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Visual Monitoring and Handwriting

The Edie Neurolearning Blog posted information on some research on the brain basis of dysgraphia.  It appears to be very interesting although there is not a reference.  It confirms what many pediatric therapists observe – many children require extensive visual monitoring of letter formation.  Functional MRI’s compared “good writers” with “bad writers”.  The testing revealed that […]

Immersion in the Skill

Teaching a New Motor Skill? Try Full Immersion

Here is something to try that does not have to necessarily do with swimming – immersion in one particular motor skill.  When we are teaching a child a new motor skill or perhaps working on refining a motor skill, try bombarding the child with the skill.  Here are some examples: The goal is to write […]

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Bean Bag Tunes on You Tube

Came across these fun YouTube videos to use as a quick brain break for teachers in class or some activities during a therapy session.  It reinforces learning right side from the left side, bilateral coordination, body awareness and following directions. Here is the BeanBag Beatbox #1: Here is Beanbag Beatbox #2: If you need more […]

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Pincer Grasp on iPad

Here is the tip of the day when using an iPad – use a mini sponge.  A regular cellulose sponge cut up into a small piece will encourage the child to use a pincer grasp when using the iPad.  In the pictures above, you can see the pincer grasp on the mini sponge.  Now you […]

Dynamic Tripod Grip

We have recently published What? Why? How? Series 2 which is a collection of 11 hand outs to describe what something is, why it is important and how you can help. Series 2 has a focus on fine motor skill development. You can download a free sample page on the dynamic tripod grip.

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October 2012 Digital Magazine for Pediatric OT and PT

The latest issue of Your Therapy Source’s digital magazine for pediatric occupational and physical therapists is now available for free. It includes articles on motor skill practice, sensory processing and lots of freebies. If you can not view the document below go to YourTherapySource.com/magazine to download a pdf copy. Open publication – Free publishing

Love this new idea!!!

Came across this on the web this morning. Watch this video from CBS News on this new product. This is an excellent idea to get babies and young children with disabilities moving and exploring their environment as soon as possible. You can get more information about the ZipZac chair here. It looks like it costs […]

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Culture and Sensory Sensitivities

Have you ever considered the influence of culture on sensory sensitivities?  Does being from a different country or upbringing influence sensory preferences?  One would assume the answer is yes but definitive differences would be hard to categorize. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy published research on a cross cultural comparison of sensory behaviors in children […]