Winter often brings a wave of sniffles, coughs, and colds, especially for toddlers who may have been exposed to more germs during holiday gatherings. With the cold season in full swing, your little one is more likely to catch a cold, and when they do, it can feel overwhelming. Between stuffy noses, sore throats, and...
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,...
This past month we’ve been talking a lot about the holidays and providing sensory-friendly activities and gifts for toddlers and babies. This week, I want to switch gears and dive into the stress that the holidays can bring, and not just for adults, but for smaller children as well. Just like adults, children can experience...
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...
The holiday season is here, and the hunt for the perfect toddler gift is on! If your toddler has sensory sensitivities, you know how hard it can be to find toys that are both fun and supportive. But when you find that perfect toy, something that helps their development and fits their sensory needs, it...
Thanksgiving is here, and while you’re busy cooking, cleaning, or setting up for guests, keeping your toddler entertained can feel like a challenge! Between managing a to-do list and tending to a child who may be craving your attention, the day can feel overwhelming. For your toddler, the excitement, unfamiliar routines, and bustling activity might...
Finding activities to keep toddlers and preschoolers engaged for more than a few minutes can be challenging. Fall leaves are a perfect sensory-friendly tool to spark a love of nature while building essential skills! Using the colorful leaves around us, you can help your little one explore the outdoors, develop sensory awareness, and enjoy hands-on...
As Halloween approaches, many families prepare for a fun-filled evening of costumes, decorations, and, of course, trick-or-treating. For children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, this festive occasion can be both exciting and overwhelming. This trick-or-treating social story is designed to help parents explain what to expect during trick-or-treating in a way that is accessible and...
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...
In pediatric occupational therapy, one of the most fundamental principles is meeting a child where they are developmentally. In other words, meeting a child at their developmental capacity. Every child is unique, with different strengths, challenges, and developmental pathways. As therapists, caregivers, and educators, it’s essential to understand a child’s current abilities and support them...
