Ruth Waldrop Occupational Therapist

01/27/2026

Fine motor skills through play! https://www.theottoolbox.com/building-fine-motor-skills-through-play/

01/26/2026

01/26/2026

Executive functioning isn't just one thing!

via Lively Minds Tutoring

01/25/2026

01/25/2026

01/25/2026

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/

01/25/2026

I've referenced this pyramid of learning many times! And it's been recently updated to include the interoception system.

You can read more about each sensory system here > https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-sensory-processing.html?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

Get your printable copy of the pyramid here > https://play-spark.com/products/pyramid-of-learning-informational-handout?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

Reference: Pyramid of Learning (Taylor, Trott) 1991.

01/18/2026

SECOND CHANCE SUNDAY

A Child’s Voice – After School, I Need You to Know
The Child Who Masks

Earlier today I shared the swan model.

The one that looks calm on the surface, gliding through the school day — while underneath, it’s paddling fast just to stay afloat.

This is that same child, speaking now.

When I come out of school, I’m not being “dramatic”.
I’m not suddenly difficult.
I’m not undoing all the good behaviour you were told about.

I’ve been holding it together all day.

I’ve pushed feelings down so I didn’t stand out.
I’ve copied others so I could fit in.
I’ve kept my stims small and hidden.
I’ve smiled when I didn’t feel OK.
I’ve tried to remember every rule so no one got cross.
I’ve ignored what felt too loud, too bright, too much.

And by the time I reach you, there’s nothing left in the tank.

What looks like defiance, tears, shutdown, or anger after school is often exhaustion from masking.

If this feels familiar, you’re not alone — and neither is your child.

To SAVE, click on the image, tap the three dots, and choose Save.
If you’d like the boy version, comment BOY below.

My Masking Toolkit supports parents and educators to understand masking, recognise the hidden load, and reduce the pressure children carry just to be accepted. Link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.

01/18/2026

When screens feel like the safest place
For many autistic young people, the digital world offers something the real world rarely does: predictability. Screens reduce the sensory and social demands that can overwhelm an already hardworking nervous system.

When the world is too loud, bright or fast
Real-life environments are full of unpredictable sounds, movements and social cues. Screens give autistic children control — over brightness, volume, pace and interactions — helping their sensory system settle rather than overload.

When communication becomes easier
Online spaces often feel more manageable because they remove the pressure to interpret facial expressions, tone or fast back-and-forth conversation. Screens offer clarity and time, reducing social anxiety and supporting genuine connection.

When 'special interests' come alive
Autistic passions are powerful regulators. Screens allow uninterrupted exploration of these interests, offering joy, comfort and identity-building in a world that often misunderstands them.

When understanding creates compassion
Seeing screen engagement through an autistic lens shifts us away from fear-based narratives.

01/18/2026

In te reo Māori, autism is often called takiwātanga. Sources in New Zealand explain that this word links to a phrase meaning “in my/his/her own time and space.”

The phrase they cite is “tōku/tōna anō takiwā.” The idea is a respectful way to describe autism through a Māori lens—focusing on someone moving through the world in their own time and space, rather than using harsh labels.

A reminder that language can shape understanding with respect and dignity.

01/01/2026

As we welcome the New Year, we give thanks for our families, and our children we are honored to serve.

We are deeply grateful for their trust, resilience, and love.

We also thank God for our dedicated staff, whose compassion and commitment shine through their work each day.

May the Lord bless this New Year with health, peace, strength, and continued grace for all.

With gratitude,
Ruth

Al dar la bienvenida al Año Nuevo, damos gracias por nuestras familias, y los niños a quienes tenemos el honor de servir.

Agradecemos profundamente su confianza, resiliencia y amor.

También damos gracias a Dios por nuestro equipo tan dedicado, cuya compasión y compromiso se reflejan en su trabajo cada día.

Que el Señor bendiga este Año Nuevo con salud, paz, fortaleza y gracia continua para todos.