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Feeding Tube Awareness: Inclusive Mealtimes for Children

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Written by: Qiana Jones, COTA/L 

Feeding Tube Awareness Week offers an opportunity to raise understanding, reduce stigma, and celebrate children who receive nutrition through feeding tubes. At Carolina Therapy Connection, we believe feeding is about more than intake… It’s about connection, participation, dignity, and honoring each child’s unique needs.

From an occupational therapy perspective, the use of feeding tubes does not represent a failure. They serve as supportive medical tools that help children grow, conserve energy, and engage more fully in daily life.

Understanding Tube Feeding Through an Occupational Therapy Lens

Children may require feeding tubes for many reasons, including:

  • Medical complexity
  • Sensory processing differences
  • Oral-motor or swallowing challenges
  • Difficulty regulating during mealtimes

Tube feeding can:

  • Support adequate nutrition and hydration
  • Reduce stress and pressure around eating
  • Allow children to focus energy on play, learning, and development

Some tube-fed children also eat by mouth, while others do not, and both experiences are VALID. As occupational therapists, we focus on safety, regulation, and meaningful participation, rather than forcing a single feeding outcome.

Creating Inclusive Mealtimes at Home

Family meals can remain meaningful and inclusive, even when the way we feed looks different.

🍽️ Togetherness Matters More Than Sameness

Children do not need to eat the same way to belong at the table. Sitting together, participating in routines, and sharing conversation reinforces connection and a sense of belonging.

🧃 Normalize Tube Feeding Within Daily Routines

When appropriate, families can include tube feeds during shared mealtimes rather than separating them. This approach helps normalize tube feeding and reduces feelings of difference or isolation.

Having Healthy Conversations About Tube Feeding

How adults talk about tube feeding shapes how children understand their bodies and needs.

💬 Use Neutral, Confident Language

Supportive phrases may include:

  • “This is how your body gets the nutrition it needs.”
  • “Everyone’s body works differently.”

Avoid language that frames tube feeding as something to “fix” or apologize for.

🌱 Welcome Curiosity

Siblings, peers, and adults often have questions. Simple, factual responses help normalize tube feeding and reduce stigma:

  • “This helps their body grow strong.”

Feeding Is About More Than Food

From an occupational therapy perspective, feeding involves more than eating. It includes:

  • Sensory processing
  • Motor coordination
  • Emotional regulation
  • Past experiences
  • Feelings of safety and trust

For some children, oral feeding feels overwhelming—or may not be safe. Tube feeding allows the nervous system to regulate, so exploration, if and when appropriate, can happen without pressure.

Progress may look like:

  • Reduced anxiety at meals
  • Increased tolerance of food-related experiences
  • Longer participation at the table
  • Improved family routines

These gains matter, and they deserve recognition and celebration.

Supporting Families With Compassion

Families of tube-fed children often navigate:

  • Emotional stress
  • Conflicting advice
  • Social pressure
  • Fear of judgment

Choosing tube feeding reflects care, advocacy, and responsiveness to a child’s needs, NOT a lack of effort. Families deserve support grounded in empathy and respect.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

Our occupational therapy team supports:

  • Inclusive, child-centered mealtime routines
  • Individual feeding journeys without judgment
  • Family partnership grounded in compassion
  • Dignity, understanding, and meaningful participation

Feeding tubes help children THRIVE… not just survive.
If you have questions about feeding, regulation, or participation at mealtimes, our occupational therapy team is here to help.

Schedule your free consultation by clicking here.

7 Sweet Valentine’s Day Activities to Build Speech & Language Skills

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Valentine’s Day isn’t just about candy hearts and classroom cards; it’s also a perfect opportunity to support your child’s speech and language development through play, creativity, and connection. Seasonal themes naturally spark conversation, motivation, and emotional engagement, making learning feel fun and meaningful.

These seven Valentine’s Day-themed activities are simple to set up, easy to adapt, and designed to grow vocabulary, social communication, speech sounds, and storytelling skills, all while keeping things festive and joyful.

Why Valentine’s Day Is Perfect for Language Development

Holiday routines introduce new words, emotions, and shared experiences. Valentine’s Day activities encourage children to:

  • Talk about feelings and relationships
  • Practice turn-taking and social language
  • Follow directions and sequence steps
  • Expand sentences and expressive language

With intentional modeling and play, everyday moments can become powerful learning opportunities.

7 Sweet Valentine’s Day Speech & Language Activities

❤️ 1. Valentine Card Conversations

Materials Needed

  • Blank cards or construction paper
  • Markers, crayons, paint
  • Stickers or heart cutouts
  • Envelopes (optional)
  • Visual phrase list (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
Creating and delivering Valentine’s cards promotes:

  • Requesting (“Can I have the red marker?”)
  • Describing (“This card has glittery hearts.”)
  • Social language (“Thank you!” “Happy Valentine’s Day!”)

 

Offer sentence starters like “I made this for…” or “I like your card because…” to support phrasing and confidence.

💌 2. Valentine Vocabulary Hunt

Materials Needed

  • Paper or foam hearts in different colors or sizes
  • Stickers, small toys, or themed objects
  • A basket or a bag for collecting
  • Sorting mats (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
This scavenger-hunt style game supports:

  • Spatial concepts (“under,” “next to,” “behind”)
  • Descriptive language (color, size, texture)
  • Following directions (“Find two small red hearts.”)

 

Encourage your child to explain where they found each item to boost expressive language.

🍫 3. Sweet Treat Sequencing

Materials Needed

  •  Simple Valentine recipe ingredients
    (examples: strawberries + melted chocolate, heart-shaped toast, graham crackers + frosting)
  • Bowl and spoon
  • Printable sequencing chart (optional)
  • Wipes or a cloth for cleanup

 

How It Builds Language
Cooking together helps children practice:

  • Sequencing (“First… next… last…”)
  • Predicting outcomes
  • Retelling events
  • Following multi-step directions

 

Ask your child to teach you the steps afterward for extra narrative practice.

💖 4. Heart-Themed Art Craft

Materials Needed

  • Construction paper
  • Glue or glue sticks
  • Scissors
  • Markers, crayons, glitter, stickers
  • Googly eyes or heart templates (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
Crafting encourages:

  • Describing actions and materials
  • Turn-taking (“Your turn with the scissors.”)
  • Requesting supplies

 

If your child reaches for an item, model language such as:
“I see you reaching for the glue. We say, ‘I want the glue, please.’”

Narrate their actions to model expanded language: “You’re cutting a big pink heart!”

🥰 5. Valentine Feelings Game

Materials Needed

  • Paper hearts
  • Marker
  • Bowl or bag
  • Emotion pictures (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
Talking about feelings supports:

  • Emotional vocabulary (happy, excited, frustrated, nervous)
  • Social communication
  • Perspective-taking
  • Conversation skills

 

Ask follow-up questions like: “What makes you feel excited?” or “How can you help a friend who is sad?”

💘 6. Conversation Hearts… With a Twist

Materials Needed

  • Conversation heart candies or paper hearts with phrases
  • Bowl or container
  • Blank hearts for creating new phrases (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
Using phrases as conversation starters boosts:

  • Social language
  • Turn-taking
  • Topic maintenance
  • Flexible thinking

 

Try prompts like: “Another way to say ‘Be Mine’ is…”

💞 7. “Love Is…” Language Expansion Activity

Materials Needed

  • Paper heart cutouts
  • Markers
  • Poster board or wall space
  • Photos or magazine cutouts (optional)

 

How It Builds Language
Completing the sentence “Love is…” encourages:

  • Sentence expansion
  • Vocabulary growth
  • Storytelling
  • Emotional insight

 

If your child says, “Love is giving hugs,” you might expand:
“We give hugs to people we love because we’re happy to see them.”

Final Thoughts

Connection is at the heart of both Valentine’s Day and strong communication skills. With simple materials and intentional language modeling, these festive activities can nurture your child’s speech and language development while creating meaningful moments together. Try a few this February and watch their communication skills blossom.

Winter Wiggles: 5 Easy Indoor Activities to Help Kids Burn Energy

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Physical activity is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle for kids of all ages. School-age kiddos may have some extra wiggles this winter due to changes in their routine during school breaks. The cooler weather may also make it difficult to play outside. Here are 5 easy activities to try at home to help maintain a healthy lifestyle and provide an opportunity to get those wiggles out!

1. The Floor is Lava

Place extra pillows, blankets, chairs, small rugs, or small stepping stones on the floor. Have your child try to move from one side of the room to the other while stepping only on these objects and avoiding the floor. You can add an extra challenge by having them collect 10 times from around the room before a timer goes off. 

2. Rock, Tree Bridge

Get the whole family involved! Start standing in a line. The first person steps forward and becomes a rock. (Sit on the floor, bringing your knees near your chest). The second person has to jump (or safely step) over the rock and become a tree. (Stand up nice and tall with their arms out wide). The third person has to jump over the rock, spin around the tree, and become a bridge. (Place arms and feet on the floor, in the downward dog position). The fourth person has to jump over the rock, go around the tree, and crawl under the bridge to become another rock. This pattern continues until the entire family reaches the other side of the room. 

3. Simon Says

Take turns trying out different yoga positions, hopping sequences, or animal walks. Each person can take a turn playing Simon. 

4. Animal Walks

Try walking like a penguin, bear, or slithering like a snake. The opportunities are endless, with lots of animals or objects to mimic. You can encourage races down a hallway or around furniture in the room. 

5. Musical Movement

Play your favorite songs. When the music plays, dance, dance, dance! When the music pauses, freeze in the current dance position. It can be even more fun with a dance leader. Let your child choose a song and try to copy their dance moves! Take turns leading and following.

How can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

If you notice your child is having difficulty using both sides of their body, crossing midline, or keeping their balance, they may need some additional support. Reach out to Carolina Therapy Connection to see if Physical Therapy may help. If your child already receives Physical Therapy, ask their therapist how to customize these activities to support your child more specifically.

How Occupational Therapy Supports School Readiness Skills for Children

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As your child prepares to enter school, it’s important to ensure they have developed key skills that will set them up for success in the classroom. While most people think of academic skills first, school readiness encompasses much more. It involves a combination of physical, social, emotional, and cognitive skills that enable children to interact with their environment, communicate with others, and perform tasks independently. Occupational Therapy plays a critical role in helping children develop these skills, ensuring they are ready to thrive in the school environment.

What Are School Readiness Skills?

School readiness skills are the foundation children need to succeed in school and beyond. These skills can range in areas, including:

  1. Motor Skills: Physical abilities needed for tasks like holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, and using a computer.
  2. Cognitive Skills: Problem-solving, memory, attention, and following multi step instructions.
  3. Self-regulation: The ability to control emotions, focus attention, and manage impulses.
  4. Social Skills: Communication, cooperation, and forming friendships with peers.
  5. Independence: Being able to complete tasks like dressing, feeding, and using the bathroom independently.

While children often develop many of these skills through everyday experiences and play, sometimes we may need more support in certain areas. This is where occupational therapy can HELP!

How Occupational Therapy Supports School Readiness Skills

Occupational therapy focuses on helping children develop the skills needed to function independently and participate in daily activities. For school readiness, an OT can address a variety of skills, ranging from fine motor skills to emotional regulation.

1. Fine Motor Skills:

Fine motor skills are essential for performing tasks like writing, cutting with scissors, and manipulating small objects. These skills involve the small muscles in the hands, fingers, and wrists.

How OT helps:

  • Handwriting: Occupational therapists can work on grip strength, pencil control, grasp, and letter formation.
  • Cutting: Through activities that strengthen hand muscles, incorporate bilateral hand use, and improve coordination, OTs can help children use scissors effectively.
  • Manipulating Objects: Simple activities, such as stacking blocks, buttoning shirts, or zipping jackets, can be incorporated into therapy to improve finger dexterity.

2. Sensory Processing:

Children who have difficulty processing sensory information (sounds, lights, textures, smells) may find it challenging to focus in a busy classroom environment.

How OT helps:

  • Sensory Integration: Through specialized activities, an OT can help children learn to cope with sensory overload or under-sensitivity. For example, children might engage in tactile play, use fidget toys, or participate in calming sensory breaks.
  • Self-regulation: OT teaches strategies like deep breathing, stretching, and muscle relaxation to help children manage their responses to stress or overstimulation.

4. Social and Communication Skills:

School readiness isn’t just about physical skills—it’s also about being able to communicate, share, and work with others. Children must learn to understand social cues, follow directions, and engage with their peers.

How OT helps:

  • Social Interaction: Occupational therapists use role-playing, peer play,  and social stories to help children practice sharing, taking turns, and understanding facial expressions.
  • Cooperative Play: Children can engage in group activities that promote teamwork, turn-taking, and appropriate communication.
  • Following Instructions: Through structured activities, OTs can help children develop the ability to listen, understand, and follow multi-step instructions.

5. Self-Care Skills:

One often-overlooked area of school readiness is the ability to perform daily tasks independently, such as dressing, eating, and toileting.

How OT helps:

  • Dressing: Occupational therapists can break down the steps needed to put on and take off clothes, teaching children how to button, zip, or tie shoes.
  • Feeding: They can work with children to develop the skills necessary for using utensils, managing snacks, and opening lunchboxes.
  • Toileting: OT helps children develop the independence to use the bathroom and practice hygiene routines like handwashing.

6. Attention and Focus:

A critical skill for school success is the ability to focus and pay attention during class activities.

How OT helps:

  • Improved Focus: OTs use games and activities that challenge attention, helping children learn to stay on task for longer periods.
  • Task Completion: Children learn how to break down tasks into manageable steps and practice following through until the task is completed.
  • Transitioning Between Activities: OTs help children practice switching from one activity to another smoothly, such as moving from recess to classroom work.

How to Get Started with Occupational Therapy for School Readiness

School readiness is more than just knowing the alphabet or counting to ten—it’s about developing the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive skills that will help children thrive in a classroom environment. Occupational therapy can support children in developing the motor skills, self-regulation, social abilities, and independence they need to succeed. If you’re concerned about your child’s readiness for school, working with an OT can provide valuable support and make the transition smoother.

If you’re concerned about your child’s school readiness skills, occupational therapy might be the solution. Call us today at 252-341-9944 to get started.

Tuning Into Focus: How Music Therapy Supports Children with Autism

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How Music Stimulates the Brain in Children with Autism

When music is played, the brain is stimulated by recognizing pitch, tone, and rhythm. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often excel at pitch processing and respond emotionally to sound. This makes music a powerful tool to support behavioral regulation and improve focus during therapeutic sessions. Autism Speaks recognizes music therapy as a key intervention to enhance communication and emotional awareness in children with autism.

The Power of Music Therapy for Sensory Regulation

Children with ASD frequently struggle with sensory processing, which can result in increased anxiety and difficulty concentrating. New research, including findings from the National Institutes of Health, supports that music therapy can reduce anxiety, improve social-emotional engagement, and increase communication skills. Additionally, music is a valuable aid in learning and maintaining daily routines.

What is 8D Audio, and Why is it Effective for Autism?

8D music, also known as three-dimensional audio, uses binaural beats and sound wave manipulation to create a surround-sound effect. This type of music helps stimulate the senses and create a calming experience for individuals with ASD. The repetitive rhythms and tranquil tones help reduce stress and improve focus.

Emerging studies, such as those published in Frontiers in Psychology, suggest that 8D music may also help reduce sensory overload and improve mood regulation, making it a useful tool in autism therapy.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Integrates Music Into Autism Treatment

At Carolina Therapy Connection (CTC), we incorporate music—including 8D audio—into comprehensive treatment plans. Whether paired with occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, or mental wellness services, music serves as a supportive modality to improve attention, regulate behavior, and build daily living skills.

Our therapists are trained to adapt therapeutic sessions to each child’s sensory needs, and we offer personalized strategies—including music therapy techniques—to help your child thrive.

Shocking Truth: Why Kids Can’t Hold Pencils Anymore!

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Fine motor skills are getting worse in kids today. More and more children struggle to hold pencils, use scissors, or even tie their shoes. According to a recent report from Art-K, 77% of teachers say that fine motor skills are harder for students now than just a few years ago. So, what’s causing this decline? And more importantly, what can parents do to help?

Carolina Therapy Connection specializes in helping children in Greenville, New Bern, Morehead City, and Goldsboro, NC, develop the skills they need to succeed. Our occupational therapy (OT) services focus on fine motor development, handwriting, coordination, and self-care skills to give kids confidence and independence.

Why Are Kids Losing Fine Motor Skills?

Experts point to several key reasons why fine motor skills are declining:

1. Too Much Screen Time

Instead of playing with toys, coloring, or building with blocks, many children spend hours swiping and tapping on screens. This doesn’t give their hands the same strength-building practice as traditional play.

2. Less Hands-On Learning

Many children aren’t getting enough time to practice holding crayons, cutting with scissors, or playing with small objects. Fewer opportunities for these activities can make school tasks much harder.

3. Not Enough Outdoor Play

Running, climbing, digging, and playing outside help strengthen a child’s hands and improve coordination. But many kids today spend less time outdoors, limiting natural muscle development.

4. Clothing and Snack Changes

Modern clothing and food packaging have made life easier but have also reduced everyday fine motor practice. Elastic waistbands replace buttons and zippers, Velcro shoes replace laces, and pre-packaged snacks mean kids don’t open containers or use utensils as much as before.

Simple Ways Parents Can Help at Home

The good news? You can help your child strengthen their fine motor skills with easy, fun activities at home! Here are simple, practical steps to get started:

1. Encourage Daily Fine Motor Play

Fine motor skills develop best through play. Try these activities:

  • Play-Doh and Clay – Let kids roll, pinch, and shape clay to build hand strength.
  • Puzzles and Bead Threading – These boost coordination and dexterity.
  • Lacing Cards or Sewing Projects – Great for developing control and finger strength.
  • Scissor Skills – Have kids cut paper, old magazines, or even straws for fun crafts.

2. Get Kids Involved in Everyday Tasks

Let your child help with activities that naturally build fine motor skills, such as:

  • Cooking Together – Stirring, pouring, kneading dough, and peeling fruit strengthen hands.
  • Self-Care Tasks – Encourage kids to button shirts, zip jackets, and tie shoelaces.
  • Household Chores – Folding laundry, wiping tables, and opening containers all help build fine motor strength.

3. Limit Screen Time and Increase Hands-On Activities

Try implementing screen-free times, especially before and after school. Instead, encourage activities like:

  • Drawing and Coloring – A fun way to develop pencil grip and hand control.
  • Playing with Blocks and LEGOs – Helps strengthen little fingers and improve problem-solving skills.
  • Outdoor Play – Let kids dig in the dirt, climb, and collect small objects like acorns or leaves.

4. Make Handwriting Practice Fun

If your child struggles with handwriting, avoid frustration by making it engaging and low-pressure:

  • Use a Sand or Rice Tray – Have kids practice letters by tracing them with their fingers.
  • Write on a Chalkboard or Whiteboard – This builds wrist and hand strength.
  • Try Special Handwriting Tools – Use thicker pencils, grips, or markers for better control.
  • Turn Writing into a Game – Write letters in shaving cream or use sidewalk chalk outside.
  • Use Fun Sensory Feedback– Using all of your senses increases learning. Think smell, sounds, and textures.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our occupational therapists use fun, play-based techniques to improve fine motor skills. We help kids in Greenville, New Bern, Morehead City, and Goldsboro, NC with:

  • Hand Strength Training – Using squeeze toys, tweezers, and resistance exercises.
  • Coordination Development – Working on scissor use, handwriting, and using both hands together.
  • Self-Care Skills – Teaching kids to tie shoes, button clothes, and use utensils confidently.
  • Handwriting Support – Helping kids develop a firm pencil grip and letter formation skills.

When Should You Seek Help?

If your child:

  • Struggles with holding a pencil or writing legibly
  • Has trouble using scissors or fastening buttons
  • Avoids activities that require hand coordination
  • Seems behind peers in self-care tasks

… they may benefit from occupational therapy.

Contact us today at Carolina Therapy Connection to learn how our team can help your child build stronger hands and gain confidence in everyday tasks!

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 ***@***********************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

 

 

What is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy? | Benefits & How It Works

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Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a type of psychotherapy that prioritizes finding solutions to current problems rather than focusing on the problem itself or its underlying causes. Developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg in the 1980s, this approach is grounded in the belief that clients have the inherent resources and strengths needed to overcome their challenges.

SFBT is a modern approach that helps people create meaningful change in a relatively short period. Unlike traditional therapy models that focus heavily on problems and their origins, SFBT centers on solutions and future possibilities.

9 Benefits of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

1. Focus on Solutions, Not Problems

SFBT emphasizes identifying and developing solutions to current issues rather than analyzing the problem’s origins. This approach encourages clients to envision a future in which the problem is resolved and explore practical steps to achieve that vision.

2. Strengths and Resources

Rather than focusing on deficits, SFBT highlights clients’ strengths, resources, and past successes. By recognizing and utilizing these assets, clients can build upon what already works for them.

3. Goal-Oriented Approach

The clients’ clear, achievable goals specific, and guide therapy. These goals provide direction and help maintain focus throughout the therapeutic process. The emphasis is on achieving tangible outcomes and making measurable progress.

4. Collaborative Process

The therapeutic relationship in SFBT is highly collaborative. The therapist and client work together as partners to define goals, explore solutions, and develop strategies. The therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding the client rather than dictating solutions.

5. Brief and Time-Limited

SFBT is designed to be brief and efficient. The overall SFBT therapy process often spans only a few sessions to several months. This time-limited approach helps maintain focus, momentum, and efficiency in addressing the client’s concerns.

6. Exception Finding

This principle involves identifying times when the client’s problem was less severe or absent. By understanding and analyzing these exceptions, clients can discover strategies that worked in the past and apply them to their current situation.

7. Scaling Questions

Scaling questions help clients assess their progress and evaluate the severity of their issues or the effectiveness of solutions. Clients rate their experiences on a scale (e.g., 1 to 10), which improvements and adjustments help them track strategies as needed.

8. Positive Reinforcement

SFBT focuses on acknowledging and celebrating small successes and progress. This positive reinforcement helps boost clients’ confidence and motivation, encouraging them to continue pursuing their goals and implementing solutions.

9. Future-Oriented

The therapy emphasizes building a vision of the future in which the problem is resolved. Clients are encouraged to imagine how their lives will be different once their goals are achieved and to work towards making that vision a reality.

By adhering to these core principles, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy helps clients shift from problem-saturated thinking to a focus on solutions, fostering a more positive and action-oriented approach to personal growth and problem-solving.

Who Would Benefit from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?

  • Individuals Seeking Short-Term Therapy:

    • Time Constraints: Those who need a brief intervention due to time constraints or personal preferences will find SFBT’s short-term nature appealing.

    • Immediate Needs: Individuals who want quick solutions to specific problems or challenges benefit from the efficiency of SFBT.

  • Clients with Specific, Well-Defined Issues:

    • Targeted Concerns: SFBT is particularly effective for clients dealing with specific, clearly defined issues such as anxiety, stress, relationship problems, or life transitions.

    • Practical Goals: SFBT’s approach will benefit those who can articulate their goals and work towards actionable solutions.

  • People Looking for Empowerment and Positive Change:

    • Strengths and Resources: SFBT will benefit clients who prefer a therapy approach that emphasizes their strengths and resources rather than delving into past problems.

    • Motivation and Self-Efficacy: Individuals who are motivated and ready to take actionable steps towards change are well-suited to the solution-focused methodology.

  • Individuals Open to a Collaborative Approach:

    • Partnership: Clients who are comfortable with a collaborative therapeutic relationship and are open to actively participating in setting and achieving goals will thrive in SFBT.

    • Interactive Process: Those who appreciate a more interactive and client-driven approach to therapy will find SFBT’s methods engaging and effective.

  • Clients Seeking a Positive Therapeutic Experience:

    • Optimism and Hope: Individuals who respond well to a positive, forward-looking therapeutic approach will appreciate SFBT’s emphasis on envisioning a better future and celebrating small successes.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help:

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we strive to provide a variety of modalities to promote positive change and growth. If SFBT sounds like something that would fit your or a loved one’s needs, contact our mental wellness team to set up your free 15-minute consultation with one of our therapists.

Moving to Learn: How Movement-Based Activities Boost Speech and Language Development

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We Like to Move It, Move It with Movement-Base Activities!

When you think of movement-based therapy, you may immediately think of physical or occupational therapy. Turns out, speech and language skills can and should be targeted through gross motor activities as well! How does movement help children develop speech and language skills? Incorporating movement into speech therapy sessions promotes attention, self-regulation, and learning. 

Movement-Base Activities can set the stage for Learning

Effective speech therapy doesn’t require that a child stays seated in their chair! When kids can move around (e.g., stand, bounce, jump, swing, dance), they are often more motivated to participate in therapy activities. Allowing for movement can increase a child’s attention towards the task at hand, contributing to more significant learning. Movement can also have a calming effect on the body! Think about the soothing impact of rocking a baby and how it feels to swing in a hammock or go on a walk after a long day. Engaging in movement can help a child maintain control over their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, thus freeing up cognitive resources needed to focus on learning.  

Fun, Movement-Based Activities 

  • Create an Obstacle Course
    • Collaborate to create an obstacle course! Slides, swings, cones, bean bags, scooter boards, and balance beams can all be used to create an exciting obstacle course. Target following directions, understanding spatial concepts, and using verbs while designing and completing the course. For kids working on speech sounds, each station can include an opportunity to practice 5-10 words containing target sounds before moving on to the next station.
  • Go on a Scavenger Hunt Around the Room
    • Take turns hiding objects, puzzle pieces, or pictures around the room. To make it even more fun, use a flashlight or binoculars as you search for the hidden items. As your child finds the secret item, have them describe what they saw and where they found it to encourage expressive language skills.
  • Sing and Dance to Music
    • Music’s repetitive and melodic element makes it a meaningful way to experience language. For younger kids, sing familiar nursery rhymes and songs to encourage early communication skills such as imitating actions (e.g., clapping hands, stomping feet). Music tends to be repetitive, which provides many opportunities to hear words and phrases. Using a sing-song voice often makes language more memorable for children as they acquire words. Older kids may enjoy taking a dance break while practicing their speech and language goals or choose songs containing a child’s target speech sounds to make repetitive practice more fun!

How can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

Ask your child’s speech-language pathologist for more ideas for using movement to foster the development of speech and language skills. If you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s communication skills, a Speech-Language Pathologist at Carolina Therapy Connection can help!

 

Friendship in Motion: How Walking Can Boost Mental Wellness

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Walking and Talking: The Therapeutic Power of Friendship and Movement

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the simple joys of connecting with friends. As a therapist, I often emphasize the importance of social interaction for mental well-being, but one method of connection deserves special attention: friendship and movement. This dynamic duo not only strengthens friendships but also offers many mental health benefits that can profoundly enhance our lives.

The Benefits of Movement and Talking with Friendship

  1. Natural Stress Relief
    Walking in nature or even around your neighborhood can help reduce stress levels. The rhythmic motion of walking and fresh air can promote relaxation and clarity. When we walk, our bodies release endorphins, those feel-good hormones that help combat anxiety and lift our moods. Coupled with a conversation, this becomes a powerful tool for stress management.
  2. Enhanced Communication
    Walking side by side can ease the pressure that often comes with face-to-face conversations. When we’re in motion, it feels more natural to share thoughts and feelings. This relaxed setting allows for deeper conversations, making it easier to discuss personal challenges or enjoy light-hearted banter.
  3. Improved Mental Clarity
    Research suggests that walking boosts creativity and cognitive function. When we’re in motion, our brains often have the freedom to wander, leading to new insights and ideas. Walking often helps improve mental clarity.
  4. Mindfulness in Motion
    Walking outdoors encourages mindfulness. The sights and sounds of nature can ground you in the present moment, enhancing your awareness of your surroundings and feelings. This practice can help you and your friend tune into your emotions and support each other in navigating them.
  5. Physical Health Benefits
    Let’s not forget the physical advantages! Regular walking is excellent for cardiovascular health, strengthens bones, and can even improve sleep. When we prioritize our physical well-being, we naturally support our mental health. Encouraging friends to join you in this practice promotes a sense of accountability and camaraderie.
  6. Strengthened Bonds
    There’s something uniquely bonding about shared experiences in nature or simply strolling down a street together. The act of walking fosters connection—both physically and emotionally. It allows for shared laughter, support during tough times, and a chance to celebrate each other’s victories, big and small.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Walking and Talking Sessions with Friendship

  • Choose Your Environment Wisely: Select a location that feels comfortable and inspiring, whether it’s a local park, a scenic trail, or a quiet neighborhood. Nature has a calming effect that enhances conversations.
  • Set an Intention: Before you begin your walk, consider discussing what you’d like to discuss. Whether catching up on life or diving into deeper topics, setting an intention can guide your conversation.
  • Embrace Silence: Not every moment needs to be filled with conversation. Walking together in silence can also be powerful, allowing for reflection and connection in a different way.
  • Make It Regular: Could you consider setting up a walking schedule with friends? Regular meet-ups can strengthen your friendship and create a lasting support system, whether weekly or monthly.

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

Walking and talking with friends is more than just a leisurely pastime; it’s a holistic approach to nurturing our mental health and relationships. At CTC, our therapists understand how a multi-faceted approach to therapy can lead to improved and well-rounded mental health. Reach out today to be connected with a therapist who will support you!

Written By: Annalisa Ferguson