Big Country Outreach Program for Pediatrics, children 0-16, were out and about on Friday, August 10.
An obstacle course was set up for children near the Rotary Spray Park. The course combined three disciplines: speech-language pathology, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
Professionals with the Outreach Program were also on site to talk with parents about their child’s development, and what development is all about.
“This is our way of elevating our presence in the Drumheller area,” said Rhonda Schultz, a speech pathologist with the Big Country Outreach Program (BCOP) here in Drumheller.
Outreach programs like these are offered in communities to allow parents easy access to professional advice regarding their child’s development with big motor skills, small motor skills, and speech.
“We can be the experts in our field but parents are the experts in their children. Together we can figure how we can help them the best, if they need an extra hand,” said Cerrie Zachar, physiotherapist with the Outreach Program.
“There are no silly questions. If parents are concerned, it’s worth a look,” said Zachar.
Sometimes parents don’t even need to come in, said Laurie Crosbie, a social worker with BCOP. She said BCOP can provide parents with activities to do with their children to encourage development.
“We’re pretty fortunate in the Drumheller area to have a team such as this in a small town. We are not close to the big centres and you’ve got all of the therapists right here in town,” said Schultz.
BCOP operates right out of the Drumheller Health Centre. Anyone who has questions regarding the program, or for the therapists themselves, are encouraged to contact (403) 820-7986 for further information.
“It’s an easy access service for parents,” said Schultz.
