Newborn Assessment Gympie

A newborn assessment is a gentle, play‑based and observation‑based assessment that looks at your baby’s movement, responses, and participation in everyday care. It may involve watching your baby during feeding, tummy time, being held, and interacting with you, as well as discussing pregnancy, birth history, and any current concerns you have. Therapists will talk you through what they see and provide practical suggestions you can start using at home straight away.

You might consider an infant development assessment if you have concerns about your baby’s movement, muscle tone, feeding, sleep, or interaction, or if your baby was born preterm or with medical complications. Some families also choose an assessment around key ages (for example 3, 6, 9, or 12 months) to check development is on track and receive ideas for supporting the next stage. If you are unsure whether an assessment is needed, you are welcome to contact the clinic to discuss your baby and decide together on the best timing.

An infant assessment typically focuses on babies in the first year of life, looking closely at early movement, feeding, and interaction. An infant toddler assessment continues this developmental monitoring into the toddler years, with more focus on mobility, early self‑care, communication, play with others, and emerging behaviour and regulation. Both types of assessment are tailored to your child’s age and can be repeated over time to track progress and adjust strategies as your child grows.

You may wish to seek an occupational therapy assessment if you notice your baby: • Seems very stiff or very floppy when you hold them • Strongly prefers turning their head to one side or has a flat spot developing • Struggles with tummy time or doesn’t enjoy being on their tummy at all • Is difficult to settle, seems constantly unsettled, or is very hard to wake or engage • Is not starting to reach, grasp, or show interest in toys as expected for their age If your child already has a diagnosis or there are ongoing concerns, we can also help you explore whether an NDIS assessment in Gympie (https://www.malonetherapy.com.au/services/ndis-assessment-gympie)may be appropriate.

Yes, Malone Therapy provides newborn, infant, and infant-toddler assessments for families in Gympie and surrounding areas. Our therapists are experienced in early childhood development and work closely with parents and carers to support everyday routines and concerns. Appointments are usually clinic‑based, with flexibility to discuss other arrangements if needed.

In some situations, online occupational therapy consultations can be used to support newborn and infant assessments, particularly for parent coaching, follow‑up reviews, and discussing strategies. Online sessions may be helpful for families who live further away, have transport challenges, or prefer to start with a conversation before attending in person. We can help you decide whether online support alone is suitable or if it should be combined with in‑person assessment for your baby.