All Things OT Blog
New posts will be added regularly.
Sensory Processing 101: A Guide to Understanding What Kids Are Really Communicating
Understanding sensory processing is essential for interpreting children’s behaviors, supporting emotional regulation, and promoting development. Inspired by professional conversations in the field and grounded in foundational OT theories, this article breaks down the most common myths about sensory processing using clear explanations and fresh clinical examples to help parents and professionals see the child beneath the behavior.
The Power of Deep Pressure: Seeing My Toddler Ask for What She Needed
When my 1.5-year-old began piling toys into her lap, I realized she wasn’t just playing—she was asking for deep pressure. What happened next reminded me just how powerful sensory input can be, even before a child learns to ask for it with words.
When Kids Just Love to Throw: Understanding Why and What to Do About It
Throwing is more than just a messy habit. It’s a developmental milestone! Toddlers love the cause-and-effect of seeing objects fly and feeling that big body motion in their muscles and joints. Learn how to understand the “why” behind throwing and discover simple ways to guide it into safe, purposeful play.
🍂 Fall Sensory Play Ideas for Toddlers: Embracing the Crunch, Squish, and Squirm
Fall is the perfect time to explore new textures, sounds, and smells with your toddler! From crunchy leaf piles to the squishy insides of a pumpkin, every experience can build sensory confidence… even for kids who are a little unsure at first. Learn simple ways to adapt seasonal play to your child’s comfort level with these OT-approved ideas.
Supporting Your Baby with Torticollis: Play Positions, Stretches, and Massage
Torticollis can make babies prefer one head position, which may affect comfort, head shape, and development. This post shares simple at-home strategies—play positions, gentle stretches, and massage techniques—that parents can use every day to support their baby’s growth and progress.
Supporting Your Baby After the NICU: Tummy Time & Hands-to-Midline Play
Bringing your baby home from the NICU is both exciting and overwhelming. Simple activities like tummy time and hands-to-midline play can help your preemie build strength, coordination, and early play skills. Here are practical ways to weave these into your daily routines without adding stress.
Toe-Walking in Children: When It’s Normal, and When to Seek Support
Noticing your child walking on their toes? Toe-walking can be a normal part of development, but it may also point to muscle tightness or sensory needs. Learn how to tell the difference, when to seek pediatric PT, and when an OT evaluation could help.
Dear Families: A Letter for the Day We Say Goodbye to Early Intervention
Leaving Early Intervention is more than ending services—it’s the close of a deeply personal chapter filled with milestones, connection, and love. This open letter reflects on the emotions of discharge and reassures families that our connection doesn’t end here.
When the Beach Feels “Too Much”: OT Tips for Ages 0–3
If your little one hates sand, gets overwhelmed at the beach, or clings to you the whole time, you're not alone. Learn why babies and toddlers may struggle and how to support them with OT-informed tips and a sensory-friendly beach packing list.
🌞 Summer Fine Motor Fun for Little Hands: Activities for Kids Ages 0–3
Explore fun, simple, and developmentally appropriate fine motor activities for babies and toddlers this summer! Support your child’s hand skills through water play, snacks, sidewalk chalk, and more—no special equipment needed.
Stop Comparing Children: A Reflection from a Therapist and a Mom
As a pediatric OT and preemie mom, I’ve learned just how wide the range of “normal” is. What’s hardest? When others compare your child to theirs without understanding the journey.
Elopement in Young Children: Understanding the “Why” and How to Keep Them Safe
Elopement is more than a behavior—it's a safety concern rooted in sensory needs, impulse control, and communication challenges. This post explores why young children with autism or ADHD may run off, and offers practical, OT-informed strategies to keep them safe near roads and in the community.
Tummy Time Tips: Encouraging Babies to Bear Weight Through Their Arms and Start Crawling
Tummy time lays the foundation for crawling, but what if your baby isn’t pushing up or moving forward yet? This post shares fun, simple ways to help your baby build arm strength and start crawling with confidence.
Understanding Headbanging in Toddlers
Headbanging in toddlers can be scary—but it's often a sign of sensory needs or big emotions. Learn why it happens, how to keep your child safe, and simple OT strategies to help redirect the behavior.
What Does It Mean to Have a Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapist—And Why Does It Matter?
Curious about what it means to have a neurodiversity-affirming therapist? This post explains how therapists who celebrate and support your child's unique way of thinking create a nurturing environment that empowers them to thrive. Learn why this approach matters for your child's growth and well-being.
Fun Activities to Support Grasp Development for Kids Ages 0-5
Explore a variety of fun, playful activities designed to strengthen your little one’s grasp! This post breaks down simple, engaging exercises that naturally build fine motor skills in kids ages 0-5, making everyday play a foundation for healthy development.