Family-Centered Early Intervention for Infants with Spina Bifida: A Practical Guide for PTs

Family-centered care (FCC) is the cornerstone of effective early intervention for infants with spina bifida. This approach, supported by a strong evidence base from systematic reviews and clinical practice guidelines, shifts the focus from a purely clinical model to a collaborative partnership between therapists and families. The core principle is that the family is the constant in the child's life and the primary source of strength and support. Our role as physical therapists is to empower and enable families to enhance their child's development and participation in daily life. A 2022 systematic review in *Child: Care, Health and Development* identified eight key processes of FCC, including respectful and supportive care, coordinated and comprehensive care, and providing specific and unbiased information. The review also highlighted the importance of professional-family collaboration in setting goals and making decisions. When these processes are implemented effectively, outcomes include improved child development, increased family satisfaction and well-being, and more efficient use of services. The Spina Bifida Association's care coordination guidelines further emphasize the importance of early referral to physical therapy and the PT's role in a multidisciplinary team. For infants, this includes educating families on handling and positioning, preventing contractures, and promoting age-appropriate motor development. Practical strategies include incorporating therapeutic activities into daily routines like feeding and playing, and adapting the home environment to promote movement and exploration. By working closely with families, we can ensure that interventions are not only evidence-based but also meaningful and manageable within the family's context.