Beyond Boundaries: Therapy for Kids

04/16/2026

💥OT Myth Buster💥

"🚫Myth: “They’ll catch up once they start school.”

☑️Reality: School doesn’t always teach foundational skills—it expects them.

Kids are suddenly asked to sit, focus, use their hands, manage their bodies, follow routines… all at once.

If those underlying skills aren’t there yet, they may be working overtime to keep up.

This is exactly why we do what we do.

Early support isn’t about rushing kids—it’s about setting them up for success.

Because it’s a lot easier to build strong foundations early."
-Amy Ruffino, Occupational Therapist MS, OT

Through play, kids build the skills they need for everyday life. 🧩

04/06/2026

Because every child deserves the chance to feel capable, confident, and proud. 💛

Happy Occupational Therapy Month!

04/02/2026

Happy Easter! 🐰🐣

03/31/2026

⭐️NEW⭐️ to Beyond Boundaries: OT, Abby Domster!

"Abby Domster, MS, OTR/L, is a licensed Occupational Therapist who earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from D’Youville University in 2024. She developed a strong passion for working with children during her graduate training and enjoys supporting their development through play-based and functional activities.

Abby focuses on helping children build skills for independence in daily routines, including fine motor development, sensory processing, and participation at home and school. In addition to occupational therapy, Abby has a background in personal training and enjoys teaching group fitness classes, reflecting her passion for movement, health, and overall wellness."

Welcome, Abby!! 🤗

03/30/2026

Social Work Month Series: A Day in the Life 💼🧸

Ever wonder what a pediatric social worker’s day looks like?

It’s not just a job — it’s heart ❤️ work.

"A day in the life of a social worker typically begins with identifying feelings and finding them in the body. Using social stories, modified board games, yoga and more, social workers engage preschoolers in social emotional learning to promote self-regulation. Creating carry-over activities that help parents to reinforce strategies at home is an essential part of the social work day. Every day involves celebrating progress in all shapes and sizes!" -Katherine Garey, LMSW

03/26/2026

⭐️NEW⭐️ to Beyond Boundaries: SLP, McKenna O'Rourke!

"Hi! My name is McKenna O’Rourke. I am a speech-language pathologist and have been working in the field since I graduated from Nazareth College in 2022. I have worked primarily with school-aged children in agencies and school districts since moving back to Buffalo, and I am excited to work with early intervention and preschool-aged children again! I have a background in autism and I love working with children with ASD. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, trying new restaurants, and taking trips to new places!"

Welcome, McKenna!! 🤗

03/24/2026

🗓️☑️

ALL parents and caregivers in New York State welcome! Join us for a state budget teach-in with a panel of Kids Can’t Wait Campaign leaders and policy experts!
March 26th at 6:30 PM Online.
Register at https://secure.everyaction.com/DjO5lzAgwECzN_3hVchQxA2

03/24/2026

Social Work Month Series: A Day in the Life 💼🧸

Ever wonder what a pediatric social worker’s day looks like?

It’s not just a job — it’s heart ❤️ work.

"March is National Social Workers Month and it is a good time to reflect on a day in the life of a social worker.

One thing I know about myself is that I need variety. Social work allows me to wear many hats throughout the day. I continue to carry a small caseload while also managing the practice, which means my days can look very different from one hour to the next.

My day might include playtime on the floor with a child, helping them build skills through connection and movement. Soon after, I may be meeting with our mighty office team, planning upcoming professional development opportunities, or supporting the wonderful providers who work with families every day.

Social work is about relationships, problem solving, advocacy, and showing up for people when it matters most. I feel grateful to be part of a profession filled with people who care deeply about helping others grow and thrive." -Mary Frances Bayer, LMSW

03/23/2026

Social Work Month Series: A Day in the Life 💼🧸

Ever wonder what a pediatric social worker’s day looks like?

It’s not just a job — it’s heart ❤️ work.

"A day in the life of a social worker in preschool is never a typical/boring day! Each day is a new day filled with joy, excitement, surprises, and unfortunately even tears. Kiddos at this age have big feelings that they’re learning to navigate, so each day I am working with the children to identify those feelings, help them understand them more, and teach/practice calming strategies that will help them in the future. There is SO much reward in seeing a child putting these strategies into practice all on their own!

However, one of my favorite parts of the job is that I get to play with kids all day! I love seeing children learn more about themselves and navigate the world through the power of play!

When I’m not supporting the kiddos, I’m also providing support to teachers and parents. I research and provide various resources; whether that be connections in the community, resources for the classroom, visual schedules, or even just a listening ear to those in need (just to name a few)! I feel so lucky that this is my job, but it’s more than just a job, it really is a passion :)" - Samantha Zalewska, LMSW

03/19/2026

It’s National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week — and we’re here to help families Lead It Go. 💛

Lead exposure is preventable, and early action makes all the difference. Our Lead It Go Program is dedicated to supporting children and families with education, resources, and guidance to keep homes safe and healthy.

✔️ Learn the risks
✔️ Get your child tested
✔️ Take simple steps to reduce exposure

Together, we can protect growing minds and create safer environments for every child.

If you have questions or want to learn more about how we can help, reach out — we’re here for you!

https://www.beyondboundariestherapy.org/lead-it-go

03/17/2026

Calling all soon-to-be SLP grads 👋

Ready to start your Clinical Fellowship somewhere that truly supports you? At Beyond Boundaries: Therapy for Kids, you’ll get real mentorship, a collaborative team, and meaningful work with little ones and their families 💛

We’re hiring four Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellows and interviewing in April!

Come grow with us 🌱

📧 jobs@beyondboundariestherapy.org

03/17/2026

Happy St. Patrick's Day!! 🍀🌈