Dr. Tara Liddle is a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy, the highest level skill in pediatric physical therapy. She received her BS in Physical Therapy and a Master’s in Physical Therapy Management of Developmental Disabilities from New York University. In the fall of 2019, she received her doctoral degree in pediatric PT at Rocky Mountain University. Dr. Tara wrote the first edition of Why Motor Skills Matter in 2003, with the second edition released in July 2018. Books two and three are currently in the works. Tara began her clinical experience working in pediatric rehabilitation at Rusk Institute in NYC. She then moved to Lenox Hill Hospital to start a neonatal intensive care unit therapy program and a neonatal follow-up program with a pediatrician. Dr. Tara spent nineteen years working with premature babies. At the same time, she began her private practice in NYC, serving children with special abilities, neurological syndromes, developmental coordination disorders, sensory processing disorders, developmental delays, and torticollis. In addition, Tara has worked within early intervention programs (children 0 to 3) and with The Board of Education. From 2016 to 2019, she worked as the Regional Director of Pediatric Therapy at a major healthcare company. While treating pediatric patients in her private practice, many of their parents suggested she write a book based on their ongoing questions. Dr. Tara frequently speaks at hospitals, schools, parenting groups, and national organizations. She hopes her message regarding the importance of motor and sensory development will give infants and children the tools to be more confident, self-aware, and assured throughout their lives. Her “back to basics” approach with simple techniques and toys is easily adapted into daily activities. Tara draws on her more than 30 years of experience as a pediatric physical therapist working with children ages 0 to 18 to provide an understanding of the sensory system, the importance of touch, the roles of movement and play, and the effects these activities have on neurodevelopment and social development in early childhood.  She cares about the future success of children. Her dream is to help them feel confident in navigating the world around them. Tara’s passion for helping children and her love of animals goes beyond her professional life and has led her to board affiliations with Girls Learn International, Crutches4Kids, and Empowers Africa. She is also involved with many other charities focused on helping children and animals. She has two children and resides in NYC with her husband. Besides spending time with her family, Tara enjoys fitness, cooking, reading, the outdoors, traveling, and supporting the arts.