Sima Rashidianfar, Author at North Shore Pediatric Therapy

About Sima Rashidianfar

Sima Rashidianfar is a licensed and registered occupational therapist (MS, OTR/L) with a love and passion for working with the pediatric population. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in Human Development & Family Studies with a concentration in Child & Adolescent Development. She then received her Master of Science degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Occupational Therapy.

Sima is also a certified Early Intervention Specialist. She recently spent a year at Aspire Kids in Hillside, servicing children with developmental disabilities within homes/daycares through Early Intervention and at the outpatient clinic.

Sima has experience working with children who have autism, sensory processing disorders, developmental delay, ADHD, brachial plexus, prematurity, learning disabilities, Down Syndrome, and muscular dystrophy. Prior to attending graduate school, Sima worked at Giant Steps Illinois in Lisle, a therapeutic day school for children with Autism.

Sima is dedicated to assisting children with their engagement and participation in daily activities both directly and in collaboration with parents, caretakers, and other professionals, to help meet each child’s greatest potential.

Entries by

Explaining Your Child’s Behaviors in Response to Sensory Input

March 28, 2017 in Health Topics and Concerns, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Sensory Processing Disorder, Therapy /by Sima Rashidianfar

The way children take in and respond to sensory input from the environment may vary from child-to-child and day-to-day. It’s important to take into consideration that how children’s senses pick up information from the environment may influence their reactions and behaviors. Children might have a harder time taking in and processing sensory input to respond […]

How to Use Visual Supports to Promote Structure, Routine and Transitions

October 25, 2016 in Development, Occupational Therapy, Parenting /by Sima Rashidianfar

Many children require structure and routine within their day to help promote their ability to engage in daily activities, shift from one task to another and engage in learning. Visual supports can help promote and establish structure and routine in various environments including the home and school. Visual supports also allow children to anticipate what […]

How to Help Improve a Child’s Pencil Grasp

September 22, 2016 in Development, Handwriting, Kindergarten-5th Grade, Occupational Therapy, School /by Sima Rashidianfar

There are various factors that have an influence on a child’s pencil grasp. In addition to addressing a child’s physical attributes, the environment and tools used can also impact a pencil grasp. Below are several strategies to assist in the development of an appropriate pencil grasp: Increase Core Strength & Postural Control Having a strong […]

Sensory Processing Disorder and Fall Activities: Strategies to Promote Success at Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches

September 15, 2016 in Fall, Family, Health Topics and Concerns, Kindergarten-5th Grade, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Sensory Processing Disorder /by Sima Rashidianfar

Fall is the perfect time of the year for children to explore apple orchards and pumpkin patches. These outdoor activities expose children to various sensory experiences. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may have a difficult time appropriately responding to the sensory input that they are exposed to at these community events. Below are several […]