
Family Resources
How to Support Your Child’s Fine Motor Skills During Mealtime
Mealtime is more than just eating—it’s an opportunity to develop essential fine motor skills! From grasping utensils to cutting food, your child’s hand strength and coordination grow with every bite. In this article, we’ll explore playful and practical ways to support fine motor development at the table, helping your child gain confidence and independence.
Smooth Transitions: Helping Your Child Adjust to School After Winter Break
Winter break offers a welcome pause from school routines, but returning can be a challenge for many children. Learn how to help your child make a smooth transition back to school with tips on re-establishing routines, managing emotions, and fostering academic readiness.
Unlock Your Child's Focus: Proven Strategies to Improve Attention Span
Does your child struggle to stay focused on tasks at home or school? Attention spans can be nurtured and developed with the right tools and strategies. In this article, I’ll share proven, expert-backed methods to help your child improve their focus and succeed in daily activities.
Understanding the Chaos: How to Spot Signs of Sensory Overload in Your Child
Is your child overwhelmed by loud noises, crowded places, or unexpected changes? Sensory overload can manifest in many ways, from tantrums to withdrawal. Learn the key signs of sensory overload, how to identify your child’s unique triggers, and practical strategies to bring them comfort and support.
Serene Holidays: Sensory-Friendly Decorating Tips for a Calmer Festive Season
Transform your holiday space into a peaceful haven with these sensory-friendly decorating tips from a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist. Learn how to balance festive cheer with a soothing atmosphere for all.
Trick-or-Treat Like a Pro: Sensory-Friendly Tips for Kids with Sensory Needs
Halloween can be challenging for children with sensory needs, but with the right approach, trick-or-treating can be a fun, positive experience. From sensory-friendly costumes to preparing for unexpected sounds, this guide shares practical tips for a sensory-friendly Halloween that the whole family can enjoy.
Bringing OT Home: 7 Fun and Effective Ways to Continue Therapy Between Sessions
As a parent or caregiver, you play a key role in supporting your child's progress in occupational therapy. In this article, I share seven fun and easy ways to extend the benefits of OT into your everyday routines. From sensory play to fine motor skill-building activities, these tips will help you make the most of therapy at home!
Top 10 Must-Have Sensory Tools for Kids: Amazon’s Best Picks by a Pediatric OT
As a pediatric occupational therapist with 15 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact sensory tools can have on a child’s development. Whether you're a parent or a teacher looking for practical, budget-friendly solutions, these top sensory tools on Amazon can help children with sensory processing challenges thrive.
10 Fun Fall Sensory Activities Every Child Will Love
Looking for fun, development-boosting activities for your kids this fall? These 10 sensory-rich experiences capture the beauty of the season while helping children improve motor skills, sensory integration, and cognitive development—all through play!
Boost Your Child's Development: The Surprising Benefits of Vertical Surfaces in Therapy
Vertical surfaces are more than just a new trend in pediatric occupational therapy; they are a powerful tool for developing essential motor, cognitive, and sensory skills in children. With 15 years of experience, I've seen firsthand how this approach can unlock a child's full potential.
10 Proven Strategies to Help Kids Overcome Tactile Defensiveness
Tactile defensiveness can be a significant hurdle for children, affecting their daily lives and social interactions. I've helped countless families navigate this challenge. In this article, I share practical, effective strategies to ease tactile defensiveness and help children embrace new sensory experiences.
Boost Your Child's Development: 8 Fun Activities to Improve Body Awareness
Unlock your child's full potential with these simple yet effective activities designed to enhance body awareness. From playful animal walks to engaging obstacle courses, discover how these fun exercises can improve coordination, boost confidence, and support your child's overall development. Dive in to learn more and start making a difference today!
Tiny Hands, Big Skills: Essential Fine Motor Activities for Preschool OT
Fine motor skills are foundational for preschoolers, setting the stage for academic success and daily independence. As a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist, I have seen the transformative power of targeted fine motor activities. From playdough manipulation to puzzle play, these activities not only strengthen hand muscles but also enhance coordination and dexterity. Integrating these exercises into daily routines can make a significant difference in a child's development, preparing them for the challenges of school and beyond. Discover how simple, engaging activities can make a big impact on tiny hands.
Thriving as a Caregiver: Essential Self-Care Tips for Parents
While caregiving is deeply rewarding, it can also be exhausting. Prioritizing self-care is essential, not a luxury. By focusing on physical health through regular exercise and a balanced diet, nurturing mental and emotional well-being with mindfulness and professional support, managing time effectively, pursuing personal interests, setting realistic expectations, building a strong support network, practicing self-compassion, and staying informed, caregivers can enhance their well-being and provide the best possible care for their children. Remember, a healthy, happy caregiver leads to a healthier, happier child.
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment: Tips and Tricks
Creating a sensory-friendly home environment can have a profound impact on your child's comfort and well-being. As a pediatric occupational therapist with 15 years of experience, I’ve seen how simple adjustments can make a significant difference. In this article, I share practical tips to help you transform your home into a supportive space for your child. From setting up a cozy sensory corner to integrating calming activities into daily routines, these strategies are designed to be easy and effective. Learn how to create a space where your child can thrive, manage their sensory needs, and feel at ease every day.
Engaging Summer Activities for Parents and Kids to Enjoy at Home
Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories and foster development with your children right at home. This article offers a variety of engaging and fun activities that parents can do with their kids, from sensory play stations and outdoor obstacle courses to DIY science experiments and cozy reading sessions. Discover creative and educational ways to make the most of the summer months while promoting your child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Dive into these summer activity ideas and turn your home into a hub of learning and joy.