What to Expect During Your Child's First Therapy Visit at Darling Pediatric Therapy

If you’ve scheduled your child’s first therapy visit — whether for speech, feeding, or occupational therapy — you might be wondering what the appointment will look like. We understand that trying something new can feel uncertain. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect during your first visit at Darling Pediatric Therapy.

Before Your Appointment

Before the appointment, you'll receive an intake form. You can complete this form online or in person. It asks about your child’s development, daily routines, and your concerns or goals. This information helps us tailor the session to your child’s needs right from the start.

The Evaluation Process

The first visit is typically an evaluation. This process may look a little different depending on the service your child is receiving. However, we will generally observe how your child communicates, plays, eats, or moves.

What to Expect

During the evaluation, you might see:

• Play-based activities for younger kids

• Standardized testing for specific areas

• Informal conversation, especially with older children

  
  

We may assess various aspects, including language, speech sounds, feeding patterns, sensory processing, fine motor skills, coordination, and how your child follows directions. The focus will depend on why you’re here. We don’t expect perfection, and we keep the process low-pressure.

After the Session

Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll review what we observed. We will share our recommendations and discuss whether therapy is appropriate for your child.

Discussing Next Steps

If therapy is recommended, we’ll talk about:

• Which services make sense for your child

• How often your child should be seen

• What goals we’d focus on during sessions

  
  

You’ll have time to ask questions and discuss next steps. We want you to feel comfortable and informed.

Moving Forward with Therapy

If you decide to proceed with therapy, we’ll assist you in scheduling your sessions. We will also explain payment options, insurance details, and what to expect during treatment.

Building a Supportive Environment

At Darling Pediatric Therapy, we prioritize creating a supportive environment. We believe in a neurodiversity-affirming approach that helps every child make real, sustainable progress. Our goal is to ensure that your child feels safe and understood throughout their therapy journey.

Final Thoughts

We aim to make the first visit straightforward, informative, and helpful. Our team is here to support you and your child every step of the way.

👉 Contact us to schedule an evaluation or learn more about our services.

Related Services

• Speech Therapy

• Feeding Therapy

• Occupational Therapy

  
  

Additional Resources

Understanding Therapy Goals

Therapy goals are essential for tracking progress. They help us understand what we want to achieve together. Setting clear, achievable goals can make a significant difference in your child’s development.

The Importance of Family Involvement

Family involvement is crucial in therapy. Your support can enhance your child’s progress. We encourage you to participate in sessions and practice at home. This collaboration fosters a positive environment for growth.

Celebrating Progress

Every small achievement matters. We celebrate milestones, no matter how minor they may seem. Recognizing these moments can motivate your child and boost their confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about therapy, we’re here to help. Common inquiries include:

• How long will therapy last?

• What should I bring to the sessions?

• How can I support my child at home?

  
  

Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. We’re dedicated to providing the best care for your child.

By understanding what to expect during your child's first therapy visit, you can feel more prepared and confident. We look forward to partnering with you on this journey!