Everyone seeks sensory input throughout the day to remain alert and attentive. As adults, we allow ourselves many opportunities to “recharge our batteries”. For example, many of us drink coffee, chew gum, tap our fingers or feet, doodle, etc. Yet, our children are often not afforded those same opportunities in the classroom to help them stay focused. Some children may be able to suppress those needs until given the chance to move freely during scheduled times of the day, such

12 STRATEGIES TO GET YOUR HYPER-SENSITIVE CHILD DRESSED IN THE MORNING Morning routines are rushed and stressful in many homes, but if your child is overly sensitive to the feel of clothing, getting dressed can be a torturous process for both of you. Children with sensory defensiveness can be derailed by fabrics, textures, seams, tightness, looseness, collars and changes in clothing necessary because of the weather. Clothing may range from uncomfortable to painful, distract y

The American Occupational Therapy Association’s (AOTA) National Backpack Awareness Day is being expanded to address back health throughout the lifespan.  Occupational therapists are educating community members of all ages on safety tips for the whole family, from children carrying heavy backpacks to school, to professionals lugging around a briefcase or laptop case. It is important for parents to serve as role models for their children in safely transporting items they need f