“Ground-breaking” early intervention device for newborns now available to therapists and parents
An early intervention crawler described as “revolutionary” for babies born at risk of developmental disability or delay is now available to parents and therapists.
Daytot, a new baby brand, has been created to launch the new crawling device called Joey. The firm specialises in the design of life-enhancing products for babies at risk of early-years developmental delay.
The original design for the early intervention crawler was concepted by Dr Marianne Barbu-Roth and her colleagues at the Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Centre at University Paris Citè.
Following the positive outcomes of a test with newborns to assess their locomotor skills, the team designed a prototype dubbed ‘CrawliSkate’ to further their research into the locomotor development of extremely premature infants, according to Daytot.
After an extensive collaboration and clinical trials, Daytot has developed a novel, research-based crawling product, which facilitates the training of reciprocal movement for infants at risk of motor delay. Infants can be supported to move from 37+ weeks corrected age, which the firm describes as a “pioneering milestone” in early intervention care.
Joey promotes tummy time and crawling, which are important floor-centred activities for building muscle strength, balance, coordination, and motor skills.
Among its features, Joey offers a secure five-point harness offering comfort and support for small infants. Another key feature is the adjustable tail height, which is designed to offer the optimum crawling position for growing infants.
Daytot is owned by James and Jayne Leckey, the former owners of global paediatric brands Leckey and Firefly, who specialise in the design of postural equipment for infants and children with disabilities.
Jayne Leckey, Daytot Managing Director, said: “There is growing evidence that early interventions positively influence infant development. After many years in the paediatric rehab industry, James knew that this product was potentially ground-breaking.
“We have been overwhelmed by the reaction of the global therapist community. It’s a completely new market for early intervention care, as we are now able to provide a research-based product for newborn babies. We’re excited to bring Joey to the families and children that will benefit from early movement.”
Furthermore, Daytot worked with expert researchers in the field of infant neuroscience and kinesiology to create a bespoke black and white mat pattern that promotes infant visual development. The Activity Mat provides the optimum training surface for use with the Daytot Joey, the firm highlights.
The Daytot Joey is available to purchase online in the UK, ROI, USA, and Canada here.