UM-Flint to lead collaborative new moms program expanding pediatric care, community support

The University of Michigan-Flint will soon introduce a new program developed to enhance pediatric care and empower new mothers through education, support and early intervention. "Together in Flint: Strong Moms: Healthy Babies" is designed to address gaps in pediatric services and provide much-needed resources to area families.

"We have collaboration between occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, and social work faculty and students. We are hopeful to have eventual resources like pelvic floor specialists and child librarians to promote early literacy," Marquardt said. "We're emphasizing the value of supporting the entire family, not just the child."

Filling a gap in pediatric services

Historically, the Flint area has had limited access to pediatric-focused physical therapy. Marquardt, who joined UM-Flint's College of Health Sciences in 2024, identified the need to expand community outreach beyond traditional adult care offerings.

"This program is a first step in bringing dedicated pediatric services to local families."

Working with colleagues, Amy Yorke, professor of physical therapy, and Donna Fry, CHS dean, Marquardt shaped the program into a grant proposal with support from the college. "Professor Marquardt was highly successful with a similar program in the Saginaw community and wanted to build this type of programming here in Flint to support new mothers," said Fry.

This collaborative effort includes community partnerships with organizations such as Crossover Outreach and St. Luke's Church, with the intention of hosting all program activities off-campus to foster stronger community ties.

Sessions

Sessions will address milestones in child development, including gross motor and fine motor skills, safe sleep practices, general health, and feeding transitions, while also providing support for both maternal physical and mental health.

"Our goal is to give mothers confidence in understanding their child's development," Marquardt said. "We want to make sure they know when and how to seek the right help, if they need it."

Through pre- and post-program surveys focused on knowledge, attitudes and beliefs, the team also hopes to measure its impact and refine offerings.

An important component, Marquardt said, is building a community among mothers experiencing similar challenges, with plans for monthly support and awareness groups featuring guest experts and connecting participants with additional resources.

Early intervention and parent education

A chief focus of the program is on the value of early intervention and updated education for parents.

"Often, a lack of understanding or generational knowledge can lead to missed opportunities for early treatment," Marquardt said. "We want parents to have current, evidence-based information so they know when to talk to their doctor or when an issue is part of normal development."

Sessions will also provide guidance from physician assistants on when to seek care at the pediatrician, urgent care or emergency department.

A positive, hopeful message

For Marquardt, fostering hope is just as important as sharing knowledge. She is clear in her approach: "You never put a ceiling on a child's potential. Even in the face of challenging diagnoses, it's about providing options, emphasizing progress and celebrating every achievement, no matter how small."

The program is drawing growing interest among physical therapy students, many of whom will be involved in its rollout. Marquardt described this as an "unplanned bonus," giving students hands-on experience that could inspire more to consider careers in pediatric therapy.

Looking ahead

While "Together in Flint: Strong Moms: Healthy Babies" is still gathering participants and building relationships with area organizations and physicians, Marquardt is confident in its long-term impact.

"We're taking baby steps, but we're moving forward," Marquardt said. "It's about growing awareness, trust, and providing a community resource that empowers families."

Organizers encourage interested new mothers or community groups in Flint to email Marquardt at lindmarq@umich.edu or call 810-762-3271.