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Category: ADHD

Understanding Autism Awareness Month 

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April is a time of vibrant colors and fresh beginnings, but it holds a deeper significance for many families. It’s Autism Awareness Month, a month dedicated to shedding light on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), celebrating neurodiversity, and fostering understanding and acceptance.

What is Autism Awareness Month?

Autism Awareness Month is dedicated to increasing understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals with autism and their families. It aims to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and encourage inclusive practices across communities.

Understanding Autism: A Spectrum of Strengths & Challenges

Autism is a complex developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It manifests in various ways, reinforcing the saying, “When you have met one child with autism, you’ve only met one child with autism.” The autism spectrum is broad, encompassing individuals with profound challenges as well as those with exceptional abilities. Each person with autism is unique, possessing their own strengths, interests, and challenges.

Dispelling Myths: The Importance of Awareness & Acceptance

One of the central goals of Autism Awareness Month is to break down myths and misconceptions about autism. Awareness fosters understanding, empathy, and inclusion. It’s about recognizing that different ways of thinking and experiencing the world are not deficiencies but rather valuable contributions to society.

The Role of Education in Autism Inclusion

Education plays a pivotal role in promoting acceptance and inclusion. By learning about autism’s characteristics and how it manifests, we can create environments that support individuals on the spectrum. From classrooms to workplaces, inclusivity starts with knowledge and compassion from all of us.

Celebrating the Strengths & Talents of Individuals with Autism

Autism Awareness Month is also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and talents of individuals with autism. Many excel in areas such as art, music, mathematics, and technology. By highlighting these talents, we challenge stereotypes and showcase the diverse strengths within the autism community.

Advocacy & Action: Moving Beyond Awareness

Awareness alone isn’t enough—it must translate into meaningful action. Advocating for policies and practices that prioritize the needs of individuals with autism is crucial. This includes access to healthcare, therapy resources, educational support, employment opportunities, and accommodations that help individuals with autism and their families thrive.

How You Can Support Autism Awareness Month

There are many ways to get involved and make a difference:

  1. Educate yourself: Learn about autism from reputable sources to understand the diversity within the spectrum and the challenges individuals may face.
  2. Spread awareness: Share information about autism with your friends, family, and community.
  3. Support autism organizations: Donate to or volunteer with reputable organizations that provide advocacy and support.
  4. Foster inclusion: Advocate for accommodations in workplaces, schools, and communities that promote accessibility for individuals with autism.
  5. Practice empathy and acceptance: Treat individuals with autism with kindness, respect, and understanding. Embrace neurodiversity and celebrate each person’s unique strengths.

Carolina Therapy Connection’s Commitment to Autism Support

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we are dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families. As an Autism Certified Clinic, our therapists hold specialized certifications and training to provide high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of children with autism. We continually update our treatment strategies in occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and speech therapy (ST) to ensure we are utilizing the latest research-based approaches.

By fostering awareness, acceptance, and advocacy, we can work together to create a world where individuals with autism are valued, respected, and allowed to thrive.

By:

Shelby Godwin, COTA/L, AC 

Sweet Dreams: Sleep Strategies for a Well-Rested Child

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Why Sleep Matters: Sleep Strategies Key to a Well-Rested Child

Parenting can be a rollercoaster ride filled with joy, challenges, and sleepless nights. Nights without sleep might seem normal in the newborn phase, but they don’t have to be a permanent part of parenting! Do you know some simple sleep strategies that can help the family sleep better? This blog post will explore tips to make bedtime a breeze for you and your kids!

The Power of Routine: Sticking to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to sleep! Using a regular sleep schedule helps create a clock inside your child’s body. It also helps to create a predictable routine for your child. Try to get to bed and wake up simultaneously every day. That includes weekends! This will help the body create a regular sleep pattern and make falling asleep easier. 

Create a Nightly Routine

Ensuring a good night’s sleep starts before your child’s head hits the pillow. Create a consistent bedtime routine. Before bed, try taking a warm, calming bath. Read a book in bed or try relaxation strategies like listening to calming music or stretching. Limit snacks, drinks, and screen time before bed. 

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment for Your Child

Turn your child’s bedroom into a space that encourages sleep. Keep the space quiet and dark. You can use blackout curtains to block light and a white noise machine to drown out any noise. Temperature is also critical. Make sure your child is not too hot or too cold. The actual place of sleep can make or break a good night of sleep. Ensure your child’s mattress and pillows provide good support for a restful sleep. You can also try stretchy lycra sheets to provide compression during sleep, making your child feel as if they are getting a comfy hug all night long. If your child displays fear of the dark, use a night light to provide a comforting light while sleeping. 

The Role of Screen Time in Your Child’s Sleep Quality

The light from screens like phones, tablets, or TVs can interfere with sleep. Try to avoid using screens for at least an hour before bedtime. It may also be helpful to remove screens from the bedroom. Instead, read a book, draw, or play a quiet game to help when winding down before bed.

Daytime Activities That Promote Better Sleep at Night

Did you know that being active during the day can help you sleep better at night? Please encourage your child to get outside to play or do some fun movement activities to help their body feel tired when it’s time to lay their heads down.

Nutrition and Sleep: What to Eat and Avoid Before Bedtime

Some foods and drinks make it harder for your child to fall asleep. Avoid eating large meals or spicy foods before bed, as they can cause discomfort during sleep. Try not to have snacks or drinks with caffeine or sugar before bedtime. Instead, stick to a light, healthy snack that won’t disrupt their sleep. 

Follow these simple tips to become a sleep superstar and have sweet dreams every night! Remember, getting enough sleep is essential for staying healthy, so prioritize a good night’s sleep.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Support Better Sleep? 

In addition to utilizing the tips above at home, we know that sometimes families may need extra support. At ci***@***********************on.com","type":"person"}”>Carolina Therapy Connection, our Occupational Therapists work to address any barriers that affect someone’s physical, mental, or emotional well-being. Occupational therapists at CTC can help determine if your child’s sleep difficulties are related to underlying sensory or environmental issues. They can help establish a sensory diet (a personalized, organized plan that provides sensory input activities that a person needs to regulate their body throughout the day) to address potential underlying sensory issues that may impact sleep. They can also provide additional strategies for your child’s specific sleep needs. Our goals are to improve your child’s sleep quality to increase participation in meaningful activities throughout the day. Additionally, check out our Amazon storefront for items that can help achieve a good night’s sleep! 

 

By: Caroline Zissette, MS, OTR/L

 

 

Sensory Integration Therapy and Sensory Diet Toolkit

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Enhancing Sensory Processing with Sensory Integration Therapy

Sensory integration therapy is designed to help children who experience sensory processing challenges respond to sensory input more regulated and effectively. It can play a vital role in improving a child’s sensory awareness, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. At the core of this therapeutic approach is the Sensory Diet Toolkit, a collection of activities and interventions that support sensory processing and help children navigate their sensory needs throughout the day.

What is Sensory Integration Therapy?

Sensory integration therapy is a treatment approach that focuses on how the brain processes and responds to sensory information. It helps children become more aware of their sensory experiences, such as touch, sound, sight, and movement. The therapy aims to balance how a child responds to different sensory stimuli, helping them function better in everyday environments like home, school, and playgrounds.

For children with sensory processing disorders, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, or other developmental conditions, sensory integration therapy can make a significant difference. It can improve how children respond to sensory experiences, whether feeling overwhelmed by loud noises or seeking out constant motion.

What is a Sensory Diet?

A sensory diet is a personalized set of sensory activities strategically scheduled throughout the day to help the child meet their sensory needs. It is called a “diet” because it involves a routine of activities providing specific sensory input to regulate the sensory system. Think of it as a balanced approach to sensory stimulation—just like a balanced meal plan supports your physical health, a sensory diet supports emotional and sensory well-being.

The Sensory Diet Toolkit: Key Components

The Sensory Diet Toolkit consists of various activities and strategies to help children with sensory processing challenges. These activities are designed to either stimulate, calm, or organize the sensory system, depending on the child’s specific needs. Here are some examples:

 

  1. Therapeutic Brushing: This involves using a special brush to apply gentle pressure to the skin, providing calming tactile input. It can help children who are sensitive to touch or who have difficulty calming down.
  2. Therapeutic Drumming: Using drums or rhythmic activities helps children who need proprioceptive input (sensory input related to body movement) to organize their movements and improve focus.
  3. Deep Pressure Techniques: Activities like squeezing a stress ball or using weighted blankets can help children who need calming sensory input to feel more grounded and relaxed.
  4. Movement Breaks: Short bursts of physical activity like jumping on a trampoline or spinning can help children who seek sensory input and may need extra stimulation to feel regulated.
  5. Fidget Tools: Fidget spinners, chewable jewelry, or putty provide sensory input that helps children stay calm and focused, especially in situations that may be overstimulating.

 

How the Sensory Diet Helps Children

By integrating sensory activities into daily routines, children can improve their ability to process sensory information, which can help them:

 

  • Stay calm and focused: Sensory activities help children regulate their emotional and physical responses, promoting a more balanced state of being.
  • Develop better social skills: By managing sensory needs, children may have fewer meltdowns or emotional outbursts, allowing them to interact more comfortably with others.
  • Improve motor skills and coordination: Sensory activities also support the development of fine and gross motor skills, which can lead to improved physical coordination.
  • Enhance emotional well-being: Children who can self-regulate their sensory input are better equipped to handle stress, frustration, and other emotional challenges.

 

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we offer sensory integration therapy as part of our comprehensive therapy services for children. Our team of skilled occupational therapists is trained to assess your child’s unique sensory processing needs and create a personalized sensory diet that will work for them. Whether your child struggles with sensory overload, seeks constant movement, or finds it difficult to focus, we can help with strategies tailored to their needs. If you want to learn more about sensory integration and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, please schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore more about our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

Let’s Talk Articulation!

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When Do I Bring My Child for a Speech Sound Evaluation?

As our children grow and develop speech, they don’t learn to use all the speech sounds in their native language simultaneously.  That’s why my little one tells me that “it’s dart outside” when he looks out the window after dinner these days!  But how do you know when to seek out a speech therapist for your child?  

Check out the chart below, which is available as a downloadable PDF on the SLP now website at https://blog.slpnow.com/the-slps-guide-to-speech-sound-disorders-articulation-phonological-development/; when looking at the chart, understand that some children start to develop sounds before the ages listed. The ages listed represent the age at which 90% of children have mastered each sound. For many speech sounds, there is a wide range of ages at which a child may start to produce the sound or approximations inconsistently before they truly master the sound. However, it is a quick rule of thumb that if a child cannot produce one of the sounds listed under their age, speech therapy may be indicated.

 

 

What Can I Do at Home to Help My Child with Their Speech Sounds?

So, what can a parent do to help their child develop speech sounds correctly at home? The first strategy I recommend is to make sure your child is looking at your face when you’re producing words or sounds that they had difficulty with. Draw attention to your mouth by pointing.  Children learn a lot about how a sound is produced by observing you. 

Another strategy that you can use is called recasting. Recasting is when you repeat what your child says precisely, including the errors, in a questioning voice. For example, if your child says, “Look at the tar” when they mean “Look at the car,” you might respond by saying, “Tar? Is that what you meant?” When the child attempts to correct himself or herself, if he or she cannot do so, I suggest using the first strategy we discussed.  Your child may not produce the sound at that moment, but that’s okay because they are still learning from what they see and hear from you.

I also recommend reading with your child regularly. Even if a child cannot read independently, draw their attention to some of the letters in the book, especially if the book has large decorative letters at the beginning of paragraphs. Talk about the sound the letters make, and again, ensure your child is watching your face. 

For emerging readers, phonics activities are an excellent time to work on articulation at home. While doing phonics homework with your child, could you talk about how each sound is made?  For example, the “T sound is made with our tongue on the roof of her mouth.” If you’re unsure how to describe how sounds are made, PeechieSpeechie.com has an excellent video library with tutorials for each sound.

If your child is receiving speech therapy services, their SLP will be able to provide you with additional, personalized resources.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help? 

If you are still unsure or feel that your child’s speech is difficult to understand compared to others his/her age, Carolina Therapy Connection has licensed Speech Language Pathologists at the clinics in Greenville, Goldsboro, and New Bern that are highly qualified to evaluate and diagnose speech sound disorders.  You can schedule a speech sound evaluation at whichever clinic is most convenient for your family at 252-341-9944.  Our professionals can also provide personalized resources for your child’s needs. 

 

By Michelle Berghold

 

Syncing Success: A Better Way to Manage ADHD Without Medication

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) poses unique challenges for individuals of all ages, affecting their ability to focus, organize tasks, and regulate impulses. While traditional interventions often involve medications and behavioral therapy, a groundbreaking approach has emerged in recent years – the use of the Interactive Metronome (IM) as an innovative tool for managing ADHD symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between Interactive Metronome and ADHD, shedding light on how this rhythmic training can make a significant difference in the lives of those navigating the complexities of ADHD.

 

Understanding ADHD and its Challenges

 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD may find it challenging to sustain attention, complete tasks, and regulate their behavior, impacting academic, professional, and personal aspects of their lives. Traditional treatment approaches often involve a combination of medications and behavioral therapy, but the search for non-invasive, complementary interventions has led to exploring innovative tools like the Interactive Metronome.

 

Interactive Metronome and ADHD: A Rhythmic Approach

 

The Interactive Metronome operates on the principle that precise timing and rhythmic synchronization can positively influence neural pathways related to attention, coordination, and executive functions. Here’s how IM is making waves in the realm of ADHD management:

 

  1. Enhanced Attention and Focus: IM exercises require participants to match their movements to a rhythmic beat with millisecond accuracy. This process engages the brain’s attention and timing centers, fostering sustained attention and focus improvements, essential components for managing ADHD symptoms.

 

  1. Improved Executive Functions: ADHD often involves challenges with executive functions like working memory, organization, and impulse control. The structured nature of IM exercises helps strengthen these cognitive processes, providing individuals with practical skills to navigate daily tasks more effectively.

 

  1. Sensory Integration: The combination of auditory and visual cues in IM promotes sensory integration, a critical factor in ADHD management. Individuals can develop better self-regulation and coordination by syncing sensory information with motor responses.

 

  1. Individualized Treatment Plans: Therapists at Carolina Therapy Connection can tailor IM programs to address the specific needs and challenges of individuals with ADHD. The customizable nature of IM allows for a personalized approach, ensuring that the training aligns with each participant’s unique cognitive and motor profile.

 

Real-life Success Stories 

 

The impact of Interactive Metronome on ADHD management is not just theoretical – there is a growing body of research-based evidence supporting its effectiveness. Many individuals undergoing occupational therapy at Carolina Therapy Connection have reported significant improvements in attention, impulse control, and overall quality of life after incorporating IM into their ADHD treatment plan.

 

In the evolving landscape of ADHD management, the Interactive Metronome stands out as a promising avenue for individuals seeking alternative and complementary approaches. By tapping into the power of rhythmic synchronization and precise timing, IM offers a dynamic and engaging method to address the core challenges associated with ADHD. It’s not just about keeping time; it’s about syncing success despite ADHD’s unique challenges.  Our Occupational Therapists and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants at Carolina Therapy Connection are certified in the Interactive Metronome. They can utilize this as an essential part of a child’s treatment plan.  The Interactive Metronome can be used as a standalone treatment, but we see the best results when incorporated into diverse therapeutic programs.

 

 

Call us today to learn more about the Interactive Metronome and whether your child would benefit from this amazing therapeutic intervention!

 

What is AAC?

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AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It encompasses all of the ways in which an individual may communicate outside of speaking verbally. Augmentative communication means to add to someone’s existing speech skills, and alternative means to be used in place of verbal speech. There are many different kinds of AAC including, but not limited to: gestures, facial expressions, writing, pictures symbols (e.g., picture exchange communication system/ PECS), drawing, sign language, high-tech speech generating devices, communication boards, etc. Some people may use one of these modalities, and some may use multiple modalities depending on the way in which they can most quickly and clearly communicate the topic.

Who Needs AAC?

Many different people use AAC throughout their lifetime. It can be used across the lifespan by any age, at any time, and for a variety of different reasons. Some people use AAC for their entire life, and some use it for only a short period of time. AAC can help any person who has difficulty fully or partially meeting their daily communication needs such as expressing wants and needs, socializing, asking questions, and a variety of other functions.

 

 

How can AAC help your child?

AAC may be able to help your child if they have difficulty being understood by others, have a limited vocabulary, demonstrate limited spontaneous speech, are non-speaking, and a variety of other different reasons. There are no prerequisite skills to your child beginning to use AAC. One common misconception is that AAC will hinder language development or cause your child to become dependent on it for communication. While some children may have minimal to no verbal speech throughout their lifetime, there is research to show that AAC can actually help children to develop language. Using AAC can also help to reduce frustration surrounding communication attempts, and help your child to communicate their needs more clearly, quickly, and effectively.

 

 

Parent’s Role in AAC

When introducing AAC to your child, it is important for family members/ caregivers to make the commitment to help the child succeed with the chosen AAC device. Your input is crucial in helping to choose and develop an appropriate AAC system, and using the device at home and in the community is a vital step to help both you and the child continue to learn the system. According to Jane Korsten, SLP, the average 18-month-old has been exposed to 4,380 hours of oral language at a rate of 8 hours/ day from birth. A child who has a communication system (AAC) and receives speech/language therapy 2 times/week for 20-30 minutes will reach the same amount of language exposure (in their AAC language) in 84 years. It is our role as professionals and caregivers to help minimize the communication gap between oral language users and AAC users. 

Modeling:  Modeling is an awesome way to both learn your child’s AAC system, and teach them an example of how they can use it. The best way to model is to speak and use the system at the same time, although you do not always have to select an icon for every word you say. For example, you may verbally say “time to go to school” while modeling “go” and “school” on the AAC system. A general rule of thumb is to model the number of icons your child is currently using, plus one. If your child uses 1 icon at a time, you may choose to model 1-2 icons at this time. It is important to model without expectation, meaning that you use the AAC system without expecting or requiring the child to respond, withholding items or activities, or “testing” their skills. The goal is to provide an example to the AAC learner, which they will then learn by watching and listening to what you do/say.

 

How can CTC help you and your child?

Whether your child is already receiving speech/language therapy services at our clinic or not, CTC is ready to help support both parents and children through their own individual journey with Augmentative and Alternative Communication. If you believe that your child may benefit from the use of AAC, talk to one of our many incredible speech-language pathologists to begin the process of figuring out what type of system (no tech, low-tech, mid-tech, high-tech) will work best. This process can take time, but with your support and the support of your SLP, it is possible to find the right system for your child! 

Does My Child Have Dyslexia?

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What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia targets about 15-20% of our population! Most of us may not even know we are dyslexic. We could continue our lives undiagnosed and seek little to no help with this problem. Many people with Dyslexia that have been evaluated struggle with academics, self-esteem, and most importantly, they struggle with reading/writing within their own home and in the school environment. Many adults with this diagnosis have difficulties with finding or obtaining employment and causes them to lose self-confidence. Dyslexia is a type of learning disability, specifically reading, but not to be compared with low intelligence. There are many types of disabilities that involve learning, but dyslexia meaning is more in-depth of someone having issues with learning to read, although they are most likely educated enough to learn when want to learn. 

What are the symptoms of dyslexia before and at school age?

When it comes to signs of Dyslexia, it can be difficult to visually see a child’s symptoms before they reach a certain age or start going to school. There’s a high chance that the child’s educator will notice an issue before the caregiver. 

Here are some signs of Dyslexia:

  • The child will have difficulties with letter reversals; (b and d) and/or word reversals (was and saw).
  • Your child could be a late talker.
  • Problems processing and understanding what is heard
  • The child may have difficulties with reading aloud and learning new words and an age-appropriate pace; the child may avoid activities that involve reading
  • The child may mispronounce words; or form words incorrectly, such as reversing sounds in words or confusing words that sound alike.
  • The child may have trouble with rhyming words and remembering nursery rhymes
  • Difficulties with math word problems.
  • Difficulties with understanding jokes, punchlines, sarcasm, and inferences.
  • Your child may have difficulties with following a written outline of directions or telling directions.
  • Difficulties with spelling, learning to read, and recalling names or words.

What Causes Dyslexia? 

Dyslexia is not a disease. It is a neurological condition caused by the way the brain is wired up enabling reading and writing causing the individual to result in utilizing coping strategies to adapt to normal environments. Studies show that an individual born with this condition are neither more nor less intelligent than the general population. Research has shown that dyslexia is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders an individual is born with. Even though it affects how the brain processes reading and language, most children have average or above-average intelligence; therefore, work extremely hard to achieve and overcome their reading problems.

What should you do if you suspect or if your child has Dyslexia?

Have a conversation with your healthcare provider and discuss your child’s reading level if you or his/her teacher notice a below-level reading status for your child’s age or if you notice other signs of dyslexia. Fortunately, with the proper assistance, most kids who are dyslexic can learn to read and develop strategies that allow them to stay in the regular classroom. If you suspect you or your child may be dyslexic, early detection and evaluation to determine specific needs and appropriate treatment can improve success. In many cases, treatment can help children become competent readers. It’s important to set an example and support your child with goals that are attainable. Show your child that reading can be enjoyable.

Set Goals for yourself and the child:

  • As a parent, you should play a key role in helping your child succeed. 
  • You can assist your child by reading aloud to them while they are young, then transition to reading together when they’re old enough. 
  • You can also listen to recorded books with your child. 
  • Collaborate with your child’s educator. 
  • Engaged in creating a schedule for reading time. 

How can Occupational Therapy help?

Pediatric occupational therapists and certified occupational therapy assistants can encourage children to participate in meaningful tasks within the school and home environments. Therapists can assist in managing dyslexia and assist in increasing children’s confidence and participation in reading and writing tasks. Occupational therapy for kiddos really focuses on building confidence and implementing client-centered care for the child and their families. OT’s can provide strategies for home and school such as: 

  • Implementing multi-sensory approaches – using other senses to approach learning such as seeing, listening, doing, and speaking).
  • Visual prompts: Providing visual prompts for both instructions and organization.
  • Visually sequencing tasks (or components within a task) using visual cues. 
  • Use of colored lines and templates to assist with line placement and letter sizing.
  • Visual strategies to assist with reading and spelling such as colored coding paper size according to letter size.
  • Using modeling techniques rather than only giving a simple verbal instruction
  • Letter formation practice

 

Written By: Carlos Guilford

Teaching Kids Independence With Life Skills

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Chores or Life Skills?

Kiddos may ask themselves this question: Why do I have to do these chores? Here at CTC, we call chores “Life Skills” because that is simply what they are. Although not always the most preferred thing for your child to do, washing dishes, washing clothes, making the bed, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, grocery shopping, cooking, and many more are essential life skills that are necessary when becoming an independent adult. Not only are they necessary, they are also very helpful for the development of time management skills, executive functioning, sensory regulation, and even emotional regulation. 

You may be wondering how you can gauge what skills are appropriate for your child. Below is a short list of age appropriate chores to get you started based on your child’s age:

Life Skills for 2-3 years old

  • Picking up toys
  • Wiping up a mess (wiping off the counter after eating or messy play)
  • Putting laundry in the hamper after taking off dirty clothes

Life Skills for 4-5 years old

  • Making the bed (even if it is assisting you with the task!)
  • Starting simple meal preparation (putting thing into bowls, stirring, etc.)
  • Helping wash/rinse dishes

Life Skills for 6-8 years old

  • Feeding pets
  • Vacuuming, sweeping, mopping
  • Folding laundry/putting away own clothes

Life Skills for 9-12 years old

  • Prepare simple meals (heating up a hot pocket, TV dinner or oven pizza)
  • Taking out garbage
  • Cleaning areas of the home other than own bedroom (bathroom, living room, outdoor areas)
  • Helping make a shopping list and helping to find items in the grocery store

13-18 years – Include all listed above with increased to total independence!

So your child may be age appropriate for the tasks at hand, but what if you wonder whether they are developmentally, emotionally, physically or cognitively appropriate for the task at this age? Recently CTC held a Life Skills camp with 4 days of fun while completing tasks that increase independence within the home environment. The kiddos in this group worked on grocery shopping, meal preparation, cleaning up after themselves, household life skills, taking care of pets and plants, team work and communication. During the camp, each child was asked to review their skills and determine the toughest part of doing “chores”. The #1 answer was time management and feelings of overwhelm when presented with multiple tasks to complete. We all worked to develop either written or visual (picture) schedules for each kiddo to take home to aid in these concerns, making getting these life skills done easier and less frustrating!

Talk to your child’s occupational therapist to see if these could be options to help your child regulate their emotions, plan their time with greater efficiency and learn new skills after mastering current ones! If your kiddo struggles to complete their daily activities, call our clinic at (252) 341-9944! Your child may benefit from an occupational therapy screening or formal evaluation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is 2 recipes of foods that were made during the camp:

  1. Rice Kripsy Treats – The Original Rice Krispies Treats™ Recipe | Rice Krispies® 
  2. Soup (written by a kiddo in the camp)

Ingredients

  • 3-4 boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 medium onion
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 chicken stock boxes
  • 1 small rice pack (boil in a bag)
  • 1 can black beans

Add a pinch of…

  • Pink Himalayan Salt
  • Chili powder
  • Seasoned Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

MIX TOGETHER IN A SMALL BOWL

Steps:

  1. Make the rice according to directions on the rice bag
  2. As the rice is cooking, cut chicken into 1 inch cubes
  3. Sprinkle seasoning onto chicken
  4. Cut carrots and onion into preferred size and cook until preferred texture
  5. Cook the chicken until done in saucepan
  6. Once all ingredients are finished, combine with stock in a pot and boil for 2-5 minutes
  7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes
Written By: Shelby Godwin, COTA/L, AC 
TEACHING CHILDREN LIFE SKILLS Carolina Therapy Connection Greenville Goldsboro New Bern NC

All About Occupational Therapy

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What is Occupational Therapy? 

The main goal of OT is to increase quality of life so that the client can continue to participate in their personal interests as well as take care of their own needs. Through therapeutic use of self, a strong relationship of trust is built between client and therapist that will help the client to grow in skills leading to increased independence. Occupational therapists improve, rehabilitate, or maintain individuals’ performance to complete everyday occupations (IADLs & ADLs).

What is the role of an Occupational Therapist?

As an occupational therapy assistant, working in the pediatric setting, it is my responsibility to implement activities and tasks that will improve my clients ability to perform at an age-appropriate level. In this setting, you will commonly see OTs working on improving age-appropriate grasp and legibility with handwriting, sensory processing, oral motor skills for feeding, core strengthening for postural control, hand strengthening to increase fine motor skills, visual motor/perceptual skills for copying shapes and or letters.

What are IADLs?

IADL’s stands for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living that involve your home and community. Below is a list of different IADLs an individual may complete regularly.

  • Care of others
  • Care of pets
  • Communication management
  • Driving and community mobility
  • Financial management
  • Health management and maintenance
  • Housekeeping
  • Food preparation
  • Religious and spiritual activities
  • Shopping

What are ADLs?

ADL’s stands for Activities of Daily Living and are basic self-are tasks an individual engages in daily.

  • Bathing
  • Grooming
  • Toileting
  • Dressing
  • Feeding
  • Transfers
  • Abulation

How Can OT Benefit Children? 

Occupational therapy can benefit children of all ages with a variety of needs and diagnoses including:

At CTC, our occupational therapist provides screenings, assessments, consultations, and treatment for those concerned about: 

  • Cognitive skills
  • Gross & fine motor skills
  • Self-care tasks
  • Self-feeding tasks
  • Sensory processing
  • Visual processing & perception
  • Social skills

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

Our occupational therapists will complete an initial evaluation to become familiar with your child’s strengths, weaknesses and daily routine. Following the evaluation, they will create an individualized treatment plan and goals to address any concerns with development. We take pride in making therapy enjoyable and fun for your child, so that they can be motivated to live their life to their greatest potential.

We use evidence-based treatment approaches including:

If you have questions regarding your child’s development or want to learn more about occupational therapy, call our clinic today at 252-341-9944 or visit our referrals page HERE. We provide services in Greenville, Goldsboro and New Bern, North Carolina. One of our licensed and board certified therapists will be happy to provide you with a FREE developmental screening today! We can’t wait to begin this journey with your family!

Blog Written By: Lacey Smith, COTA/L 

Alternative & Complementary ADHD Treatments

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What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common disorders among children. Per the American Psychiatric Association, many ADHD symptoms, such as high activity levels, difficulty remaining still for long periods of time and limited attention spans, are common to young children in general. The difference in children with ADHD is that their hyperactivity and inattention are noticeably greater than expected for their age and cause distress and/or problems functioning at home, at school or with friends.

ADHD Treatment

ADHD is commonly treated with medication and these medications are effective and for 80% of kids with the disorder. Some children benefit from their medication, in addition to other treatment strategies, while others are able to manage their routine with solely medication. Many parents worry about side affects of ADHD medication and are willing to try other options prior to taking the pharmaceutical route. Regardless of your decision for your child, as a parent, we understand that this can be a challenging time! An occupational therapist at Carolina Therapy Connection may be able to help your child by directly addressing these skills:

  • Organization
  • Physical Coordination
  • Controlling energy levels
  • Ability to do everyday tasks: organize their backpack, make their bed, complete morning or nightly routine, feeding etc.
  • Maintain attention to tasks
  • Time management

Carolina Therapy Connection discusses several alternative and complementary treatments for ADHD that we specialize in below.

Sensory Integration Therapy

    • Many children with ADHD also suffer from sensory processing disorder, a neurological underpinning that contributes to their ability to pay attention or focus.  Normally, we process and adapt to sensory stimulation in our daily environment. But children with ADHD are unable to adjust, and instead might be so distracted and bothered by a sound or movement in the classroom, for instance, that they cannot pay attention to the teacher.
    • Development of a sensory diet and home education program focusing on self-modulation and self-regulation skills
    • Use of our brand new, 3000sq. ft. sensory gym to elicit a variety of adaptive responses to help improve attention and sensory modulation 
      • Focus specifically on deep pressure/proprioceptive feedback and vestibular feedback.

Interactive Metronome (IM) Treatment Modality

    • Developed in the early 1990s, the Interactive Metronome treatment modality is a computer-based program that has children complete physical exercises in certain pre-determined rhythms, relying on a concept called “neurotiming” to improve a child’s focus, coordination, processing speed, and working memory.
    • The program requires the user to synchronize a range of hand and foot exercises with a precise computer-generated tone heard through headphones. A child tries to match the rhythmic beat with repetitive motor actions. An auditory-visual guidance system gives immediate feedback, measured in milliseconds, and keeps score. Over time (a typical course of treatment lasts 15 to 20 sessions), IM improves the brain’s sense of timing through exercise and practice — which, in turn, is thought to improve a wide range of other cognitive skills.
    • The principle behind both Interactive Metronome (neurotiming)  has been studied for more than 10 years. Most of the results have been positive: a 2011 study, focusing on 54 students in grades 2 through 8, found that, after training with Interactive Metronome for 20 sessions, participants’ reading and math skills improved by an average of 20 percent. Common ADHD trouble spots like attention levels, listening ability, and emotional control improved, too — by an average of 30 percent.
    • Another study, from 2012, compared traditional reading intervention methods with an interactive metronome program. Results indicated that children who practiced with the metronome program — in addition to the traditional reading intervention methods — had greater gains in reading skills than did the children who used traditional methods alone.
    • The Interactive Metronome training helps to facilitate a number of capacities, including attention, motor control, and selected academic skills, in children with ADHD.
    • Treatment with the Interactive Metronome is incorporated into a comprehensive occupational therapy treatment program and is covered by all insurances. 

Therapeutic Listening Program

    • Therapeutic Listening is an evidence-based form of music and sound therapy that assists people with many things such as sensory integration, poor attention and communication, and social skill deficits.  The music or sounds delivered to the individual through the headphones have been electronically modified and altered so that they stimulate the proper area of the central nervous system or brain.
    • In Therapeutic Listening therapy, an individual listens to a 30-minute session of music on specialized headphones twice a day no less than 3 hours apart from each other. While listening to music during the 30-minute session, the individual is usually engaging in behaviors that are intended to help them practice the skill of which they are wanting to improve. It can be done at home or in a therapeutic setting with our VitaLinks trained therapists.
    • Therapeutic Listening music can be altered in a way to stimulate the part of the brain that is responsible for attention, focus and hyperactivity. There have been numerous case studies to validate the efficacy of Therapeutic Listening to improve attention and focus.

Mindfulness Training

    • Occupational therapists work to help children “ground” themselves in their routines by using mindfulness techniques that help avoid and manage the stress that comes with feeling out of control.

Zones of Regulation

    • The Zones of Regulation is a curriculum geared toward helping students gain skills in consciously regulating their actions, which in turn leads to increased control and problem solving skills for kids with difficulty controlling impulsive behaviors.
    • The curriculum includes learning activities to help clients recognize when they are in the different zones (states of arousal) as well as lessons on how to use self-regulation strategies or tools to regulate the zone they are in.
    • Calming techniques and thinking strategies are explored along with sensory diet supports so students have a toolbox of strategies from which they can choose to help self-regulate.
    • To further explore the concept of self-regulation, clients gain an increased vocabulary of emotional terms, skills in reading facial expressions, perspective on how others see and react to their behavior, insight about events that trigger their behavior, and problem-solving skills. Executive functioning skills are addressed in order to increase flexible thinking, awareness of impulse control, and understanding the big picture.

If you have any questions regarding these treatments or your child’s development, call our clinic at 252-341-9944 and we will be glad to get you talking with one of our occupational therapists! Looking for more ADHD resources? Visit our resources page for ADHD HERE.

Carolina Therapy Connection ADHD Treatments Greenville, New Bern, Goldsboro NC