Hi! And thanks for visiting Thrive Little. I created this site as a hub for parents to learn and grow in their knowledge of child development. I hope the content on this site increases your confidence and empowers you as a parent!
My name is Marielle Marquez and I am a wife, mom, and pediatric occupational therapist based in Los Angeles. Growing up I always knew I wanted to work with kids. Like many teenagers, I babysat all throughout junior high and high school. One child in particular was really special to me. She had developmental disabilities and wasn’t an easy kid, but we formed a special bond over the years. After that experience I knew I wanted find a career where I could help children with developmental needs.
After discovering what occupational therapy was, it seemed like a perfect fit for me. I studied Human Development in undergrad and went on to get a master’s in occupational therapy.
After OT school I worked in a few different settings. That first year I worked in schools, in private clinics, and in client’s homes. After about a year, I started the job I am still at 12 years later. I work full time at a local community hospital, mostly in the outpatient therapy clinic and the NICU.
I love to learn new ways to help my patients and have pursued many specialty areas over the years. I have a certification in neonatal massage, am a certified lactation educator, and have an advanced certification in feeding in swallowing. I work primarily with infants and toddlers, but I do see kids of all ages.
When I had a baby of my own, I realized there is still so much I did not know or understand about babies and parenting. After experiencing firsthand how many long-term challenges can result from tongue ties, I became passionate about tethered oral tissues (TOTs). It’s strange how some of the most challenging experiences in life can ignite new passions and you can be grateful for this in a way (at least that’s how it is for me).
Thanks to my son, I have learned a lot about TOTs and airway disorders and this has allowed me to help my patients in completely new ways. I have always been passionate about teaching parents how to advocate for their children, but after becoming a mother I have learned this at a much deeper level.
I created Thrive Little to empower and educate parents on a variety of topics related to their child’s development. I hope you find our resources helpful and learn something new here!
How can we help your little one thrive?
Disclaimer: As with all things you find on the internet, the information you read on this page should not be considered medical advice. Always check with a healthcare provider regarding your specific case.