Supporting Play, Parenthood & Neurodiversity
Our bodies register different sensory information: touch, sight, sound, body position, smell, taste, movement, and internal sensation. Sensory processing helps us move our bodies, and impacts our relationships and our experiences in the world.
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…
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.
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…
I love using bean bags for heavy work. Even using weighted stuffed animals, and crash pads for providing deep pressure is helpful for calming kids. Here are four ways to use these fun items, ball pits, & crash pads for regulation, movement, & fun! 1st: Drive into Bean Bags Pick up any circle as a…
This doesn’t mean that we never provide demands or requests. It just means that we may approach sensory overwhelm differently, with different strategies in mind.
What to do when kids need to chew? Or perhaps you notice that everything goes directly in their mouth! Learn strategies on oral seeking habits with children and how it relates to occupational therapy. What is oral seeking? This is a phrase used to describe someone who benefits from strong sensations in their mouth, whether…
What to look for when your child is always on the go! 1. The Child’s Age: Age (this is an easy one but sometimes we forget how much young kids need to move!) Kids learn through play, and movement is often included. There’s only so much we can do in a chair! 2. The Environment:…
