Occupational therapy is in my central nervous system. (Yanno how they say it’s in your bones?) I am a sensory kid through and through. I sucked my thumb till I was in 3rd grade (and I still typically have something in my mouth. As I type I have a needle I was using for crafting felt flowers…) My mom talks about how I used to dump out sugar and stick my toes in it or finger paint with shampoo, from my own sensory seeking.
As I began working as a pediatric OT in schools and an outpatient clinic, I realized that my own lived experience gave me a lot of insight into why kids do what they do. I either inherently understood it, or I would do it myself and then generated a hypothesis as to what need it might be meeting for them. Oftentimes, my instincts were right, or at least good enough to get us a really good start. I was able to use my detail oriented observations to develop effective sensory strategies and other problem solving tips to circumvent the sensory issue at hand. However, instincts must be tempered with evidence.
I realize the need for occupational therapists to be evidence based, especially in the age of stricter insurance reimbursement guidelines and a society that is eager to tag on to buzz words like “sensory” and make a profit from it where possible.
I’m using my training and experience as a pediatric OT to offer motor and sensory activity ideas as well as education to caregivers, families and other pediatric OT’s. On the blog you’ll find summaries of research articles on topics in pediatric OT. You’ll also find links to my Instagram page where I post my activities.
I’m currently developing a class that will provide those caring for children a clear understanding of what Sensory Processing is and how its effects may be impacting their child’s ability to remain calm, transition throughout their day and work through their emotions. My goal is to use my experience in working with children and families to provide easy to understand, valuable educational products to promote more joyful and peaceful interactions between you and your children at home. Follow me on Instagram and
Facebook to find low cost, low equipment activities to foster your child’s sensory and motor development!