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,...
The holidays are a time for making memories, but for some kiddos, the season’s festive activities can quickly become overwhelming. The bright lights, new textures, loud sounds, and busy schedules can all contribute to overstimulation. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can still enjoy the magic of the holidays with your toddler while making it...
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...
Summer has ended, and school is starting up again. Gone are the days of summer—the camps, the open space, the freedom. Lots of kids love summer because of the lack of demands, expectations, and the opportunity for relaxation. Both kids and parents often have mixed feelings about the return to school. Some kids crave routine...
For decades, Occupational Therapists specializing in sensory processing have recognized that everyone, everywhere, must be able to process sensory information to effectively navigate and make sense of the world. When sensory information comes into our bodies, our nervous system has to make sense of it so that we know how to respond. It affects how...
Summertime is winding down, and we’re squeezing in our last-minute trips. This time of year can be magical, and we want to make sure it’s the best yet. Our sensory-sensitive kiddos are a bit more prone to getting overwhelmed with new situations. What are you going to do to ensure they aren’t sensory overwhelmed during...
As the Fourth of July is quickly approaching, it is an exciting time, anticipating festivities and fireworks! However, it is important to remember that these exciting celebrations, may be overwhelming for some individuals, including those with sensory sensitivities. Those facing sensory processing difficulties may not be able to enjoy these celebrations in the same way...
Self Regulation is the cornerstone to early childhood development. As a matter of fact, self regulation is the number one predictor to academic success in children ages 3 to 5 years old. The ability to self regulate is not something that you’re born with. You mean, my kid doesn’t come with a self regulation button?...
