Mindfulness can be defined as paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally. Research has indicated that mindfulness in school children may help to improve: 1. emotional well being. 2. learning and associated cognitive processes, such as attention, focus and executive function skills. 3. mental health. 4. physical health (reduction in […]
With the popularity of Trolls in full swing right now, I though the kids would enjoy some Troll yoga poses. These Troll yoga poses are beneficial to increase focus, concentration, balance, core strengthening and relaxation. Download your free Troll yoga poses below. Here are the directions to complete the yoga poses: Tree Pose – 1. […]
Here are a few free app suggestions for pediatric OTs and PTs for 8/12/16. This week there is a pretty simple and straightforward handwriting app and an app that adds some physical activity to a child’s day – my favorite when kids are moving instead of just hunched over their devices. (This post does include […]
Keep calm and do yoga. No one can deny that yoga helps to calm children. Hang up this reminder in your therapy room, classroom or yoga studio. You can print it in color or choose 2 different black and white posters that the children can color for you to hang up. Try using it as […]
I am continuing this series taking a closer look at small businesses that are owned and operated by Pediatric Occupational and Physical Therapists. Today, the focus is on custom yoga mats created by Rebecca, a Pediatric Physical Therapist. Q: First just tell a little bit about yourself – job experience, years on the job, etc. […]
As school based therapists, we are frequently working on gross motor skills in small spaces. In my experience, I have worked in crowded classrooms, hallways, under stairwells and even closets. You have to come up with creative ideas to get students moving without the benefits of a large gym or outdoor space. Here are 5 […]
Autism published a research review on the literature regarding behavioral outcomes of exercise interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder aged less than 16 years old. Thirteen studies were included. The results indicated: exercise interventions consisting individually of jogging, horseback riding, martial arts, swimming or yoga/dance can result in improvements to numerous behavioural outcomes including stereotypic behaviours, social-emotional […]
Mandala means “circle” or “center.” Coloring mandalas can help to encourage relaxation, relieve stress, facilitate creativity and balance the body. Here are three simple mandalas to color to help to calm the body. They are perfect to add to a quiet corner or calm down kit in the classroom. Check out Yoga Cards at https://www.yourtherapysource.com/yogacards.html […]
This Downward Dog Yoga Pose is a free sample from Yoga Cards. The purpose of the downward dog pose is to: 1. improve balance. 2. stretch the back and the hamstring muscles (back of the thighs). 3. strengthen the shoulders, arms and the core muscles. 4. stimulate the vestibular system with the inverted position of […]
Physiology & Behavior published research on 20 children – 10 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 10 control subjects to determine how the heart rate adjusts during different physical tests. Each participant was evaluated using the Eurofit Physical Fitness Test Battery with constant heart rate monitoring. In addition, their parents completed the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. […]