Tag: adhd

Handwriting: An Essential Skill in the Digital Age

by kaleidoscopeot

In a world dominated by technology, some may wonder: is handwriting even still necessary? Research confirms that handwriting is actually foundational to a child’s cognitive and academic success. Handwriting instruction in early elementary years drastically increases reading fluency and writing composition skills. This is because handwriting activates neural pathways tied to memory, literacy, and critical thinking skills.

“From the mind, through the hand, handwriting literacy develops.”

-Denise Jasso, OTR/L

Pro-Tips

  • Incorporate Multisensory Activities: Engage children with activities like tracing letters in sand or forming letters with clay to strengthen their motor skills.
  • Use Engaging Tools: Introduce colorful pens, markers, or dry-erase boards to make handwriting practice enjoyable.
  • Daily Practice: Dedicate 10-15 minutes daily to handwriting exercises but make sure to make it FUN! We need strong shoulders, arms, hands and fingers to develop good handwriting skills. Developing handwriting skills doesn’t have to always include writing at all! It can look like mixing up some yummy brownies or making a Christmas tree out of playdoh! Check out some “handwriting” activities my kids have done over the years.

PRO-TIPS: NAVIGATING THE HOLIDAYS

by kaleidoscopeot

While the holiday season brings excitement with lights, music, parties, family gatherings, and festive foods, it can be overwhelming for children with developmental delay or sensory processing challenges. These activities can disrupt routines, and many kids thrive on a predictable schedule.

Want to know how to help your child navigate the upcoming holiday season with ease? 

Create a routine: Keep a consistent schedule even during the holiday breaks. This can help your child feel secure and reduce anxiety.

Prepare for holiday events: Before an event, tell your child what they can expect (i.e. who will be there, what will they be doing, how long will they be there, what to do if they need to take a break).

Sensory friendly activities: The holidays often involve loud music, crowds, and bright lights. Offer sensory breaks in quiet spaces and have noise-canceling headphones or calming toys on hand.

Mindful eating: For children who are picky eaters, holiday meals can be a challenge. Encourage them to put new foods on their plate but always have familiar and liked foods as well.

Movement breaks: With the colder weather, it is more likely that kids play less outside so consider ways to keep them moving inside. This may include dancing, creating obstacle courses, or finding some fun brain break activities on Youtube.