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The Magic of Music for Kids: How Songs and Movement Support Child Development
What if we told you that one of the most powerful tools for supporting your child's development is something you probably already have in your home? Music is a therapeutic powerhouse that pediatric occupational therapists use every single day to help children build essential skills. From calming an overwhelmed body to strengthening motor skills and improving focus, the right music at the right time can unleash your child's ability to learn, regulate, and thrive. The best part
4 days ago5 min read


How to Handle Child Meltdowns: 10 Calm-Down Strategies Recommended by Pediatric Occupational Therapists
Your child is having a tantrum in the middle of the grocery store. Or at bedtime. Or during homework. Again. You're exhausted, frustrated, and wondering if you're doing something wrong. Here's what we want every parent to know: tantrums are a normal part of childhood development, and they're not a reflection of your parenting. While all children experience tantrums and emotional outbursts, children with sensory processing challenges may experience sensory meltdowns with m
Jan 75 min read


6 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Therapeutic Summer Program for Your Child
Expert-level questions to ensure your child's summer program is truly therapeutic and developmentally appropriate. Not all summer...
Jun 8, 20253 min read


Helping Your Baby with Torticollis
Simple activities you can incorporate into your daily routine. Gentle Exercises to Do Together As parents, you play a key role in helping...
Apr 14, 20252 min read


Tummy Time: Why It’s Essential and How to Do It Right
For new parents, the phrase "Back to Sleep" is ingrained in every safe sleep guide—and for good reason. The Back to Sleep movement has...
Mar 6, 20253 min read


POTS Occupational Therapists’ Recommendations: 12 Toys for a Snowy Day
Chaye's Picks Tricky Fingers (ages 4+): Sit by the fire and cozy up! Poke your fingers through the holes to move the marbles and copy...
Feb 21, 20243 min read


Does Your Child Resist Wearing Winter Clothing? Tips and Tricks to Make Layering Clothing Feel Less Icky
The Layer Dilemma: A Scientific Perspective on Sensory Sensitivities Many children refuse to wear long pants, long sleeves, socks, and...
Jan 3, 20241 min read


11 Sensory-Friendly Tips and Tricks for Halloween
Halloween is an exciting time for costumes, candies, and spooky fun, but for those children who are sensory-defensive or over-responsive...
Oct 27, 20232 min read


The Best Seating for Toddlers at the Big Kids Table
While toddler play should generally take place on the floor for family, mealtime games, and arts and crafts activities, everyone,...
Sep 28, 20233 min read


Backpack Awareness Day: Your Guide to Backpack Safety
In a world where we're constantly on the move, backpacks have become an essential accessory for people of all ages. Whether you're a...
Sep 19, 20232 min read


10 Body Sock Activities to Improve Body Awareness and Sensory Processing
Does your child constantly touch their friends, bump into things, or knock items off tables inadvertently? Your child may be struggling...
Aug 2, 20233 min read


World Bicycle Day: Get Your Kids Bike Savvy with POTS
Bike riding is great exercise and an excellent way to bond with friends, but for many of our children, learning to ride a bike can be...
Jun 3, 20233 min read


Ditch the Pacifier and Sippy Cup!
Ditch the pacifier and sippy cup! Use straw cups, teethers, and transition objects instead. Introduce your child to a straw cup or a 360...
May 20, 20231 min read


How Reading Promotes Children’s Language Skills and a Love for Books
Reading is a great way to expose your child to language, engage in joint attention and build a love of books! Make sure to read with...
May 18, 20231 min read


5 Helpful Tips for Toddler Speech Development
To celebrate National Speech Therapy Month, we're sharing 5 fun ways to promote your child’s speech development. 1. Use lots of sound...
May 12, 20232 min read


A Poem for Autism Awareness Month by POTS
Through this empowering poem, POTS encourages everyone to embrace diversity and celebrate inclusivity during Autism Awareness Month.
Apr 11, 20231 min read


Managing Mornings for Parents and Teachers: 10 Strategies to Promote Self-Regulation and Calming
Self-regulation is a critical skill that enables children to adapt their arousal, alertness, and attention to meet the demands of...
Apr 6, 20232 min read


Sensory-Smart Purim: Strategies for Children with Tactile Defensiveness
Purim is a joyous and festive holiday celebrated by Jewish communities all around the world. A central part of this holiday is dressing...
Mar 2, 20232 min read


5 Exercises to Increase Core Strength to Support Daily Activities
Core strength is essential for all developmental skills . A weak core can render everyday tasks difficult for children, including sitting...
Jan 5, 20231 min read


3 Activities with pennies to Strengthen Fingers and Develop Fine Motor Skills
Did you know that over 25 muscles within the hand need to be strong and well-coordinated to support fine motor skills? Most children...
Nov 11, 20221 min read


