Playdates are an important way for children to build connections, communication, and shared experiences. For children on the spectrum, initial playdates may look a little different, and that’s okay. Every child approaches social interaction in their own way. Some children may take time to warm up, prefer predictable routines, or feel more comfortable in familiar, smaller, and/or structured settings. With the right support, first playdates can become positive experiences that

Messy play is an essential part of early childhood development. Activities like finger painting, sand play, mud, shaving cream, and slime help children build the skills they need for feeding, dressing, fine motor development, and play. They are some of the most important ways young children learn to tolerate sensory input and use their hands skillfully to engage with the world around them. For many children with autism, messy play is also one of the clearest windows into how

When a child is diagnosed with autism, families are often introduced to multiple therapy recommendations at once. They invariably need to wrestle with how to balance ABA , occupational therapy, and speech therapy . That is an important question, because many parents are told to prioritize ABA and fit everything else around it, or at a later date. In practice, that often leads families to view occupational therapy as something optional or secondary. It is not secondary. Pediat

Your child can't seem to sit still. They're constantly moving, fidgeting, crashing into furniture, or hugging too tightly. Sound familiar? These behaviors are your child's body asking for something it needs: deep pressure input. And one of the most effective ways to provide this calming, organizing input is through weighted materials. Weighted tools work wonderfully for many children when used correctly. They can help children feel more grounded, focused, and calm—whether th

Through this empowering poem, POTS encourages everyone to embrace diversity and celebrate inclusivity during Autism Awareness Month.

1. Marble Fidget in Mesh Sleeve: The marble fidget has calming, mesmerizing effects that encourage focus, calm, and improved mood. Keep...

Who Cares? Why Is My Child So Afraid? Why is getting your face wet so important? Safety! In case of an emergency, your child needs to...

The holiday of Purim is right around the corner, and your kids are itching with excitement. Children who rely on routine and...

For many children, play dates are a skill to be mastered. For children with sensory processing disorders or autism play-dates can be...

Most children, especially those with sensory processing disorders, benefit from a structured morning routine. Unfortunately, once a...

Mornings are a particularly challenging time of day for children with sensory processing disorder, autism and executive function...

Be organized: For traveling on a plane or long car ride, pack a knapsack with familiar comfort toys, individual snacks, and a few...

Everyone seeks sensory input throughout the day to remain alert and attentive. As adults, we allow ourselves many opportunities to...

12 STRATEGIES TO GET YOUR HYPER-SENSITIVE CHILD DRESSED IN THE MORNING Morning routines are rushed and stressful in many homes, but if...

Strategies for the Sensory Challenged Child and their Families Feasts, parties, family gatherings, and candy galore can only mean one...

If you would like to purchase a full resolution version of our infographic please e-mail us: office@potsot.com #Infographic #Autism #SPD

If you would like to purchase a full resolution version of our infographic please e-mail us: office@potsot.com #Infographic #Autism #SPD...

Kudos to Royal Caribbean, my favorite cruise line, for becoming one of the first vacation destinations to embrace families with autistic...

Modified participation is better than opting out completely. If being in the midst of the celebratory chaos is too much for a child who...

Blogger Paddy-Jo Moran’s post Autism Myths and Misconceptions … Autism is Always Visible resonated with me on numerous levels. My waiting...