You’re on a diet? NO, I’m on a “Sensory Diet”
When hearing the word “diet”, as a society, we immediately associate the word with eating healthier or limiting our intake of certain foods and beverages. For parents, when the term “sensory diet” is first introduced, a variety of questions of confusion and curiosity may come into play. Have no fear- this type of diet has […]
There is so much more to writing than holding a pencil!
Foundational skills are often overlooked when talking about handwriting. Neat, legible handwriting does not come overnight. There are many prerequisites that need to be acquired before a child’s handwriting performance can improve. In order to build a solid foundation for handwriting, a developmental progression of hand functioning and hand skills must be reached. We all […]
Importance of Recess in School
It is becoming more and more common to withhold recess as a punishment for bad behavior in the school setting. However, recess provides a plethora of benefits to a child that may be unrecognized by teachers and staff. To take away recess would be a disservice to both the student and the teacher. Recess provides […]
Welcome Spring!
Although it has been a relatively mild winter, I am so excited Spring is here! Longer days, open windows, being outdoors, and gardening are just a few of the things I am looking forward to. Spring is such a great time to get the kids outside and in nature. For our sensory seekers we have […]
Respiration
Many aspects of development are strongly influenced by oral functions and respiration, including sensory integration. When children do not have adequate respiration they may fatigue quickly as their muscles are not getting enough oxygen. They may also have difficulty with self regulation and encouraging deep breathing can help to calm a child. As a result, including […]
What is Wrong with “W” Sitting?
A few weeks ago, an article about W sitting in children began circulating around various social media sites and began to raise more awareness about this body position. As occupational therapists, we are acutely aware of this position and understand the concerns associated with it. However, it is our responsibility to educate parents and families […]
‘Tis the Season!
The holidays are fast approaching and although this is a time for family, memories, joy and giving, it can also be a time of stress for children and their families, especially when sensory processing difficulties come into play. The lights, carols, sounds of bells, Christmas trees, smells of pine and peppermint, Santa and his Elves […]
Happy Halloween
Fall is a time of the year that many people seem to look forward to and enjoy. This season is filled with the anticipation of changing leaves, apple and pumpkin picking, and of course all of the events surrounding and leading up to Halloween. Although the traditional preparation and activities involved with Halloween may be […]
Yogapeutics Teacher Training
Back in August I had the opportunity to go to Yogapeutics in Austin, Texas for Aerial Yoga and Mindfulness training. It was three days of yoga and aerial yoga, play, lots of core work and an abundance of information, ideas and knowledge. I got to share three days with a small group of women all […]
Aerial Yoga from an Occupational Therapist’s perspective
When I first came across the Yogapeutics site I was hooked. I had heard of aerial yoga before but I had not fully explored it. As OTs using a sensory integrative frame of reference when working with children, aerial yoga is so exciting! We use suspended equipment every day with our clients, and we are […]