How Occupational Therapy Can Help Kids with Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation is a crucial skill that helps children manage their feelings, reactions, and behaviours in different situations. When kids struggle with emotional regulation, it can affect their ability to concentrate, socialize, and succeed in school. Occupational therapy (OT) plays a significant role in helping children develop these essential skills, making day-to-day life easier for […]
The Impact of Screen Time on Children: An Occupational and Speech Therapy Perspective
In today’s digital age, children are spending more time on screens than ever before—whether it’s on tablets, smartphones, or computers. While technology offers numerous benefits, too much screen time can negatively impact a child’s development. At Happy Dots Therapy Services for Children, we see how excessive screen use can affect kids from both an occupational […]
Different Ways to Process Language (gestalt and analytical)
Did you know that children can process language more than one way? Some children process language as gestalt language processors and some as analytical language processors. Gestalt language processors learn language in chunks or phrases rather than individual words. For example, a child who is a gestalt language processor may start saying short phrases […]
Unlocking Communication Potential: Your Guide to Speech Pathology Assessments
Completion of assessments is a big part of the role of a speech pathologist. Please see below as we explore the range of informal and formal assessment which we complete at Happy Dots to help decide if your child may benefit from a speech pathology assessment. Why Assess? Assessment is an important aspect of the […]
What is Aided Language Stimulation?
Aided language stimulation (also known as language modelling) is a common therapy technique used by speech pathologists to teach language to children who require any form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). AAC includes any form of communication additional to verbal speech such as key words signs, single visuals, communication books and electronic communication devices. […]
Supporting Young Children’s Language Skills Through Book Reading
Shared book reading, also known as interactive or dialogic reading, is when children and adults actively engage with a book together. This interactive approach can improve children’s interaction skills, understanding of language, sentence development and develop a love of reading. There are several strategies which can be undertaken to enhance the shared book reading experience. […]
Strategies for Helping Children with ADHD to Focus and Succeed
Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often struggle with maintaining focus, staying organised, and completing tasks. These challenges can impact their academic performance and overall success in school. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies and techniques to support children with ADHD in focusing and achieving success. With the right strategies and support, children […]
Building Strong Partnerships: How Occupational Therapy Workshops Can Help Parents and Teachers Collaborate More Effectively
Collaboration between parents and teachers is essential to support children’s development and success in school. When parents and teachers work together, they can create a strong partnership that provides children with the best possible education and support. One way to facilitate this collaboration is through occupational therapy workshops. In this article, we will explore the […]
How Occupational Therapy Assessment Can Help Identify and Treat Sensory Processing Disorders in Children
As parents, we want our children to thrive in every aspect of life. However, sometimes, children may experience difficulties in certain areas, such as sensory processing. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects how a child’s brain processes sensory information from their environment. It can cause children to overreact or under-react to different […]
Understanding the Benefits of Occupational and Group Therapy for Children: A Comprehensive Comparison
Children with various conditions, such as sensory processing disorders, ADHD, autism, and developmental delays, often require therapy to improve their quality of life. Therapy can help them gain the necessary skills and abilities to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Occupational and group therapy are two types of effective therapy for children. This article […]
