The easy part about being a parent is knowing what we want for our kids..... things like happiness, health, and fulfillment (however we define that). The tough part is figuring out … [Read more...]
Educational Seek-And-Find Slime Games
Ooey gooey textures have fascinated kids for generations. With the advent of new gooey products on the market and many DIY recipes, it's easier than ever to get your hands on some … [Read more...]
Shaving Cream Balloon Face
Your child will have a blast playing this game while utilizing their fine motor, visual perceptual, and sensory tactile skills! Add in some academic concepts and you have a learning … [Read more...]
Favorite Things Sensory Edition
Favorite Things Sensory Edition As a pediatric occupational therapist, I am often asked to recommend equipment or activities that are the most beneficial for children. Because every … [Read more...]
Fidget Spinners’ Therapeutic Benefits
As a pediatric occupational therapist, I am delighted that these new fidget spinners are so popular! For years, I've been recommending different kinds of fidgets to kids who are antsy, … [Read more...]
Child’s Speech, Motor Skills Behind?
Have you had that nagging feeling that something just "isn't right" with your child's motor or speech development? Is your child having difficult with things that others can do easily? … [Read more...]
8 Best Kids Calming Ideas
Wondering how to help kids calm down when they feel anxious or overly active? Fortunately there are lots of calming strategies that really do work, but the trick is knowing which ones … [Read more...]
Why Teachers Should Never Take Away Recess
One of the most "popular" forms of punishment for bad behavior in the schools is sitting out of recess. Glance at any elementary school during recess time and chance are, you'll see a … [Read more...]
The Solution for Worried Parents
As parents, we are always worrying about our kids when they are away from us...... Are they safe? What are they doing? Where are they? Multiply those worries for parents of … [Read more...]
Sensory Steam Roller
Sensory input is so vital to the emotional and behavioral regulation of kids and adults. Think about big hugs, back massages, and shoulder rubs... all of these actions are relaxing … [Read more...]
Calming Effects of Weighted Blankets
Imagine how good it feels when you get a big hug or relaxing shoulder rub. Science shows that the input from deep touch releases dopamine and neurotransmitters throughout the body which … [Read more...]
Movement Break Ideas for the Classroom
Most teachers and parents have probably experienced first hand how "antsy" kids can get after sitting at school all day long. It may not be the children's fault they can't sit still … [Read more...]
Feed Your Need to Chew: Choose Chewies
When you feel nervous, what's your go-to stress relief? Biting your nails? Chewing gum? Gnawing on pen caps? Eating? If this sounds like you or your child, your actions may be … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Calm Down Without Anyone Knowing
It's not easy being a kid in schools these days. Things like high pressure testing, a fast-paced work curriculum, trying to "fit in", and bullying are stressful issues that kids have … [Read more...]
Autism Behavioral Tracking Tool (Birdhouse)
If your child has autism, you probably know the all too well the roller coaster ride it can feel like. The ups and downs, good and bad days, accomplishments and disappointments. Many … [Read more...]
Calming Clothing for Kids
Kids Play Smarter is happy to partner with Calming Clothing for Kids for this sponsored post about clothing products that aides in calming kids behaviors by calming their … [Read more...]
Money Saving Therapy Swaps
There are several sensory tools or "tricks of the trade" that therapists often use to help kids succeed in the classroom and at home, including things like increasing attention span and … [Read more...]
Calming Cozy Cocoon
This calming cozy cocoon activity is as relaxing as it sounds, and is so incredibly easy to do that you may be kicking yourself for not having thought of it sooner. The concept of … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Healthier Eating for Kids
Eating healthy isn't just beneficial for obvious health reasons, studies show that healthy eating improves mood, energy levels, frustration tolerance, and can decrease hyperactive … [Read more...]
Help! My Child Can’t Sit Still!
Do you have children or students who are constantly fidgeting in their seats at school or at home? The child knows that he should be sitting still, but chances are, there's something … [Read more...]