Zest OT

05/11/2025

We’re so proud to share that Professor Nadia Badawi AM, Chair of Research at Cerebral Palsy Alliance and Co-Head of the Grace Centre for Newborn Care, has been nominated for the 2026 NSW Australian of the Year.
Nadia’s leadership and groundbreaking research team have driven major advances in neonatal care and cerebral palsy prevention - contributing to a 40% drop in the rate and severity of cerebral palsy in Australia.
Her solid commitment to improving outcomes for children and families inspires us all. 💚
Join us in congratulating Professor Badawi on this incredible recognition!
Read more: https://brnw.ch/21wX93A

02/11/2025

23/09/2025

Autism advocacy groups are pushing back hard against Donald Trump’s recent claim that paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism. Not only is this scientifically unfounded—it’s emotionally damaging.

Mothers already carry enough worry. They don’t need to be told they’re responsible for their child’s neurodivergence because they took a common pain reliever on medical advice. This kind of rhetoric fuels guilt, shame, and stigma—and it distracts from what really matters.

Let’s work toward a society that affirms neurodiversity—where people who have autism are understood, respected, and included without needing to be “fixed.” Autism isn’t a flaw. It’s a different way of experiencing the world.

Let’s build a culture that embraces that difference.

If you want a clear, evidence-based response from medical experts, I highly recommend reading the statement from RANZCOG (Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists). They’ve made it clear: paracetamol remains safe when used appropriately during pregnancy, and claims like Trump’s are not supported by science.

RANZCOG dismisses claims linking pregnancy paracetamol use in pregnancy to neurodivergence.

18/06/2025

Our new online parenting program can help you:

✅ Build a strong, loving connection with your child
✅ Get support to help make getting out the door, bedtimes and communication easier
✅ Guide their emotions and behaviour, positively
✅ Choose from 25 ideas and strategies you can adapt to your child’s needs, strengths and abilities.

Plus, it’s FREE, you don’t need a diagnosis or referral.

Find out more, or sign up here https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/parenting-courses/stepping-stones-triple-p-online/

10/04/2025

As both an Occupational Therapist and a Mother, I felt this was a fitting meme to celebrate OT Month!

26/02/2025

“Well Girls” is happening again in term two! Our OTs, Jenny and Kathleen are looking forward to supporting another crew of neurodivergent girls and people who menstruate (aged 8-12) in learning about well-being during puberty. Please email jenny@bidgeekidsot.com.au to enquire.

19/09/2024

Join us tomorrow for Caring for Kids Friday - free parenting/care-giving seminars and workshops run each Friday.

This week, with our lovely partners from Centacare South West NSW, we’re focusing on raising neurodivergent children. Whether you’re looking for advice, support, or just a warm community with other parents and carers, we’re here for you.

Children welcome.
Light morning tea provided

Register via the QR code or give us a call on (02) 6921 3333.

25/07/2024

An evidence-based framework for coaching parents, so they can support their child's communication, during fun, everyday interactions. Offered locally by the Speech Pathology team at Collaborative Health Murrumbidgee

24/06/2024

Did you know that there are at least 3-5 children in every classroom experiencing significant difficulties in their learning? This month is International Learning Difficulties Awareness Month. This is a great time to ensure we all know how to identify children having difficulties and learn how to best support them.
We have a number of great psychology services in Wagga providing screening and support for children with learning difficulties.
Posability Australia provides another option in the form of an outreach service, coming to Wagga in August. See below for details.

08/04/2024

Thank-you to everyone who has followed and shared my page. I have had an overwhelming response and am working through the enquiries. If you have sent me a message or email, I will be in contact with you this week!

03/04/2024

03/04/2024

Hello👋
My name is Aneka and I am very excited to welcome you to Zest OT. I am an experienced Occupational Therapist and have worked for nearly 20 years in the field of disability. I provide services across the lifespan, using a person-centered, goal-directed and evidence-based approach. I work as a mobile therapist, allowing services to be provided in a person's natural environment.
If you would like further information about the services I offer, or would like to discuss your own needs, please get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you.