Why Does Play-Based Therapy Work? 3 Reasons It Helps Children Thrive

Let us reinvent your workforce for the better. Expect to receive effective and reliable staffing solutions from us.

Positive Relationships

Because METROstaffing is therapist-owned and operated, we know how important your needs are. We will handle finding and retaining your therapist and supporting them clinically so you are free to focus on running your facility!

By working with METROstaffing, we take care of everything and immediately begin to reduce your costs at the outset of our relationship.

Your facility will no longer bear the concerns and overhead for items such as pensions, disability insurance, healthcare, and administrative costs. Our experience shows an average savings of 8–10%, in payroll alone for each full-time employee.

We provide maternity, medical leave, and FMLA coverage for all of your related service needs: Speech, OT, PT, Psych & Special Ed Teachers.

We provide therapists for part and full time and can also cover both short and long term placements. We also offer Tele-Therapy services that can be used as a bridge until a ‘live’ therapist is procured; to keep students in IEP compliance and prohibit litigation possibilities.

Building A Better Business

We have developed a highly successful model that enables facilities and therapists to work together in ways that benefit both parties. Granting job satisfaction for the therapist translates into the longevity of your facility.

We provide therapists for part and full time and can also cover both short and long term placements.

From our web-based billing and payroll system to our clinical support team, we support our therapists completely so your time and effort can be directed to other areas of your business.

Innovative Remote Services

METROstaffing offers unique Tele-Practice Therapy services for rural, remote, and underserved communities, as well as to culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Through the application of telecommunication technologies, we can provide therapy services at a distance.

If your facility falls into one of these categories or if you would like more information on this great service, call us today! We would love to answer your questions about our other services such as teletherapy and pediatric therapy in Metropolitan Detroit.

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, parents everywhere are gearing up for summer break. For parents of special needs children, however, summer planning can come with its own set of challenges. From scheduling doctor appointments to finding engaging activities, it’s essential to plan to ensure a smooth and enjoyable summer for the whole family. If you’re in our beautiful state of Michigan, chances are you are planning on a trip up north or to the beach. There are plenty of options available to make this summer one to remember. Let’s dive into some tips and resources to help you efficiently prepare and plan for the upcoming season.

• Start Early: The key to successful summer planning is to start early. Begin by making a list of all the activities and appointments you want to schedule for your child. This might include medical check-ups, therapy sessions, and recreational activities. By getting organized ahead of time, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and ensure that you secure the dates and times that work best for your family and your vacation plans.
• Schedule Doctor Appointments Now: Take the time to schedule any necessary doctor appointments for your child before the summer rush hits. This might include routine check-ups, consultations with specialists, or adjusting therapy sessions if you plan to be out of town. Many healthcare providers experience increased demand during the summer months, so booking appointments in advance is essential. Be sure to communicate any specific needs or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure that they can accommodate your child effectively.
• Explore Kid-Friendly Activities: Southeastern Michigan offers a wealth of kid-friendly activities that cater to children of all abilities. From sensory-friendly museums to inclusive parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take the time to research local attractions and events that are accessible and accommodating to children with special needs. Consider reaching out to community organizations or support groups for recommendations and tips on inclusive activities in your area. Maybe you can even suggest that more venues offer sensory-friendly options!
• Consider Summer Camps and Programs and register soon: Summer camps and programs can provide valuable opportunities for children to socialize, learn new skills, and have fun but spots fill up fast this time of year. Look for camps that offer specialized programming for children with special needs, especially those that include sensory-friendly activities and trained staff. Many camps in Southeastern Michigan offer scholarships or financial assistance for families in need, so don’t hesitate to inquire about available resources. Be aware that some of the scholarship programs for camps and summer programs are first come first serve.
• Create a Visual Schedule for your Kids: Visual schedules can be incredibly helpful for children with special needs, providing them with a clear understanding of their daily activities and routines. Take the time to create a visual schedule for your child’s summer break, incorporating doctor appointments, outings, and leisure time. Use pictures, symbols, or written words to represent each activity, and involve your child in the planning process to foster independence and self-awareness.
• Get a jump on Fall: An IEP is a personalized education plan designed to support a child with a disability. It can be a lengthy process to get an IEP in place for your child. To start the process, request an evaluation from your child’s school or school district, then work with the IEP team to develop a plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. If you need additional guidance, consider reaching out to local parent advocacy groups or special education organizations for support and resources.

Early summer planning may require some extra time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By starting early, scheduling doctor appointments, exploring kid-friendly activities, considering summer camps, and creating visual schedules, you can ensure that your child has a memorable and enjoyable summer break and save yourself some panic later. Remember to prioritize self-care and relaxation for yourself as well, and don’t hesitate to reach out to local resources and support networks for assistance along the way. Here’s to a summer filled with fun, adventure, and plenty of cherished memories!

In a recent airing of Live in the D, sponsored by MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy, the spotlight was on Autism Awareness Month, shedding light on how children on the autism spectrum can benefit from life-changing therapy. MetroEHS, a pediatric neighborhood therapy company with multiple locations across Metro Detroit, including expanding services, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children with various therapy needs, including autism.

Deanna Coker, a board-certified behavioral analyst, and Kris Krajewski, a speech therapist with MetroEHS, joined the show to discuss how therapy can significantly impact children’s communication skills.

Understanding Communication Challenges in Autism

Deanna explained that autism, as a developmental disability, often presents challenges in social interaction and communication. Unlike typically developing children who learn language by observing and imitating, children with autism struggle to find meaningful ways to communicate, despite their desire to do so.

The Role of Speech Therapy

Kris emphasized that speech therapy is essential for children with autism, given that communication difficulties are a hallmark characteristic of the condition. Speech therapists, like those at MetroEHS, work to identify barriers to communication and introduce alternative methods for expressing thoughts and needs.

Speech Therapy Interventions

Kris introduced an innovative tool called the AAC device (Alternative and Augmentative Communication), essentially an iPad loaded with specialized software designed exclusively for communication purposes. This device enables children to select words and icons to express themselves, giving them a voice and autonomy in their interactions.

Empowering Communication Through Tools

Deanna highlighted another communication aid, the PECS book (Picture Exchange Communication System), a low-tech solution that uses pictures to help children convey wants, needs, and preferences. By selecting and exchanging pictures, children can effectively communicate with caregivers, enhancing their independence and self-expression.

The conversation between Deanna, Kris, and the show’s host highlighted the importance of therapy in empowering children with autism to communicate effectively. Through innovative interventions and specialized tools, such as AAC devices and PECS books, children can overcome communication barriers and actively engage with the world around them.

For families seeking therapy services for their children, MetroEHS offers comprehensive support, including ABA, speech, occupational, feeding, and physical therapies. With multiple locations across Metro Detroit and additional centers on the way, MetroEHS aims to make therapy accessible and impactful for families in need.