paediatric-occupational-therapy Archives

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

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.

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

Tiny Backpack, Big Milestone: An OT’s Perspective on Starting Childcare

Starting childcare is one of the first major transitions in a young child's life—and often one of the most emotional for parents too. In this month's OT Insight, Rebecca shares her personal experience as her son Tommy began childcare and reflects on the practical preparations, emotional challenges, and incredible developmental opportunities this milestone brings. Plus, we've included a practical Childcare Transition Checklist and occupational therapy tips to help your family feel prepared and supported through this exciting new chapter.

Daily Living Skills, Feeding & Mealtimes, News|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

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

Little Hands, Big Skills: 10 Simple Ways to Build Fine Motor Skills at Home

Fine motor skills are essential for everyday tasks such as writing, dressing, feeding, and play. Developing these skills doesn’t require complex equipment—simple, engaging activities at home can make a significant impact. In this blog, we share 10 practical and easy-to-implement activities that support the development of hand strength, coordination, and control, while highlighting how occupational therapists at The Therapy Network (TTN) can support children to build these skills in a fun and meaningful way.

Daily Living Skills, Fine and Gross Motor Skills, News|Comments Off

“Too Loud, Too Busy… or Not Enough?” Understanding Sensory Seeking and Sensory Avoiding — and How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Some children seem to be constantly on the move — jumping, spinning, and touching everything in sight — while others become overwhelmed by noise, mess, or busy environments. These behaviours are often linked to differences in sensory processing. In this blog, we explore the difference between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding, why they happen, and how paediatric occupational therapists at The Therapy Network (TTN) support children and families with practical strategies that help kids feel calmer, more confident, and ready to participate in everyday life.

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

“Too Loud, Too Messy, Too Much: Understanding Why Some Children Avoid Noise, Mess or Busy Spaces”

Some children happily dive into messy play, tolerate noisy environments, and navigate busy spaces with ease. Others may cover their ears, refuse messy activities, or become overwhelmed in crowded places. These responses are often linked to how a child processes sensory information. In this blog, we explore sensory processing, why certain environments can feel overwhelming for some children, and how occupational therapy can support children to feel more comfortable and confident in everyday situations.

Sensory Processing|Comments Off

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