From Crawling to Climbing: How Movement Builds Brains, Boosts Learning and Helps Children Thrive
Movement Is the Brain's Favourite Teacher Children don't learn best [...]
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is It Just a Phase? Knowing When Your Child Could Benefit from Occupational Therapy
Children go through many developmental phases, but sometimes challenges in daily life may indicate the need for extra support. This blog helps parents identify signs that occupational therapy (OT) might be beneficial, covering areas such as fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care, and emotional regulation. It also explains how occupational therapists at The Therapy Network (TTN) work with children and families to build skills, confidence, and independence.
“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.
Big Feelings, Little Bodies: How Occupational Therapy Supports Children with Anxiety
Anxiety and emotional challenges can show up in many ways for children — from school refusal and meltdowns to perfectionism or withdrawal. In this blog, we explore the important role Occupational Therapists (OTs) play in supporting emotional regulation, building coping skills, and helping children feel safe, capable, and confident in their everyday environments.
Calm at Home: Creating a Sensory-Friendly Space for Your Child
At The Therapy Network (TTN), we often remind families that therapy [...]