Stained Glass Therapies

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy (OT) helps children improve their ability to participate in daily life. This includes tasks like self-care, play, and learning through meaningful activities called "occupations." OT supports independence, motor skills, sensory processing, and social development.

Children benefit from OT for various reasons including Autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and more. OTs tailor their approach based on each child’s strengths, needs, and environment.

Sensory Integration

We rely on 8 senses: sight, sound, touch, smell, taste, vestibular (balance), proprioception (body awareness), and interoception (internal senses like hunger).

Sensory integration refers to how the brain processes this input. Challenges in this area can lead to over- or under-reactions to everyday stimuli. OT helps children regulate and respond more effectively to their environment.

Example Sensory Activities

Regulating (Calming): weighted blankets, soft music, chewy snacks, deep pressure, and yoga.

Alerting (Stimulating): spinning, bright lights, quick jumping, rough textures, and water play.

Talk with your child’s OT about what’s best for them before trying new activities.

Daily Living Tips

Sleep

Keep a consistent bedtime, limit screen time before bed, and use calming sensory input like deep pressure and white noise. Adjust room temperature and bedding for comfort.

Self-Care & Dressing

Break tasks into steps. Use visual schedules for routines like hand washing and tooth brushing. Try sensory-friendly clothing. Use adaptive tools like elastic shoelaces or front-closure bras.

Caregiver Resources

Chattanooga Community

Includes resources like the Tennessee Aquarium, Buddy Break Respite, Creative Discovery Museum, and Miracle League baseball. Visit our Resources section for full details and contacts.