When a child faces developmental challenges, the path ahead can feel uncertain. But families don’t have to walk it alone. In this special feature, we’re shining a light on four trusted pediatric therapy providers in the River Valley—each one helping children grow with confidence, creativity, and care.
words CATHERINE FREDERICK // image KINDLENA SHUTTERSTOCK SPONSORED CONTENT
When a child faces developmental challenges, the path ahead can feel uncertain. But families don’t have to walk it alone. In this special feature, we’re shining a light on four trusted pediatric therapy providers in the River Valley—each one helping children grow with confidence, creativity, and care.
words CATHERINE FREDERICK // image KINDLENA SHUTTERSTOCK SPONSORED CONTENT
At In-Sync Pediatric Therapy Center, therapy is more than a service, it’s a partnership. The clinic offers occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children from infancy through adolescence. Whether a child is learning to crawl, regulate emotions, or connect with peers, the team is there to support every step forward.
One area where In-Sync shines is in its approach to sensory processing, a concept that can sometimes feel abstract to parents. Sensory processing is how the brain takes in and responds to the world. For some children, bright lights, scratchy clothes, or loud noises can make everyday moments feel overwhelming. The team works to help their brains and bodies "get in sync" so they can focus, play, and enjoy life more fully.
The challenges they help families navigate are as varied as the children they serve, from speech delays, sensory sensitivities, behavioral concerns, motor skill development, and more. The talented
team at In-Sync meets each child exactly where they are, creating individualized plans rooted in play, empathy, and collaboration.
Communication is the cornerstone of their approach. Therapists stay in close contact with families, provide easy-to-understand progress updates, and often work with schools to ensure consistent support across environments. The focus is always on making sure therapists, parents, and teachers are all aligned and working toward the same goals.
When a child “graduates” from therapy, it’s a moment of celebration. Success looks different for every child—it might be tying shoes, making a friend, or sitting through a classroom activity. Whatever the milestone, the team is there to cheer them on.
More than anything, In-Sync Pediatric Therapy Center believes in the power of honoring every child’s journey. Therapy isn’t about fixing kids, it’s about empowering them, building confidence, and creating joyful growth.
In-Sync Pediatric Therapy Center provides Speech, Occupational, Physical, and ABA Therapies for children birth to 21. We specialize in Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Development Delays, Speech Delays, Picky Eaters, Handwriting, and Sensory Processing Disorders, and believe in the potential of every child to grow, develop, and contribute!
today for a tour of our facility or a full evaluation! inspiringkids@insynctherapy.org | insynctherapy.com
For more than forty years, The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center has been a cornerstone of care in the River Valley.
With a team of dedicated therapists and a mission rooted in service, the nonprofit pediatric therapy center offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for children of all ages and developmental needs.
At the heart of their work is a deeply held belief—that every child deserves access to compassionate, individualized care, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
“We serve individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities within
our community, regardless of their ability to pay,” says Patty Clark, Executive Director. “That’s been our mission from the beginning, and it continues to guide everything we do.”
This commitment to care without barriers has made The Kistler Center one of the most trusted names in therapy services. Over the years, they’ve impacted thousands of lives, many of whom still return to share their gratitude.
“We have individuals who are now employed in the community who thank us and share stories of how the Kistler Center changed their lives,” says Patty. “That’s why we’re here.”
While the center’s legacy is built on decades of experience, its approach continues to evolve. Therapists are committed to staying current with the latest training and techniques, ensuring the best outcomes for every child they serve. That balance of innovation and wisdom is what keeps the center both grounded and forward-thinking.
Personalized care is a hallmark of their work. “Each plan is individualized to fit the child’s needs,” Patty explains. “We keep communication open with parents at every visit so they’re part of the progress every step of the way.”
Behind every session, there’s an even greater level of coordination happening quietly each day. Families not only receive clinical support but
often emotional encouragement as well. Staff members work closely with schools, physicians, and other providers to create a true team approach, all focused on giving each child the greatest chance to thrive. Many parents say the Kistler team feels like extended family—a place where questions are answered, victories are celebrated, and challenges are met with patience and understanding.
In a typical day at the center, there’s more happening than most people realize. Behind every session is a team working tirelessly—applying for grants, raising funds, and coordinating care— to ensure that services remain accessible. “We continuously work to raise funds for charitable care,” says Patty. “It’s a big part of what allows us to do what we do.”
When asked what she loves most about serving families in the River Valley, Patty doesn’t hesitate: “It’s the joy of seeing each child’s growth and progress. Watching them achieve goals and become more confident—it never gets old.”
That sense of purpose runs deep among the staff. “Do what you love, love what you do,” Patty shares—a simple but powerful motto that reflects the center’s culture.
At The Kistler Center, therapy is more than a treatment plan. It’s a promise to walk beside each child and family with kindness, expertise, and unwavering support.
MAKING LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS AND WORKING ON OUR GOALS IS SO MUCH FUN!
The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center has proudly served the River Valley since 1978, offering essential care for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Today, we remain dedicated to supporting individuals with physical and intellectual challenges, and their families.
The Kistler Center provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy to children and teens under age 20, helping them strengthen motor skills, improve communication, and gain greater independence in daily life.
At Learn, Play, Grow Children’s Therapy Services, therapy is more than clinical—it’s creative, joyful, and centered on childhood.
Serving children from birth to age twenty-one, the clinic offers occupational, physical, and speech therapy, along with specialized programs including feeding therapy, serial casting, the Universal Exercise Unit, and the Safe and Sound Protocol.
Their mission is rooted in a simple belief: every child deserves the chance to thrive. “We take joy in the moment a child does something for the first time,” says the team. “It’s why we do what we do.” Therapy sessions at Learn, Play, Grow are always play-based and child-led, focusing on each child’s interests to help them meet developmental goals. “If it’s not fun, they won’t be open to learning,” they explain. “We want kids to feel safe, empowered, and engaged.”
What makes Learn, Play, Grow stand out is both the team and the environment. Their facility includes creative, kid-friendly
spaces like a calming room, baby treatment room, imaginative play area, and feeding kitchen—each designed to help children feel at ease while making progress.
Parents and caregivers are key to the therapy process. Families are encouraged to attend sessions, share goals, and celebrate every milestone. “We’re here to support the child and the entire family,” the team emphasizes. “We want parents to feel like they can breathe a little easier when they walk through our doors.” By partnering with families, the team helps carry progress from the clinic into daily life, creating more opportunities for success at home and beyond.
Their core values—Engagement, Empowerment, Joy, Service, Integrity, and Initiative—are posted throughout the clinic as daily reminders of the culture they’ve built. With deep roots in the River Valley, Learn, Play, Grow is a trusted resource where therapy meets heart, and every child is celebrated for who they are.
Little Hands at Play began with a mission to bring something different to pediatric therapy in the River Valley. Founded by brother-sister team Jeremy and Jennifer Schalski, the clinic was built with both families and therapists in mind. Their vision? To create a space where therapy is effective, joyful, and deeply supportive.
The clinic offers occupational, physical, speech, and feeding therapy for children from birth through age eighteen. What sets them apart is a passion for helping each child reach their full potential and celebrating every step along the way. “A child with special abilities has strengths far beyond what you might see at a glance,” says Jeremy. “We’re here to help families recognize and reach those strengths, together.”
Their “Goal Crusher” cards, graduation celebrations, themed therapy weeks, and birthday shoutouts are just a few ways the team keeps the environment positive and motivating. “Therapy doesn’t have to be boring,” Jennifer adds. “We want it to be exciting for kids, parents, and therapists.”
At the heart of their approach is strong communication and collaboration. Therapists work closely with families, providing consistent updates and suggestions for home and school. “We walk the journey with our families,” Jeremy says. “They’re not doing this alone.”
Little Hands at Play also prioritizes ongoing education and team collaboration. Staff attend continuing education courses and share what they’ve learned with the rest of the team to inspire new techniques and fresh ideas. This commitment to learning ensures every child benefits from the latest research, innovative strategies, and a team that’s always growing together. “It’s all about helping our kids excel, while building trust and camaraderie among our therapists,” says Jennifer.
Above all, the clinic is grounded in relationships. “Our patients and their loved ones here really do become like family,” Jeremy reflects. “We celebrate life’s victories together, and that bond is what makes everything worth it.”
Helping children from birth to 18 thrive through speech, occupational, physical, and feeding therapy. Our playful, personalized care helps kids reach milestones and supports families every step of the way.
We asked local pediatric therapy professionals to weigh in on some of the most common questions parents have—especially in those early stages of navigating therapy.
Q: How can families manage multiple therapies for one child?
A: Juggling speech, OT, and PT can feel overwhelming at first. We recommend consistent communication with your providers and looking for ways to combine goals across sessions. Many therapists will collaborate so that therapies complement one another.
Q: Why does early therapy matter in the long run?
A: Starting therapy early gives children a strong foundation for school and social life. The earlier we can address delays or challenges, the more confident and independent a child can become over time.
3304 South M Street, Fort Smith 479.785.4677 kistlercenter.org
Q: What are some signs a child might be struggling with sensory processing that parents might overlook?
A: Some subtle signs include avoiding certain textures (like messy play), becoming upset in noisy environments, crashing into furniture, chewing on non-food items, or seeming unusually clumsy or off-balance. Some children may be overly sensitive to sounds, clothing tags, or routine changes. If something feels “off” to you as a parent, trust your gut—it’s okay to ask for help.
Q: How do your therapists work with schools to ensure a child’s needs are being met in both environments?
A: We’re strong believers in collaboration. With parent permission, we communicate directly with teachers and school staff to share strategies, suggest accommodations, and align therapy goals with classroom needs. Our priority is making sure the progress a child makes in therapy carries over into their daily life—at school, on the playground, and beyond.
1109 Fayetteville Road, Van Buren 815 Fort Street, Barling 479.474.6444
insynctherapy.com
Their insights reflect not just clinical knowledge, but deep compassion and real-world experience working with families across our community.
Q: How can parents support therapy goals at home through play?
A: The most important thing is to have fun doing the activities your child enjoys. Get outside, move, and use both big and small muscle groups. Even something like a homemade obstacle course builds balance, coordination, and language. You don’t need to be perfect—just engaged.
Q: What are signs that a child may need therapy—even if development seems mostly on track?
A: If a child stops gaining new skills, shows signs of regression, or if delays begin to affect daily life, it may be time to ask questions. Sometimes peers seem far ahead, or a child struggles despite lots of practice. Trust your instincts—early support makes a difference.
311 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith 479.782.1444
lpgkids.com
Q: How can therapy help with emotional regulation—and how can parents encourage it at home?
A: Emotions fluctuate throughout the day—especially for children who may have trouble communicating their needs. That’s where dysregulation often begins. Routine is key at home. Also, helping your child express needs more clearly can reduce stress for everyone. Therapy helps build those tools.
Q: What advice would you give to parents just starting the therapy journey?
A: This is a marathon, not a sprint. We’re not trying to “fix” a child—we’re helping them become the best version of themselves. Progress may come quickly or slowly, but either way, we’re here for the long haul. You’re not doing this alone.
1501 South Waldron Road, Fort Smith 509 Millsap Road, Ste. 109, Fayetteville
479.262.0307
lhaptherapy.com
In the first year, babies explore the world through movement and sound. By 3 months, they may smile, follow faces, and coo. Around 6 months, many begin to roll over, sit with support, and reach for toys. As their first birthday approaches, they may pull up to stand, babble simple sounds, and respond to their name. Eye contact, joyful interaction, and curiosity about their surroundings are all positive signs of development.
Toddlers often take their first steps, use simple words, and explore their world with growing independence. By 18 months, many can walk steadily, point to objects, and say a handful of words. Around 2 years, short phrases emerge, along with pretend play, following basic instructions, and showing interest in other children. This is also a time for growing problem-solving skills and learning to express basic needs.
Preschoolers begin speaking in full sentences, asking questions, and sharing emotions. Gross motor skills like running and jumping continue to improve. Many enjoy imaginative play, follow multi-step directions, and engage in simple games with others. Social milestones blossom as they learn to share, take turns, and manage big feelings with guidance, building stronger friendships, confidence, and a sense of independence.
It’s natural for parents to wonder if their child is developing on track. While some variation is normal, there are signs that may suggest a child could benefit from an evaluation by a pediatric therapist. Early intervention can make a big difference and set a child up for long-term success.
If a child isn’t babbling by 12 months, has limited words by 18 months, or struggles to form simple phrases by 2-3 years, a speech-language evaluation may help. Difficulty following simple directions or frequent frustration when trying to communicate are also signs to watch.
Delays in sitting, crawling, standing, or walking can indicate challenges with motor development. Trouble with fine motor skills — like grasping objects, using utensils, or drawing simple shapes — may also suggest the need for extra support.
Avoiding eye contact, not responding to their name, difficulty engaging with peers, or extreme reactions to changes in routine may point to social or emotional challenges.
Some children show heightened sensitivity to sounds, textures, or lights, while others may seem under-responsive, seeking constant movement or pressure. Difficulty calming down or becoming easily overwhelmed by sensory input are common signs.
Every child develops on their own timeline. This information is intended as general guidance and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have concerns about your child’s development, consult your pediatrician.