Van, Arkansas, offers a genuine slice of southern charm that makes it an inviting place to call home. This vibrant community is
rooted in tradition and rich in hospitality, boasting a welcoming atmosphere that draws people from all walks of life. Residents celebrate a close-knit community spirit, where neighbors know each other by name, and gatherings are a regular centerpiece of town life.
Living in Van means immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world. Surrounded by lush landscapes and rolling hills, this town offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The scenic trails and parks are perfect for both the adventurous and those seeking peaceful moments amidst nature's splendor.
Culture and history are woven into the fabric of Van, with local events that showcase its heritage and creativity. From arts festivals to farmers' markets, there's always something exciting happening that brings folks together. The dedication to community-driven initiatives ensures constant growth and improvement, making Van a town that looks ahead while embracing its legacy.
In Van, you’ll find more than a home; you’ll discover a community that thrives on kindness, warmth, and a shared passion for the good life.
Van, Arkansas
Van, Arkansas: A Warm Welcome Awaits
Van, Arkansas, offers a genuine slice of southern charm that makes it an inviting place to call home. This vibrant community is rooted in tradition and rich in hospitality, boasting a welcoming atmosphere that draws people from all walks of life. Residents celebrate a close-knit community spirit, where neighbors know each other by name, and gatherings are a regular centerpiece of town life.
Living in Van means immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world. Surrounded by lush landscapes and rolling hills, this town offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The scenic trails and parks are perfect for both the adventurous and those seeking peaceful moments amidst nature's splendor.
Culture and history are woven into the fabric of Van, with local events that showcase its heritage and creativity. From arts festivals to farmers' markets, there's always something exciting happening that brings folks together. The dedication to community-driven initiatives ensures constant growth and improvement, making Van a town that looks ahead while embracing its legacy.
In Van, you’ll find more than a home; you’ll discover a community that thrives on kindness, warmth, and a shared passion for the good life.
Pediatric Therapy Is Not Just for Severe Developmental Delays
Many families delay seeking pediatric therapy because they assume it is intended solely for children with major developmental diagnoses. This misconception often prevents children from receiving support during the earliest, most beneficial windows for intervention. In practice, pediatric therapy
frequently addresses common and functional challenges such as difficulty with handwriting, unclear speech, or poor coordination. Children may struggle with skills that seem minor in isolation but can create cascading frustrations in both academic and social environments. An occupational therapist,
6 | HelloVan Buren, Arkansas • Summer Issue
Pediatric Therapy Is Not Just for Severe Developmental Delays
Many families delay seeking pediatric therapy because they assume it is intended solely for children with major developmental diagnoses. This misconception often prevents children from receiving support during the earliest, most beneficial windows for intervention. In practice, pediatric therapy frequently addresses common and functional challenges such as difficulty with handwriting, unclear speech, or poor coordination. Children may struggle with skills that seem minor in isolation but can create cascading frustrations in both academic and social environments. An occupational therapist, for instance, may work with a child who avoids tying shoes or struggles with pencil grip—not because of a formal diagnosis, but because small motor delays are making daily tasks more difficult than they need to be. Similarly, a speech therapist may support a child whose speech patterns are slightly difficult to understand, even if that child meets all typical language milestones. The earlier these challenges are addressed, the easier they often are to resolve. Waiting until a child "falls behind" can introduce unnecessary complications that affect confidence, participation, and school readiness. Parents and caregivers frequently know when something feels out of sync, even if teachers or pediatricians suggest waiting. While every child develops at their own pace, early therapeutic input can enhance natural development without stigmatizing the child. Therapy, in this context, becomes a tool for smoothing the learning curve rather than correcting it. Early support does not require a label or diagnosis. It requires only attentiveness and a willingness to act on instinct. Pediatric therapy, when offered proactively, can help children engage with their environments more comfortably and independently—an outcome that benefits the entire family dynamic.
Jocelyn Mitchelle
slightly difficult to understand, even if that child meets all typical language milestones. The earlier these challenges are addressed, the easier they often are to resolve. Waiting until a child "falls behind" can introduce unnecessary complications that affect confidence, participation, and school readiness. Parents and caregivers frequently know when something feels out of sync, even if teachers or pediatricians suggest waiting. While every child develops at their own pace, early therapeutic input can enhance natural development without stigmatizing the child. Therapy, in this...
for instance, may work with a child who avoids tying shoes or struggles with pencil grip—not because of a formal diagnosis, but because small motor delays are making daily tasks more difficult than they need to be. Similarly, a speech therapist may support a child whose speech patterns are
The earlier these challenges are addressed, the easier they often are to resolve.
About the Author
Jocelyn Mitchelle, President, Owner & Clinical Director of In‑Sync Pediatric Therapy Center in Van Buren & Fort Smith, AR, combines advanced occupational therapy expertise with leadership to offer comprehensive pediatric care. A certified occupational therapist, Jocelyn oversees clinical programs and guides the team’s mission to advocate for every child’s success.
HelloVan Buren, Arkansas • Summer Issue |7
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Van Buren who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in
the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Hometown Heroes
10 | HelloVan Buren, Arkansas • Summer Issue
Hometown Heroes
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Van Buren who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Proudly Partnering with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors
At HelloNation, we are honored to serve as America’s Video Magazine, bringing to life the stories of over 40,000 towns and cities across the country. Our mission is to celebrate the vibrancy, culture, and opportunities in every community, creating a digital platform that informs, inspires, and connects residents, businesses, and newcomers alike.
We are deeply proud to have the support and endorsement of two of the
nation’s most respected organizations: the National League of Cities (NLC) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Through their partnership, the NLC and the U.S. Conference of Mayors affirm their confidence in HelloNation’s vision and our shared belief in the power of storytelling to highlight the unique character of each community.
Their words underscore the importance of our mission: to make every town and city visible on the national stage, highlighting what makes each one special and worth exploring. Together, with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, we are committed to ensuring that every community in America has a voice and a platform to shine. Thank you for supporting our journey as we bring local stories to life, one video at a time.
These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.
HelloNation
16 | HelloVan Buren, Arkansas • Summer Issue
CLICK TO READ
Hello Van Buren, Arkansas • Summer Issue |17
These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.