b'SADIEOur therapist provides uswith a calm, reassuring presence each week and cheers on Sadies progress. That shes been able to do so through the pandemic is a testament to her skills as a clinician and the strength of the Riverside Early Intervention program.Sadie was born prematurely at 32 weeks weighing only three pounds and spent a month in the hospital on a feeding tube. Her parents, Megan and Noah, were overjoyed when they could finally bring their baby home. But they became concerned when they noticed Sadie struggling to drink from a bottle, so they contacted Riversides Early Intervention program.Bonnie, a physical therapist, visited the home weekly to provide parent education, emotional support, and feeding and movement techniques to address concerns. Bonnie also connected Megan to a support group for parents of premature babies. For the first time, Megan said, I felt understood.When COVID-19 hit, Bonnie and a team of clinicians worked closely with the family to create a smooth transition to telehealth services. Bonnie used videos and creative interventions to support and guide Megan and Noah and ensure that Sadie continued to develop. The whole family also joined a virtual playgroup that used music to promote skill development. The playgroup not only helped Sadie stay on track in her development, but it also made Sadie and me feel less isolated. Sadie is now 21 months old and is walking, trying to stand on one foot, and beginning to use words. Her favorite activity is exploring the playground. That tiny preemie is now a confident, strong toddler.Riverside Early Intervention provides educational, therapeutic, and supportive services to children from birth to age 3 who have or are at risk for delays in development, empowering families to meet their childrens individual needs. 4'