Therapy Factory - by Liani Austin

08/02/2026

Build a Sensory Ladder via The Sensory Ladder.

FREE learning about the sensory systems and how they impact daily life with free resources and downloads as part of the training online at www.sensoryproject.org/shop.

No surprises or payment at anytime. A global translation project is in progress through infectious generosity of volunteers; individuals and organisations - volunteers from across the glove - including SAISI Page - South African Institute for Sensory Integration - OT’s.

I completed my undergraduate OT degree University of Cape Town, South Africa, and started to develop this tool, now used around the globe over 26 years ago.

We are starting other languages from across the globe and from RSA too no. We are looking for volunteers to do our other languages too.

Bernike Maarsingh is managing this project for Ayres’ Sensory Integration WISE. We recently showcased their development and the translation project International Council for Education in Ayres Sensory Integration - Official ISIC 2025/2026 in Porto.

You can find our free webinars for families or volunteer via the shop too. https://sensoryproject.org/product-category/sensory-ladders-global/

-production .

07/02/2026

This year, we aim to take the community on a journey through the different sensory systems – and there are more than just the five we were taught about at school. The goal is to unpack concepts such as sensory integration in a practical and enjoyable way, and in doing so, make a positive impact within the community.

When people better understand themselves and their own sensory profiles, and begin to recognise why they respond differently to certain sounds, smells or movement, it can have a positive influence on learning, work performance, relationships and overall health.

The SAISI ExpoSense is an educational community expo that introduces sensory integration to the public in a practical, fun and interactive way. The next ExpoSense will take place on 6 June 2026, at Midstream Ridge Primary School, with the theme “Journey Through the Senses.”

The event is aimed at parents, teachers, children, teenagers and adults, and focuses on demonstrating how sensory experiences influence learning, development and everyday functioning.

06/02/2026

The count down has began and the excitement is growing! 😁

05/02/2026

Meet the OT behind the swings, smiles and playful therapy spaces… Liani!

I have a deep love for children, play, and the magical way the sensory world shapes our development, emotions and behaviour.

My work is rooted in Ayres Sensory Integration®, helping children build the foundations they need for everyday life — from getting dressed in the morning to feeling calm, confident and ready to learn in class.

I’m also an adoptive mom, which has opened my heart to the impact of early experiences, attachment, and trauma on a child’s development. This journey has shaped me into a trauma-informed OT, where connection, safety and trust are always at the centre of therapy.

In our sessions, you’ll often find:
🌈 Swings and movement
🎨 Messy play and fun activities
🧠 Sensory strategies for big feelings
🤝 Gentle guidance for parents

Because every child deserves to feel understood, regulated and capable. ❤️

31/01/2026

How grief shows up in a child's nervous system, and what they need most. 💔

24/01/2026

Explaining ADHD to kids - watch this fun animated video explaining ADHD!

Short animation explains ADHD through the eyes of amazing ADHD'er Molly aimed at school children to help them understand the condition beyond the misconcepti...

24/01/2026

23/01/2026

Big family changes like separation or divorce can be deeply dysregulating for a child’s nervous system. Their feelings often show up through behaviour, play, or big emotions — not because they’re being difficult, but because their bodies are trying to make sense of change.

From an OT perspective, regulation, routine, play, and safe connection are key. Here is a simple guide to help caregivers understand what’s happening beneath the surface and how to support their child with compassion.

22/01/2026

Back-to-School Anxiety: What Parents Should Know

A new school year often brings big feelings. Feeling nervous or anxious about school is very common especially with new teachers, classrooms, routines, and expectations.

⭐ Signs of school anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t always look like tears. It may show up as:

* Morning tummy aches or headaches
* Trouble sleeping
* Irritability or meltdowns
* Clinginess or difficulty separating
* Avoiding school

⭐ How parents can help

✔ Acknowledge your child’s feelings
✔ Keep routines calm and predictable
✔ Stay positive but realistic about school
✔ Say confident, calm goodbyes
✔ Praise effort, not perfection

⭐When to seek help

If anxiety lasts more than a few weeks, affects daily life, or leads to school refusal, speak to your paediatrician. Early support makes a big difference.

⭐ Remember

Your child isn’t being difficult , they’re communicating a need. With patience and support, most children settle well into the school year.

*If you’re worried about your child’s anxiety, reach out for guidance.*

03/01/2026

🚨 Grooming doesn’t start with abuse — it starts with trust.

This must-read Daily Maverick article by Robyn Wolfson Vorster exposes the deliberate “playbook” used by sexual offenders to groom children — often slowly, subtly, and right under adult supervision.

💡 Some important facts we can’t ignore:
• Most children are abused by someone they know or trust, not a stranger.
• Grooming can take place online or offline, and often involves gifts, secrecy, attention, and gradual boundary-blurring.
• Research shows many children don’t disclose abuse immediately because grooming makes them feel complicit, confused, or responsible.
• Offenders don’t only groom children — they often groom parents, caregivers, and institutions to gain access and credibility.

This article powerfully reminds us that prevention isn’t about fear — it’s about understanding patterns, recognising red flags, and creating environments where children feel safe to speak up.

📌 Awareness saves children. Conversations matter. Education is protection.

👉 Read the full article here:
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-12-31-inside-the-paedophiles-playbook-understanding-grooming-to-keep-children-safer/

16/10/2025

Transform a bus. Change a life. Join SAISI in taking therapy on the road 💜

If your organisation would like to partner with SAISI in developing a sensory bus or truck, please get in touch with us at saisi@instsi.co.za.