Author name: Brianda Karina Cortez

I am a licensed pediatric occupational therapist currently practicing in Texas. I am originally from Harlingen, Texas, a Bordertown in the Rio Grande Valley. I have a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy. A few things I enjoy are exercising, reading, writing, exploring my spirituality, meditating, outdoor adventures, and dancing.

Home Health, New Grad OT, occupational therapy, Student OT

Car Essentials and Equipment for Home Health Therapists and Nurses

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Working in home health as an occupational, physical, or speech therapist, or nurse means your car becomes your office. Stay organized and productive with these must-have tools, from trunk organizers to steering wheel trays. These essential accessories are designed to help you manage documentation, transport equipment, and keep your workspace tidy while on the road. Perfect for busy healthcare professionals looking to optimize their workflow and stay prepared for every patient visit.

NBCOT Exam Prep, NBCOT Study, New Grad OT, occupational therapy, Student OT

Best NBCOT Study Tools for Occupational Therapy Students

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Preparing for the NBCOT exam can be overwhelming, leading many to wonder which study resources are truly effective. This review evaluates various tools, with TrueLearn’s OT SmartBank emerging as the top choice for its detailed questions and customizable quizzes. Other resources, like OT Miri’s YouTube channel and podcasts, also received praise. Ultimately, combining different tools based on personal learning styles is recommended.

ADHD, Autism, Baby and Toddler, Behavior Management, Developmental Milestones, Early Intervention, Toddlers

Why Does My Toddler Keep Hitting? Real Tips that Actually Work

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Toddlers may hit due to frustration, overstimulation, or difficulty communicating emotions. This behavior is common and can be addressed effectively. Strategies include modeling calmness, regulating screen time, teaching emotion recognition, and providing sensory activities. Understanding that behavior is communication can help parents guide their children towards healthier coping mechanisms.

Baby and Toddler, Baby Essentials, Developmental Milestones, parenting, Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Bassinet Stroller vs. Car Seat Stroller: What’s Best for Baby Development?

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Choosing the right stroller as a new mom and pediatric occupational therapist involves balancing convenience and developmental needs. Bassinet strollers promote healthy positioning and movement, ideal for motor development, while car seat strollers offer practicality for quick outings. A combo system is recommended to maximize benefits for both baby and parent.

ADHD, Autism, Pediatric Occupational Therapy, School-based OT, Sensory Processing Disorder

50+ Sensory Activities for Children with Autism and ADHD

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Discover 50 easy sensory activities for kids with autism and ADHD designed to improve focus, emotional regulation, fine and gross motor skills, and sensory processing. These at-home sensory play ideas include tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, visual, and auditory activities that support child development in a fun, engaging way. Perfect for parents, homeschool families, teachers, and caregivers looking for therapist-approved sensory activities to help calm, regulate, and engage children with sensory needs.

NBCOT Exam Prep, New Grad OT, Student OT

What Is the Best NBCOT Study Tool for OT Students?

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Studying for the NBCOT exam? If you’re searching for the best NBCOT study tools, NBCOT practice questions, or an honest TrueLearn NBCOT review, this post is for you. TrueLearn was my #1 resource for NBCOT exam prep, offering over 1,800 NBCOT-style practice questions, in-depth rationales, and performance tracking that closely mirrors the real NBCOT exam. In this review, I break down how I used TrueLearn to pass the NBCOT, improve test-taking strategies, strengthen recall with mnemonics, and build confidence leading up to exam day. If you’re an OT or OTA student looking for an effective, user-friendly NBCOT prep platform, this guide will help you decide if TrueLearn is right for you.

Natural Pregnancy Belly Support for Hip and Back Pain Relief
New Mom Tips, Pregnancy Pain Relief, Pregnancy Relief

Natural Belly Wrapping for Pregnancy: How to Relieve Hip & Back Pain Naturally

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Discover how natural belly wrapping during pregnancy can help relieve hip and back pain, improve comfort, and support your changing body. This guide explains how to use a Mexican rebozo as a holistic pregnancy support tool for belly, pelvic, and lower back support. Perfect for expecting moms looking for natural pregnancy pain relief, cultural practices, and gentle alternatives to pregnancy support belts.

Struggling with Potty Training your toddler? Here are some expert-approved tips to help your child use the toilet
Autism, Baby and Toddler, Developmental Milestones, parenting, Pediatric Occupational Therapy, Potty Training, Sensory Processing Disorder, Toddlers

Why Won’t My Toddler Use the Potty? Common Reasons & Expert-Approved Solutions

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Struggling with potty training your toddler? This expert-backed guide explores common reasons your child may resist using the potty and offers practical potty training tips that actually work. Learn how toilet readiness, body stability, sensory comfort, and routine can impact potty training success. Perfect for parents searching for how to potty train a toddler, why toddlers refuse the toilet, and gentle potty training strategies that support confidence and independence.

Baby and Toddler, Developmental Milestones, Early Intervention, parenting

How to Help Your Baby Crawl: Simple Activities to Build Strength

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Crawling is an important milestone in early development, aiding in strength, coordination, and confidence. Parents can support this process through fun, simple activities. Start by strengthening the baby’s core with exercises like “Baby Sit-Ups.” Encourage arm and leg strength with baby squats and propped sitting. Use motivation through toys and engaging obstacles. Remember, every baby develops at their own pace.

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