As an occupational therapist, I often walk into private school classrooms where the buzz of children’s voices, the shuffle of papers, and the hum of fluorescent lights create an environment full of both opportunity and challenge. While academic goals take center stage, many students—especially those with developmental differences—struggle with regulation, engagement, and social participation. This...
As an occupational therapist trained in the DIR®/Floortime™ model, I often remind parents that social-emotional growth doesn’t happen through lessons or drills—it develops through relationships, play, and connection. When we meet children where they are, understand their unique sensory and motor needs, and engage in joyful interactions, we help them build the foundation for lifelong...
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...
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...
Recently, I had the opportunity to collaborate with the California Floortime Coalition in an effort to collate “Options for Behavioral Health Treatment for Autism.” The effort was in response to the Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration Annual Report. This report is in response to Senate Report 114-49, pages 157-158, accompanying S.1376, the National Defense Authorization Act...
