Pediatrics
Q&A: Dr. Madeline Joseph
UF's pediatric weight management center hones in on a child's readiness to change.
Autism Center
Last year, Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville created a 16-week intervention program for toddlers and preschoolers who are considered at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, social communication disorders or other developmental delays.
The program, located at Wolfson’s Rehabilitation Autism and Neurodevelopment Center, offers oneon-one treatment sessions for children 18 months to 4 years led by speech or occupational therapists.
Each room in the center includes equipment to help children improve movement and balance; a playground helps the kids use their new skills in a more natural setting.
Experts use a combination of “behavioral, developmental and play-based strategies” designed to focus on improving socialization, imitation and play, and non-verbal and verbal communication skills.
As part of the program, parents are taught how to incorporate therapy at home during daily routines and play times.
