What I’m Reading

I’ve been spending a lot of time looking for resources online for families that are easy to use, but also have a good scientific backing.  Here are my favorites from the last few weeks:

• Tummy time ideas:
  • A friend recommended this webiste, Can Do Kiddo, written by an OT who focused on infant and toddler development.  The writer is passionate about promoting early development in healthy, play-based ways.  Lots of good ideas on her site for free, and also links to her books for more ideas.
• Executive functioning development and research:
  • Harvard University Center on the Developing Child has an excellent publication (free): Enhancing and Practicing Executive Function Skills with Children from Infancy to Adolescence
• Fine motor home ideas:
  • OT Plan– clinical website that could easily be used by parents with tons of activities grouped by therapeutic benefit.
  • Mama OT– an OT blog site with lots of education articles and activity ideas.
• International Adoption Resources:
  • A post on No Hands But Ours that reviews of the role of the international adoption clinics and how important they can be to address the unique needs of this group of children.
• Signing resources for children both with and without special needs:
  • Signing Time– Adorable and well-made videos that teach sign language to children of all ages.  Some are also available on Netflix.
  • Baby Sign Language-  great resource with pictures, videos, and lots of printables to use to help younger children learn to sign.

Happy Reading!

Paige Hays is an occupational therapist who provides in-home, pediatric occupational therapy services in the south metro area of the Twin Cities, MN. She is a mother of 2 girls, avid DIYer, and a highly skilled and experienced OT. She specializes in working in pediatrics, with diverse expertise ranging from cognition and sensory issues to working with children with neuromuscular disabilities or complex medical needs.