RESOURCES

If you’ve noticed that your child moves, talks, learns, or eats differently from other children their age—or if teachers, physicians, or caregivers have expressed concerns—our team at Capernaum is here to help.

Our therapists can work with you to determine whether your child may benefit from:

· Physical therapy

· Occupational therapy

· Speech therapy

We’re always available to answer questions, talk through concerns, or help you understand what the next steps might look like. If you’d like more information or to schedule a time to meet with a therapist, please call our front office at 952-285-2840. We’d be happy to support you and your child.

Starting something new is difficult for most of us, and the anticipation can cause unnecessary nervousness in children of all ages and abilities. We want kids and parents to feel at ease from the first moment they meet Capernaum staff! Below is a summary of what to expect on your first visit:

• After you have contacted Capernaum’s office, our staff will work with your child’s physician to obtain a doctor’s order for therapy. You will be asked to complete a packet of forms, which can be mailed to you, or downloaded from our website. Please complete the forms and return them to the therapist at your child’s initial evaluation. This packet includes our privacy and confidentiality policies, insurance and demographic forms, and a questionnaire regarding your child’s history.
• The evaluation will consist of a parent/caregiver interview, standardized testing, and clinical observations.
• You will receive a report that describes the findings of the evaluation. Please contact the therapist if you have any further questions regarding this report.
• The therapist will update you and your child’s physician regarding your child’s progress.

Capernaum proudly works with the following insurance companies:

• Aetna
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Cigna
• HealthPartners
• Hennepin Health
• Medica
• Medical Assistance
• Preferred One
• Select Care
• Tri-Care/Tri-West
• UCare
• UnitedHealthcare
• And others!!

It is important that you contact your insurance provider to determine the details of your insurance plan. Please note that some plans within an insurance company may not cover all services.

Capernaum generally has openings in all therapies. If your child cannot be seen soon enough for your needs, we will gladly give you the names of other pediatric therapy providers in the area. The more flexible you are with therapy times, the faster you can get in!

The frequency and duration of your child’s therapy are dependent on your child’s particular skills and challenges. To encourage rapid progress, your therapist will work with you to determine your therapy schedule, provide ideas for home programming, and regularly discuss discharge plans.

Benefits for your child:

• Improved coordination, strength, and mobility, and/or communication skills
• Improved functional life skills and readiness to learn and play
• Improved self-esteem and sense of self-worth
• Improved social skills, attention, and ability to participate in community activities
• If appropriate, G-tube to oral feeding
• Assist with obtaining appropriate, durable medical equipment

Benefits for you:

• Increased understanding and awareness of your child’s strengths and challenges, and how they impact their daily life
• Parents/caregivers/teachers are empowered to meet the individual needs of the child

• Open communication is important. Let your therapist know your priorities for your child’s development. Provide your therapist with feedback on your progress and challenges at home.
• Read your child’s evaluation and progress reports. Always ask questions, seek clarification, and ask for help as needed.
• Caregiver involvement can improve participation, increase enjoyment, and speed up success! Join in the treatment session, tap into your child’s interests, give choices, and practice in a sensory-friendly environment.
• Consistently implement home program recommendations. Routine is key to building new skills and habits. It’s okay to start small by breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Therapy services provided in the school setting focus on developing skills specifically needed for education. Goals are developed that will impact the child’s role as a student. Therapy services outside the school setting focus on the many roles a child plays in their home, school, and community.