Finding activities to keep toddlers and preschoolers engaged for more than a few minutes can be challenging. Fall leaves are a perfect sensory-friendly tool to spark a love of nature while building essential skills! Using the colorful leaves around us, you can help your little one explore the outdoors, develop sensory awareness, and enjoy hands-on...
As Halloween approaches, many families prepare for a fun-filled evening of costumes, decorations, and, of course, trick-or-treating. For children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, this festive occasion can be both exciting and overwhelming. This trick-or-treating social story is designed to help parents explain what to expect during trick-or-treating in a way that is accessible and...
Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but for children with sensory sensitivities, the holiday can be more overwhelming than enjoyable. The loud noises, flashing lights, itchy costumes, and unfamiliar textures can trigger anxiety or discomfort. Fortunately, with a little creativity, you can create sensory-friendly Halloween activities that allow kids to have fun in a...
Halloween is an exciting time for kids, but for those with sensory sensitivities, the fun of dressing up can sometimes feel overwhelming. Scratchy fabrics, tight outfits, or even too many layers can lead to discomfort or meltdowns. The good news is, with some thoughtful planning, you can choose costumes that help your child feel comfortable...
As a pediatric Occupational Therapist in Mountain View, CA, with over 25 years of experience working with autistic children and those with sensory sensitivities, I’ve seen firsthand how Halloween can be both exciting and overwhelming. While I personally love Halloween, with its perfect mix of spooky fun, treats, and just the right amount of sensory...
In pediatric occupational therapy, one of the most fundamental principles is meeting a child where they are developmentally. In other words, meeting a child at their developmental capacity. Every child is unique, with different strengths, challenges, and developmental pathways. As therapists, caregivers, and educators, it’s essential to understand a child’s current abilities and support them...
If you’re raising a toddler, picky eating can feel like an everyday battle. You know the routine: Now, you find yourself letting them to eat while watching a video on your phone, or worse, spoon-feeding your three-year-old. The cycle feels endless. It’s no wonder parents feel tired and frustrated. Kids can be picky eaters, and...
Being a parent can be both joyful and challenging, especially when it comes to understanding your child’s needs. We’ve put together these handy tips and resources to support you in key areas like feeding, sensory play, and managing everyday behaviors. You’ll also find guidance on helping your child develop important skills, such as using scissors,...
As your baby grows into a toddler, their communication skills change dramatically. While they might have a few words, much of their communication still comes from nonverbal cues like gestures, facial expressions, and body language. As an occupational therapist, I work with parents to help them tune into their toddler’s cues, fostering more robust interactions...
In the early stages of a child’s life, connection is the foundation of their emotional, cognitive, and social development. For parents, establishing a strong bond with their baby can feel like both a natural instinct and a daunting challenge. Pediatric occupational therapy offers valuable insights into how you can enhance this connection by emphasizing affect—essentially,...
