I was compelled to write this because as an occupational therapist who works in the schools I know that there tends to be a philosophy (among therapists primarily) that once a child leaves elementary school that direct OT services tend to stop or be changed to consultation. This change is often appropriate. Some reasons: 1) […]
When Should Students Get OT in Middle School? Read More »
You can picture it in your mind. Sitting in your comfy beach chair, toes in the sand and beach waves crashing in the not too far distance. The sounds of your small children laughing with delight fill the air around you. Wait, what? That is not at all how it actually goes. One child doesn’t
One Last Beach Trip Read More »
School is going into full swing and while kids can have anxiety leading up to going to school on the first day you might see some once school is in full swing. Here are a few things that might help you work through these moments with your kids. Understanding and validating are two important things
School Days and Anxiety Read More »
This month I pulled together some favorite gift ideas for the children in your life. These gifts are not just fun but they also might just sneak in some Occupational Therapy. I have included a link to Amazon to make it easier for you but you can find these items other places too. Work on
A Few Gift Giving Ideas Read More »
‘Pediatric massage is massage and touch therapy that is specifically created and adapted for children and adolescents. Pediatric massage therapists have additional training that prepares us to work with kids and teens in a skillful manner that takes into account age, developmental stage, and the specific needs and goals of the child, family, and broader
When and Why To Consider Massage Therapy for Kids Read More »
So, it is February again and that means groundhogs, Presidents, and valentines. We all know about the cards, candy, and extra kisses for Valentine’s day. But here are some things you can do this February 14thto show some extra love to those sweet little ones of yours that you may not have thought of. Give
A Little Extra Love For Valentine’s Day Read More »
Did you know that an occupational therapist can often address anxiety? First, understand that a child who has “behavior problems” often reacts as they do because they are anxious. Children are not willfully bad and will do well if they can. When children feel safe and supported, behaviors are much easier to address, so responding with
Occupational Therapy Treats Anxiety Read More »
by Alicia Kollmar MS, OTR/L Did you know that research that shows that 10-20 minutes (depending on the study) of cardiovascular exercise has positive effects on a child’s ability to focus throughout the day if the child has ADHD? Yes! The studies have been with children who are diagnosed, but it likely has a positive
Alicia Kollmar MS, OTR/L Before I became an occupational therapist, I worked as a nursing aide in a psychiatric hospital where there was one ward for women who were diagnosed with a personality disorder. Most, if not all, had a history of abuse and extreme anxiety. Ultimately the professionals in charge determined that hospitalizing these
Not Your Traditional Way To Help Anxiety Read More »
“Good job!” We all say it to children. We probably think it has more power than it actually does. I used to work with a child who consistently took two sessions to learn to make a lower case letter. Thinking of him inspired me to write this post because his persistence has been amazing. I
How to Give a Compliment to Children: Moving Beyond “Good Job.” Read More »
