A lone parent stands in the grocery store, her child kicking, screaming, biting, shouting, and turning into someone she barely recognizes. “All this over candy?” she thinks. “Is this because of his special needs?” she wonders. Other parents and bystanders appear to be staring in judgement as she gazes in horror and debates what to…
We all know how a good (or bad) night of sleep can make or break everything we do the next day – and even for days to come. Sleep allows our brains and bodies a chance to recharge and to be ready for the activities of the day ahead. Insufficient sleep can affect attention, cognition,…
Dr. Frederica Kennedy has 17 years of experience, specializing in pediatrics, with particular emphasis in the areas of autism, developmental disabilities and sensory processing disorders. She has treated all ages of pediatric patients in hospital, outpatient, and home settings. Dr. Kennedy’s experience also includes teaching both undergraduate and graduate-level students in occupational therapy and participating…
As summer quickly approaches, I know everyone is looking for fun and easy ways to keep your kids occupied. Today we’re sharing a few quick and simple ideas for sensory play disguised as fun! Slimy Rainbow Spaghetti Visit Laughing Kids Learn for details on how to make rainbow spaghetti for play, as well as some great ideas for how…
Not only is April Occupational Therapy Month, but 2017 is occupational therapy’s 100th birthday! Today, Kid’s Creek OT Claire Whatley shares a brief history of occupational therapy, how OT is used to treat children, and some information about a little-known aspect (her favorite!) of OT. A Brief History of Occupational Therapy (OT) Many people believe…
Last weekend, I stopped at my local grocery store to buy some needed items for dinner. As I was checking out, I noticed a boy crying in a grocery cart. He appeared quite upset as he screamed and hit the cart with his hands. As I finished my shopping and headed home, I thought about…
While eating is second nature to most of us and our biggest concern regarding food is when/what we will eat next, it is not that straightforward for many kiddos. The act of eating involves many different components that go unnoticed by most of us – things like the surrounding environment, what the plate looks like,…
Around this time of year, I get a lot of parents who ask “what kind of gift is best for my child?” Being a occupational therapist with a passion for children, I always try to give a gift that is both educational and engaging. Here are my top four picks for gifts, based on age group:…
Cue the music: It’s the most wonderful time of the year! But for some families with special needs children, the holidays can bring anxiety and uncertainty, especially when confronted with large family gatherings either at home or away from home in new environments. Questions arise, like: How am I going to keep her busy for…
As I send my youngest child, Adam, off to college, I remember my first days as a pediatric occupational therapist when he was one and barely walking. I spent those early years learning how to treat young children, watching my son obtain milestones that other children struggled to achieve. Now as a “seasoned” therapist, I have the…