Support for Babies & Early Development

Guiding families through movement, feeding, communication and developmental milestones from birth to 18 months

Not sure whether you need support?

Many families contact us because they have questions, not concerns.

You may be wondering:

  • Is my baby meeting their milestones?

  • Why does my baby dislike tummy time?

  • Should I be worried about their head shape?

  • Feeding feels harder than expected

  • My baby isn’t babbling yet

  • Do I need support or simply reassurance?

Sometimes a check-in provides peace of mind. Other times early support can make a big difference

Development Doesn’t Happen in Separate Boxes

Movement, feeding, communication, play and regulation all influence one another.

A baby who finds tummy time difficult may have fewer opportunities to explore their environment.

A child experiencing feeding challenges may also be developing communication and social skills through mealtimes.

Development is connected.

That's why our Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists work together to support babies and families through each stage of development.

Ways We Can Support Your Family

Guidance, reassurance and developmental monitoring for babies and young toddlers. Perfect for families who have questions about development and aren't sure whether support is needed.

Developmental Check-Ins

Support with positioning, tummy time, motor skills, mobility and physical milestones from birth through toddlerhood.

Movement & Physical Development

Support with sensory experiences, play skills, engagement, self-feeding, routines and participation in daily activities.

Play, Regulation & Participation

Support with feeding, early communication, language development and social connection through everyday routines.

Feeding, Communication & Interaction

Many families engage with one area of support, while others benefit from a collaborative approach across Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology. We work together to identify the support that best suits your child and family.

Monthly Baby Development Drop-In Sessions

First session free • Ongoing sessions $15

A relaxed and supportive opportunity for parents and caregivers to discuss their baby's development, ask questions and learn from our Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists.

These small-group sessions provide practical guidance on topics such as:

✓ Tummy time and motor development

✓ Feeding and introducing solids

✓ Communication and early language

✓ Play, regulation and engagement

✓ Developmental milestones

✓ Common parent concerns

Who are these sessions for?

✓ Expectant parents

✓ Babies and toddlers up to 18 months

✓ Families wanting reassurance or developmental guidance

Families are welcome to ask questions and discuss their child's development in a supportive environment alongside other parents and caregivers.

Where additional support may be beneficial, we can discuss developmental check-ins or individual assessment options.

Common Questions in the First 18 Months

Birth-6 Months

✓ Tummy time struggles

✓ Head preference or flat spots

✓ Feeding difficulties

✓ Reflux and positioning concerns

✓ Delayed head control

✓ Early interaction and engagement

✓ Regulation and settling

✓ Questions about development

6-12 Months

✓ Rolling, sitting or crawling concerns

✓ Introducing solids

✓ Gagging or texture progression

✓ Limited babbling

✓ Play and exploration

✓ Sensory experiences

✓ Babbling and communication

✓ Motor milestone questions

12-18 Months

✓ Walking and movement confidence

✓ First words and communication

✓ Following instructions

✓ Play and social interaction

✓ Feeding progression

✓ Daily routines and participation

✓ Independence skills

Supporting Babies With Additional Needs

Some families come to us following a diagnosis or recommendation from a paediatrician, child health nurse or medical specialist.

We support babies and young children with:

  • Prematurity and NICU graduates

  • Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida and other neurological conditions

  • Congenital CMV, Genetic Conditions & Syndromes

  • Hydrocephalus & VP Shunts

  • Tube Feeding, supplemental oxygen and complex medical needs

  • Developmental delay and other identified developmental needs

Our Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists work collaboratively with families, paediatricians and healthcare teams to support development, participation and family confidence from the earliest months of life.

Why Families Choose Lifespan

✓ Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy & Speech Pathology working together

✓ Family-centred approach

✓ Practical strategies for everyday life

✓ Developmental check-ins and ongoing support

✓ Support from birth through childhood

How It Works

  1. Join a Baby Development Drop-In Session or contact our team

  2. Developmental Check-In (if recommended or desired)

  3. Individualised guidance and recommendations

  4. Ongoing support if beneficial

Not Sure Whether to Book?

If you’re wondering whether your concern is “big enough”, thats often reason enough to reach out.

We can help you determine whether a Developmental Check-In, Baby Development Session or ongoing support is the right next step.

Ready to take the Next Step?

Local Support for Moreton Bay Families

Lifespan Therapies is based in Brendale and supports families from across the Moreton Bay region. Whether you're looking for reassurance, developmental guidance or ongoing support, our team is here to help.