Occupational Therapy

A toddler in socks carefully climbs over a colorful padded play structure at an indoor children's gym.

Fine Motor Delays in Children: What Is Typical and When to Seek an OT Evaluation

Occupational Therapy, Parent Education

QUICK ANSWER By age 2, most children can pick up small objects with a pincer […]

A smiling therapist holds up a picture card for a young boy holding a sensory ball during a pediatric therapy session, representing families using their insurance benefits for pediatric therapy.

What Does a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Actually Do?

ABA Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Parent Education

QUICK ANSWER A pediatric occupational therapist evaluates a child’s ability to do the everyday things […]

A smiling occupational therapist supports a young boy in glasses as he climbs colorful padded equipment in a therapy gym.

Top Reasons a Child Gets an Occupational Therapy Referral

Occupational Therapy

QUICK ANSWER Children are most often referred to occupational therapy for trouble with handwriting and […]

A smiling young boy sits in a salon chair wearing a cape while a stylist trims his hair with clippers, representing strategies that help a child with autism handle haircuts.

How to Help a Child with Autism Handle Haircuts: Strategies That Work

ABA Therapy, Children Activities, Occupational Therapy, Parent Education

QUICK ANSWER To help a child with autism handle haircuts, start with practice at home, […]

A laughing father carries his giggling daughter across his shoulders as her mother holds her hand in a sunny park.

What Does Pediatric Therapy Cost Without Insurance?

ABA Therapy, Costs, Occupational Therapy, Parent Education, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy

QUICK ANSWER Without insurance, pediatric therapy sessions across OT, PT, speech, and ABA typically range […]

person gently dressing a young child in a patterned winter coverall

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.

OCD

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). 

parent-teacher meeting in a classroom setting

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:

serial cast for child toe walking

Why Early Intervention is Crucial for Toe Walking

Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy

You may wonder why your child is toe walking. It’s important to know that toe walking always happens for a reason. Over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of children who toe walk, a trend that continues today.

child in occupational therapy

Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Children with Autism

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy helps children with autism develop life skills and gain independence. It focuses on sensory integration, motor skills, and daily living activities. Customized exercises address sensory sensitivities and build coordination. Occupational therapy empowers children with autism by teaching essential life skills.

Child during an occupational session

Why Does a Child Need Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy

Pediatric occupational therapy helps children with challenges participate fully in daily activities. Signs a child may benefit include fine motor delays, sensory issues, social difficulties, and problems with self-care. In therapy, kids do playful activities to improve skills. The therapist provides a tailored, holistic approach in a comfortable setting. Goals are building sensory regulation, social abilities, and independence. Early intervention is key so issues can be addressed when most responsive to treatment.

occupational therapy summer kids

How Occupational Therapy Can Help With Summer Activities

Occupational Therapy, Parent Education

With summer break upon us, it’s time to gear up for some exciting outdoor adventures with your little ones. But as much as we all love summer activities…