Development, weight & growth
There is wide variation in how babies develop and grow, and many parents seek reasurrance. In conjunction with your GP or paediatrician, we will offer you guidance and support, whether your concern is based on growth rate or behavioural development. Our children's team includes nutritional specialists, family therapists, allergists and child psychologists.
Accurate diagnosis of the cause of a developmental, weight or growth issue is crucial. We work with a number of paediatricians, both under our own roof, and through referral to other medical centres, to offer you a range of diagnostic skills.
Autism is one of several conditions that are more commonly recognised in children over the age of 2. With advances in understanding, however, it is now possible for some early signs, perhaps between the age of 8 and 18 months, to be noticed - usually by parents. With careful attention your paediatrician will listen to your concerns and offer close observation and any further support or referral that suits your baby and you.
Family lifestyle may be significant. This includes eating and sleeping habits as well as relationships, and environmental factors if allergy plays a role. Touch is also relevant. It is now known that loving skin-to-skin contact is as important for a baby to fulfil his or her genetic potential for growth. A nutritional therapist, life coach or child psychologist may provide helpful guidance.
Inherited views may play a role in what parents consider to be 'too fat' or 'too thin', 'too noisy' or 'too quiet', etc. With regular observation your doctor or health visitor will monitor your baby's development according to medical guidelines. If there are disagreements within your family it may be useful to discuss these with your doctor, or with a family therapist.
Emotional feelings shape your baby's experience of life and also influence many body systems. It is often effective for a family to work with a paediatrician and a child psychologist or early years psychotherapist. Emotional support may become a central aspect of care where there is strain in the family.
Complementary therapies may be useful either alone or alongside medical care. Therapists at Viveka have a high level of skill and sensitivity and love treating babies.
Did you know?
Massage can enhance growth and encourage optimal development of your baby's spine, limbs, head and neck, building up flexibility and strength. Classes at Viveka include dads-only groups.
