Floor pillows, which might also look like large bean bag chairs, are a common piece of equipment used during your child’s therapy sessions. These large pillows or cushions have several different purposes. Floor pillows are a wonderful tool for self-calming and regulation for a child because they provide a defined relaxation spot. Floor pillows also […]
Oftentimes sequencing and memory can look the same. However, there are some activities that require memory and not sequencing. It is important to practice both skills, as both are required to complete tasks at school and at home, and in order to learn new skills. What is Sequencing? Sequencing involves completing an activity in the […]
As I mentioned in my previous blog, sequencing and memory activities are important for people of all ages. These skills help to keep our minds sharp and active and allow us remember old skills as well as learn new patterns and routines. A “treasure hunt” is a fun way to work on these two skills, all […]
Working on handwriting at home can feel like a lose-lose battle for parents and children alike. It can be a challenging and/or least preferred activity for children, which makes it hard for parents to want to implement and follow through with. While handwriting is certainly an activity which your child’s occupational therapist or academic specialist […]
Handwriting is a lifelong skill. It begins as young as 3 years of age, when children start identifying shapes, letters, and numbers. Handwriting and letter recognition are important for communicating (e.g. sending cards and emails) and for completing age-appropriate tasks (e.g. homework assignments; writing grocery lists). Below are many of the components your child’s occupational […]
Mazes are a huge hit with therapists and children alike! While mazes are lots of fun and provide a sufficient challenge for children, they also help therapists to address a variety of skills within your child’s therapy session. Mazes can be taped to a wall at your child’s eye-level so that he can work on […]
Learning to ride a bike can be a scary and overwhelming adventure for both the parents and the child involved! There are many components required for bike riding, such as motor planning, body awareness, trunk control, balance, self-confidence, following directions, safety awareness, timing, and sequencing. However, one of the best things about bike riding is […]
Oftentimes, parents probably wonder ‘what makes the swings and equipment at my child’s therapy different than the swings at the playground’? The answer is that each of the swings used in the therapy gym are able to be used in a much safer and controlled environment, as the therapists are able to place mats and pillows […]
As I discussed in my previous blog, a child’s body is typically functioning at one of three ‘Engine Levels’. Ideally, the goal is to be at the ‘just right’ level, in which your child can accomplish the most and focus on the task at hand. It is important to remember that each child’s ‘Engine Level’ […]
Many therapists use the term ‘Engine Level’ throughout your child’s therapy sessions, and possibly within her goals as well. ‘Engine Level’ refers to your child’s energy level and the way her body is feeling in various environments and in various times throughout the day. A child’s body is typically functioning at one of three ‘Engine […]