Supporting Play, Parenthood & Neurodiversity
Resources during Autism Acceptance Month & understanding neurodiversity all year long! What is Neurodiversity? Neurodiversity recognizes and accepts the value of brain diversity. This includes Autism too! Honoring and recognizing strengths, differences, and barriers. Why Autism Acceptance Month? It’s important to not just stop at awareness, but also continue to support acceptance and inclusion.Listening to…
When children are overwhelmed, it’s important to think about regulation. Think of Regulation as an ability to respond to the ongoing demands of experience. So in addition to a child’s ability to process the eight senses, a child’s regulation can also be impacted by: Examples of Dysregulation Delayed Meltdowns You may see them coming, or…
Let’s talk about lessons learned! I definitely wish I knew these tips when I was a new graduate. A Very Important Reminder Until next time, Dr. Diamond
Sensory play for kids can look different in so many ways! Whether your child or teen is a sensory seeker, sensitive to trying new things, or somewhere in between, you can adapt everyday activities to make them work for you and your family! Which activity will you try before summer ends? Dr. Diamond
Autism and sensory processing difficulties overlap but are not the same. Did you know this? It is common for Autistic individuals to have sensory processing differences that impact daily tasks and activities. However, not all children (and adults) with SPD (sensory processing disorder) are autistic. So there is some overlap, but it’s not the same!…
I don’t know about you, but many times I have to write down my concerns so I don’t forget when I see the doctor. Or I’m so grumpy from the waiting room I really just want to get the appointment over as soon as possible. It’s pretty similar for families, especially those with neurodivergent kids, and parents who are neurodivergent themselves.
Looking for your first occupational therapy job? You’ve gotten to the interview, but how you do know if the job is a good fit for you? Consider the whole package. Be sure to ask about salary/pay, benefits, mentorship, hours, and opportunity for growth prior to accepting a position. If there is a contract or additional…
Here’s the thing when it comes to honoring all play. Toys are designed for fun and development! And fun is subjective. Toys are meant for: LaughterJoyCreativityConnectionExploration There’s not just one way to honor play! If you’re ever stuck on where you fit into honoring all play, especially for neurodivergent children, look at these areas below….
Whether you laminate this printable for direct food exploration, or use a visual prompt, this farm food play activity is bound to lead to fun! The Set-up If you have a music lover, of course pair with Old MacDonald. Change the tune to “with hay over there” and “mud over there” model how you explore…
Wait! Before we move into immediate action, or assume that it is behavior-based, can we figure the underlying reason why a kid is not engaged? Something to remember is that having a reason does not mean that it’s being used as an excuse. For example, if I don’t have my glasses on, I’m not going…
