Pediatric Chiropractor for Infants and Kids

As a pediatric chiropractor, Dr. Wendy Coburn is experienced working with kids and started her journey with extensive training in pediatric chiropractic care from Dr. Jeanne Ohm, Dr. Claudia Anrig, Dr. Liz Anderson-Peacock, Dr. Martin and Nancy Rosen, Dr. Michael Hall, SOT, ICPA, Dr. Tony Ebel, to name a few. Dr. Coburn helps new born infants to toddlers and growing teenagers. With a gentle, educated touch, we provide safe chiropractic care for babies and children to assist the natural flow of energy and nutrients through the spine without interference. This helps support your baby during your child’s critical development years while help setting them on a path to a lifetime of good health. Did you know in the first two years, your child’s brain will grow the most it ever will?   

Chiropractic care for babies

Deliveries can be hard on babies too, which can lead to potential problems. It is fairly common with babies, especially in the case of difficult deliveries, for the head to tilt to one side and not hold its proper position (this presents by approximately 3 months of age).  A baby chiropractic appointment can help. An issue with plagiocephaly or oral dysfunction can some times associate with torticollis.  .

Post-delivery evaluation and chiropractic care can help remove interference that may have developed during pregnancy, or the  birthing process for both mother and infant. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help your baby’s spine and nervous system function as they should to support health. Our adjustments use such minimal pressure infants hardly notice they are being adjusted, in fact some sleep right through it!

If your baby is fussy, having a hard time latching or struggling in some way, try a visit to One Village in West Edmonton. We are here to help both mom and baby thrive!

A Chiropractor for kids too

As kids become more active, chiropractic care can help keep them aligned. When spinal subluxations or misalignments occur, the messages from the brain to the body may be interrupted. The removal of these interruptions will help your child heal properly and encourage health function and healing.

Misalignments in kids can create nerve system interference, affecting normal motor function. This can then lead to many challenges – especially those concerning the processing of their environment, and how your child will respond and adapt to stimulus or information.

Removing subluxations can help with maintenance of proper posture, other neuromuscular challenges experienced by kids. Does your child or teenager play sports? Adjustments can help increase their overall mobility and ability to heal properly.  Removing subluxation has been shown to increase proprioception and reaction time after an adjustment.

Schedule a pediatric appointment

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community we want to help ensure your child can grow strong and healthy as they learn to navigate the world around them. Contact us with any questions or schedule an appointment at our West Edmonton clinic today!

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At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy development becomes much easier to understand when we return to a few foundational principles.

Principle #1: Children Were Designed to Develop

Children are not fragile projects that require perfection.

They were designed to grow.

To learn.

To adapt.

To explore.

The nervous system expects interaction with the world.

Development occurs through participation.

Principle #2: Movement Matters

Movement remains one of the most important contributors to healthy development.

Children learn through:

• Rolling
• Crawling
• Climbing
• Running
• Jumping
• Exploring

Movement helps build the brain.

Principle #3: Relationships Matter

Children thrive when they feel:

• Safe
• Supported
• Connected
• Loved

Relationships influence development profoundly.

Connection creates confidence.

Principle #4: Sleep Matters

Growth and adaptation continue during sleep.

Healthy sleep habits support:

• Recovery
• Learning
• Growth

Sleep remains one of childhood’s most important activities.

Principle #5: Outdoor Play Matters

Nature encourages:

• Creativity
• Movement
• Problem solving
• Exploration

Children benefit tremendously from spending time outdoors.

Principle #6: Healthy Habits Matter

Healthy development is influenced by:

• Nutrition
• Movement
• Sleep
• Connection
• Consistency

Small habits repeated over time often create the greatest impact.

Principle #7: Adaptability Matters

Life is constantly changing.

Children who learn how to adapt often navigate those changes more successfully.

Adaptability may be one of the most valuable life skills we can help nurture.

Principle #8: Wellness Is a Journey

Health is not a destination.

Development is not a finish line.

Both are ongoing processes.

Children continually grow and adapt throughout life.

Principle #9: Every Child Is Unique

Comparison rarely helps.

Every child has their own:

• Strengths
• Personality
• Timeline
• Journey

The goal is not creating identical children.

The goal is supporting the child in front of us.

Principle #10: You Matter Too

One of the most important lessons I share with parents is this:

Your well-being matters.

Children benefit when caregivers also prioritize:

• Movement
• Sleep
• Connection
• Health

Healthy families are built together.

The Big Picture

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe growing up is best understood through a whole-child lens.

Movement.

Sleep.

Nutrition.

Connection.

Adaptability.

Wellness.

These foundations help children build the skills they need to thrive.

And when we focus on foundations rather than perfection, parenting often becomes a little simpler and a lot more meaningful.

Because healthy development is not about doing everything perfectly.

It is about showing up consistently, loving deeply, and creating opportunities for children to grow into who they were designed to become.

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• Pediatric Chiropractic Edmonton
• Family Chiropractor Edmonton
• Pregnancy Chiropractor Edmonton
• Newborn Chiropractor Edmonton
• Wellness Care Edmonton

 

 

The Ninni Pacifier, the Nervous System, and Why How a Baby’s Oral Function Matters

Dr. Wendy Coburn | One Village Family Chiropractic Community | Edmonton, Alberta

As a chiropractor who spends most of her days caring for babies, children, and families, I often say something that surprises parents:

The mouth is a neurological structure first and a feeding structure second.

Yes, babies need to eat.

Yes, they need to gain weight.

Yes, we care deeply about feeding success.

But long before we discuss ounces, bottles, or solids, we need to understand that a baby’s mouth is one of the most important gateways into their developing nervous system.

Every latch, every swallow, every suck, every tongue movement, every breath, and every sensory experience inside the mouth is sending information to the brain.

And the brain is listening.

This is why I have become increasingly interested in tools that support healthy oral function rather than simply occupying a baby’s mouth.

One of those tools is the Ninni pacifier.

Not because it is trendy.

Not because it is magical.

But because it attempts to respect the way the nervous system and oral structures were designed to work together.

The Mouth Is a Brain Development Tool

When a baby nurses, dozens of muscles coordinate together.

The tongue lifts.

The jaw lowers.

The lips seal.

The palate receives pressure.

The baby breathes.

The baby swallows.

The nervous system organizes all of it.

This is not simply feeding.

This is sensory-motor development.

Research from chiropractic neurophysiologist Dr. Heidi Haavik has repeatedly demonstrated that sensory input from the body influences how the brain processes information, organizes movement, and regulates function. Her work has shown that changing sensory input can alter sensorimotor integration and cortical processing within the brain.

In simple language:

The brain becomes better at what it practices.

For babies, sucking is one of the earliest and most important neurological exercises they perform.

Thousands and thousands of repetitions occur every day.

Those repetitions help shape:

• Oral motor control
• Feeding skills
• Breathing patterns
• Swallowing coordination
• Facial development
• Sensory processing
• Self-regulation

The question becomes:

What kind of neurological information are we repeatedly feeding the system?

Not All Sucking Is The Same

Many pacifiers require very little tongue movement.

Many encourage compression rather than suction.

Some sit forward in the mouth and can be held primarily by lip pressure or gum pressure.

From an oral function perspective, this is very different than breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding requires:

• A deep latch
• Tongue elevation
• Tongue cupping
• Rhythmic suction
• Jaw excursion
• Coordinated breathing

The creators of the Ninni pacifier designed it with the goal of encouraging a deeper latch and more active suction pattern that more closely resembles breastfeeding mechanics.

The silicone is intentionally softer than many traditional pacifiers.

In fact, one of the common complaints parents report is that babies cannot simply clamp down and hold it in place.

They actually have to create suction.

From a neurological perspective, that is interesting.

Because now we are asking the baby to perform a movement pattern rather than passively hold an object.

And movement is how the brain learns.

Why Dr. Jenna Davis Talks About Oral Function

One of the messages that Dr. Jenna Davis consistently shares is that oral function affects much more than feeding.

The mouth influences:

• Airway development
• Breathing
• Sleep
• Facial growth
• Nervous system regulation
• Tongue function
• Swallowing patterns

When we look at babies struggling with latch, reflux, tension, torticollis, tongue restriction, poor sleep, or oral motor challenges, we often find that the issue is bigger than feeding alone.

The entire sensory-motor system may be involved.

The tongue is connected to the fascial system.

The jaw influences cranial motion.

The palate influences airway space.

The neck influences oral function.

The nervous system coordinates all of it.

This is why we never look at the mouth in isolation.

We look at the whole child.

The Chiropractic Connection

Parents often ask:

“What does chiropractic have to do with feeding?”

Everything and nothing.

We don’t make babies feed.

We don’t force development.

We don’t cure feeding challenges.

What we do is assess the neurospinal system and look for areas where movement, sensory input, and nervous system communication may be compromised.

The upper neck, jaw, cranial system, tongue, and oral structures are all loaded with neurological information.

Research from Heidi Haavik and colleagues has demonstrated that spinal dysfunction can alter sensorimotor integration and the way the brain processes incoming information. Chiropractic adjustments appear to influence how the brain receives and organizes sensory information.

In babies, that matters.

Because babies are learning everything for the first time.

They are learning:

• How to latch
• How to suck
• How to swallow
• How to breathe
• How to regulate

Every repetition matters.

Every sensory experience matters.

The Ninni as a Training Tool

I often tell parents not to think of the Ninni as a pacifier first.

Think of it as an oral function tool.

Some babies love it immediately.

Some reject it entirely.

Some babies with tongue restrictions struggle initially because the very pattern the pacifier is asking them to perform is difficult.

Interestingly, many parents in breastfeeding communities describe the Ninni more as a “latch trainer” than a traditional pacifier because babies must create a deeper seal and active suction to keep it in their mouths.

That doesn’t mean it is right for every baby.

Nor does it mean every baby needs one.

It simply means the design encourages a different movement pattern.

And movement patterns matter.

Growth and Development Is About Repetition

One of the greatest misunderstandings in health is believing that development occurs through isolated events.

It does not.

Development occurs through repetition.

One swallow does not build a nervous system.

Ten thousand swallows do.

One chiropractic adjustment does not build regulation.

Consistent healthy input does.

One night of sleep does not create resilience.

Years of healthy sleep patterns do.

The same is true for oral development.

The tongue, lips, jaw, palate, airway, breathing patterns, and nervous system are constantly adapting to the information they receive.

That adaptation becomes structure.

That adaptation becomes function.

That adaptation becomes the future.

The Bigger Conversation

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we are not obsessed with pacifiers.

We are obsessed with function.

We care about:

Can the baby breathe well?

Can they latch effectively?

Can they regulate?

Can they sleep?

Can they move?

Can they thrive?

Sometimes the answer includes chiropractic care.

Sometimes it includes lactation support.

Sometimes it includes myofunctional therapy.

Sometimes it includes bodywork.

Sometimes it includes oral exercises.

Sometimes it includes tools like the Ninni pacifier.

The goal is never the tool.

The goal is healthy development.

Because every healthy movement pattern gives the nervous system another opportunity to organize itself toward growth.

And when we support healthy neurological input early in life, we are doing far more than helping a baby soothe.

We are helping build the foundation upon which future feeding, breathing, sleeping, movement, learning, and regulation can develop.

That is a conversation worth having.

And it starts with understanding that how a baby sucks matters far more than most people realize.

A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

Understanding Growth, Movement, the Nervous System, and How Children Thrive

By Dr. Wendy Coburn
One Village Family Chiropractic Community – Edmonton, Alberta

Parenting is one of life’s greatest adventures.

It is also one of life’s greatest responsibilities.

From the moment a child enters the world, parents begin asking questions.

Am I doing enough?

Are they developing normally?

Should they be rolling yet?

Should they be crawling?

Are they sleeping enough?

Why do they move that way?

How do I help them become healthy, confident, capable adults?

The amount of parenting information available today is overwhelming.

One expert says one thing.

Another says the opposite.

Social media often creates even more confusion.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy development becomes easier to understand when we return to a few foundational principles.

Children were designed to grow.

They were designed to learn.

They were designed to adapt.

Our role is not to create perfect children.

Our role is to create environments that support healthy growth, development, movement, learning, and resilience.

This guide brings together the most important concepts parents should understand about childhood development.

Development Is Not a Race

One of the greatest sources of stress for modern parents is comparison.

We compare:

• Milestones
• Behaviours
• Academic abilities
• Sports skills
• Social development

Comparison often creates unnecessary worry.

Children are not machines built on identical timelines.

They are individuals.

Each child develops according to their own unique pattern.

The goal is not perfection.

The goal is progression.

Growth.

Adaptation.

Learning.

Development is a journey.

Not a competition.

Related Articles

• The First Year of Life: Why Movement Milestones Matter
• When Should My Baby Roll Over?
• Scooting Instead of Crawling
• Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten

The Nervous System Runs the Show

The nervous system is one of the most remarkable systems in the human body.

It coordinates communication between:

• The brain
• The spinal cord
• The muscles
• The joints
• The sensory systems
• The environment

Everything a child experiences enters the nervous system first.

Movement.

Touch.

Balance.

Vision.

Sound.

Emotion.

Learning.

The nervous system gathers information and helps the body adapt.

Healthy development is ultimately a story of nervous system development.

Related Articles

• The Developing Nervous System Explained for Parents
• Why Movement Matters to the Nervous System
• Understanding the Vestibular System
• What Is Body Awareness and Why Does It Matter?

Movement Is One of Childhood’s Greatest Teachers

Children learn through movement.

Before children learn:

• Reading
• Writing
• Mathematics
• Problem solving

They learn through movement.

Movement teaches:

• Balance
• Coordination
• Body awareness
• Adaptability
• Confidence

The brain develops through experience.

Movement provides those experiences.

This is why children naturally want to:

• Roll
• Crawl
• Climb
• Run
• Jump
• Explore

Movement is not simply exercise.

Movement is learning.

Related Articles

• Why Movement Is Life for Growing Children
• Why Crawling Is Such an Important Developmental Experience
• Balance Development in Babies and Toddlers
• Why Kids Need to Move More and Sit Less
• Building Attention Through Movement

Play Is Not a Break From Learning

Many adults think learning and play are separate activities.

Children know otherwise.

Play is learning.

Play teaches:

• Creativity
• Problem solving
• Social skills
• Adaptability
• Confidence

Children were designed to learn through exploration.

The playground is a classroom.

The backyard is a classroom.

Nature is a classroom.

The living room floor is a classroom.

Play remains one of the most powerful developmental tools available.

Related Articles

• Why Play Is the Work of Childhood
• Why Climbing Is Good for Your Child’s Brain
• How Playground Play Builds School Readiness Skills
• Why Monkey Bars Are One of the Best Developmental Tools on the Playground

Outdoor Time Matters

Nature provides opportunities modern environments cannot fully replicate.

Outside, children encounter:

• Uneven surfaces
• Different textures
• Variable challenges
• New sensory experiences

Outdoor play encourages:

• Creativity
• Adaptability
• Movement
• Problem solving

The nervous system thrives on variety.

Nature provides abundance.

Related Articles

• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Why Barefoot Time Matters
• Toddler Falls: Why Falling Is Part of Learning
• Why Spinning Helps Develop Balance and Coordination

Confidence Is Built Through Experience

Confidence is not something we give children.

Confidence is something children develop.

Children build confidence when they:

• Try
• Practice
• Explore
• Fall
• Adapt
• Try again

This is why challenge matters.

Children grow when they discover they can handle difficult things.

Not because everything goes perfectly.

But because they learn they can adapt.

Related Articles

• Helping Children Develop Confidence Through Movement
• Building Resilient Kids Through Movement
• Why Adaptability Matters More Than Perfection
• The Role of Challenge in Healthy Development
• Raising Adaptable Children

The First 1,000 Days Matter

Pregnancy through approximately age two represents one of the most important developmental windows in human life.

During this period:

• The brain develops rapidly
• Sensory systems organize
• Movement milestones emerge
• Relationships form
• Habits begin

The first 1,000 days help establish many of the foundations that support future development.

Not because everything must be perfect.

But because everyday experiences matter.

Related Articles

• The First 1,000 Days of Development
• Why Healthy Babies Get Checked
• The First Year of Life
• Understanding Baby Side Preference and Asymmetry

Oral Function Is Part of Whole-Body Development – (See Ninni above)

The mouth is about much more than eating.

Oral function includes:

• Feeding
• Breathing
• Chewing
• Swallowing
• Speaking

The tongue, jaw, lips, palate, neck, posture, and nervous system all work together.

Small daily habits repeated thousands of times help shape development.

Related Articles

• Why Mouth Position Matters
• The Connection Between Tongue, Jaw and Spine
• Why Nasal Breathing Supports Healthy Development
• Understanding Oral Function in Growing Children
• The Role of Chewing in Childhood Development

Wellness Is More Than the Absence of Symptoms

Many people think health means simply feeling good.

True wellness is broader.

Wellness includes:

• Movement
• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Relationships
• Adaptability
• Resilience

Children are constantly growing and adapting.

Supporting healthy habits helps support healthy development.

Related Articles

• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• Why Healthy Children Still Need Regular Wellness Check-Ups
• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• Creating a Healthy Home Environment

The Chiropractic Perspective

Chiropractic has always focused on the relationship between:

• The spine
• Movement
• The nervous system
• Adaptation

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we assess children from a whole-person perspective.

We consider:

• Movement patterns
• Posture
• Development
• Adaptability
• Lifestyle habits

Within chiropractic, we assess for subluxation patterns and areas of altered movement and neurological adaptation.

Our goal is to support healthy function, movement, and nervous system communication as part of a larger wellness lifestyle.

Related Articles

• What Is a Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment?
• Why Parents Bring Babies and Children to Chiropractors
• Understanding Subluxation in Children
• Supporting Healthy Development Through Chiropractic Care

The Foundations of Healthy Development

If parents remember only a few things from this guide, let them be these:

Move Daily

Children need movement.

Play Often

Play is learning.

Prioritize Sleep

Growth and adaptation continue during sleep.

Spend Time Outside

Nature provides rich developmental experiences.

Build Healthy Habits

Consistency matters more than perfection.

Encourage Exploration

Children learn through experience.

Focus on Connection

Relationships shape development.

Celebrate Progress

Development is a journey.

Support Adaptability

Resilience grows through experience.

Trust the Process

Children were designed to learn and grow.

Final Thoughts

One of the greatest gifts we can give children is opportunity.

Opportunities to move.

To play.

To explore.

To learn.

To adapt.

To grow.

Healthy development is not about creating perfect children.

It is about creating environments that support healthy growth and lifelong resilience.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe every child possesses incredible potential.

Our job is not to force development.

Our job is to support it.

One movement.

One experience.

One day at a time.

Complete Pediatric Resource Library

This guide serves as the primary hub for all pediatric content, including:

Infant Development

Articles 1–25

Movement & Milestones

Articles 26–60

School Readiness & Brain Development

Articles 61–75

Oral Function & Airway

Articles 76–80

Resilience & Wellness

Articles 81–90

Pediatric Chiropractic & Nervous System Health

Articles 91–100

Explore the individual articles throughout this library to dive deeper into each stage of childhood growth, development, movement, adaptation, and resilience.

Why Eye Movem

ents Matter for Growing Children

Looking Beyond Eyesight to Understand an Important Part of Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

When parents think about vision, they often think about eyesight.

Can my child see clearly?

Can they recognize objects across the room?

Do they need glasses?

These questions are important.

However, vision involves much more than seeing clearly.

Vision also involves movement.

The eyes are constantly moving, tracking, scanning, focusing, and gathering information from the environment.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss eye movements because they are closely connected to movement, neck health, posture, balance, and nervous system development.

Vision Is an Active Process

The eyes are never truly still.

Throughout the day they:

• Track movement
• Shift focus
• Scan environments
• Follow objects
• Gather information

The brain uses this information to help guide movement and interaction with the world.

Development Begins Early

Babies begin exploring visual information almost immediately after birth.

They watch:

• Faces
• Movement
• Light
• Contrast
• Objects

Every visual experience provides information to the developing nervous system.

Eyes and Movement Work Together

Vision helps guide:

• Reaching
• Rolling
• Crawling
• Walking
• Climbing
• Playground play

The eyes help children understand where they are and where they want to go.

The Brain Loves Information

The nervous system develops through experience.

Every visual experience helps children learn about:

• Position
• Distance
• Motion
• Environment

These experiences contribute to overall development.

Outdoor Play Supports Visual Development

Outdoor environments naturally encourage:

• Looking near and far
• Tracking movement
• Exploring space
• Responding to changing environments

Nature provides rich visual experiences.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage visual development through:

• Reading together
• Ball games
• Outdoor play
• Movement activities
• Playground exploration

Simple experiences often provide powerful learning opportunities.

Looking at the Whole Child

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy development occurs when multiple systems learn to work together.

Vision is one part of that process.

Movement is another.

Balance is another.

Together, these experiences help children develop confidence, adaptability, and awareness.

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• Visual Tracking and Learning Development
• Hand-Eye Coordination
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Balance Development in Babies and Toddlers
• Building Resilient Kids Through Nervous System Health

Understanding the Vestibular System in Childhood Development

The Hidden Sense That Helps Children Move, Balance, and Explore

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Most people have heard of the five senses.

Sight.

Hearing.

Taste.

Smell.

Touch.

Yet there is another sensory system that plays an enormous role in childhood development.

It is called the vestibular system.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss the vestibular system because it contributes to how children experience movement, balance, and orientation within their environment.

What Is the Vestibular System?

The vestibular system is located within the inner ear.

It helps the brain gather information regarding:

• Movement
• Position
• Direction
• Acceleration
• Balance

Every time a child moves, the vestibular system becomes active.

Children Naturally Seek Vestibular Input

Have you ever noticed how much children love:

• Swinging
• Spinning
• Rolling
• Climbing
• Jumping

These activities provide movement experiences that help children learn about their bodies.

Children are naturally drawn toward exploration.

Movement Feeds the Nervous System

Every movement provides information to the brain.

The vestibular system works alongside:

• Vision
• Muscles
• Joints
• Balance systems

Together they help create awareness and coordination.

Learning Through Movement

Children develop by interacting with their environment.

Movement experiences help build:

• Confidence
• Adaptability
• Body awareness
• Coordination

The nervous system thrives on these opportunities.

Outdoor Play Supports Development

Outdoor environments naturally encourage:

• Climbing
• Swinging
• Running
• Rolling
• Exploring

These experiences provide rich sensory input.

The Importance of Variety

The nervous system benefits from experiencing different types of movement.

Variety helps children learn how to adapt to changing situations and environments.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage movement through:

• Playground visits
• Family walks
• Outdoor adventures
• Active play

Simple experiences often create meaningful developmental opportunities.

Looking Through a Developmental Lens

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe movement is one of the most powerful teachers of the developing nervous system.

The vestibular system helps children understand where they are in space and how they move through the world.

And every movement experience contributes to that learning process.

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• Why Spinning Helps Develop Balance and Coordination
• Balance Development in Babies and Toddlers
• Why Climbing Is Good for Your Child’s Brain
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Building Resilient Kids Through Nervous System Health

The Connection Between Balance and Learning

Why Movement Experiences Help Build Foundations for Future Learning

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

When people think about learning, they often imagine books, classrooms, and worksheets.

Yet long before children learn academic skills, they learn through movement.

Movement provides information that helps the nervous system organize itself and interact with the environment.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often explain that balance development is part of a much larger developmental story.

Learning Begins With Movement

Before children learn to:

• Read
• Write
• Count
• Solve problems

They learn how to:

• Roll
• Sit
• Crawl
• Stand
• Walk

Movement comes first.

These experiences help create the foundation for future development.

Balance Is a Neurological Skill

Balance involves constant communication between:

• The eyes
• The inner ears
• The muscles and joints
• The brain

The nervous system uses this information to maintain awareness of position and movement.

Every Movement Teaches Something

Children learn through:

• Climbing
• Swinging
• Running
• Jumping
• Exploring

Each activity provides information that helps the brain understand the body and environment.

Why Outdoor Play Matters

Outdoor environments provide opportunities for children to encounter:

• Uneven surfaces
• New challenges
• Changing conditions

These experiences help build adaptability.

Building Confidence Through Movement

Children gain confidence through movement challenges.

Each new skill teaches:

• Persistence
• Problem solving
• Adaptability

Confidence becomes part of development.

Supporting Healthy Growth

Parents can encourage balance development through:

• Outdoor play
• Playground activities
• Family walks
• Climbing opportunities
• Active exploration

Movement remains one of the most powerful developmental tools available.

Looking Beyond Academics

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we encourage families to view development as a whole-child process.

Movement.

Balance.

Exploration.

Confidence.

These experiences all contribute to healthy growth and development.

Because learning begins long before formal education starts.

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• Building Attention Through Movement
• Balance Development in Babies and Toddlers
• Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten
• Why Play Is the Work of Childhood
• Building Resilient Kids Through Nervous System Health

Why Crawling Is Such an Important Developmental Experience

Looking Beyond the Milestone to Understand the Journey

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Few developmental milestones receive as much attention as crawling.

Parents often ask:

“Does crawling matter?”

“What if my baby scoots instead?”

“How long should my baby crawl?”

These are wonderful questions.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often explain that crawling is valuable not simply because it is a milestone, but because of the experiences it provides.

Development is never just about reaching a destination.

Development is about the journey that helps a child get there.

Crawling Is a Full-Body Experience

When babies crawl, multiple systems work together simultaneously.

They coordinate:

• Arms
• Legs
• Eyes
• Balance systems
• Core muscles
• Breathing patterns

The nervous system is constantly gathering information.

Movement Builds the Brain

Every crawl across the floor provides sensory input regarding:

• Position
• Balance
• Coordination
• Pressure
• Body awareness

The brain uses this information to refine future movement.

Development happens through repetition.

Crossing Midline Happens Naturally

One of the remarkable aspects of crawling is how it encourages both sides of the body to work together.

The right and left sides continually coordinate movement.

This provides rich learning opportunities for the developing nervous system.

Crawling Encourages Exploration

The moment babies become mobile, their world expands dramatically.

Suddenly they can:

• Investigate
• Explore
• Problem solve
• Move independently

Crawling becomes a gateway to discovery.

Every Child Has Their Own Story

Some babies crawl for many months.

Some crawl briefly.

Some develop creative movement patterns before settling into crawling.

Every child develops differently.

The goal is observing growth and progression rather than comparison.

The Value of Floor Time

Floor play remains one of the best environments for movement development.

It provides opportunities for:

• Exploration
• Adaptation
• Problem solving
• Confidence building

Children learn through interacting with their environment.

Supporting Development

Parents can encourage movement through:

• Tummy time
• Floor play
• Obstacle courses
• Outdoor exploration
• Safe movement opportunities

Simple experiences often provide meaningful developmental benefits.

Looking Beyond the Milestone

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we view crawling as one important chapter in a much larger developmental story.

Because crawling is not just about movement.

It is about exploration.

It is about learning.

And it is about helping the nervous system build the experiences needed for future growth.

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• Delayed Crawling
• Crossing Midline
• The First Year of Life: Why Movement Milestones Matter
• Container Baby Syndrome
• Building Resilient Kids Through Nervous System Health

Understanding the Moro Reflex for Parents – I get asked a lot by parents about the Moro Reflex

One of Your Baby’s Earliest Protective Responses

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the most recognizable newborn reflexes is the Moro Reflex.

Many parents have seen it without knowing its name.

Perhaps their baby suddenly throws their arms outward.

Perhaps it happens during a position change.

Perhaps it occurs during a loud sound.

Perhaps it appears when they are drifting off to sleep.

This response is completely familiar to many parents.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss primitive reflexes because they provide insight into how the nervous system develops during infancy.

What Is the Moro Reflex?

The Moro Reflex is an automatic movement pattern present in early life.

A baby may respond to a sudden change in position, sensation, or environment by extending their arms and then bringing them back toward their body.

This occurs automatically.

No conscious thought is involved.

Primitive Reflexes Are Part of Development

Primitive reflexes are built-in neurological programs.

They help babies:

• Adapt
• Respond to their environment
• Gather sensory information
• Build movement experiences

These reflexes are part of normal early development.

The Nervous System Learns Through Experience

Every reflex creates opportunities for sensory input.

The brain uses these experiences to help organize future movement and development.

The nervous system is constantly learning.

Observation Provides Information

Parents may notice the Moro Reflex:

• During sleep
• During position changes
• During unexpected sounds
• During movement transitions

These observations help us better understand how babies interact with their environments.

Looking at the Whole Child

When discussing primitive reflexes, we consider:

• Movement quality
• Feeding experiences
• Position preferences
• Adaptability
• Overall development

The whole child always matters more than a single observation.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can support development through:

• Responsive caregiving
• Skin-to-skin contact
• Movement opportunities
• Tummy time
• Safe exploration

Simple experiences provide rich opportunities for neurological growth.

A Beautiful Design

The Moro Reflex reminds us that babies arrive equipped with remarkable neurological tools.

Their nervous systems are prepared to interact with a brand-new world.

And every experience contributes to the ongoing process of growth and development.

Development Is a Journey

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe primitive reflexes help tell the story of early development.

They are not simply movements.

They are part of the remarkable process through which babies learn about themselves and the world around them.

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• Primitive Reflexes: A Parent’s Guide
• Rooting Reflex Explained
• Sucking Reflex and Early Development
• Babkin Reflex
• Why Healthy Babies Get Checked

What Is Body Awareness and Why Does It Matter?

Understanding One of the Foundations of Movement and Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Imagine trying to move through your day without knowing where your body was in space.

Simple activities would suddenly become much more challenging.

Walking.

Running.

Climbing.

Even sitting.

Fortunately, the nervous system continuously gathers information regarding body position.

This ability is often referred to as body awareness.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently discuss body awareness because it plays an important role in movement, coordination, and development.

What Is Body Awareness?

Body awareness is the brain’s understanding of:

• Position
• Movement
• Force
• Coordination

The nervous system constantly gathers information from muscles, joints, movement, and sensory experiences.

The brain uses this information to guide future movement.

Development Begins Early

Babies begin developing body awareness through:

• Tummy time
• Rolling
• Reaching
• Crawling
• Climbing

Every movement provides information.

Every experience contributes to learning.

Movement Builds Awareness

Children learn where their bodies are by using them.

Activities such as:

• Running
• Jumping
• Climbing
• Balancing
• Exploring

Provide opportunities to build awareness.

The nervous system thrives on these experiences.

Outdoor Play Helps

Nature provides opportunities for children to encounter:

• Different surfaces
• Different challenges
• Different movement demands

These experiences help strengthen body awareness.

Why Confidence Matters

Children who develop movement confidence often become more willing to explore new experiences.

Confidence grows through participation.

The more children move, the more opportunities they have to learn.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage body awareness through:

• Outdoor play
• Playground exploration
• Obstacle courses
• Movement games
• Family activities

Simple experiences often provide tremendous developmental value.

Looking at the Bigger Picture

Body awareness is not a skill children learn once.

It continues developing throughout childhood and beyond.

The nervous system constantly adapts and learns from experience.

A Foundation for Growth

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe movement remains one of the greatest gifts we can give the developing nervous system.

Because movement builds awareness.

Awareness supports confidence.

And confidence helps children continue exploring the world around them.

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• Balance Development in Babies and Toddlers
• Crossing Midline
• Why Climbing Is Good for Your Child’s Brain
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Building Resilient Kids Through Nervous System Health

Why Mouth Position Matters

Understanding One of the Most Overlooked Parts of Childhood Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Most parents spend very little time thinking about where their child’s tongue rests during the day.

Or whether their child’s lips are comfortably together when they are not eating or speaking.

Or how the mouth functions when a child is resting.

Yet these small daily habits occur thousands of times every day.

Over weeks, months, and years, these patterns become part of a child’s developmental story.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss oral function because the mouth plays an important role in feeding, breathing, swallowing, speaking, and development.

Function Happens All Day Long

When parents think about the mouth, they often think about:

• Eating
• Drinking
• Speaking

However, the mouth continues functioning even when children are not actively using it.

The tongue, lips, jaw, and facial muscles all maintain resting positions throughout the day.

These positions provide ongoing sensory information to the nervous system.

Development Is Influenced by Repetition

The nervous system learns through repetition.

Children swallow thousands of times daily.

They breathe continuously.

They use facial muscles constantly.

The body adapts to what it does most often.

The Mouth Is Part of a Larger System

The mouth does not work alone.

It works alongside:

• The tongue
• The jaw
• The neck
• The airway
• The nervous system

Everything is connected.

This is why oral function is often viewed from a whole-child perspective.

Observation Creates Understanding

Parents may notice:

• Open-mouth resting posture
• Tongue positioning habits
• Feeding patterns
• Chewing preferences

These observations provide information regarding how a child is adapting.

Development Through Daily Habits

Children build movement patterns through repetition.

Small daily habits can become meaningful over time because they occur so frequently.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage healthy development through:

• Outdoor play
• Movement opportunities
• Balanced nutrition
• Awareness of oral habits
• Good sleep routines

Healthy development always involves multiple systems working together.

Looking at the Bigger Picture

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe the mouth deserves more attention than it often receives.

Because oral function is not simply about eating or speaking.

It is part of a much larger developmental picture involving movement, breathing, posture, and nervous system organization.

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• The Role of the Palate in Growth and Development
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• Understanding Oral Function in Growing Children

The Connection Between Tongue, Jaw and Spine

Looking at Childhood Development Through a Whole-Body Lens

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

The human body is wonderfully interconnected.

No structure functions entirely alone.

The tongue influences the jaw.

The jaw influences movement.

Movement influences posture.

Posture influences how children interact with their environment.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss these relationships because development is never isolated to a single body part.

Everything works together.

The Tongue Is Constantly Active

Many parents think about the tongue primarily during eating and speaking.

Yet the tongue is active throughout the day.

It contributes to:

• Feeding
• Swallowing
• Oral function
• Resting posture

Because the tongue is used so frequently, it provides continuous sensory input to the nervous system.

The Jaw Supports Function

The jaw participates in:

• Chewing
• Speaking
• Swallowing
• Facial movement

The jaw works alongside many other structures to support everyday function.

Movement Connects Everything

Children learn through movement.

The nervous system gathers information from every area of the body.

The tongue, jaw, neck, and posture all contribute information that helps children interact with their environment.

Development Happens Through Experience

The body adapts to repeated experiences.

Children build movement patterns through:

• Feeding
• Breathing
• Playing
• Exploring
• Growing

The nervous system continually learns from these experiences.

Looking Beyond Individual Structures

Rather than focusing on one body part, we often ask:

“How is the entire system working together?”

This perspective often provides a deeper understanding of development.

Supporting Healthy Growth

Parents can support healthy development through:

• Outdoor play
• Movement opportunities
• Healthy sleep habits
• Oral function awareness
• Balanced nutrition

These experiences help support overall development.

The Whole Child Matters

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe development is best understood through a whole-child lens.

Because the tongue, jaw, posture, movement, and nervous system are all part of the same remarkable story.

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• Why Mouth Position Matters
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• The Role of the Palate in Growth and Development
• Why Nasal Breathing Matters for Growing Kids

Why Nasal Breathing Supports Healthy Development

Understanding the Importance of Breathing Through the Nose

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Breathing is one of the most important activities we perform.

Yet most of us rarely think about it.

Children take thousands of breaths every day.

Each breath provides information to the nervous system.

Each breath contributes to development.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss breathing because it influences movement, posture, oral function, sleep, and overall development.

 

The Nose Has Important Jobs

The nose helps:

• Filter air
• Warm air
• Humidify air
• Monitor airflow

It serves as an important entry point for the respiratory system.

 

Breathing and Development

Breathing occurs continuously.

Because it happens so often, breathing patterns become meaningful over time.

The nervous system learns through repeated experiences.

The Connection Between Breathing and Movement

Breathing works alongside:

• Movement
• Balance
• Posture
• Oral function

The body functions as an integrated system.

Outdoor Play Encourages Healthy Habits

Outdoor environments encourage:

• Physical activity
• Exploration
• Movement
• Environmental awareness

These experiences support healthy development.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage healthy habits through:

• Outdoor play
• Physical activity
• Consistent sleep routines
• Oral function awareness
• Balanced nutrition

Development is influenced by many factors working together.

Looking at the Whole Child

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe breathing deserves more attention than it often receives.

Because breathing is not simply about air.

It is part of how children interact with the world around them.

And every breath becomes part of their developmental journey.

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• Mouth Breathing in Children
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• Why Nasal Breathing Matters for Growing Kids

Understanding Oral Function in Growing Children

Looking Beyond Teeth to Understand Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

When parents hear the phrase oral function, they often think about teeth.

While teeth are certainly important, oral function involves much more.

It includes how children:

• Feed
• Chew
• Swallow
• Breathe
• Speak
• Rest

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often explain that oral function is best understood as part of a larger developmental picture.

Development Happens Through Function

The body adapts to repeated experiences.

Every swallow.

Every chew.

Every breath.

Every movement.

Provides information to the nervous system.

These experiences become part of development.

The Mouth Is a Busy Place

Children use their mouths throughout the day.

The mouth participates in:

• Eating
• Drinking
• Speaking
• Facial expression
• Exploration

The nervous system receives information from all of these experiences.

Looking at the Whole Child

When discussing oral function, we often consider:

• Movement patterns
• Breathing habits
• Feeding history
• Posture
• Sleep habits

The whole child always matters more than any single observation.

Development Through Daily Life

One of the remarkable things about childhood is how much learning occurs through ordinary experiences.

Children are constantly practicing.

The nervous system is constantly adapting.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage healthy development through:

• Movement opportunities
• Outdoor play
• Healthy sleep routines
• Balanced nutrition
• Awareness of oral habits

Simple daily experiences create powerful opportunities for growth.

A Whole-Child Perspective

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe oral function is about much more than the mouth.

It is part of a larger developmental story involving movement, growth, and adaptation.

And every child deserves the opportunity to build strong developmental foundation.

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• Why Mouth Position Matters
• The Connection Between Tongue, Jaw and Spine
• Oral Function and Sleep Quality in Children
• The Role of the Palate in Growth and Development
• Tongue Tie and Whole Body Tension

The Role of Chewing in Childhood Development

Why One of the Most Ordinary Daily Activities Matters More Than We Often Realize

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Most parents spend a great deal of time thinking about what their children eat.

Protein.

Vegetables.

Fruit.

Healthy snacks.

Water.

These are all important considerations.

However, one part of eating often receives very little attention.

Chewing.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often remind families that childhood development is shaped by thousands of daily experiences.

Chewing is one of those experiences.

Children perform it repeatedly throughout the day, every day, for years.

Because it happens so frequently, it becomes part of a child’s developmental story.

Development Happens Through Repetition

The nervous system learns through experience.

Every time children chew, the brain receives information regarding:

• Pressure
• Position
• Movement
• Coordination

The body continually learns from what it does repeatedly.

The Mouth Was Designed to Move

Chewing involves coordinated movement of:

• The jaw
• The tongue
• The cheeks
• The lips

These structures work together during eating.

The nervous system coordinates these activities automatically.

Learning Through Everyday Activities

One of the most remarkable aspects of childhood development is that learning often occurs through ordinary daily experiences.

Children learn through:

• Eating
• Playing
• Exploring
• Moving
• Interacting

Development is not limited to structured learning environments.

Variety Matters

Children benefit from a variety of sensory and movement experiences throughout life.

This includes opportunities for:

• Movement
• Exploration
• Outdoor play
• Different textures
• Different challenges

The nervous system thrives on variety.

Looking at the Whole Child

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we rarely focus on one body part in isolation.

Instead, we ask:

“How is the entire child adapting and developing?”

This perspective often provides a more meaningful understanding of growth.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can support development through:

• Family meals
• Outdoor play
• Movement opportunities
• Healthy sleep habits
• Balanced nutrition

Simple habits repeated consistently often have the greatest impact.

Everyday Experiences Matter

Chewing may seem ordinary.

Yet childhood development is built upon thousands of ordinary experiences.

And when we begin appreciating how the nervous system learns, we realize that many of life’s simplest activities contribute to growth.

Because development happens every day.

Not just during milestones.

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• Understanding Oral Function in Growing Children
• The Connection Between Tongue, Jaw and Spine
• Why Mouth Position Matters
• Oral Function and Sleep Quality in Children
• Building Resilient Kids Through Movement

Building Resilient Kids Through Movement

Why Movement May Be One of the Most Powerful Tools for Healthy Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Every parent wants their child to thrive.

We want our children to be strong.

Confident.

Adaptable.

Capable of navigating life’s challenges.

One quality often sits at the centre of all of these goals.

Resilience.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently discuss resilience because it reflects the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

And one of the greatest builders of resilience may be movement.

What Is Resilience?

Resilience is the ability to respond to challenges.

To adapt.

To learn.

To continue moving forward when things do not go exactly as planned.

Resilience is not about avoiding difficulty.

It is about learning how to navigate it.

Movement Teaches Adaptation

Children learn through movement.

Every time they:

• Climb
• Run
• Jump
• Balance
• Explore

They encounter challenges.

The nervous system learns through these experiences.

Small Challenges Build Confidence

Confidence rarely develops from comfort alone.

Children build confidence when they experience manageable challenges and discover they can overcome them.

Movement provides countless opportunities for this learning.

Outdoor Play Creates Opportunity

Nature presents:

• Uneven surfaces
• New environments
• Different challenges

These experiences encourage adaptability.

The nervous system benefits from variety.

Falling and Trying Again

Children fall.

Miss.

Trip.

Make mistakes.

And then they try again.

These experiences help build persistence and confidence.

Building Strong Foundations

Movement supports:

• Body awareness
• Balance
• Coordination
• Adaptability
• Confidence

These qualities contribute to healthy development.

Supporting Resilience at Home

Parents can encourage resilience through:

• Outdoor adventures
• Free play
• Playground visits
• Family activities
• Encouraging effort

The goal is not perfection.

The goal is participation.

Raising Adaptable Children

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe resilience is built through experience.

Movement creates opportunities for children to learn about themselves and their capabilities.

Because resilient children are not children who never face challenges.

They are children who learn how to adapt when challenges arise.

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• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
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Why Adaptability Matters More Than Perfection

Helping Children Thrive in an Imperfect World

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Many parents worry about whether their children are developing perfectly.

Are they reaching milestones at exactly the right time?

Are they learning quickly enough?

Are they doing everything they should be doing?

These concerns are understandable.

Parents care deeply.

Yet one of the most valuable lessons childhood teaches us is that development is not about perfection.

It is about adaptation.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often encourage families to focus less on perfection and more on adaptability.

Because adaptability is one of the hallmarks of a healthy nervous system.

Life Is Constantly Changing

Children grow up in a world filled with change.

New environments.

New challenges.

New experiences.

The ability to adapt helps children navigate these situations successfully.

Development Is Not Linear

Children rarely progress in a perfectly straight line.

They experience:

• Growth spurts
• New challenges
• New interests
• New experiences

Development is dynamic.

The nervous system is continually adapting.

Mistakes Are Valuable Teachers

Children learn through experience.

Sometimes that means:

• Falling
• Missing
• Forgetting
• Trying again

These experiences often become some of the greatest opportunities for growth.

Confidence Comes From Adaptation

Children build confidence when they discover they can handle challenges.

Not because everything goes perfectly.

But because they learn they can adapt.

Movement Supports Adaptability

Movement continually challenges children to:

• Adjust
• Balance
• Coordinate
• Problem solve

The nervous system learns through these experiences.

Parents Can Model Adaptability

Children learn by watching.

When parents approach challenges with curiosity and flexibility, children often learn to do the same.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage adaptability through:

• Movement opportunities
• Outdoor play
• Exploration
• Problem solving
• Encouraging effort over outcomes

These experiences help create strong foundations.

A Better Goal Than Perfection

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe adaptability is one of the greatest gifts we can help children develop.

Because life is not perfect.

Development is not perfect.

And neither needs to be.

What matters is learning how to adapt, grow, and continue moving forward.

That is where resilience lives

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• Building Resilient Kids Through Movement
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• The Role of Challenge in Healthy Development

Helping Children Develop Confidence Through Movement

Why Confidence Is Often Built One Small Challenge at a Time

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Every parent wants their child to feel confident.

We want them to believe in themselves.

To try new things.

To recover from setbacks.

To approach life with curiosity and courage.

Yet confidence is not something we can simply give our children.

Confidence is built through experience.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often see confidence grow when children are provided opportunities to move, explore, and discover what they are capable of doing.

Confidence Comes From Doing

One of the biggest misconceptions about confidence is that it comes before action.

In reality, confidence often develops after action.

Children build confidence when they:

• Try
• Practice
• Explore
• Learn
• Adapt

Each experience teaches the nervous system something valuable.

Movement Creates Opportunities

Movement naturally provides challenges.

Children learn to:

• Climb
• Balance
• Jump
• Crawl
• Run
• Explore

Each challenge creates an opportunity for growth.

Success Is Not the Only Teacher

Children learn from successful experiences.

They also learn from unsuccessful ones.

Missing a step.

Falling.

Trying again.

Adjusting.

These experiences help build adaptability.

Confidence and Body Awareness

As children move, they learn more about:

• Their abilities
• Their strengths
• Their limitations
• Their environment

This growing awareness helps support confidence.

The Importance of Exploration

Children thrive when they have opportunities to explore without excessive pressure.

The goal is not performance.

The goal is participation.

Supporting Confidence at Home

Parents can support confidence by:

• Encouraging effort
• Celebrating progress
• Providing movement opportunities
• Allowing age-appropriate challenges
• Modelling persistence

Children often learn confidence by experiencing it.

Looking Beyond Achievement

True confidence is not about always succeeding.

It is about believing you can keep learning.

Keep adapting.

Keep growing.

Building Confidence for Life

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe movement is one of the most powerful confidence-building tools available.

Because every movement challenge teaches children something important:

“I can try.”

And that lesson often lasts a lifetime.

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• Why Adaptability Matters More Than Perfection
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The Role of Challenge in Healthy Development

Why Children Need Opportunities to Stretch Beyond Their Comfort Zones

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

As parents, it is natural to want life to be easy for our children.

We want to protect them.

Support them.

Help them avoid unnecessary struggles.

Yet one of the realities of development is that growth often occurs through challenge.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently remind families that challenge is not the opposite of healthy development.

Appropriately matched challenges are often part of healthy development.

Growth Happens at the Edge of Ability

Children learn when they encounter experiences that are:

• New
• Interesting
• Slightly challenging
• Achievable with effort

These experiences help the nervous system adapt.

Challenge Builds Problem Solving

Every challenge requires children to:

• Observe
• Adapt
• Adjust
• Learn

The nervous system thrives on these opportunities.

Movement Provides Natural Challenges

Activities such as:

• Climbing
• Running
• Balancing
• Jumping
• Exploring

Provide opportunities for children to test their abilities.

Movement becomes a powerful teacher.

Confidence Grows Through Challenge

Confidence often develops after children overcome obstacles.

When children discover they can handle something difficult, they begin building trust in their own abilities.

The Importance of Safe Struggle

Children do not need overwhelming challenges.

They benefit from manageable challenges.

Experiences that encourage effort without creating excessive frustration.

Outdoor Play Creates Opportunity

Nature provides endless opportunities for challenge.

Children encounter:

• Uneven surfaces
• Obstacles
• New environments
• Different conditions

These experiences help support adaptability.

Supporting Development

Parents can encourage growth by:

• Allowing exploration
• Encouraging effort
• Celebrating persistence
• Providing movement opportunities

Growth often happens through experience.

A Different Perspective on Challenge

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe challenge deserves a place in childhood.

Not because we want children to struggle.

But because challenge often becomes the pathway through which confidence, adaptability, and resilience are developed.

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Raising Strong Kids in a Fast-Paced World

Helping Children Thrive Amid Modern Pressures and Constant Stimulation

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Today’s children are growing up in a world unlike any previous generation.

Life moves quickly.

Schedules are busy.

Screens are everywhere.

Information is constant.

Many parents wonder how to help their children grow into strong, adaptable adults within this environment.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often return to a simple principle:

Strong children are built through strong foundations.

Childhood Was Designed for Exploration

Children were designed to:

• Move
• Explore
• Play
• Create
• Connect

These experiences help shape healthy development.

The Challenge of Modern Childhood

Many children spend significant portions of their day:

• Sitting
• Looking at screens
• Following schedules
• Moving between activities

These experiences are part of modern life.

The key is maintaining balance.

Movement Remains Essential

Movement supports:

• Body awareness
• Coordination
• Confidence
• Adaptability

The nervous system thrives when children have opportunities to move throughout the day.

Relationships Matter

One of the greatest influences on development is connection.

Children benefit from:

• Family time
• Conversations
• Shared experiences
• Supportive relationships

Connection helps create a sense of belonging.

Outdoor Time Matters

Nature provides opportunities that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Children encounter:

• Challenge
• Exploration
• Creativity
• Movement

These experiences help support healthy development.

Building Resilience Through Everyday Life

Resilience is not built during extraordinary moments alone.

It develops through everyday experiences:

• Solving problems
• Learning new skills
• Recovering from mistakes
• Trying again

Small moments matter.

Supporting Healthy Growth

Parents can encourage healthy development through:

• Movement
• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Outdoor experiences
• Family connection

These foundations help support growing children.

Raising Children for the Long Term

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we encourage families to focus on raising adaptable children rather than perfect children.

Because the world will continue changing.

The ability to adapt will continue mattering.

And strong foundations help children navigate whatever life places in front of them.

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• Building Resilient Kids Through Movement
• Why Adaptability Matters More Than Perfection
• Why Play Is the Work of Childhood
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Raising Adaptable Children in a Digital World

Why Healthy Children Can Benefit From Regular Wellness Check-Ups

Looking Beyond Symptoms and Focusing on Function, Growth, and Adaptation

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the most common questions parents ask is:

“If my child seems healthy, why would they need a wellness check-up?”

It is a fair question.

Many people seek healthcare only when there is a problem they want addressed.

However, some of the most important aspects of health occur long before symptoms appear.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we encourage families to think about health differently.

Not as something we focus on only when challenges arise.

But as something we actively support throughout life.

Health Is More Than the Absence of Symptoms

Children can be active, energetic, and appear healthy while still growing, adapting, and developing.

Health is a dynamic process.

The body is constantly:

• Growing
• Learning
• Adapting
• Responding to the environment

These processes continue every day.

Childhood Is a Time of Rapid Change

Few stages of life involve as much growth as childhood.

Children experience:

• Physical growth
• Neurological development
• Movement development
• Social development
• Emotional development

The nervous system is continually adapting to new experiences.

Wellness Is About Observation

Wellness visits provide opportunities to observe:

• Movement patterns
• Posture
• Developmental progress
• Adaptability
• Overall function

Observation often helps parents better understand their child’s growth and development.

Healthy Habits Matter

Wellness is not created by a single visit.

It is influenced by daily habits such as:

• Movement
• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Outdoor play
• Social connection

These habits help support healthy development.

Building Awareness Early

One of the greatest benefits of wellness-focused care is awareness.

Parents become more familiar with:

• Their child’s movement patterns
• Developmental progression
• Lifestyle habits

Awareness often leads to better decision-making.

A Different Way to Think About Health

Most parents do not wait until a child struggles to brush their teeth before encouraging dental hygiene.

They support healthy habits consistently.

Wellness follows a similar philosophy.

Supporting Growth and Development

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe wellness visits provide opportunities to support healthy growth and development throughout childhood.

Because health is not a destination.

It is an ongoing process of adaptation and growth.

And childhood is one of the most important times to invest in that process.

Pediatric Wellness Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Child Development Edmonton

• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• Why Healthy Babies Get Checked
• Supporting Healthy Development Through Chiropractic Care
• A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?

Understanding Health as More Than Simply Feeling Good

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

The word wellness is used frequently.

Yet many people struggle to define exactly what it means.

When we think about wellness for children, many parents immediately think about:

• Nutrition
• Exercise
• Sleep

These are certainly important.

However, wellness is much broader than any single habit.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we view wellness as supporting a child’s ability to grow, adapt, and interact successfully with their environment.

Wellness Is a Process

Wellness is not a finish line.

It is not something children achieve once and then keep forever.

Wellness is an ongoing process involving daily choices and experiences.

The Developing Child

Children are constantly changing.

They are learning:

• Movement skills
• Social skills
• Emotional skills
• Communication skills

The nervous system is adapting continuously.

Wellness Includes Movement

Movement remains one of the most important contributors to healthy development.

Children benefit from opportunities to:

• Run
• Climb
• Jump
• Explore
• Play

Movement helps children learn about themselves and their environment.

Wellness Includes Sleep

Sleep supports:

• Recovery
• Growth
• Adaptation
• Learning

Healthy sleep habits remain important throughout childhood.

Wellness Includes Connection

Children thrive when they experience:

• Family connection
• Friendships
• Community
• Belonging

Relationships are part of healthy development.

Wellness Includes Nutrition

Food provides building materials for growing bodies.

Healthy nutrition supports growth, activity, and development.

A Whole-Child Perspective

Wellness is not about one specific habit.

It is about supporting the whole child.

Growing Into Health

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe wellness means helping children build strong foundations that support growth, adaptation, and resilience throughout life.

Because wellness is not something children achieve.

It is something they continually develop.

Child Wellness Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Healthy Kids Edmonton

• Why Healthy Children Still Need Regular Wellness Check-Ups
• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• Sleep, Movement, Nutrition and Growth
• Creating a Healthy Home Environment
• A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

Building Healthy Habits as a Family

Why Small Daily Choices Often Have the Biggest Long-Term Impact

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Parents often ask:

“What is the most important thing I can do for my child’s health?”

The answer may be simpler than many people expect.

Healthy habits.

Not dramatic changes.

Not perfect routines.

Not complicated systems.

Healthy habits practiced consistently over time.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often remind families that children learn far more from what they experience than what they are told.

Children Learn Through Observation

Children watch everything.

They notice:

• How we move
• How we eat
• How we handle stress
• How we spend our time

Family habits often become childhood habits.

Small Habits Create Big Results

Many healthy habits appear insignificant in the moment.

A family walk.

A shared meal.

A consistent bedtime.

Yet these experiences accumulate over time.

Movement as a Family

Families benefit from activities such as:

• Walking
• Hiking
• Cycling
• Playing outdoors

Movement becomes easier when it is part of family life.

Nutrition as a Family

Shared meals create opportunities for:

• Connection
• Conversation
• Healthy eating habits

Children learn through participation.

Sleep as a Family Priority

Healthy sleep routines support:

• Growth
• Recovery
• Learning

Consistency matters.

Building Connection

Some of the healthiest family habits involve connection rather than performance.

Children benefit from feeling:

• Supported
• Encouraged
• Connected

Relationships remain one of the most important foundations of development.

Progress Over Perfection

Healthy families are not perfect families.

The goal is consistency.

Not perfection.

Building a Foundation for Life

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy habits create healthy foundations.

Because children carry many of these habits into adulthood.

And the small choices we make today often influence tomorrow more than we realize.

Healthy Family Habits Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Healthy Kids Edmonton

• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• Sleep, Movement, Nutrition and Growth
• Creating a Healthy Home Environment
• Why Kids Need to Move More and Sit Less
• Raising Strong Kids in a Fast-Paced World

Sleep, Movement, Nutrition and Growth

The Four Foundations That Help Support Healthy Childhood Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Parents are constantly looking for ways to help their children thrive.

They want their children to have energy.

To grow well.

To learn.

To adapt.

To enjoy life.

While there is no single habit that determines a child’s health, there are several foundational areas that consistently influence growth and development.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often return to four important pillars:

• Sleep
• Movement
• Nutrition
• Connection

These pillars work together to support healthy development throughout childhood.

Growth Happens Every Day

Childhood is a period of remarkable change.

Children are continually:

• Growing
• Learning
• Adapting
• Exploring

The nervous system is constantly responding to new experiences.

Healthy habits help support this process.

Sleep Supports Development

Sleep is one of the most important activities children perform.

During sleep, the body has opportunities to:

• Recover
• Adapt
• Consolidate learning
• Support growth

Many parents underestimate the importance of consistent sleep habits.

Yet sleep remains one of the foundations of healthy development.

Movement Builds the Brain and Body

Children learn through movement.

Activities such as:

• Running
• Climbing
• Jumping
• Crawling
• Exploring

Provide valuable sensory information to the nervous system.

Movement helps children develop confidence, coordination, and adaptability.

Nutrition Provides Building Materials

Growing bodies require nourishment.

Food supplies the resources children use to:

• Grow
• Move
• Explore
• Learn

Healthy nutrition does not require perfection.

It requires consistency.

Families benefit from focusing on whole foods, hydration, and balanced meals whenever possible.

Connection Matters Too

Healthy development also involves relationships.

Children benefit from:

• Family time
• Conversations
• Shared experiences
• Encouragement

Connection helps children feel supported as they grow.

Small Daily Habits Matter

Many parents look for major solutions.

Yet healthy development is often influenced by simple daily habits repeated consistently.

A walk after supper.

A regular bedtime.

Meals eaten together.

Outdoor play.

These experiences add up over time.

Looking at the Whole Child

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we encourage families to focus on foundations rather than quick fixes.

Sleep.

Movement.

Nutrition.

Connection.

These pillars help create an environment that supports healthy growth and development.

Because childhood is not built in a day.

It is built one day at a time.

Child Wellness Edmonton, Healthy Kids Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton

• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Why Kids Need to Move More and Sit Less
• Creating a Healthy Home Environment for Growing Children

Sleep, Movement, Nutrition and Growth

The Four Foundations That Help Support Healthy Childhood Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Parents are constantly looking for ways to help their children thrive.

They want their children to have energy.

To grow well.

To learn.

To adapt.

To enjoy life.

While there is no single habit that determines a child’s health, there are several foundational areas that consistently influence growth and development.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often return to four important pillars:

• Sleep
• Movement
• Nutrition
• Connection

These pillars work together to support healthy development throughout childhood.

Growth Happens Every Day

Childhood is a period of remarkable change.

Children are continually:

• Growing
• Learning
• Adapting
• Exploring

The nervous system is constantly responding to new experiences.

Healthy habits help support this process.

Sleep Supports Development

Sleep is one of the most important activities children perform.

During sleep, the body has opportunities to:

• Recover
• Adapt
• Consolidate learning
• Support growth

Many parents underestimate the importance of consistent sleep habits.

Yet sleep remains one of the foundations of healthy development.

Movement Builds the Brain and Body

Children learn through movement.

Activities such as:

• Running
• Climbing
• Jumping
• Crawling
• Exploring

Provide valuable sensory information to the nervous system.

Movement helps children develop confidence, coordination, and adaptability.

Nutrition Provides Building Materials

Growing bodies require nourishment.

Food supplies the resources children use to:

• Grow
• Move
• Explore
• Learn

Healthy nutrition does not require perfection.

It requires consistency.

Families benefit from focusing on whole foods, hydration, and balanced meals whenever possible.

Connection Matters Too

Healthy development also involves relationships.

Children benefit from:

• Family time
• Conversations
• Shared experiences
• Encouragement

Connection helps children feel supported as they grow.

Small Daily Habits Matter

Many parents look for major solutions.

Yet healthy development is often influenced by simple daily habits repeated consistently.

A walk after supper.

A regular bedtime.

Meals eaten together.

Outdoor play.

These experiences add up over time.

Looking at the Whole Child

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we encourage families to focus on foundations rather than quick fixes.

Sleep.

Movement.

Nutrition.

Connection.

These pillars help create an environment that supports healthy growth and development.

Because childhood is not built in a day.

It is built one day at a time.

Child Wellness Edmonton, Healthy Kids Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton

• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Brain Development
• Why Kids Need to Move More and Sit Less
• Creating a Healthy Home Environment for Growing Children

Creating a Healthy Home Environment for Growing Children

Small Daily Choices That Support Growth, Learning, and Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Children spend a significant portion of their lives at home.

Long before they enter school.

Long after they leave the playground.

The home environment becomes one of the most influential places in a child’s development.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often remind families that a healthy home is not a perfect home.

It is an environment that supports growth, learning, movement, connection, and adaptability.

Children Learn From Their Environment

Children are constantly observing.

They learn from:

• What they see
• What they hear
• What they experience
• What they participate in

The home becomes one of their first classrooms.

Movement-Friendly Homes

Children benefit from opportunities to move throughout the day.

This does not require expensive equipment.

Simple opportunities include:

• Floor play
• Dancing
• Family walks
• Active games
• Outdoor play

Movement helps support healthy development.

Prioritizing Sleep

Sleep-friendly homes often include:

• Consistent bedtimes
• Calm evening routines
• Reduced screen exposure before sleep
• Predictable schedules

Small habits can make a meaningful difference.

Supporting Healthy Nutrition

Family meals provide more than nourishment.

They create opportunities for:

• Conversation
• Connection
• Shared experiences

Children often learn healthy habits through participation.

Creating Space for Connection

Children thrive when they feel:

• Seen
• Heard
• Supported
• Encouraged

Connection helps build confidence and resilience.

The Value of Outdoor Experiences

Nature provides opportunities for:

• Exploration
• Creativity
• Movement
• Problem solving

Outdoor experiences remain an important part of childhood.

Progress Over Perfection

No family gets everything right all the time.

Healthy homes are not built through perfection.

They are built through consistency.

Building a Foundation

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy environments help support healthy development.

Because children grow within the environments they experience every day.

And small daily choices often become the foundations that shape a lifetime.

Healthy Home Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Child Development Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton

• Building Healthy Habits as a Family
• Sleep, Movement, Nutrition and Growth
• Raising Strong Kids in a Fast-Paced World
• What Does Wellness Mean for Kids?
• A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

What Is a Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment?

Helping Parents Understand What Happens During a Visit

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the most common questions parents ask before bringing their child to a chiropractor is:

“What actually happens during a pediatric chiropractic assessment?”

It is a great question.

Many parents are familiar with adult chiropractic visits but are unsure how assessments are adapted for babies, children, and growing bodies.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, our approach begins with observation, conversation, and understanding the child as a whole person.

Every Child Has a Story

Every assessment begins by learning about the child.

Parents often share information regarding:

• Pregnancy history
• Birth history
• Developmental milestones
• Movement patterns
• Lifestyle habits
• Family concerns

These conversations help provide context.

Observation Comes First

One of the most valuable parts of a pediatric assessment is observation.

We may observe:

• Posture
• Movement patterns
• Balance
• Coordination
• Developmental behaviours
• General adaptability

Observation provides information regarding how a child interacts with their environment.

Looking at Movement

Children learn through movement.

Movement often provides valuable insight into development.

Depending on the child’s age, we may observe:

• Rolling
• Crawling
• Walking
• Climbing
• Balance activities
• General movement quality

Understanding the Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates communication throughout the body.

Because movement is controlled and organized through the nervous system, observing movement helps us understand how children are adapting and developing.

A Gentle Approach

Parents are often surprised by how gentle pediatric assessments are.

The assessment is adapted to the child’s age, comfort level, and stage of development.

The goal is to create a positive experience.

Education Is a Major Part of the Visit

One of the most important aspects of any assessment is education.

Parents often leave with a better understanding of:

• Development
• Movement
• Lifestyle habits
• Growth patterns

Education empowers families.

Supporting Healthy Development

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, our focus is helping parents better understand their children and the factors that contribute to healthy growth and development.

Because every child is unique.

And every child deserves an opportunity to be understood as an individual.

A Whole-Child Perspective

A pediatric chiropractic assessment is not about chasing symptoms.

It is about observing function, movement, growth, and development through a whole-child lens.

And helping families better understand the remarkable process of childhood development.

Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Family Chiropractor Edmonton, Child Development Edmonton

• Why Healthy Children Still Need Regular Wellness Check-Ups
• Supporting Healthy Development Through Chiropractic Care
• Understanding Subluxation in Children
• Why Parents Bring Babies and Children to Chiropractors
• A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

Why Parents Bring Babies and Children to Chiropractors

Understanding the Many Reasons Families Choose Chiropractic Care

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the questions I am asked most often is:

“Why would a parent bring a baby or child to a chiropractor?”

For many people, chiropractic is something associated primarily with adults.

Back discomfort.

Neck tension.

Postural challenges.

Yet many families choose to include chiropractic care as part of their overall wellness lifestyle from infancy onward.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we see children of all ages because parents recognize that childhood is a period of tremendous growth, adaptation, and neurological development.

Every Family Has a Different Story

There is no single reason families seek chiropractic care.

Every child is unique.

Every family has different goals.

Some parents begin care during pregnancy and continue after birth.

Some seek a wellness-focused approach to supporting healthy development.

Others simply want their child assessed as they grow.

Childhood Is a Time of Rapid Development

During childhood, the body is constantly:

• Growing
• Moving
• Learning
• Adapting

Children experience countless physical, chemical, and emotional stressors throughout life.

These experiences are part of normal development.

Parents often choose chiropractic care because they value supporting healthy function throughout these stages.

Movement Matters

One of the primary ways children learn is through movement.

Rolling.

Crawling.

Walking.

Running.

Climbing.

Playing.

Movement provides information that helps the nervous system learn about the environment.

Because movement is such an important part of development, many parents appreciate having a professional who understands movement patterns and neurological development.

Wellness Rather Than Waiting

Many families take a proactive approach to health.

They do not wait until challenges arise before supporting healthy habits.

They prioritize:

• Healthy food
• Physical activity
• Sleep
• Outdoor play
• Emotional well-being

For these families, chiropractic care becomes another part of their wellness strategy.

Understanding Subluxation

Within chiropractic, we often discuss the concept of subluxation.

A chiropractic subluxation refers to areas of altered movement and neurological adaptation within the spine and nervous system.

Chiropractors assess for these patterns and support healthy spinal movement and function.

Education and Empowerment

One of the most important aspects of pediatric chiropractic care is education.

Parents often leave with a better understanding of:

• Development
• Movement
• Posture
• Lifestyle habits
• Growth patterns

Knowledge helps families make informed decisions.

A Whole-Child Perspective

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we focus on the whole child.

Not simply individual symptoms.

We look at:

• Growth
• Development
• Movement
• Adaptability
• Function

Because healthy children are constantly changing.

Growing Stronger Together

Many parents choose chiropractic care because they value supporting their child’s ability to adapt and thrive.

Not because children are broken.

But because childhood is an incredible period of growth.

And growth deserves support.

Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Family Chiropractor Edmonton, Children’s Chiropractic Edmonton, Pediatric Wellness Edmonton

• What Is a Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment?
• Understanding Subluxation in Children
• Supporting Healthy Development Through Chiropractic Care
• Why Healthy Children Still Need Regular Wellness Check-Ups
• A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Development

Understanding Subluxation in Children

A Chiropractic Perspective on Adaptation, Movement, and Function

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the most important concepts in chiropractic is the idea of subluxation.

It is also one of the most misunderstood.

When people hear the word subluxation, they often assume it means a bone is out of place.

That is not how chiropractors use the term.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we describe subluxation as a pattern of altered movement, tension, adaptation, and neurological stress within the body.

Children Adapt Constantly

From the moment children are born, they are adapting to their environment.

Learning to lift their heads.

Learning to roll.

Learning to crawl.

Learning to walk.

The nervous system continuously responds to new experiences.

Adaptation is part of life.

The Body Responds to Stress

Every human experiences stress.

Stress can be:

• Physical
• Chemical
• Emotional

These experiences influence how the body adapts.

Children are no different.

Movement and the Nervous System

The nervous system relies upon movement information.

The brain continually gathers information from:

• Muscles
• Joints
• Balance systems
• Sensory systems

Movement helps the nervous system understand the body and environment.

What Chiropractors Assess

Chiropractors assess areas of:

• Spinal movement
• Postural patterns
• Neurological adaptation
• Functional movement

The goal is to understand how the body is adapting.

Why Movement Matters

Healthy movement provides valuable sensory information to the brain.

Movement helps support:

• Coordination
• Awareness
• Adaptability
• Function

This is one reason movement plays such an important role in chiropractic philosophy.

Looking at the Whole Child

Rather than focusing solely on one area, chiropractors often consider:

• Growth
• Development
• Lifestyle habits
• Movement patterns
• Adaptability

The whole child matters.

A Wellness Perspective

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe chiropractic care is about supporting function and adaptability.

Understanding subluxation helps families better understand how chiropractors view health, movement, and development.

Because healthy growth depends upon the body’s remarkable ability to adapt.

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• What Is a Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment

Why Movement Matters to the Nervous System

Understanding One of the Most Important Relationships in Human Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

If there is one concept I hope every parent understands, it is this:

Movement matters.

Movement is not simply exercise.

It is not merely physical activity.

Movement is one of the primary ways the nervous system learns about the world.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently remind families that movement is one of the most powerful tools available for supporting healthy development.

The Brain Learns Through Movement

Long before children learn language, mathematics, or reading, they learn through movement.

Movement provides information regarding:

• Position
• Balance
• Gravity
• Coordination
• Environment

The brain uses this information to build future skills.

Childhood Is Designed Around Movement

Children naturally want to:

• Roll
• Crawl
• Climb
• Run
• Jump
• Explore

This is not accidental.

The nervous system develops through these experiences.

Every Movement Provides Information

When children move, sensory information travels to the brain.

The brain processes that information and creates responses.

This cycle occurs continuously.

Movement becomes part of how children learn about themselves and their environment.

Modern Challenges

Many children spend more time sitting than previous generations.

School.

Transportation.

Screens.

Homework.

Movement opportunities become reduced.

Yet movement remains essential.

Outdoor Play Is Powerful

Outdoor environments provide:

• Variety
• Challenge
• Exploration
• Adaptation

These experiences help create rich learning opportunities for the nervous system.

Supporting Healthy Development

Parents can encourage movement through:

• Family walks
• Outdoor play
• Sports
• Playground exploration
• Active family time

Simple experiences often create extraordinary developmental opportunities.

Movement Is a Lifelong Need

Children need movement.

Adults need movement.

The nervous system thrives when movement remains part of daily life.

Movement Is Life

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, movement sits at the centre of healthy development.

Because movement teaches.

Movement challenges.

Movement builds awareness.

And movement helps the nervous system learn how to adapt to life.

Movement and Nervous System Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Child Development Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton

Why Parents Bring Babies and Children to Chiropractors

Understanding the Many Reasons Families Choose Chiropractic Care

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

One of the questions I am asked most often is:

“Why would a parent bring a baby or child to a chiropractor?”

For many people, chiropractic is something associated primarily with adults.

Back discomfort.

Neck tension.

Postural challenges.

Yet many families choose to include chiropractic care as part of their overall wellness lifestyle from infancy onward.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we see children of all ages because parents recognize that childhood is a period of tremendous growth, adaptation, and neurological development.

Every Family Has a Different Story

There is no single reason families seek chiropractic care.

Every child is unique.

Every family has different goals.

Some parents begin care during pregnancy and continue after birth.

Some seek a wellness-focused approach to supporting healthy development.

Others simply want their child assessed as they grow.

Childhood Is a Time of Rapid Development

During childhood, the body is constantly:

• Growing
• Moving
• Learning
• Adapting

Children experience countless physical, chemical, and emotional stressors throughout life.

These experiences are part of normal development.

Parents often choose chiropractic care because they value supporting healthy function throughout these stages.

Movement Matters

One of the primary ways children learn is through movement.

Rolling.

Crawling.

Walking.

Running.

Climbing.

Playing.

Movement provides information that helps the nervous system learn about the environment.

Because movement is such an important part of development, many parents appreciate having a professional who understands movement patterns and neurological development.

Wellness Rather Than Waiting

Many families take a proactive approach to health.

They do not wait until challenges arise before supporting healthy habits.

They prioritize:

• Healthy food
• Physical activity
• Sleep
• Outdoor play
• Emotional well-being

For these families, chiropractic care becomes another part of their wellness strategy.

Understanding Subluxation

Within chiropractic, we often discuss the concept of subluxation.

A chiropractic subluxation refers to areas of altered movement and neurological adaptation within the spine and nervous system.

Chiropractors assess for these patterns and support healthy spinal movement and function.

Education and Empowerment

One of the most important aspects of pediatric chiropractic care is education.

Parents often leave with a better understanding of:

• Development
• Movement
• Posture
• Lifestyle habits
• Growth patterns

Knowledge helps families make informed decisions.

A Whole-Child Perspective

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we focus on the whole child.

Not simply individual symptoms.

We look at:

• Growth
• Development
• Movement
• Adaptability
• Function

Because healthy children are constantly changing.

Growing Stronger Together

Many parents choose chiropractic care because they value supporting their child’s ability to adapt and thrive.

Not because children are broken.

But because childhood is an incredible period of growth.

And growth deserves support

Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, Family Chiropractor Edmonton, Children’s Chiropractic Edmonton, Pediatric Wellness Edmonton

The First 1,000 Days of Development

Why Early Experiences Matter So Much

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

If there is one period of life that deserves extraordinary attention, it is the first 1,000 days.

This period begins during pregnancy and extends through approximately a child’s second birthday.

During these early years, development occurs at an astonishing pace.

The brain develops rapidly.

Movement skills emerge.

Sensory systems organize.

Relationships form.

Patterns begin.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we often discuss the first 1,000 days because they represent one of the most dynamic periods of growth a human being will ever experience.

Development Begins Before Birth

Many people think development begins at birth.

In reality, development begins long before.

Throughout pregnancy, the developing baby experiences:

• Movement
• Sound
• Touch
• Position changes

The nervous system is already gathering information.

Birth Is a Transition

Birth represents one of the most significant transitions of life.

Suddenly a baby must:

• Breathe independently
• Feed independently
• Adapt to gravity
• Experience a completely new environment

The nervous system begins learning in entirely new ways.

The First Year Changes Everything

During the first year alone, children learn to:

• Lift their heads
• Roll
• Sit
• Crawl
• Stand
• Walk

These milestones represent incredible neurological achievements.

Movement Builds Development

Movement provides information to the developing nervous system.

Every experience contributes to learning.

The brain develops through interaction with the environment.

Relationships Matter

Children also develop through connection.

Supportive relationships provide opportunities for:

• Learning
• Communication
• Exploration
• Growth

Connection becomes part of development.

Lifestyle Matters Too

Healthy development is supported by:

• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Movement
• Outdoor experiences
• Responsive caregiving

These foundations help create opportunities for growth.

Small Moments Matter

Parents sometimes feel pressure to do everything perfectly.

The reality is that development is shaped by thousands of small experiences.

A cuddle.

A walk.

A conversation.

A game.

A story.

These moments matter.

Looking Beyond Milestones

Milestones are helpful.

However, development is about much more than checking boxes.

It is about building foundations.

The Opportunity of Early Childhood

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe the first 1,000 days provide extraordinary opportunities to support healthy development.

Not because parents must be perfect.

But because everyday experiences have remarkable power during these early years.

And those experiences help shape the foundations children carry forward into life.

Raising Children With High Levels Of Adaptation

Helping Kids Thrive in a Changing World

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Perhaps the most valuable skill we can help children develop is adaptability.

Not perfection.

Not performance.

Not achievement.

Adaptability.

Because life is constantly changing.

And children who learn how to adapt often navigate those changes more successfully.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently discuss adaptability because it sits at the heart of healthy development.

The nervous system was designed to adapt.

Children were designed to learn.

Growth occurs through experience.

Adaptability Is a Life Skill

Children encounter change constantly.

New environments.

New friendships.

New challenges.

New opportunities.

Adaptability helps them respond to these experiences.

Children Learn Through Experience

Adaptability is not taught exclusively through instruction.

It develops through participation.

Children learn by:

• Trying
• Exploring
• Experimenting
• Problem solving

Experience becomes the teacher.

Movement Encourages Adaptation

Movement provides countless opportunities for learning.

Children continually adapt while:

• Climbing
• Running
• Balancing
• Playing

The nervous system learns through these experiences.

Challenge Builds Growth

Healthy development includes manageable challenges.

Challenges help children discover:

• Persistence
• Confidence
• Capability

These lessons become powerful.

Relationships Provide Security

Children often adapt best when they feel supported.

Connection helps create confidence.

Confidence encourages exploration.

Exploration encourages growth.

Resilience and Adaptability

Resilience and adaptability are closely connected.

Both involve learning how to respond to life’s challenges.

Both are developed through experience.

Supporting Adaptable Children

Parents can encourage adaptability through:

• Movement
• Outdoor play
• Exploration
• Encouraging effort
• Modelling flexibility

These experiences help children build confidence in their ability to navigate change.

A Powerful Gift

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe adaptability may be one of the greatest gifts parents can help nurture.

Because the world will continue changing.

Life will continue presenting challenges.

And adaptable children often become adaptable adults.

That ability serves them for a lifetime

The Developing Nervous System Explained for Parents

Understanding the System That Coordinates Growth, Learning, Movement, Adaptation, and Development

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

If there is one system in the body that deserves more attention from parents, it is the nervous system.

Most people understand the importance of the heart.

They understand the importance of the lungs.

They understand the importance of healthy food and exercise.

Yet few people truly understand the role the nervous system plays in childhood development.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we spend much of our time educating families about the nervous system because it influences nearly every aspect of growth and development.

Movement.

Balance.

Coordination.

Adaptation.

Learning.

Awareness.

Communication.

The nervous system helps coordinate them all.

What Is the Nervous System?

The nervous system is the body’s communication network.

It gathers information from the environment.

It processes information.

It coordinates responses.

It helps the body adapt.

Every moment of every day, the nervous system is collecting information from:

• The eyes
• The ears
• The muscles
• The joints
• The skin
• The environment

The brain uses this information to help guide future actions.

Childhood Is a Time of Extraordinary Development

The nervous system develops rapidly during childhood.

Babies arrive with remarkable potential.

However, development occurs through experience.

Children learn through:

• Movement
• Exploration
• Relationships
• Play
• Interaction

The nervous system grows through participation.

The Brain Learns Through Movement

One of the most important concepts parents can understand is that movement helps drive development.

Before children learn academic skills, they learn movement skills.

They learn to:

• Lift their heads
• Roll
• Sit
• Crawl
• Stand
• Walk

These experiences provide information that helps organize the nervous system.

Movement is one of the brain’s primary teachers.

The Nervous System Thrives on Variety

Children benefit from experiencing different environments.

Different surfaces.

Different challenges.

Different movement opportunities.

The nervous system adapts through exposure to variety.

This is one reason outdoor play remains so valuable.

Adaptation Is the Goal

Many parents focus on achievement.

Milestones.

Performance.

Results.

While these things can be exciting, the deeper goal of development is adaptability.

Can the child respond to changing environments?

Can they learn from experience?

Can they adjust when circumstances change?

Adaptability is one of the hallmarks of a healthy nervous system.

The Importance of Sensory Experiences

Children learn through their senses.

They gather information through:

• Touch
• Movement
• Vision
• Sound
• Balance

Every sensory experience helps shape development.

This is why active participation in life matters so much.

Modern Challenges

Today’s children face unique challenges.

Many spend significant portions of their day:

• Sitting
• Looking at screens
• Moving between structured activities

While technology offers many benefits, the nervous system still requires movement, exploration, and interaction with the physical world.

Children were designed to move.

Lifestyle Matters

Healthy nervous system development is influenced by many factors.

Sleep.

Movement.

Nutrition.

Relationships.

Outdoor experiences.

Play.

No single factor creates healthy development.

Rather, healthy development emerges from the interaction of many positive experiences over time.

Understanding Development Differently

Parents often ask:

“What should my child be doing?”

A better question may be:

“What opportunities am I providing my child to learn, grow, and adapt?”

Children thrive when they are given opportunities to participate in life.

A Remarkable System

The nervous system is extraordinary.

It allows children to:

• Learn
• Adapt
• Move
• Communicate
• Explore

Everything we do ultimately relies on the nervous system’s ability to gather information and respond appropriately.

Looking Through a Chiropractic Lens

Chiropractic has always been interested in the relationship between the spine, movement, and nervous system function.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we assess how children move, adapt, and interact with their environment.

Our goal is to support healthy function, healthy movement, and healthy development.

The Opportunity of Childhood

Childhood represents an incredible window of opportunity.

Not because children need to be perfected.

But because they are growing.

Learning.

Exploring.

Adapting.

The nervous system is continually building foundations that will influence the rest of life.

And every movement, every experience, and every opportunity to explore becomes part of that story.

Nervous System Development Edmonton, Pediatric Chiropractor Edmonton, What to look for in Child Development Edmonton, Family Wellness Edmonton, Nervous System Health Edmonton

• Primitive Reflexes
• Crawling
• Balance Development
• Visual Tracking
• Oral Function
• Movement Milestones
• Resilience
• Wellness Care
• Pediatric Chiropractic Assessment
• Supporting Healthy Development Through Chiropractic Care

Why Movement Is Life for Growing Children

The Most Important Developmental Tool Your Child Will Ever Have

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

If I could share one message with every parent, it would be this:

Movement matters.

In fact, movement may be one of the most important contributors to healthy childhood development.

Movement is not simply exercise.

It is not simply recreation.

Movement is how children learn about themselves and the world around them.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we frequently remind families that movement is one of the primary languages of the developing nervous system.

Children move to learn.

They move to adapt.

They move to grow.

Human Development Was Built on Movement

For thousands of years, children grew up in movement-rich environments.

They walked.

Climbed.

Explored.

Played.

Built.

Created.

Movement was woven into daily life.

The nervous system developed within these experiences.

The Modern Challenge

Today’s children often spend more time sitting than any generation before them.

School.

Transportation.

Screens.

Homework.

Technology has changed how children spend their time.

Yet their biology remains largely unchanged.

Children still need movement.

Movement Builds the Brain

Every movement provides sensory information.

The brain uses this information to help organize:

• Balance
• Coordination
• Awareness
• Adaptability

Movement is one of the nervous system’s greatest teachers.

Movement Builds Confidence

Children discover their capabilities through movement.

When they:

• Climb a ladder
• Ride a bicycle
• Cross a log
• Learn to skate

They gain more than physical skills.

They gain confidence.

Confidence grows through experience.

Movement Encourages Adaptability

Life constantly changes.

Movement teaches children how to respond.

How to adjust.

How to problem solve.

How to try again.

These lessons extend far beyond physical activity.

Outdoor Play Remains Powerful

Nature provides opportunities that screens cannot.

Uneven terrain.

Changing environments.

Creative challenges.

The nervous system thrives on these experiences.

Movement Supports Wellness

Movement encourages:

• Exploration
• Social interaction
• Confidence
• Curiosity

Children who move often gain opportunities to experience life more fully.

The Family Opportunity

Parents do not need complicated plans.

Movement can be simple.

Family walks.

Bike rides.

Playgrounds.

Backyard games.

Hikes.

Dancing in the kitchen.

Small moments matter.

A Different Definition of Success

Many parents worry about sports performance.

Competition.

Achievement.

These can certainly be valuable.

However, the greatest gift movement offers may be helping children become adaptable, capable human beings.

Movement Is Life

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe movement sits at the heart of healthy development.

Because movement teaches.

Movement builds.

Movement challenges.

Movement inspires.

And movement helps children become who they were designed to be.

A Parent’s Guide to Support Healthy Growth

Understanding the Foundations That Help Children Grow, Adapt, and Thrive

By Dr. Wendy Coburn

Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys.

It can also be one of life’s greatest responsibilities.

Every parent wants the same basic thing:

To help their child grow into a healthy, capable, confident human being.

Yet modern parenting often feels overwhelming.

There is endless information.

Conflicting advice.

Competing opinions.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy development becomes much easier to understand when we return to a few foundational principles.

Principle #1: Children Were Designed to Grow and Adapt

Children are not fragile projects that require perfection.

They were designed to grow.

To learn.

To adapt.

To explore.

The nervous system expects interaction with the world.

Development occurs through participation.

Principle #2: Movement Matters

Movement remains one of the most important contributors to healthy development.

Children learn through:

• Rolling
• Crawling
• Climbing
• Running
• Jumping
• Exploring

Movement helps build the brain.

Principle #3: Relationships Matter

Children thrive when they feel:

• Safe
• Supported
• Connected
• Loved

Relationships influence development profoundly.

Connection creates confidence.

Principle #4: Sleep Matters

Growth and adaptation continue during sleep.

Healthy sleep habits support:

• Recovery
• Learning
• Growth

Sleep remains one of childhood’s most important activities.

Principle #5: Outdoor Play Matters

Nature encourages:

• Creativity
• Movement
• Problem solving
• Exploration

Children benefit tremendously from spending time outdoors.

Principle #6: Healthy Habits Matter

Healthy development is influenced by:

• Nutrition
• Movement
• Sleep
• Connection
• Consistency

Small habits repeated over time often create the greatest impact.

Principle #7: Adaptability Matters

Life is constantly changing.

Children who learn how to adapt often navigate those changes more successfully.

Adaptability may be one of the most valuable life skills we can help nurture.

Principle #8: Wellness Is a Journey

Health is not a destination.

Development is not a finish line.

Both are ongoing processes.

Children continually grow and adapt throughout life.

Principle #9: Every Child Is Unique

Comparison rarely helps.

Every child has their own:

• Strengths
• Personality
• Timeline
• Journey

The goal is not creating identical children.

The goal is supporting the child in front of us.

Principle #10: You Matter Too

One of the most important lessons I share with parents is this:

Your well-being matters.

Children benefit when caregivers also prioritize:

• Movement
• Sleep
• Connection
• Health

Healthy families are built together.

The Big Picture

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, we believe healthy development is best understood through a whole-child lens.

Movement.

Sleep.

Nutrition.

Connection.

Adaptability.

Wellness.

These foundations help children build the skills they need to thrive.

And when we focus on foundations rather than perfection, parenting often becomes a little simpler and a lot more meaningful.

Because healthy development is not about doing everything perfectly.

It is about showing up consistently, loving deeply, and creating opportunities for children to grow into who they were designed to become.

  

One Village Pediatric Development & Primitive Reflex Fridge Chart

Birth to 24 Months

Print on one page (landscape) and place on the fridge. Remember: children develop at different rates. This chart is intended as a general guide and not a diagnostic tool.

Age	Primitive Reflexes	Movement Milestones	Oral & Sensory Development
Birth-1 Month	Moro, Rooting, Suck, Palmar, Plantar, ATNR, Galant active	Lifts head briefly, turns head side to side	Coordinated suck-swallow-breathe begins
2 Months	Reflexes still active	Better head control, tummy time improving	Tracks faces, begins social smile
3 Months	Moro beginning to diminish	Pushes up on forearms, head steady	Hands opening more frequently
4 Months	ATNR decreasing	Rolls tummy to back	Reaches for toys
5 Months	Rooting integrating	Rolls both directions	Hands to mouth consistently
6 Months	Moro integrating	Sits with support, pivots on tummy	Transfers objects hand to hand
7 Months	Palmar decreasing	Sits independently	Explores textures and foods
8 Months	ATNR integrating	Belly crawling may begin	Babbling increases
9 Months	Galant decreasing	Crawling, creeping, pulling to stand	Finger feeding starts
10 Months	Primitive reflexes largely integrating	Cruising furniture	Pincer grasp emerging
11 Months	Most infant reflexes fading	Squatting, climbing attempts	Uses gestures
12 Months	Moro integrated	First independent steps	First words emerging
13-15 Months	Primitive reflexes integrated	Walking independently	Uses spoon with assistance
16-18 Months	Postural reflexes developing	Running, climbing, kicking ball	Vocabulary expanding
19-21 Months	Mature balance reactions improving	Walking stairs with help	Pretend play increasing
22-24 Months	Advanced equilibrium reactions	Jumping attempts, throwing ball	Two-word phrases

---

Primitive Reflex Integration Timeline

Reflex	Appears	Integrates
Rooting	Birth	3-4 months
Suck	Birth	3-5 months
Moro	Birth	4-6 months
Palmar Grasp	Birth	4-6 months
Plantar Grasp	Birth	9-12 months
ATNR (Fencing Reflex)	Birth	4-6 months
STNR	6-9 months	9-11 months
Spinal Galant	Birth	6-9 months
Landau	3-4 months	12-24 months
TLR	Birth	18-24 months

---

One Village Preschool Development Chart

Ages 2-5 Years

Age	Gross Motor	Fine Motor	Brain & Sensory Development
2 Years	Runs, jumps, climbs, kicks ball	Stacks blocks, scribbles	Two-word phrases, follows simple instructions
2.5 Years	Walks stairs alternating feet with help	Turns pages, simple puzzles	Increasing imagination
3 Years	Pedals tricycle, balances briefly on one foot	Uses scissors with assistance	Questions everything (“Why?”)
3.5 Years	Climbs playground equipment confidently	Draws circles	Cooperative play begins
4 Years	Hops on one foot, catches large ball	Copies squares and letters	Strong imaginative play
4.5 Years	Skips attempts begin	Better pencil control	Improved emotional regulation
5 Years	Skips, hops, balances well	Prints some letters and numbers	School readiness skills emerging

---

Red Flags Worth Discussing With a Health Professional

Birth-12 Months

• Persistent head preference after 3-4 months
• Difficulty tummy timing
• Not rolling by 7 months
• Not sitting by 9 months
• Not crawling or moving independently by 12 months
• Persistent fisting after 4 months
• Significant feeding difficulties
• Limited eye contact

12-24 Months

• Not walking by 18 months
• Frequent falls without improvement
• No meaningful words by 18 months
• Loss of previously acquired skills
• Toe walking that persists

2-5 Years

• Poor balance compared to peers
• Difficulty crossing midline
• W-sitting constantly
• Avoids climbing or playground activities
• Significant coordination challenges
• Difficulty with attention, emotional regulation, or body awareness

One Village “Movement Is Life, Life Is Movement” Fridge Reminder

Every Day

☐ Floor play
☐ Tummy time or crawling activities (when age appropriate)
☐ Outside play
☐ Climbing
☐ Running
☐ Throwing and catching
☐ Reading together
☐ Protein-rich meals
☐ Vegetables and fruit
☐ Water
☐ Connection, hugs, laughter, and play

The brain develops through movement. The body learns through experience. Childhood is not a race to milestones—it’s a journey of building strong foundations for life.

— Dr. Wendy Coburn, One Village Chiropractic Community Edmonton, Alberta Canada.

A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Movement and Development

 

A warm, practical guide to the everyday experiences that help children grow, learn, move and explore—from birth through the preschool years.

By Dr. Wendy Coburn | One Village Family Chiropractic Community | Edmonton, Alberta

 

Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys. It can also feel like one of its greatest responsibilities.

 

Every parent wants to help their child grow into a healthy, capable and confident person. Yet modern parenting can feel overwhelming. There is endless information, conflicting advice and constant pressure to get everything right.

 

I created this guide to bring parents back to a few reassuring foundations. Children need opportunities to move, play, rest, connect and explore. Development unfolds through thousands of everyday experiences—not through perfection.

 

A reassuring place to begin: children develop at different rates. A milestone map gives parents helpful reference points, but it is not a grade, competition or diagnosis. If something concerns you, begin a conversation.

 

Ten Foundations for Healthy Childhood Development

1. Movement matters

Reaching, rolling, floor play, crawling, walking, running, climbing and jumping give children opportunities to practise balance, coordination, strength and problem-solving.

 

2. Relationships matter

Talking, reading, singing, comforting and playing together help children feel safe, supported and ready to explore.

 

3. Sleep matters

Sleep supports rest, growth, learning and recovery. Persistent sleep difficulties can have many causes and deserve appropriate professional assessment.

 

4. Outdoor play matters

Outdoor spaces invite creativity, movement, exploration and experience with different surfaces and environments. Work on as much outdoor play as possible.

 

5. Nutrition matters

Growing children need appropriate nutrition and hydration. Feeding and growth concerns belong with the appropriate medical, nutrition or feeding professional.

 

6. Play matters

Play gives children room to communicate, imagine, negotiate, solve problems and try again without needing to perform perfectly.

 

7. Variety matters

Children benefit from safe, age-appropriate opportunities to reach, push, pull, balance, roll, change direction and explore.

 

8. Safe challenge matters

Manageable challenges help children practise persistence and discover what they can do—with encouragement and suitable supervision.

 

9. Every child is unique

A child may progress quickly in one area and need additional time or support in another. The whole child matters more than one observation.

 

10. Caregivers matter too

Children benefit when caregivers also have opportunities for rest, movement, nourishment, connection and support.

 

 

Your Child’s Movement and Milestone Map

This poster-style map offers a calm place to begin. These are examples of skills children may be working toward at different stages. Development includes physical, communication, cognitive, social and emotional skills—not movement alone.

 

Look for progress, curiosity and growing participation—not perfection.Every child brings their own strengths, personality and timeline to the journey. Sequence is key.

 

Birth to 2 months

• Looks at familiar faces
• Responds to voices or sounds
• Moves both arms and legs
• Lifts or turns the head briefly
• Begins following a face or object

2 to 4 months

• Holds the head more steadily
• Pushes onto forearms during tummy time
• Brings hands toward the mouth
• Reaches toward toys
• Turns toward familiar voices

4 to 6 months

• May roll in one or both directions
• Pushes up during tummy time
• Reaches, grasps and transfers objects
• Brings objects to the mouth
• Begins supporting themselves while sitting

6 to 9 months

• Sits with decreasing support
• Pivots or moves while on the tummy
• Reaches across the body
• Moves toward desired objects
• Explores a wider range of textures and sounds

• • Crawling opposite arm and leg shin and hands will begin here as well – ***

9 to 12 months

• Moves independently across the floor
• Pulls to stand
• Moves while holding furniture
• Uses the thumb and finger to pick up food
• Waves or uses other gestures

12 to 18 months

• Takes independent steps
• Squats to retrieve an object
• Scribbles and turns book pages
• Uses gestures and meaningful words
• Copies everyday actions during play

18 to 24 months

• Walks with greater confidence
• Begins to run and kick a ball
• Walks up steps with assistance
• Uses a spoon with growing independence
• Engages in simple pretend play

Ages 2 to 5 years

• Progresses from running and jumping to hopping
• Develops greater hand and pencil control
• Builds language and storytelling skills
• Participates more fully in shared play
• Practises dressing and everyday tasks

For a fuller Alberta-based timeline, visit Healthy Parents, Healthy Children.

 

Milestones have value: they help us celebrate emerging skills, notice overall progression and recognize when a child may benefit from additional assessment or support. They are not a way to label children or predict their future.  The sequence of them is important versus the timing and speed.

 

Movement, Play and the Developing Child

Why floor play matters

Supervised, awake floor play gives babies room to turn, reach, bring their hands together, roll, push, shift weight and move toward interesting people and objects. Offer different positions without forcing movement.

Seats, swings and other equipment have practical uses, but children also benefit from time when their movement is less restricted.  Having more time when they are moving and playing naturally without restriction assists them in building confidence and creativity.

 

Crawling and early mobility

Crawling can offer valuable experiences in weight-bearing, coordination and exploration. It is one possible form of early mobility, but not every child crawls in the same way or for the same length of time.

Parents can encourage mobility with supervised floor time, interesting objects placed within a manageable distance, varied safe surfaces and time playing together. Crawling should not be described as a required neurological treatment or a guarantee of later academic or coordination outcomes.

 

Balance and the vestibular system

The vestibular system is located in the inner ear and contributes to balance, spatial orientation and awareness of movement. Children naturally experience it when they roll, crawl, walk, run, climb, swing and change position.

 

Movement should be age appropriate and enjoyable. Stop if a child appears frightened, dizzy, nauseated or unwell. Persistent dizziness, balance loss, unusual eye movements or significant coordination concerns require appropriate professional evaluation.

 

Vision and movement

Children use their eyes to follow people and objects, shift attention and coordinate looking with movement. Face-to-face interaction, reading, ball games, building, drawing and outdoor exploration provide natural opportunities to practise these skills.

Concerns about eye alignment, vision, tracking or persistent head positioning can be noticed by a chiropractor an should also be discussed with a physician or optometrist.

 

Primitive reflexes

Primitive reflexes are automatic responses present during early infancy. Healthcare professionals may observe them as one part of a neurological and developmental examination. Examples include rooting, sucking, Moro, palmar grasp, plantar grasp, asymmetrical tonic neck and spinal Galant reflexes.

 

A reflex should never be interpreted in isolation. It is not, by itself, a diagnosis, proof of a vertebral subluxation or evidence that chiropractic treatment is required. Parents do not need to test primitive reflexes at home. Questions about an unexpected response or development should be directed to an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

 

 

Oral Function, Feeding and Breathing

The mouth participates in feeding, swallowing, breathing, speech and sensory exploration. These activities require coordination among the tongue, lips, jaw, cheeks, palate, throat and breathing structures.

Feeding is complex. Difficulties can have structural, neurological, medical, developmental, behavioural or functional causes. Depending on the concern, a child’s care team may include a chiropractor, physician, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, dentist, pediatric dentist or dietitian.

 

Seek appropriate help for feeding concerns. Difficulty breathing, coughing or choking during feeding, colour changes, poor weight gain, dehydration, persistent distress or a sudden change in feeding ability should be assessed promptly through the appropriate medical channel.

Persistent mouth breathing, snoring, gasping, pauses in breathing or laboured breathing should not be attributed automatically to posture, the palate or the spine. These signs warrant medical assessment.

 

 

 

When Should Parents Speak With a Health Professional?

Milestones occur across a range, but a parent’s concern is reason enough to begin a conversation.

Speak with your child’s physician or nurse practitioner if your child:

• Loses a skill they previously had
• Stops using one arm or leg
• Appears unusually weak, floppy, stiff or unresponsive
• Has persistent feeding or swallowing difficulties
• Has difficulty breathing
• Does not respond to sound or familiar voices
• Has persistent concerns with eye contact or visual tracking
• Shows a strong or persistent movement asymmetry
• Has ongoing pain or repeated unexplained falls
• Is not progressing in movement, communication or social interaction
• Has significant changes in behaviour, energy or alertness
• Causes you to feel that something is not right

Developmental screening is an important part of routine pediatric healthcare. A chiropractic neuromusculoskeletal examination does not replace standardized developmental screening, medical examination, hearing assessment or vision examination.

Emergency symptoms: seek urgent medical assistance for difficulty breathing, blue or grey colouring, seizure activity, serious injury, unusual unresponsiveness or sudden loss of function.

 

What Are the Benefits of a Chiropractic Well-Baby or Well-Child Checkup?

 

Parents often use the words “well-baby checkup” or “well-child checkup” when they want someone to take a thoughtful look at how their child is moving. Within chiropractic practice, the clearer description is a pediatric neuromusculoskeletal assessment.

This assessment is different from the medical well-baby and well-child visits provided by a physician or nurse practitioner. It does not replace medical examination, developmental screening, growth monitoring, hearing or vision care, vaccination guidance or treatment of childhood illness.

The value of a chiropractic neuromusculoskeletal assessment is the opportunity to:

• Share what you have noticed about your child’s posture, movement or comfort
• Observe how the child moves naturally at their age and stage
• Assess relevant joint mobility, muscle tone and range of motion
• Consider whether an identifiable neuromusculoskeletal concern is present
• Receive practical, age-appropriate movement or positioning guidance
• Learn whether chiropractic care, observation, collaboration or referral is the appropriate next step

The benefit is clarity—not a promise of a particular outcome. The assessment should not be represented as improving feeding, sleep, digestion, immunity, behaviour, development or systemic nervous-system regulation.

 

What can be assessed during infancy?

With babies, we may observe comfortable head and neck movement, movement of the arms and legs, tolerance of different supervised positions and whether an obvious positional preference is present. Gentle touch may be used to assess relevant joints and muscles.

A birth history provides helpful context, but it does not establish that birth caused spinal injury or that a baby requires chiropractic treatment.

 

What can be assessed as children grow?

For toddlers, school-aged children and teenagers, the assessment may consider posture, range of motion, joint mobility, muscular tension and movement comfort in relation to play, school, recreation or sport.

Children are never expected to perform perfectly. The appointment should meet them where they are, allow time for questions and respect their comfort and age-appropriate assent.

 

Where Pediatric Chiropractic Care Fits

Parents may consider a pediatric chiropractic assessment when they have a concern involving joint mobility, muscular tension, posture, movement comfort, a persistent positional preference, an appropriate neuromusculoskeletal injury or the physical demands of school, recreation or sport.

 

A pediatric chiropractic assessment may include:

• A discussion of relevant health and birth history
• Observation of posture and spontaneous movement
• Age-appropriate range-of-motion assessment
• Examination of relevant joints and muscles
• Orthopaedic or neurological testing when indicated
• Review of previous diagnoses, imaging or treatment
• Referral or collaboration when another professional should be involved

 

A birth history provides background; it does not establish that birth caused spinal injury or that a child requires chiropractic care. Developmental observations add context but do not replace formal developmental assessment.

When an examination identifies an appropriate neuromusculoskeletal finding, care may include gentle, age-appropriate manual techniques, movement or positioning guidance, home suggestions and reassessment. The proposed care, alternatives, material risks and expected fees should be explained before consent is obtained. The child’s comfort and age-appropriate assent should always be respected.

For a detailed look at the process, read How Pediatric Chiropractic Assessments Work. Families preparing for an appointment can also visit Your First Visit: What to Expect.

Does every child need chiropractic care? No. Not every child requires chiropractic treatment. Following an assessment, the appropriate recommendation may be education, observation, home movement suggestions, a defined trial of care for an identified neuromusculoskeletal concern, collaboration or referral.

 

A Simple Family Movement Reminder

When age appropriate and safely supervised, create regular opportunities for:

• Floor play and tummy time
• Reaching, rolling and early mobility
• Outdoor play
• Walking, running and climbing
• Throwing and catching
• Creative and imaginative play
• Reading together
• Nutritious food and water
• Rest
• Conversation, affection and laughter

This is an invitation, not another parenting checklist. Children do not need every activity every day.

 

Questions Parents Often Ask

Is this milestone guide a developmental screening tool?

No. It provides general education only. Standardized screening and medical or developmental assessment should be completed by the appropriate qualified professional.

Does every baby need a chiropractic assessment?

No. Parents may consider an assessment when they have a relevant neuromusculoskeletal concern, but chiropractic care is not necessary for every baby or child.

Can pediatric chiropractic care treat feeding, reflux, colic or sleep concerns?

 

These concerns can have many causes and require assessment by the appropriate healthcare professional. A chiropractor may examine a child for relevant neuromusculoskeletal findings but should not represent chiropractic care as treating these systemic conditions.

What happens during a pediatric chiropractic assessment?

The chiropractor takes a relevant history, observes age-appropriate posture and movement, examines relevant joints and muscles, explains the findings and determines whether care, observation, collaboration or referral is appropriate.

What should I do if my child loses a previously acquired skill?

Contact your child’s physician or nurse practitioner promptly. A loss of previously acquired skills requires appropriate medical or developmental evaluation.

 

Questions About a Neuromusculoskeletal Concern?

We are here to listen, explain what we assess and help you determine the appropriate next step for your child.

Contact One Village Learn About the Assessment

Crestwood: 780-484-2272   |   Highlands: 780-916-4479

 

The Big Picture

Healthy development is best understood through a whole-child lens: movement, sleep, nutrition, play, connection, learning and appropriate healthcare when it is needed.

At One Village Family Chiropractic Community, our heart is to serve families through education, respectful chiropractic assessment and appropriate neuromusculoskeletal care.

 

We want parents to feel informed and empowered—not pressured. We want children to feel safe, heard and respected. And we want families to understand when chiropractic care may be appropriate and when another healthcare professional should be involved.

Development is not a race. It is a journey made through movement, relationships, everyday experiences and the support of people who care.

 

Educational notice: This resource provides general information and is not intended to diagnose, treat or screen for a medical, neurological, feeding, behavioural or developmental condition. Milestones occur across a range. If you have concerns about your child’s health or development, consult your child’s physician, nurse practitioner or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Chiropractic care is not a replacement for routine pediatric medical care or standardized developmental screening.

 

Continue Learning With One Village

Pediatric Chiropractic CareLearn where gentle, age-appropriate neuromusculoskeletal assessment and care may fit. How Pediatric Assessments WorkWalk through the history, observation, examination and care-planning process. Your First VisitHelp your family know what to expect before arriving. Healthy Pregnancy MovementExplore gentle, practical movement guidance during pregnancy. Prenatal Chiropractic CareLearn about individualized care for appropriate pregnancy-related neuromusculoskeletal concerns. Family Resources Browse more educational articles and One Village resources.

 

Child Development & Movement Guide | Edmonton Parents

A warm, practical guide to movement, play and developmental milestones from birth to age five, with clear guidance about when Edmonton parents should seek help.

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A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Movement and Development

Understand movement, play and common milestones from birth to age five—without pressure, comparison or fear.