Sensory Processing Archives | Page 2 of 3

When Plans Change: Helping Children Build Flexible Thinking and Resilience

When the plan changes, does your child become upset, anxious or completely overwhelmed? Flexible thinking is the ability to adapt when things don’t go as expected — and for some children, this can be much harder than it looks. In this blog, The Therapy Network (TTN) explores why change can feel so challenging, how flexible thinking connects with emotional regulation and executive functioning, and practical ways families can help children build confidence, adaptability and resilience one small change at a time.

Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Crossing the Midline: The Hidden Skill That Helps Children Read, Write and Thrive

Have you ever noticed your child swapping hands while colouring, turning the whole page instead of moving their arm, or using one hand for almost every task? While these behaviours may seem insignificant, they can sometimes point to an important developmental skill that is still emerging—crossing the midline. Crossing the midline is one of the building blocks for handwriting, reading, sports, self-care, and coordinated movement. It allows both sides of the body—and the brain—to work together efficiently. When this skill develops well, children move more smoothly, learn more easily, and tackle everyday tasks with greater confidence. At The Therapy Network (TTN), Occupational Therapists regularly assess and support midline crossing as part of a child's overall motor development, helping children strengthen the foundations they need for learning, independence and participation.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

When Research Changes the Way You See a Child: Reflections from an Occupational Therapist on Sensory Processing and Autism

As occupational therapists, we are constantly learning from the children and families we work with—but sometimes a research paper makes us stop and reflect on our own practice. A recently published article, Sensory-Processing Informed Autism Practice for Child-Centred Therapists (Daniel et al., 2026), challenged many traditional assumptions about autism, sensory processing and emotional regulation. In this reflection, TTN's occupational therapists share the key messages that resonated most, what they mean for families, and how they as a team continue to shape our child-centred approach to therapy.

News, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Helping Your Child Try New Foods: Practical Strategies for Picky Eaters

Does your child only eat a handful of foods or become upset when something new appears on their plate? You're not alone. Many children go through phases of picky eating, but for some, trying new foods can feel genuinely overwhelming. Understanding why your child is avoiding certain foods is the first step towards helping them develop confidence and curiosity around eating. In this blog, our occupational therapists share practical, evidence-informed strategies to reduce mealtime stress, support sensory needs, and make trying new foods a positive experience for the whole family.

Daily Living Skills, Feeding & Mealtimes, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Beyond the Scores: How the ABAS Helps Us Understand Your Child’s Everyday Life

When families hear the word assessment, it's easy to imagine tests, scores and comparisons. But the Adaptive Behaviour Assessment System (ABAS) is very different. Rather than measuring intelligence or academic achievement, it helps Occupational Therapists understand how children manage the everyday skills that support independence, participation and quality of life. From getting dressed and communicating with others to following routines and participating in the community, the ABAS provides valuable insights into what life looks like beyond the clinic. At The Therapy Network (TTN), we use the ABAS as part of comprehensive Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) to better understand each child's strengths, identify areas where support may be needed, and develop meaningful recommendations that help children thrive at home, school and in the community.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Looking Beyond the Diagnosis: How WHODAS Helps Tell Your Child’s Everyday Story

When families begin the NDIS process, one of the biggest surprises is the number of questionnaires involved in a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA). It's natural to wonder why they're needed. The answer is simple: the NDIS doesn't fund a diagnosis—it funds the impact that diagnosis has on everyday life. One of the key evidence-based tools Occupational Therapists use to understand this impact is the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0). In this blog, we explain what the WHODAS measures, why it plays such an important role in Functional Capacity Assessments, and how it helps families, therapists and the NDIS gain a clearer understanding of a person's strengths, challenges and support needs.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

More Than a Score: Understanding the PEDI-CAT and How It Helps Tell Your Child’s Story

When families hear that their child will be completing a PEDI-CAT assessment, they often wonder what it involves and why it's important. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory – Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) is much more than a questionnaire—it is an evidence-based assessment that helps Occupational Therapists understand how children participate in everyday life. From dressing and mealtimes to mobility, communication and social participation, the PEDI-CAT provides valuable insights into a child's strengths, areas of challenge and support needs. In this blog, we explain what the PEDI-CAT measures, how it contributes to Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) and NDIS planning, and why it plays such an important role in helping children achieve greater independence and participation.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Ready, Set, Go! Is Your Child Ready for Toilet Training? A Gentle Guide for Families

Toilet training is one of the biggest milestones of early childhood—but success isn't determined by age alone. True readiness involves physical development, body awareness, communication, sensory processing, and emotional confidence. In this blog, we explore the signs that your child may be ready to begin their toileting journey, share practical Occupational Therapy strategies to make the process positive and stress-free, and explain when it may be helpful to seek additional support. Discover how following your child's lead can build confidence, independence, and long-term success.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Winter Wiggles: 10 Indoor Sensory Play Ideas to Keep Children Learning, Moving and Regulated

Cold and rainy days often mean more time indoors—but they don't have to mean more screen time. Sensory play is a fun and engaging way to support your child's development while encouraging movement, creativity, emotional regulation, and learning. In this blog, we share simple, low-preparation indoor sensory activities that use everyday household items to keep children active, connected, and thriving all winter long.

Daily Living Skills, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

Meltdowns vs Tantrums: When Big Emotions Aren’t Just Behaviour

Not all big emotional reactions are the same. While tantrums are often goal-driven behaviours, meltdowns are a response to overwhelming sensory input and a nervous system in distress. Understanding the difference is essential for responding effectively and compassionately. This blog explores how to recognise meltdowns versus tantrums, what sensory overload looks like in children, and how occupational therapists at The Therapy Network (TTN) support families with practical, individualised strategies.

Daily Living Skills, Emotional Regulation, News, Sensory Processing|Comments Off

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