1KHO 549: The Hidden Skills Behind School Readiness | Allison Mell, Tots on Target

Most people think school readiness means knowing letters, numbers, and how to sit still—but what if those are the outcomes , not the foundations ? In this powerful episode, pediatric physical therapist and founder of Tots on Target , Dr. Allison Mell, reveals the “hidden” developmental milestones that set kids up for academic and social success—things like crawling, balance, crossing the midline, and even clapping games. These early motor and sensory experiences—often displaced by screens—are how the body feeds the brain. When kids skip them, it shows up in surprising ways: struggling with handwriting, falling out of chairs, or bouncing off friends in circle time. Allison and Ginny explore why these physical milestones matter so deeply and what parents can do—at any age —to help kids thrive. You'll leave this episode with practical strategies, renewed confidence, and a deeper understanding of how movement builds strong, capable learners. Whether your child is just learning to crawl or heading into middle school, this conversation is your blueprint for supporting natural development in a world that’s rushing childhood. 🔗 TotSpot Membership 🔗 Tots on Target Blog 🔗 Follow Allison on Instagram A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below: Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more. BetterHelp: Visit www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you’re looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at www.cozyearth.com and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours with the code 1000HOURS. COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO to grab one today. NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices