Blog
More Realistic New Year’s Resolutions for Parents
The New Year has a way of whispering (or shouting) that we should suddenly become […]
2025 Annual Holiday Gift Guide: Fun, Therapeutic, and Developmentally Supportive Gift Ideas
The holiday season is right around the corner and Chicagoland has already seen its first […]
From Fall to Winter: Helping Kids Adjust to Seasonal Changes
Occupational Therapy, Parent Education
There’s something magical about that first crisp morning of fall – the smell of leaves, the cozy sweaters, the pumpkin spice everything. But let’s be honest: the change of seasons isn’t always smooth sailing…especially if you’re parenting a child who thrives on routine or has sensory sensitivities.
Introducing Counseling for Caregivers at Westside
Parenting a child with special needs or a new diagnosis can feel like a full-time job on top of a full-time job. Between therapies, appointments, school, and work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or anxious. While most conversations with your child’s therapists focus on their goals and progress, many parents tell us they wish they had a space to focus on their own emotions, stress, and well-being.
Understanding OCD: How Westside Approaches Treatment
Child Counseling, Occupational Therapy
Every October, the International OCD Foundation hosts OCD Awareness Week to shed light on a condition that is often misunderstood. Many of us have heard people casually say, “I’m so OCD” when describing their preference for neatness or organization. While usually said in jest, this misconception diminishes the very real challenges faced by individuals – children included – who live with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
What to Look for in Special Needs Estate Planning: A Guide for Parents
Life as a parent is busy. Between school drop-offs, after-school activities, work, and everything else on your plate, it can feel like there’s never enough time in the day. Estate planning may not be something you’ve thought much about, but it’s particularly important for families raising a child with special needs.
When Change is Hard: Tips for Navigating Transitions
Transitions are a normal part of every child’s day. Some kids can switch gears with ease, while others find change much harder. Leaving the playground, wrapping up screen time, or heading off to school can all feel like big hurdles.
Bullying Prevention Month: What Every Parent Needs to Know
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action to […]
Navigating School Law and Ensuring Medically Necessary Therapy: What Parents Need to Know
ABA Therapy, Child Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Parent Education, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy
If you’re the parent of a child with autism or developmental differences, you’ve likely faced tough questions about how to balance school and therapy. As your child reaches school age, you may find yourself wondering:
Ready, Set, School: Why Preparation is Key for Your Child’s Success
It may feel hard to believe, but it’s already time to start thinking about back to school! Whether your child is excited to pick out new markers or already dreading the return to routine, one thing’s for sure – the transition from summer to school is a big one.
A Parent’s Guide to Understanding AAC Devices and How They Support Communication
Communication comes in many forms. While some children use words, others thrive with visual tools, signs, or technology. Finding the right tools to support your child’s communication style can make a world of difference. For some kids, that tool is an AAC device.
If you’re exploring ways to support a child with autism, you’ve probably heard of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Whether your child has already been diagnosed or you are considering diagnostic testing, it’s natural to want clear information on the next steps.