In addition to multiple medical doctors, a child with CHARGE will likely see a number of therapists to help with skills that come naturally to other children. These therapies are available in the education setting and privately. Read about Speech Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Orientation and Mobility, and more: Therapy Plans
The Physical Therapist primarily supports gross motor issues of balance, walking, accessing doors, stairs, curbs, posture, wheelchair transfers and other wheelchair issues, leg bracing and accompanying issues. Read about Physical Therapy and CHARGE Syndrome.
The Occupational Therapist primarily supports arm/hand strength and coordination (fine motor) issues, sensory motor issues, sensory integration, activities of daily living, oral motor issues, hand/arm splinting and accompanying issues. More information about Occupational Therapy is available in the CHARGE Syndrome Education Professional Packet:
CHARGE Syndrome Information_Occupational Therapy (OT) and in the Sense UK fact sheet: The Role of the Occupational Therapist
The Speech and Language Pathologist integrates visual, auditory, sensory, behavioral, and educational information for each individual student in order to expand their receptive and expressive language skills.
Speech and Language Therapy in CHARGE Syndrome
Challenges at Mealtimes
The Speech & Language Therapist working with children and young people with CHARGE syndrome (Sense UK)
The Occupational Therapist and Speech and Language Pathologist frequently work together on feeding and oral motor issues.
Feeding & Oral Motor Issues
Eating and drinking issues in CHARGE syndrome (Sense UK)
The Orientation & Mobility Specialist is a certified professional who teaches children and adults with visual impairments how to travel safely and independently in familiar and unfamiliar environments.
http://www.perkins.org/stories/blog/orientation-and-mobility
For additional information see our About CHARGE and Resources pages.
