Sacred Heart - Inspiring Health

PLAYTIME ISN'T JUST AN IDEAL PASTIME FOR KIDS. IT'S A NECESSITY. THOUGH PICKY EATING IS COMMON AMONG TODDLERS, IT COULD LEAD TO MORE SERIOUS PROBLEMS, IF NOT PROPERLY SCREENED. Play—It's Your Job Want to learn more about how occupational therapy can benefit your child? Call 715.726.3447 to set up a S.P.O.T.S appointment. Play as a family. Visit www.gochippewavalley.com and sign up for the GO myWay online wellness program. THOUGH MANY CHILDREN find entertainment through television and electronics, there is a whole other side of play. "Kids spend too much time being entertained by electronics and not enough time learning to entertain themselves," says Melissa Haas, OTR, Occupational Therapist and Therapy Manager for HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital's S.P.O.T.S. Pediatric Therapy program. "Play is how kids learn, engage, become creative, and try different things. It helps set the foundation for what they will later become in life." THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY Though all children should get plenty of time to exercise— an hour a day—not all play is fitness-based. "Unstructured play is important. Time spent creating pretend scenarios, like doctor or teacher, helps kids learn social skills. Time spent with blocks helps them learn hand- WHEN YOUR TODDLER won't eat a few foods, don't worry. If your child, however, only eats up to 15 different foods, it could mean something more serious. One out of four kids struggles with some type of feeding disorder, including selective eating. Signs that could indicate your child may be a selective eater include: ✳ Crying when certain foods are presented ✳ Negative reactions, including vomiting or extreme nausea ✳ Rejects certain textures or food groups "Picky eating can be viewed as a traditional phase that children will outgrow," says Deborah Hebert, OTR, Occupational Therapist for HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital's S.P.O.T.S. Pediatric Therapy program. "If it causes undo stress for either the child or parent, consult your pediatrician." ENGAGING YOUR CHILD Studies show that early interventions are important for your child's health. The longer selective feeding issues remain untreated, the more potential they have to turn into bigger issues, including the onset of anxiety or depression. "Nurture a relationship of trust to avoid any power struggles," Hebert says. "Present the food and allow your child the option of engaging all the senses. Exposure to a variety of foods is encouraged, but always include at least one food you know your child will eat." eye coordination," Haas says. "My role is to help kids improve fine motor skills and increase mental flexibility to move and play with ease." Playtime also adds other benefits, like boosting endorphins to energize kids and then helping them relax into better sleep at night. It also helps improve their mood, Haas adds. "It's essential for parents to engage their kids and spend time with them," Haas says. "Learn more about your children by seeing how they play and what interests them." Call 715.717.5899 to schedule an appointment at HSHS Sacred Heart Behavioral Health in Eau Claire. Call 715.723.5585 to reach the Chippewa Falls L.E. Phillips-Libertas Treatment Center. ARE PICKY EATERS DEPRESSED? 3 S A C R E D H E A R T E A U C L A I R E . O R G

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