OT for Kids

02/20/2026

02/12/2026

A great opportunity!

02/11/2026

I've referenced this pyramid of learning many times! And it's been recently updated to include the interoception system.

You can read more about each sensory system here > https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-sensory-processing.html?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

Get your printable copy of the pyramid here > https://play-spark.com/products/pyramid-of-learning-informational-handout?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

Reference: Pyramid of Learning (Taylor, Trott) 1991.

02/11/2026

The Best Vestibular-Friendly Brain Breaks for School!

Get a printable handout of these ideas here > https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/the-best-vestibular-brain-breaks-for-school.html?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

02/10/2026

SCREEN TIME vs. MOVEMENT . We pick MOVEMENT! Read and listen below...

02/08/2026

Why Chores Help Build Executive Functioning Skills
1. Planning & Organization
🧺 Figuring out what needs to be done, in what order, and gathering materials builds planning and organization skills.

Example: Cleaning a bathroom requires knowing the steps and having the right supplies.

2. Task Initiation
🛎️ Starting a chore, especially one that isn’t exciting, trains the brain to overcome procrastination and get moving.

Example: Beginning to fold laundry instead of putting it off.

3. Working Memory
🧠 Chores often involve remembering multi-step directions, routines, or sequences of actions.

Example: “Unload the dishwasher, then wipe the counters, then sweep.”

4. Time Management
⏰ Chores help kids estimate how long something will take and manage their time to get it done.

Example: Learning that folding clothes takes 15 minutes and needs to be fit into the day.

5. Attention & Focus
🎯 Staying with a task until it’s finished, especially when it’s boring, trains sustained attention.

Example: Dusting an entire room without getting distracted by every object.

6. Impulse Control
🚫 Chores teach kids to pause the urge to quit or rush through, and instead complete tasks properly.

7. Self-Monitoring & Responsibility
📋 Did I do it well? Did I miss a spot? Chores help kids check their work, take pride, and build independence.

Here is a printable chore list to help with keeping on task, planning, prioritization, working memory, and attention: https://www.theottoolbox.com/free-chores-checklist-for-kids/

02/08/2026

💩 Constipation and diarrhea are NOT just potty issues—they’re GI red flags.

GI issues are up to 4x more common in individuals with autism and can show up as constipation, diarrhea, belly pain, sleep disruption, or sudden behavior changes 😣➡️🧠

🚨 Many children are constipated even with daily bowel movements—and may not be able to tell you they’re in pain. Instead, it can look like:
✔️ Aggression or self-injury
✔️ Poor sleep
✔️ Bloating
✔️ P**p accidents or streaking
✔️ Difficulty toilet training

📘 TACA’s Constipation and Diarrhea in Autism (The P**p Page) helps families understand:
🧻 What “normal” bowel movements actually look like
🧠 How GI pain can drive behavior
🦠 Common causes like gut dysbiosis, food sensitivities, meds, and supplements
⚠️ Important warnings families should know

💡 If your individual with autism struggles with chronic constipation, diarrhea, or unexplained behaviors, this resource is a MUST-READ during our February focus on GI health.

👉 Click here for TACA’s Constipation and Diarrhea in Autism (The P**p Page)
https://tacanow.org/family-resources/the-poop-page/

02/08/2026

Autism and GI Health: Bridging Gaps in Care with Mojdeh Mostafavi, MD

⏺️ RECORDED VIRTUAL EDUCATION EVENT
🗓️ February 1-28, 2026
https://tacanow.org/event/autism-and-gi-health-bridging-gaps-in-care/

Gastrointestinal issues are common in individuals with autism and can significantly affect health, behavior, and quality of life. This session provides an overview of frequently seen GI conditions in people with autism, along with insight into how symptoms may present differently and why diagnosis can be challenging. Families will gain an understanding of the GI evaluation process, including common testing and how to effectively partner with healthcare providers. The presentation also emphasizes accessibility, care coordination, and advocacy, offering practical strategies to help families navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence.

For best results, please use chrome or safari web browsers.

01/26/2026

"Proximal stability before you have distal control" One of the core tenets of development and NeuroDevelopmental Treatment theory. A weak foundation does not support the "fancy" skills like handwriting/tool use, visual tracking, reading, and even listening skills. Get to the "core" of the problem and don't just put a band aid on the problem by addressing the higher level skill alone

Yes, a strong core is needed for…

Handwriting development!

💪 Developing core muscle supports proper posture so the child can sit in their chair as they begin learning to write their letters and numbers.

However, building core muscle strength goes beyond developing straight posture and getting kids to stay in their desks so they can learn to write.

Improving core strength supports the back, shoulders, arms and wrists needed for learning the fundamentals of handwriting.

Core strength can help kids with:

🅰 Letter directionality
🅱 Letter reversals
✍Pencil grip
✍Pencil pressure

For other signs of poor core muscle and ways to support your child or student’s core strength for improved learning development, leave a comment below 👇or grab the link in our profile.

01/26/2026

Stuck inside??? These can work at home in cold weather too! or use them during homework/e learning times!

The Best Vestibular-Friendly Brain Breaks for School!

Get a printable handout of these ideas here > https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/the-best-vestibular-brain-breaks-for-school.html?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

01/26/2026

I our opinion, this include exersaucers and johnny jumpers! They all reinforce skills that can end up hindering development instead of helping. Floor time is best!!! Be cautious and mindful with any of the "fancy" equipment out there.

Recent studies have shown some concerning findings about the use of tray walkers for kids. https://ilslearningcorner.com/2017-07-tray-walkers-studies-show-kids-that-use-tray-walkers-are-delayed-in-mental-and-motor-skills/

10/30/2025

Did you know...between now and Nov 5, we will have Halloween, a time change AND a full moon? Buckle up!