Erna Louw Arbeidsterapeut / SMARTies Occupational Therapy - Zwavelpoort

02/02/2026

21/01/2026

A number of children are now presenting with self-care difficulties in the school setting. This article highlights the importance of providing opportunities to develop fine motor skills and body awareness in the early years in order to help with self-care independence.

https://www.ft.com/content/5bd61e13-7b2f-4d15-90f4-77d1c9659284

If your child has difficulties with self-care check the link to our resources in the comments.

14/01/2026

11/01/2026

We all love to fiddle or run something through our fingers 🖐️ What is your child’s favourite fidget toy?

09/01/2026

08/01/2026

07/01/2026

Children sleeping with their parents, often called co-sleeping or bed-sharing, can offer a sense of security and emotional comfort that helps young children fall asleep more easily and reduces nighttime anxiety.
Research from the Mother-Baby Behavioral Sleep Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame, led by anthropologist James J. McKenna, has examined how co-sleeping supports emotional bonding and biological regulation between parents and children.
Being close to caregivers at night may strengthen attachment and responsiveness.
Co-sleeping can also make nighttime caregiving, such as soothing or feeding, more convenient for parents.
When practiced safely and intentionally, it can contribute to emotional regulation and a calmer sleep experience for both children and parents.

17/12/2025