Interviewee: Mom, Alissa

Can you describe what things were like when your son/daughter first started working with Breakthrough?

Idris began coming to his bootcamp class at Breakthrough several months ago. He had had a very difficult adjustment to middle school. Teachers and peers didn't really "get" him and his meltdowns at school had lead to an in-school suspension.

I felt that my son needed something to give him both physical and social/emotional confidence, and an activity to help him expend his physical energy. Idris is physically clumsy and awkward, and struggles in gym class due to poor executive functioning and gross motor skills. I hoped for him to have the chance to feel strong physically and emotionally. We had not previously pursued any type of group classes for him.

What kinds of improvements/impact on your life and your son/daughter’s life have you been able to see as a result of working with Breakthrough PT?

Idris has been doing so well since attending his Breakthrough classes! He comes out of class feeling so accomplished and proud! He is so pleased to have accomplished something that he previously thought he couldn't do. I have definitely seen an increased ability to self-regulate, as well as an increase in his confidence since starting bootcamp classes

What do you love most about visiting our office and working with Breakthrough?

I love Breakthrough because it is such a friendly and accepting space. I love the chance to chat with other parents in the waiting area, or with Christine and other staff while my son is in his class. There is such a focus on ensuring that parents of children with special needs are supported, and I am so impressed with the programming that they offer for families!

How has working with Breakthrough PT helped you feel about your son’s confidence/mobility?

I alluded to it earlier, but want to reiterate that for a kid who feels so "different" from his peers. It is amazing for him to attend a class where he comes out feeling strong and confident. This definitely carries over to the school environment, letting him interact with other children at school feeling that he is not "less than" they are.

What would you want other people to know about working with Breakthrough PT?

Breakthrough is wonderful! It is more than just a physical therapy center. Christine is such an amazing, impressive, and empathetic leader. We are lucky to have her in our community. She is wise beyond her years, and has assembled and incredible team to help her fulfill her mission.

If someone was on the fence about working with us - what would make them feel more confident about giving us a try?

I was definitely on the fence because, let's face it, it is not cheap to enroll in the group classes. But after trying baseball, track, music, gymnastics, and countless other classes for my son, we have finally found the one class that he is excited about and doesn't want to miss each week! It has been more than worth it for us.