#mountainviewoccupationaltherapy
30 May
Toddler splashing water while sitting next to a pool during summer routine for toddlers.
Summer Routine for Toddlers: Staying Regulated Without the Schedule

Summer break is here, and with it comes sunshine, popsicles, and….chaos? If your toddler thrives on routine, the shift into summer can bring more than just pool days. It can also bring meltdowns, skipped naps, and a lot of overwhelm (for both of you). Finding a good summer routine for toddlers doesn’t have to mean...

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23 May
Mom holding her toddler while they laugh and cuddle together.
How to Build Connection With Your Toddler Through Play

As a parent, you’ve probably heard that connection matters, but what does that actually look like in the middle of toy battles, tough transitions, or toddler meltdowns? The answer is simpler than you think: play. You don’t need fancy activities or a perfect script. The best way to build connection, and support your toddler’s development,...

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16 May
Toddler putting clothes in washer to help calm down with movement and daily chores
Your Toddler’s Energy Isn’t “Too Much.” Here’s How to Channel It!

Does it ever feel like your toddler is bouncing off the walls before breakfast? Or like they suddenly can’t sit still right when it’s time to leave the house?  Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering how to help your toddler calm down. That big energy can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t mean your toddler is...

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09 May
Toddler rubbing his eyes, recognizing when to seek occupational therapy for your toddler.
When to Seek Occupational Therapy for Your Toddler: Early Signs to Watch For

Every toddler develops at their own pace, which can make it tricky to know what’s typical and what might be a sign that some extra support could help. Occupational therapy (OT) can be incredibly beneficial for toddlers who are struggling with daily routines, sensory experiences, or developmental milestones. But when should you seek occupational therapy...

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02 May
Toddler watching their mom’s mouth while she speaks, highlighting a different form of connection related to eye contact in toddlers.
Why Eye Contact in Toddlers Isn’t Always Essential

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...

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25 Apr
A toddler sitting on the floor playing with a sensory bin filled with popcorn kernels, exploring textures with their hands.
What Are Sensory Needs in Toddlers? 

Every toddler is wired differently and understanding how they experience the world can transform your parenting journey. When you learn to see your toddler’s behaviors through a sensory lens, you’re not just managing meltdowns…you’re building trust, safety, and deep connection. Learning what sensory needs are in toddlers is the first step toward that deeper understanding....

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17 Apr
Toddler engaged in occupational therapy assessment, playing with sensory toys to support regulation and development.
What Sets an Occupational Therapy Assessment Apart?

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...

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10 Apr
Sensory-friendly playroom for toddlers with cozy corner, climbing area, and organized toy shelves to support sensory and developmental needs.
Building a Sensory-Friendly Playroom for Your Toddler

Creating a playroom that feels safe, engaging, and calming doesn’t have to be complicated. For toddlers, especially those with big feelings, busy bodies, or sensory sensitivities, a thoughtfully designed play space can make a huge difference in how they play, learn, and regulate throughout the day. Whether you’re working with a spare room, a small...

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03 Apr
Is my child's pencil grasp wrong? Understanding different ways kids hold pencils and what matters for writing success.
Is My Child’s Pencil Grasp Wrong? Here’s What You Need to Know

Ever noticed your child holding a pencil a little differently and wondered, Is that okay? Or maybe you’ve asked yourself, Is my child’s pencil grasp wrong? While schools often teach a standard grasp, the reality is that there’s more than one way to hold a pencil and still write efficiently. Pencil grasp can look different...

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26 Mar
A young preschool girl holding a pencil and practicing writing on a piece of paper, focusing on handwriting development for kids.
How to Support Early Handwriting Development for Kids

Handwriting is more than just putting pencil to paper. It’s a foundational skill that impacts a child’s academic success, confidence, and ability to express ideas. Many young students struggle with pencil grip, letter formation, and writing endurance, making classroom tasks more challenging and frustrating. That’s where Occupational Therapy (OT) steps in to provide targeted support...

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