Move Play Grow

Specialties

Unique prenatal, parent education and baby wellness classes, created and taught by Wendi McKenna, DPT, PCS, a Pediatric Doctor of Physical Therapy, empower parents with knowledge of baby’s development and practical strategies to enhance baby’s learning potential.

«Tummy to Play Everyday,» our signature class, is open to expectant parents and families with newborns to seven months. Tummy time is essential for proper development. However, it’s often a source of anxiety for families because pediatricians say it must be done, but don’t tell you why or how… and babies are often fussy and crying. In a single class, you will go home with the tools necessary to help baby transition to happy tummy time… you will also walk away from class wanting more.

Babies are amazing. The more you know about development, the more empowered you will feel with decisions you make and interactions you have.

The «Building Better Babies: The First Year» series delves into age-​appropriate gross and fine motor development, play and communication, baby gear, expectations and red flags from newborn to 15 months. These classes are life-​changing, as so many of my parents have stated, and the knowledge something you will use on a daily basis.

Babies unfortunately are not always on the right track. Motor delays, torticollis, plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) are common medical diagnoses. As a medical practitioner I address these issues and your concerns immediately in class, then they’re on their way!

History

Established in 2011.

Wendi McKenna, DPT, PCS, C/​NDT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a clinical specialist in pediatrics. She has 15 years of pediatric clinical experience and operates Strides Physical Therapy, Inc. in Solana Beach, CA (founded in 2008).

In addition to treating babies and children with developmental disabilities, she dreamed of providing wellness services to a greater population to prevent many of the medical issues that are now common. Her expertise and understanding of movement development and her clinical experience treating babies and children with developmental challenges provides a unique perspective and knowledge base.

Every encounter with your baby should be a positive, meaningful interaction to enhance learning, bonding, attachment and sensory/​motor development. At Move Play Grow we want to help parents truly see all the amazing «baby steps» between the big «milestones» and provide practical strategies to support and enhance all aspects of your baby’s development.

Meet the Business Owner

Wendi M.

Business Owner

Wendi McKenna, DPT, PCS, C/​NDT graduated from USC in 2000 with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Wendi has work experience treating in private clinics and schools, and teaching in Doctor of Physical Therapy programs at USC, Chapman University, and University of St. Augustine.

Wendi specializes in treating babies and children with developmental disabilities, and she has a passion for sharing her knowledge with all families to support whole child development and provide the best start for your baby. Our society is too sedentary; active lifestyles start at birth and are set by the time your child reaches elementary school. Starting early with Move Play Grow will help build a strong, solid foundation for motor skills for many years to come.

Outside the clinic, Wendi lives with her incredible husband, two beautiful daughters, and a crazy/​fun toddler son! She loves spending time with her family, especially outside!

Move Play Grow also recommends

Voila Montessori

3

reviews

Adult Education

Wendi M. says,

«Jeanne Marie is top notch in her field and she brings amazing, yet practical solutions to your home to help your babies and young children thrive.»