Your Kids OT

15/04/2026

JOIN ME FOR AN INSPIRING MOTHER’S DAY MORNING WITH !

What a fun time crafting with Cricut! It was a crafter’s dream with the vinyl stickers, decals, iron ons and even acetate that we chose from today. A collaboration with saw some upcycled bowls and plates turned into beautiful cake stands.

Cake decorating was a highlight with teaching me some much needed piping skills. I loved using the Cricut acetate stencil and producing an intricate iced pattern was easy!

With the new Cricut Explore 5 or Joy 2, you can make these craft items a reality too! If you are looking to start your Cricut adventures, make sure you grab an essentials bundle. The perfect starter’s package!

I’m inspired to make more!

13/04/2026

PROPRIOCEPTION SENSORY ACTIVITIES AT SCHOOL

Piller et al., (2026) conducted a systematic review, examining sensory-based interventions in research published between 2015 and 2024 and highlighted deep pressure tactile input as one of the sensory techniques with the strongest evidence for positive functional outcomes.

1. Positive Impact on Functional Outcomes
The review found strong evidence that deep pressure tactile input positively influences functional outcomes in children and youth with sensory integration/processing challenges.

2. Improvements in Sleep
Several studies included in the review reported statistically significant improvements in sleep behaviours following interventions involving deep pressure input such as massage with joint compression or weighted materials used near bedtime.

Improved sleep can have benefits for daytime regulation, attention, emotional coping, and participation in routines.

3. Modulation of Nervous System Arousal
Deep pressure tactile stimulation is discussed in the review as having potential modulation.

4. Broader Participation and Engagement Support
While not every study isolated “heavy work” alone, the inclusion of interventions providing deep pressure alongside other proprioceptive-rich input was associated with improvements in areas like motor skills, attention, coping skills, or task engagement in several research studies referenced within the review.

There are many sensory opportunities during the school day to provide proprioceptive input including recess and lunch time! This is valuable time for re-setting arousal levels and nervous systems while also developing social opportunities. Sensory based activities do not need to stop in the playground! Classroom “chores” can provide opportunities for movement. There are many seated activities that can also benefit the whole class.

How do you incorporate proprioception activities in the school day?

10/04/2026

OT HOME VISIT CHALLENGE!

Let’s play! One point per “yes”!

How many do you score?

Tag a friend or colleague to see what they score!

Ps. I’m on long service leave 😅

09/04/2026

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SUPERVISION

OT supervision is a safe environment which builds professional confidence, reflective practice and clinical reasoning skills.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or lacking confidence as a paediatric OT? Are you confused by the sensationalisation, differing, many voices around you?

Are you feeling enthusiastic to make an impact with the families you work with?

Are you feeling despondent with children who are difficult to engage in therapy?

Are you burnt out, drained and tired?

Are you feeling isolated and need someone to brainstorm with?

Supervising OTs is my delight!

I love working with you to translate theory to practice, validate and encourage. I’m approachable and attuned to your learning needs. What you see on social media, is what you see in-person (online)!

I’ve just updated my website so come and check it out! Enquire today if you are an OT practicing in Australia. Let me know if you would like the link! https://www.yourkidsot.com/ot-supervision.html

08/04/2026

SCISSOR SKILLS TIPS! (From the YKOT archives)

✂️Thumbs on top.
✂️ Write numbers for the helper hand to follow. (Sometimes we use stickers.)

The helper hand is important for stabilising and manipulating the paper. It helps with accuracy and speed. It means that the child does not need to compensate by using the table and place their cutting hand/arm in an awkward position. Posture is more stable too as the child doesn’t need to twist or lean in the direction the paper is “flopping”.

07/04/2026

STANDING AND SITTING BALANCE (with hair scrunchies) - FROM THE YKOT ARCHIVES

We have been “donning” scrunchies on our ankles in standing and sitting! These stretch bands provide some resistance with the elastic inside. We can work on hand strengthening and manual dexterity while also working on balance!

Standing balance is important for preventing falls (for all ages) and is useful for dressing/undressing, walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs and showering. Sitting balance is important too and helps us with posture on the floor and at table. This activity also simulates putting on socks. We can also work on crossing the midline when we reach across for the scrunchies.

To pack away, check out my previous video where we practice reaching behind!

So many fun ways to use scrunchies! Let me know how else you use them!

05/04/2026

02/04/2026

WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY!

What can inclusion look like?
•giving processing time instead of repeating or rushing
•offering choices in how to participate (talking, pointing, showing, opting out)
• adjusting the environment (noise, lighting, seating) to help regulation
• accepting and understanding any communication
• following a child’s interests
• checking in about what matters to them
• providing opportunities for sensory input, movement, breaks, and different energy levels
• being flexible
• describing what you see without judgment
• prioritising connection over compliance

What does inclusion look like for you?