As parents, we’re often told that eye contact is a key sign of connection, attention, and communication. So, when your toddler avoids eye contact, it’s easy to worry. Are they being defiant? Is something wrong? Do they need help? Eye contact in toddlers looks different than it does in adults, and it’s not always the...
Celebrating OT Month by Exploring the Heart of What We Do April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to shine a light on the meaningful, everyday work that occupational therapists do to help children and adults live fuller, more independent lives. In celebration, we wanted to take a moment to explain what OT is, how...
How do I keep my toddler’s attention during play? Young children learn best through connection, which is why play is most engaging when it feels like a shared adventure. As a parent, you’re the most important play partner in your child’s world, so staying engaged and tuned in to what they enjoy is key to...
Toddlers have a natural drive to explore, play, and express themselves in ways that may not always fit the “rules.” For autistic toddlers, this can sometimes feel even more intense. You might find yourself wondering, Why does my toddler not like following rules? Or sitting still? It’s a great question, and understanding the why behind...
Social interactions begin long before a child can say their first words. Babies coo at caregivers, toddlers giggle in peek-a-boo games, and infants reach for comfort when they need support. Building social skills in toddlers is an important part of their early development. Cccupational therapy can play a key role in helping them navigate these...
In today’s digital world, it’s hard to escape the influence of screens. Whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or TV, technology is a part of daily life. As a parent, you might wonder, how much screen time for toddlers is appropriate and how to strike a healthy balance between technology and play. While screens can provide...
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about candy and cards! It’s a perfect opportunity for fun activities for toddlers that strengthen their motor skills, sensory development, and emotional connection with you. Here are some simple, fun, and developmentally supportive ways to celebrate love while helping your toddler grow. Sensory Heart Bin Why it’s great: Encourages tactile exploration,...
As parents, we often juggle endless to-do lists, striving to create enriching experiences for our kids. But what if the best opportunities for learning and growth were already built into your daily routine? From mealtime to bath time, every moment offers a chance to support your child’s sensory, motor, and cognitive development—all while keeping it...
As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on growth, not just in goals for ourselves, but in supporting our toddler’s developmental milestones. Every child grows at their own pace, but with intentional sensory and motor activities, we can provide the right environment for their skills to flourish. Let’s break down...
After the whirlwind of holiday festivities, travel, and gatherings, it’s completely normal for kids to feel out of sync. As the New Year begins, helping toddlers transition back to routine is key to restoring balance. It’s also important in supporting their sensory and emotional needs. Here are a few simple strategies to ease the shift,...