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

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

Picture this: Your child is trying to focus on homework, but their hands are constantly moving - tapping the table, picking at their eraser, twirling their hair. You keep reminding them to "sit still and focus," but nothing seems to work. Here's what many parents don't realize: those fidgeting movements are often your child's body trying to stay alert and focused. As adults, we fidget all day long. We tap our pens during meetings, jiggle our legs while thinking, doodle during

Primitive reflexes play a key role in early development—but when they’re retained, they can impact focus, coordination, and behavior. Learn how to spot the signs, support integration through play, and when to seek guidance from an occupational therapist.