Thanks to Jessica Helvey, MS OTR/L for this guest post: Occupational Therapy with Gogo’s Crazy BonesA product review of a new occupation-based toy I’ve been an occupational therapist for six years and I have worked with a variety of clients. I thought my “toolkit” for engaging clients in purposeful, meaningful activities was pretty well rounded—until […]
A small study from John Hopkins indicates that prescribing an individualized exercise program to children with cystic fibrosis improved lung function. Fifty eight children ranging in age from 6 to 16 years old received individualized exercise programs such as taking a stroll or playing the Wii. After two months of following the exercise regimen exercise […]
Pediatric Physical Therapy published research on the effects of aerobic exercise on academics in young children with autism. In the experimental phase of the treatment, the children participated in 15 minutes of aerobic activity prior to academic tasks. In the control phase, the children only completed the academic tasks. The results indicated a significant difference […]
A randomized controlled trial on strength and balance training in children with down syndrome was published in Clinical Rehabilitation . Twenty three children with Down Syndrome were divided into two groups – an experimental group who received 6 weeks of progressive resistive exercise and balance training and a control group (no intervention). The results indicated […]
Here is some great information on creating and working with outdoor environments for children with autism and special needs or view below. This hand out gives an overview of autism and sensory integration followed by research on the role of nature in autism and design guidelines. The hand out was created based on a webinar […]
Pediatric Physical Therapy published research using task analysis and a scoring code for donning coats in preschool children. The 171 preschool children were scored three times per year and the data revealed the following: at first scoring 22 children were able to put on coat independently and 149 required help at final scoring 75 of […]
Here is a guest post about a great charitable organization that provides shoes for kids at the APTA conference each year.Bringing New Shoes and Smiles to Kids in Need The mission of Shoes4Kids is to provide disadvantaged youth a new pair of athletic shoes and socks, thereby improving their health and wellness. Since 2006, Shoes4Kids […]
Teacher Appreciation Week is this week from May 2 through May 6th during 2011. Why not show the teachers that you work with some appreciation. Here are some fun ideas: Teach a Class – offer to lead the class in sensory motor activities to wake up the brain for learning Relaxation Exercises – lead a […]
The CVS Caremark Grant is accepting application starting May 1, 2011. This grant provides support for children with disabilities. “CVS Caremark Community Grants Program awards funds to nonprofit organizations for the following programs: * Programs targeting children with disabilities * Programs focusing on health and rehabilitation services * Public schools promoting a greater level of […]