School Readiness Archives | Therapy Network

From Fists to Functional: Understanding Pencil Grasp Development in Children

Many parents worry when they notice their child holding a pencil differently from their peers. But did you know that pencil grasp develops gradually through a series of predictable stages? In this blog, our paediatric occupational therapists explain how pencil grasp evolves, what is considered typical at different ages, common misconceptions, and when it may be helpful to seek support. Learn how strength, coordination, posture, and play all contribute to successful handwriting.

Daily Living Skills, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, School Readiness|Comments Off

One Step at a Time: Helping Children Tackle Big Tasks Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Have you ever asked your child to clean their room, complete their homework, or get ready for school, only to be met with tears, frustration or complete shutdown? For many children, adolescents and young adults, the challenge isn't the task itself—it's that the brain sees too many steps at once. Breaking large tasks into smaller, manageable steps reduces cognitive load, making it easier to get started, stay organised and experience success. In this blog, our occupational therapists explain why this strategy works and how families can use simple visual and practical supports to build confidence and independence.

Daily Living Skills, Executive Functioning, School Readiness|Comments Off

Power Up Those Little Hands: Building Strength Through Play (No Worksheets Needed!)

When people think about developing hand strength, they often picture endless handwriting practice or repetitive exercises. The good news is that children build stronger hands best through play. Every time they squeeze, pinch, pull, twist, climb, build, or create, they're strengthening the muscles needed for writing, dressing, eating, and becoming more independent. At The Therapy Network (TTN), we believe that the best therapy often looks like play. Our Occupational Therapists help children build strong, capable hands through fun, meaningful activities that fit naturally into everyday family life.

Daily Living Skills, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, School Readiness|Comments Off

From Stress to Success: Helping Teens Stay Organised and Confident During Assessment Time

Assessment time can be stressful for teenagers, especially when they’re balancing school, friendships, extracurricular activities, and the everyday challenges of growing up. Many teens struggle with organisation, time management, and knowing where to start—not because they aren't capable, but because these skills are still developing. In this blog, we explore why organisation can be difficult, share practical Occupational Therapy strategies to reduce overwhelm, and explain how personalised support can help teens approach assessments with greater confidence and independence.

Executive Functioning, School Readiness|Comments Off

Click, Connect, Thrive: Your Guide to Stress-Free Telehealth for Kids

Telehealth has made paediatric occupational therapy more accessible than ever—but a smooth, secure session doesn’t happen by accident. This parent-friendly guide shares simple, practical tips to help you set up, prepare, and support your child before, during, and after their telehealth sessions—so they can stay engaged, make progress, and feel confident learning from home.

Daily Living Skills, Executive Functioning, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

Grip, Strength, and Success: Preparing Your Child for Writing

Learning to write is more than holding a pencil—it requires the right hand strength, coordination, and fine motor control. This blog explains the connection between pencil grip, hand strength, and writing readiness, and provides practical tips for parents to support their child’s early writing skills. It also highlights how occupational therapists at The Therapy Network (TTN) guide families in developing the foundational skills needed for confident, independent handwriting.

Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

From Guideline to Everyday Life: How TTN Supports Autistic Children to Learn, Participate and Thrive

Australia’s National Guideline for supporting autistic children highlights the importance of inclusion, wellbeing and meaningful participation. At The Therapy Network (TTN), this Guideline closely reflects how our paediatric occupational therapists already work alongside autistic children and their families — focusing on strengths, real-life participation and family-centred care.

Daily Living Skills, Executive Functioning, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

Disability Inclusion Profiles in Victorian Schools: How Occupational Therapist’s Can Make a Difference

Disability Inclusion Profiles (DIPs) are essential tools that help Victorian schools understand and support each student’s unique needs. This blog explores what DIPs are, why they are important, and how occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in creating them. By assessing a child’s functional abilities and collaborating with teachers and families, OTs ensure DIPs are practical, evidence-based, and student-centred. The blog also invites schools and families to connect with The Therapy Network to develop or enhance DIPs, fostering inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.

Executive Functioning, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

The Role of Student Support Group (SSG) Meetings in Victorian Schools: The Clinical Contribution of Occupational Therapy

Student Support Group (SSG) meetings are central to inclusive education in Victorian schools. This blog explores the valuable role occupational therapists play in SSGs—supporting collaborative planning, translating assessment findings into practical classroom adjustments, and ensuring student-centred, functional outcomes that enable meaningful participation in school life.

Daily Living Skills, Executive Functioning, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

Why We Value School Readiness at The Therapy Network: Preparing Children for a Confident Start

Starting or returning to school can be exciting—and a little overwhelming—for every child. At TTN, our School Readiness Program celebrates each child’s unique way of learning while helping them feel confident, regulated, and prepared for the year ahead. Through playful activities, social connection, sensory supports, and routine practice, children develop the skills they need to thrive in the classroom. Parents also receive practical tips to support the transition at home and at school, making the start of the school year a positive, empowering experience for the whole family.

Daily Living Skills, News, School Readiness|Comments Off

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