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.
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.
Learn how to raise a bilingual child with practical tips for teaching Spanish at home. A Latina mom shares bilingual parenting strategies for kids.
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.
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? 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.
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.
Finding the right holiday gift for children with Autism or ADHD can be challenging. As a pediatric occupational therapist here is my guide of top sensory toys that are parent-approved and well-loved by kids. These toys, including sensory floor tiles, a crash pad, and squishy fidget toys, support regulation, focus, and confidence, making them meaningful gifts for developmental growth this Christmas season.
Looking for affordable sensory stocking stuffers your child will actually enjoy? These OT-recommended gift ideas are perfect for kids with Autism, ADHD, or sensory needs. From squishy stress balls to light-up fidgets, each item supports calming, focus, and emotional regulation—while still being fun to play with. These budget-friendly sensory toys make holiday gifting simple, practical, and meaningful.
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!