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.

ADHD, Autism, occupational therapy, parenting, Sensory Processing Disorder, Sensory Spaces

Best Sensory Swings for Kids: Top Christmas Gift Ideas for Sensory Play

Sensory swings are a great way to support kids with self-regulation, movement, and play. Whether your child needs calming deep pressure or dynamic swinging input, the right sensory swing can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best sensory swings for kids in 2025, their benefits, and how to choose the perfect one for your child!

Feeding, parenting

My Toddler Won’t Eat Anything: Sensory-Based Tips to Help with Mealtime

Worried because your toddler won’t eat anything? Learn sensory-based tips from a pediatric occupational therapist to help your picky eater. Discover why your child may refuse food, how sensory issues impact eating, and what to do during mealtime struggles. Try these simple, low-stress strategies at home to improve your toddler’s eating habits without force or frustration.

ADHD, Autism, Baby and Toddler, parenting, Sensory Processing Disorder

Best Sensory Toys for Kids in 2025

Discover the best sensory toys for kids in 2025, handpicked by a pediatric occupational therapist. These top-rated sensory tools support self-regulation, focus, and sensory integration for children with Autism, ADHD, or sensory processing challenges. From sensory swings and compression chairs to tactile fidgets and calming craft kits, this guide includes OT-approved favorites that help kids stay calm, engaged, and confident. Perfect for parents, therapists, and educators looking to build a sensory-friendly home or classroom environment.

Adaptive Equipment, ADHD, Autism, New Grad OT, occupational therapy, parenting, Pediatric Occupational Therapy, Sensory Processing Disorder, Sensory Spaces

How to Build a Calm-Down Corner for Kids: Tips for Home or Classroom

Looking for an easy, budget-friendly way to help kids manage big emotions? Learn how to create a calm down corner at home or in the classroom using occupational therapist-approved tools. Perfect for parents, teachers, and OTs, this guide includes calming strategies, sensory-friendly products, and tips to support emotional regulation in children. Ideal for preschoolers, toddlers, and neurodivergent kids.

Uncategorized

8 Bilingual Redirection Phrases for Pediatric OT, Parents, and Educators

As pediatric occupational therapists, it is important to help children manage emotions and social expectations through gentle redirection rather than using “no.” This post presents bilingual redirection phrases in English and Spanish for various situations, including setting limits, offering choices, and acknowledging feelings. These phrases enhance communication, support bilingual families, and foster emotional growth. They promote cooperation, independence, and provide coping strategies. Using both languages respects cultural identity and fosters an environment of empathy and empowerment, crucial for behavior regulation.

Fine Motor Skills, New Grad OT, Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Easy Fine Motor Activities for Kids at Home: Pediatric OT HEP Ideas

The OT Latina shares engaging fine motor activities for pediatric occupational therapists. Ideal for home exercise plans, these activities use common household items to enhance children’s hand strength, coordination, and pre-writing skills. Suggested exercises include bead stringing, clothespin clips on pipe cleaners, modeling foam for sensory play, and tracing with popsicle sticks. These easily adaptable activities foster skill development and confidence while requiring minimal setup, making them perfect for both therapists and parents.

NBCOT Exam Prep, New Grad OT, Student OT

Best NBCOT Exam Study Tool for 2025: Why TrueLearn Helped Me Pass on the First Try

Preparing for the NBCOT exam? TrueLearn was my top study resource and the key to my success. With over 1,800 practice questions, detailed rationales, and performance tracking, it simulates the real test experience while helping you understand every answer. In this post, I share how I used TrueLearn to stay focused, improve recall with mnemonics, and boost my confidence. If you’re looking for a powerful, user-friendly NBCOT prep tool, this review will guide you through it!

ADHD, Autism, Baby and Toddler, Sensory Processing Disorder

Simple Summer Sensory Activity Ideas for Kids

This summer, engage kids in sensory-rich activities that support their development. Five enjoyable ideas include blowing bubbles for visual tracking, creating a water sensory bin, painting rocks for self-expression, hula hooping for coordination, and playing with sand bins to promote fine motor skills. These low-cost activities offer developmental benefits and family fun.

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