Functional Link Occupational Therapy

01/20/2025

✨ Collaborative Strategies for Inclusive/Trauma-Informed Educational Environments ✨

Create supportive educational settings with this evidence-based guide for school-based occupational therapists, administrators, and educators. This resource contains insights drawn from systematic research and best practices in school-based occupational therapy.

Provides a practical, evidence-based framework for fostering inclusive and trauma-informed educational environments through collaboration and tiered strategies. Perfect for K-12 schools, preschools, alternative settings, and special education programs.

What You'll Get:

✅ Guidance on implementing universal, targeted, and intensive supports to meet varying student needs.

✅ Tools for working alongside educators, administrators, and school personnel to build trauma-informed, inclusive practices.

✅ Recommendations for adapting school environments to promote participation and engagement for students with diverse sensory, emotional, and learning needs.

$10.00

https://functionallinkoccupationaltherapy.com/shop-functional-link/ols/products/collaborative-strategies-for-inclusivetrauma-informed-educational-environments

01/17/2025

Using Visual Timers for Effective Transitions ⏲️⏳⏱️

This handout is a practical and teacher-friendly resource designed to help educators effectively use visual timers in the classroom. Visual timers are invaluable tools for fostering independence, supporting transitions, and managing classroom behaviors, especially for students who benefit from structure and visual supports.

The resource provides:
✔️A clear explanation of what visual timers are and how they support executive function and self-regulation.

✔️Practical strategies for using visual timers during transitions, group activities, and individualized tasks.

✔️Tips for troubleshooting common challenges when using timers, such as how to adjust for sensory sensitivities or resistance.

✔️Specific applications for fostering inclusion by meeting diverse sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs.

Grounded in evidence-based strategies and designed with trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming principles, this resource equips teachers with the tools to create a supportive, inclusive classroom environment for all learners.

Perfect for teachers, related service providers, and caregivers.

$5.00

https://functionallinkoccupationaltherapy.com/shop-functional-link/ols/products/using-visual-timers-for-effective-transitions

01/04/2025

Hello, Functional Link Family! 💛 Happy 2025!

It’s been awhile! Firstly, I want to thank everyone for your patience and continued support over the past few months, and apologize for my extended absence. Life has been full of changes and challenges, but I’m ready to get back on track with renewed focus and energy!

As many of you know, I’ve been working hard behind the scenes, growing both professionally and personally. In December, I became Dr. Hillary Turner CScD, MOT, OTR/L as I completed my Doctor of Clinical Science in OT at the University of Pittsburgh (shoutout Pitt Occupational Therapy💙💛), with research focused on promoting inclusion in early childhood education. While I’m so proud of this milestone, I also want to take responsibility for dropping the ball in more than one area related to this business over the last year. I’ve reflected a lot on how I can do better moving forward—not just for myself, but for the amazing families, caregivers, and colleagues who’ve supported my mission with Functional Link.

✨ Goals for 2025 and Beyond ✨
This year, my goal is to make Functional Link a space where connection, growth, and empowerment thrive. Here’s what you can look forward to:

1️⃣ Building a Supportive Online Community: I’ll be using this platform more consistently to share resources, tips, and stories that inspire and support families, educators, and therapists.

2️⃣ Introducing Shop Functional Link: I’m so thrilled to announce the launch an online shop, offering thoughtfully designed evidence-based resources for therapists, parent/caregivers, and educators.
Check it out here: https://functionallinkoccupationaltherapy.com/shop-functional-link

My dream for Functional Link has always been to create a world where everyone can thrive. As I navigate my own neurodiversity/executive function challenges and continue learning how to create a business that works for me, I hope to use those experiences to make Functional Link even more understanding, relatable, and effective for all of you. 💙

Thank you for sticking with me through the highs and the lows. I’m excited to reconnect with this community and continue building something amazing together.

With gratitude,
Hillary

08/29/2024

🌟 Back to School Sensory Profile Special! 🌟

Is your child starting the new school year soon? Ensure their sensory needs are understood and supported with our Sensory Profile Special! This is a perfect way to help teachers, caregivers, and family members understand and meet your child's unique sensory preferences.

What’s Included?
✅ Personalized Sensory Profile Report
✅ Practical Strategies and Recommendations
✅ Easy-to-Understand Format for Sharing
✅ No Direct Observation or MD Script Needed

Help your child transition smoothly into the new school year with confidence and the right support! 📚✨

Interested? email hillary@functionallink.com today to get started!

Let’s make this school year a successful one for your child! 🎒💖

07/07/2024

Functional Link Occupational Therapy will be joining The Sia Center at Gathering On Grant this Thursday! Stop by for free OT screenings and a fun sensory activity for the kids 🪁💙💚

Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to town this Thursday July 11th! We’re making them feel at home with our version of Summer Snow. Join us from 5p-8p on Grant Avenue in Vandergrift for a FREE Foam Party!
❄️💙❄️💙

07/05/2024

More than play ❤️

07/03/2024

This Friday at The Sia Center in Vandergrift!

06/06/2024

The reviews are IN 🐬💞👏

If you’re looking for ways to support Dolly’s official launch:
1️⃣ follow Functional Ink Publishing on facebook and IG (functional_ink.publishing)

2️⃣ like, comment, and share posts on your feed and in your community facebook groups!

3️⃣ click this link and enter your email! 👉🏼 https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/cef118668ced4e3fad61cdf7fc336943/join

06/03/2024

05/15/2024

🤩Want to stay in the loop? 📚 We’re on a mission to bring empowering and inclusive stories to young readers. If you’re interested in getting updates, sneak peeks, and more, we’d love to keep you informed!

💌 Drop your email in the comments or send us a DM to sign up for updates. Don’t miss out on any announcements or exclusive opportunities from “Tails of Inclusion!”