YOUR SPECIAL CHILD
as they receive treatment. Young children
might bounce on or drape themselves over
large therapy balls, while older kids may
prefer to sit in a beanbag chair or lie on a
massage table.

The frequency of CST is highly individu-
alized. While babies with feeding issues, for
example, may need to be seen only once or
twice, older children with longstanding con-
cerns may require weekly sessions.

Subsequent treatment also depends on the
ease of movement in areas initially stressed
or restricted. When the body responds well
and maintains good fluid flow, children can
go longer between sessions.

Your child’s practitioner will ask you to
provide feedback on changes in behavior,
play, affect or elimination after each ses-
sion. Parents often report that their child
is calmer and better able to handle upsets
with fewer or less severe reactions — less
tantrums, fewer, shorter meltdowns, and
reduced headaches and discomfort.

Northern Virginia mom Tara McMillan
has found that craniosacral work helps her
nonverbal 14-year-old son to be more calm,
present and communicative. “He now puts
my hand on his head, on his occipital bone, to
calm himself whenever he’s upset and each
night as we get ready for bed,” she says. ■
■ Jessica Claire Haney is a Northern
Virginia mother of two, a wellness
advocate and a freelance writer,
editor and tutor. Follow her on
Instagram at @jessicaclairehaney
and @mindfulhealthy.

According to the Cleveland
Clinic, craniosacral therapy
may benefit children with the
following conditions:
• Central nervous system disorders
• ADD/ADHD • Dyslexia
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Learning disabilities
• Autism • Motor-coordination impairments
• Brain and spinal cord trauma
• Scoliosis What’s the big deal?
Stuttering affects only 1% of the world population
(that’s 70 million people)
Every day, 70 million people around the world have difficulty ordering a meal,
talking on the telephone, or just saying their name. Maybe you’re one of them.

Since 1947, the Stuttering Foundation has sought to help those who stutter.

We know how difficult the daily life of a person who stutters can be. We also
know that there are proven, effective ways to help. Let us help you.

800-992-9392 www.StutteringHelp.org
THE S TUTTERING
F OUNDATION
® A Nonprofit Organization
Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter
Post Office Box 11749 • Memphis, TN 38111-0749
WashingtonFAMILY.com 51