Little Buddies Pediatric Therapy

04/20/2026

04/16/2026

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 > 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
When we lead with connection, we help individuals feel safe, understood, and valued. This builds trust, supports engagement, and lays the groundwork for meaningful development.

04/15/2026

This new study found that autistic preschoolers show differences in both motor skills and brain activity, especially during social imitation tasks, compared to their neurotypical peers. The researchers found that autistic children showed altered activation patterns and the findings highlight early challenges in motor–social integration for autistic children and the importance of targeted support.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.reia.2026.202841

Follow us to keep up to date on the latest research in Sensory Integration and Neurodiversity.

To learn more about supporting individuals with sensory differences across the lifespan see the link below:
https://www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com/bundles/Sensory-Inclusion-Facilitator-Certificate-B

03/27/2026

You're Invited to the Annual JET Art Show 🎨

The JET (Jobs, Education & Training) Program is hosting an art show that celebrates the creativity, growth, and achievements of participants in its art module.

This free, drop-in event invites the PAFN community to connect, admire beautiful art, and enjoy pastries, coffee, and tea on us.

📆 Tuesday, March 31, 2026
⏰ 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 3688 Cessna Drive, Richmond

03/13/2026

Adaptive Response is more than just a “correct reaction.”
It is a purposeful, successful response to a challenge in the environment — one that reflects the brain organizing sensory information effectively to support action.

When a child adjusts their grip so a pencil doesn’t break, regains balance after tripping, tolerates a new texture at mealtime, or modifies a throw after missing the target — these are adaptive responses. The brain receives sensory input, organizes it, and produces a more effective action.

Adaptive responses are central to Ayres Sensory Integration®. Each successful response builds more efficient neural organization for the next challenge.

In daily life, adaptive responses allow children (and adults) to:
• Adjust posture without thinking about it
• Navigate playground equipment safely
• Regulate emotions when plans change
• Participate in learning without constant overwhelm

When adaptive responses are limited, we may see frustration, avoidance, or rigidity — not because the individual is unwilling, but because the sensory foundations for flexible action are less efficient.

Adaptive responses are the building blocks of participation.

03/09/2026

Happy International Women’s Day to all our wonderful mother’s and staff! You light up the world.

03/08/2026

A room without an OT is just a room, despite any name you attach to it.

03/07/2026

This certainly would make life easier for many children, parents and just about everyone.

This new study developed and tested a standardised quantitative protocol for creating sensory maps in a busy healthcare environment, focusing on sound, lighting, and crowd density to improve accuracy and enable future automation. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, the researchers assessed sensory stimuli and generated detailed sensory maps. The resulting framework enhances reliability and reproducibility, supports accessibility for individuals with sensory processing differences, and advances inclusive design in healthcare and other public spaces.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dhjo.2026.102033

Follow us to keep up to date on the latest research in Sensory Integration and Neurodiversity.

To learn more about supporting individuals with sensory differences across the lifespan see the link below:
https://www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com/bundles/Sensory-Inclusion-Facilitator-Certificate-B

12/08/2025

New research reveals a distinct brain activity signature in children who become overwhelmed by sensory input such as noise, touch, or bright lights.