OT for Kids

01/26/2026

"Proximal stability before you have distal control" One of the core tenets of development and NeuroDevelopmental Treatment theory. A weak foundation does not support the "fancy" skills like handwriting/tool use, visual tracking, reading, and even listening skills. Get to the "core" of the problem and don't just put a band aid on the problem by addressing the higher level skill alone

Yes, a strong core is needed for…

Handwriting development!

💪 Developing core muscle supports proper posture so the child can sit in their chair as they begin learning to write their letters and numbers.

However, building core muscle strength goes beyond developing straight posture and getting kids to stay in their desks so they can learn to write.

Improving core strength supports the back, shoulders, arms and wrists needed for learning the fundamentals of handwriting.

Core strength can help kids with:

🅰 Letter directionality
🅱 Letter reversals
✍Pencil grip
✍Pencil pressure

For other signs of poor core muscle and ways to support your child or student’s core strength for improved learning development, leave a comment below 👇or grab the link in our profile.

01/26/2026

Stuck inside??? These can work at home in cold weather too! or use them during homework/e learning times!

The Best Vestibular-Friendly Brain Breaks for School!

Get a printable handout of these ideas here > https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/the-best-vestibular-brain-breaks-for-school.html?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

01/26/2026

I our opinion, this include exersaucers and johnny jumpers! They all reinforce skills that can end up hindering development instead of helping. Floor time is best!!! Be cautious and mindful with any of the "fancy" equipment out there.

Recent studies have shown some concerning findings about the use of tray walkers for kids. https://ilslearningcorner.com/2017-07-tray-walkers-studies-show-kids-that-use-tray-walkers-are-delayed-in-mental-and-motor-skills/

01/25/2026

Some great indoor ideas!

Fine motor ideas to support grasp, strength, and coordination skills...Need more ideas and the WHY behind these activities? Here is what we do in OT sessions and WHY: https://www.theottoolbox.com/fine-motor-skills/

01/21/2026

Vestibular input can calm or excite. Vestibular sensory input can be alerting or calming to our nervous systems, allowing us to learn, interact with others, and go through our day. Here, we’re unpacking everything you need to know about vestibular processing and the vestibular system. Let’s move! https://www.theottoolbox.com/vestibular-activities/

This type of movement is a powerful tool in therapy and at home.

01/08/2026

A fun opportunity for local families!

Eastown is hosting an event for Hometown Waiver Solutions!🎳
Please contact Lori at 812.568.8029 if you are interested in attending!

12/24/2025

Enjoy your time with family, friends and special people in your life! Merry Christmas from OT for Kids!!!

12/08/2025

After finding out that I had IgG (delayed hypersensitivity) reactions to gluten, as well as to the dairy proteins whey and casein, I came across a condition known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).

With non-celiac gluten sensitivity, people have celiac-like reactions to gluten, yet they don’t test positive for the typical IgA celiac antibodies nor do they present the characteristic damage to intestinal cells seen in celiac disease.

However, research has shown that there are many correlations between those with thyroid disease and gluten sensitivities. For example, a 2002 study in the European Journal of Endocrinology found that 43 percent of people with Hashimoto’s showed activated mucosal T cell immunity, which is usually correlated with gluten sensitivity.

If you’re someone who is reactive to gluten, your best course of action is to avoid gluten entirely - you will probably find that you feel so much better!

But what do you do if you accidentally get “glutened”? I’ve found that taking activated charcoal to help clear the gluten from the body quickly and taking a digestive enzyme directly after eating can really help. If you begin to feel symptoms, soaking in an Epsom salt bath and soothing the gut with bone broth can speed up recovery.
Want to learn more? Comment below with keyword GLUTEN101 and I'll send you a link to my article!
Do you avoid gluten? What types of symptoms do you experience when you are exposed?

Be sure to follow me () for more on how to take charge of your own health!

12/03/2025

An overactive nervous system looks like worry, stress, anxiety...dysregulation. Here are tools to help. Need more ideas and an understanding of what's happening: https://www.theottoolbox.com/understanding-sensory-dysregulation/

12/02/2025

Poor gross motor skills impact handwriting. The bigger muscles in a child's body must be stable enough to free up the movement in their hands. When the hands can move freely it can lead to faster and more legible writing. Here are some red flags that can indicate a need to strengthen those gross motor skills (big muscles).

11/26/2025

FSSA announced today that due to nearing slot capacity they will be temporarily pausing new invitations from the Family Supports Waiver waiting list effective immediately.https://www.in.gov/fssa/files/180-Day_Press-Release.pdf

What can you do now if your loved one is on this waiting list:
-Make sure your contact information is up to date with BDS so there's no delay when invitations resume: https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddars/resources/individuals/bds-waitlist-portal/

-Familiarize yourself with the new timeline and activities to complete to ensure an invitation isn't withdrawn once invitations resume:https://www.in.gov/medicaid/providers/files/bulletins/BT2025170.pdf

-Make sure you are signed up for announcements from FSSA to receive updates: https://www.in.gov/fssa/ (scroll down to Email Updates)

If at any time you have questions about Medicaid waivers, you can reach out to your local Indiana Bureau of Disabilities Services office: https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddars/bds/bureau-of-developmental-disabilities-services/

Indiana Family to Family is also here to provide 1:1 peer support and help you understand information like this, navigate systems, and find resources. https://www.inf2f.org/connect.html

10/30/2025

Did you know...between now and Nov 5, we will have Halloween, a time change AND a full moon? Buckle up!