts to one side.
  • The baby has trouble turning their head in both directions.
  • The baby prefers looking one way more than the other.
  • There may be a small lump in the neck (like a tiny bump under the skin).

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

The good news is that torticollis is very treatable, especially when caught early! A pediatric physical therapist can help by teaching parents special exercises to stretch and strengthen the baby’s neck muscles. These exercises can help the baby move their head more easily and develop their muscle balance. Some helpful treatments include:

  • Gentle stretching exercises.
  • Fun tummy time activities to strengthen neck muscles.
  • Positioning tips to help the baby turn their head both ways.

What Can Parents Do at Home?

Parents play a significant role in helping their little one! Here are some easy things to try at home:

  • Tummy Time: This helps babies build strong neck and shoulder muscles.
  • Switch It Up: Change the direction your baby faces when sleeping, feeding, or playing.
  • Play with Toys: Hold colorful or noisy toys on the baby’s weaker side to encourage them to turn their head.

When Should You See a Therapist?

If you notice signs of torticollis in your baby, it’s a good idea to check with a doctor or pediatric physical therapist. Early treatment can make a big difference and help your baby grow strong and happy!

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our physical therapy team is dedicated to helping little ones reach their full potential. If you have concerns about your baby’s neck movement, we’re here to help with fun, practical therapy sessions. Contact us today to learn more!