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.
🍂 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.
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.
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.
Understanding Dysregulation: Strategies for Home, Therapy, and School
Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by your child's intense emotions? This post breaks down what dysregulation is and why it happens, offering simple, practical strategies that you can use both at home and in school to help your child feel more balanced and in control.
Edible Sensory Bins: Safe and Engaging Play for Kids Who Mouth Objects
Discover a safe and fun way to engage your child’s senses with edible sensory bins! This post explains how these creative activities provide a playful, hands-on experience for kids who mouth objects, while supporting sensory exploration and healthy development.
Sample Home Activity Plan: Heavy Work for Body Awareness and Emotional Regulation
Discover our sample home activity plan that uses heavy work to boost your child's body awareness and emotional regulation. This post offers easy, practical strategies you can implement at home, helping your child build confidence and develop essential self-regulation skills.
Heavy Work vs. Compression.. Which Should You Use?
Unsure whether heavy work or compression is best for your child? In this post, we break down both strategies in simple terms, explaining how each can support your child’s sensory regulation and body awareness, so you can confidently choose the best approach for their unique needs.
Understanding Sensory-Seeking Behavior in Young Children: Tips for Parents
Is your child always on the move, seeking extra sensory input? This post breaks down sensory seeking behavior in young children in easy-to-understand language, offering practical tips to help you create a balanced environment that supports your child's development.
Understanding Auditory Hypersensitivity in Children: Causes and Effective Strategies
Is your child easily overwhelmed by everyday sounds? This post explains what auditory hypersensitivity is, explores common causes, and shares gentle, practical strategies to help your child feel more comfortable in a noisy world.