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A Guide to Emotions Check-In for Kids
Having an emotions check in for kids is a critical piece of the social emotional skills puzzle. We know the value of addressing emotions and self regulation in mental health. The simple act of checking in with our kids’ feelings and emotions is pivotal in benefiting overall mindset, emotional intelligence, and much more. Here, we’ll…
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Affect Modulation for Kids: Strategies and Insights
Affect modulation may sound like a complex term, but it is a cornerstone for social and emotional development. When it comes to daily functional skills, interacting with peers, and learning, our affect plays a major role. In this blog post, we will break down the concept of affect modulation and explore what it means to…
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Symptoms of Too Much Screen Time
Did you know there are specific symptoms of too much screen time that you’ve probably experienced? You’ve probably seen or experienced the symptoms of too much screen time. Blurry eyes, a muddled mind, difficulty with focus, trouble stopping the screens and behaviors when asked to stop…But what are others experiencing when it comes to screen…
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Drawing Journal with Stuffed Animals
We had the chance to check out a new resource over on Amazon…a drawing journal for kids to use with their favorite stuffed animals! When it comes to helping kids with handwriting needs, coming up with creative and engaging activities can significantly contribute to enhancing various skills. That’s where therapeutic journaling comes into play, using…
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Cross Crawl Exercises
This article covers cross crawl exercises as a brain break tool and a bilateral coordination strategy to add sensory movement. Have you heard the term cross crawl and wondered what that meant? As parents, educators, and therapists, we are always looking for ways to help promote overall development of the children in our lives. One way to build connections…
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Conversation Heart Sort
Valentine’s day is upon us. Since there is an increasing amount of hype swirling around Valentine’s Day, you might as well jump on the bandwagon and make a lesson plan around it. Let’s face it, breaking up the winter blues with a cute holiday theme is kind of nice. At the OT Toolbox, we want…
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12 Self-Regulation Crafts for Kids (Fun + Effective)
Helping kids understand and regulate their emotions through arts and crafts is a fantastic way to promote self-regulation needs while fostering emotional intelligence and well-being. So, here are 12 self-regulation crafts designed to help kids express themselves artistically and navigate the colorful world of feelings. We know the power of targeting emotional regulation through tools…
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Soothing Sammy Calm Down Toy
Understanding the role of sensory components and brain development is crucial for decoding tantrums. This blog explores the importance of sensory strategies and introduces Soothing Sammy, a unique age-appropriate calm down toy, tool designed to guide children through the process of calming down using various sensory components. This is one self regulation activity that can…
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Winter Fine Motor Activities
Looking for winter fine motor activities that boost the skills kids need? These fine motor ideas develop the skills that kids need for tasks like handwriting, pencil grasp, cutting with scissors, managing clothing fasteners, and more. You’ll find winter activities that boost hand strength, grasp, precision and endurance in the hands…all through play! We’ve even…
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Platform Swings
We at the OT Toolbox, have created a series of posts about different types of therapeutic swings. A swing is more than just a fun gadget. When selecting treatment plans, it is best to understand the equipment, and treatment methods when using them. Today’s focus is on Platform Swings. We will discuss activities, tips, safety…
