Schools are beginning the process of student placement for next fall. If your child's teacher has recommended grade retention, you're likely feeling overwhelmed, confused, and worried about making the right decision. As a pediatric occupational therapist with 50 years of experience working with children across various educational settings, and a parent and grandparent, I've walked alongside countless families as they navigate this difficult choice. Let me be clear from the st

A family gathering is about to start. Your well-meaning aunt reaches in for a big hug, and your child's body goes rigid. They pull away, maybe even push her hand off. The aunt looks hurt. Other relatives exchange glances. You feel the familiar tension rising as you try to explain - again - that your child isn't being rude. If your child stiffens during hugs, avoids kisses, shies away, or protests when relatives get close, you're dealing with something real and physiological.

Understanding emotions and developing emotional intelligence are vital skills for children's growth and development. Movies can be a powerful tool to spark discussions between parents and children, teach valuable lessons about emotions, and how to cope with them. Age recommendations by raisingchildren.net.au. Here are 4 OT-approved must-watch movies for kids: "Inside Out" (2015) Rated PG Set in the mind of an 11-year-old girl named Riley, this Pixar gem personifies her emoti

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

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

Expert-level questions to ensure your child's summer program is truly therapeutic and developmentally appropriate. Not all summer...

Simple activities you can incorporate into your daily routine. Gentle Exercises to Do Together As parents, you play a key role in helping...

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...

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...

The Layer Dilemma: A Scientific Perspective on Sensory Sensitivities Many children refuse to wear long pants, long sleeves, socks, and...

Halloween is an exciting time for costumes, candies, and spooky fun, but for those children who are sensory-defensive or over-responsive...

While toddler play should generally take place on the floor for family, mealtime games, and arts and crafts activities, everyone,...

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...

Does your child constantly touch their friends, bump into things, or knock items off tables inadvertently? Your child may be struggling...

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...

Ditch the pacifier and sippy cup! Use straw cups, teethers, and transition objects instead. Introduce your child to a straw cup or a 360...

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...

To celebrate National Speech Therapy Month, we're sharing 5 fun ways to promote your child’s speech development. 1. Use lots of sound...

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

Self-regulation is a critical skill that enables children to adapt their arousal, alertness, and attention to meet the demands of...