Creating Inclusive Spaces: A Pediatric Occupational Therapist’s Perspective

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I’ve spent over two decades supporting children of all abilities to navigate their world more comfortably, confidently, and independently. Whether I’m working in a classroom, clinic, home, or community space, one message remains clear: inclusive environments matter. They don’t just benefit children with disabilities—they create a more empathetic, accessible, andContinue reading “Creating Inclusive Spaces: A Pediatric Occupational Therapist’s Perspective”

The Difference Between Developmentally Appropriate and Academically Appropriate: A Pediatric Occupational Therapist’s Perspective

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I often encounter parents, educators, and caregivers who struggle to understand the difference between what is developmentally appropriate and what is academically appropriate for children. In today’s fast-paced, achievement-driven society, there is a growing emphasis on academic milestones at younger ages, often at the expense of a child’s natural developmentalContinue reading “The Difference Between Developmentally Appropriate and Academically Appropriate: A Pediatric Occupational Therapist’s Perspective”

The Teacher, The Classroom, and The Occupational Therapist

An occupational therapist walks into a teacher’s classroom…….Sounds like the beginning of a great story if you ask me! I’ve been a school-based occupational therapist for over 20 years. I’ve seen it all, I’ve heard it all, and I’ve done it all, and as teachers know, some of it I wish I hadn’t seen heard,Continue reading “The Teacher, The Classroom, and The Occupational Therapist”