Uncategorized

Possible implications of New DSM-5 PDD Diagnosis for OT, PT, and ST

Given the DSM-5 diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder “ASD” as a single diagnosis with differing degrees of severity and a subcategory of restricted repetitive behaviors occupational, speech-language, and physical therapists are uniquely qualified to offer important diagnostic input. ASD is categorized as Level 1 requiring support, Level 2 requiring substantial support, and Level 3 requiring very substantial […]

Possible implications of New DSM-5 PDD Diagnosis for OT, PT, and ST Read More »

FAB Strategies Workshops

I’ve been getting several enquiries from therapists, parents, and teachers interested in taking my FAB (Functionally Alert Body) Strategies workshops.  FAB Strategies offer evidence based transdisciplinary mindfulness, sensory processing, handling, behavioral, art, music, and activity strategies for children with behavioral, developmental, and sensory challenges. I would enjoy discussing setting up workshops with you and can

FAB Strategies Workshops Read More »

FAB Sensory Calming Area Strategy Improves Self-Control

FAB Sensory Quiet Area Log The FAB sensory calming area strategy improves self-control in individuals with behavioral, sensory, and developmental challenges. The FAB sensory calming area strategy integrates best practice sensory processing intervention and behavior modification theory by encouraging clients to use a designated area to modulate their arousal to a calm alert state when

FAB Sensory Calming Area Strategy Improves Self-Control Read More »

Pediatricians on Sensory Integration for Developmental and Behavioral Disorders

As a pediatric occupational therapist for 30 years, reading the American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement on sensory integration therapies for children with developmental and behavioral disorders (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2012) impacted me deeply.  My reaction is bests summarized by the movie title The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.  The Good is the

Pediatricians on Sensory Integration for Developmental and Behavioral Disorders Read More »

A FAB Sensory Behavioral Strategy for Kids with Autism

FAB (Functionally Alert Behavior) STRATEGIES A clinically affective strategy for children with Autism who engage in repetitive self-injurious behavior is the FAB Reinforce Sensory Match Strategy.  The FAB Reinforce Sensory Match Strategy involves replacing the automatic sensory reinforcement that encourages repetitive self-injurious behaviors with matched sensory activities, while also reinforcing the child for refraining from

A FAB Sensory Behavioral Strategy for Kids with Autism Read More »

A FAB Alternative to a Sensory Diet

FAB (Functionally Alert Behavior) STRATEGIES A FAB Alternative to Sensory Diets   FAB “Functionally Alert Behavior” Strategies provide a practical alternative to the use of a Sensory Diet.  In my work as a full time occupational therapist with my own sensory processing challenges, I created FAB Strategies to quickly develop individualized strategies that improve self-regulation

A FAB Alternative to a Sensory Diet Read More »

Praxis Comic FAB Strategy

Ayres Sensory Integration describes PRAXIS as the process necessary during initial learning (functionally involved in learning tasks such as shoe tying, printing, cursive writing, keyboarding). Ayres described praxis as involving 3 components, any or all of which are difficult for children with praxis problems termed “dyspraxia”. Taking as an example building with playdoh, consider the

Praxis Comic FAB Strategy Read More »

Song & Dance

It is important for all preschool and kindergarten children and elementary classes to provide music and movement breaks. Social skills are enhanced by playing songs like “Help” by the Beatles or “Respect” by Aretha Franklin, letting children dance, then asking them to draw.

Song & Dance Read More »

Encouraging More PE and less TV

Movement and music brake strategies facilitate inclusion and help all students learn self control and attention skills.  Current research supports the value of music and movement breaks in promoting academic achievement and self-control in children.  A minimum exercise equivalent of 20 minutes brisk walking daily promotes academic achievement, neurological development, self-control, and overall health. Physical

Encouraging More PE and less TV Read More »

Verified by MonsterInsights