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...
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....
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
