Why Some Kids Have Meltdowns Adapting to Change

https://youtu.be/U0AzvQfv18Y Transitions like bedtime, clean-up time, or leaving the playground seem simple to adults. But for many kids, these changes in activity can lead to meltdowns. That’s because sudden changes can feel overwhelming or even scary for children with sensory or behavioral challenges. My name is Jennifer Hatch, and I am a pediatric occupational therapist here at Fluens Children’s Therapy. Today, I wanted to talk a little bit about why transitions are so tough, and how you can support your child with simple strategies that make a big difference. What Is a Transition? A transition is when a child is moving from one activity to another. That could be going from playtime to dinner, or from dinner to bath time. For many children, especially those with behavioral challenges or sensory processing difficulties, transitions can feel really big, sudden, and scary. That’s why you might see a child either melt down or shut down if you … Keep Reading…

Can OT Help Kids with ADHD Thrive at School?

https://youtu.be/x9I5HcdaaZA Does your child struggle with sitting still, staying focused, or following directions at school? For some kids, the classroom can be an overwhelming place. But understanding what’s behind your child’s behavior can make all the difference to their success. My name is Jennifer Hatch, and I am a pediatric occupational therapist here at Fluens Children’s Therapy. Today, I want to talk about something that comes up a lot at school, whether it’s in the classroom, at parent-teacher conferences, or even at home around the dinner table, and that’s ADHD. What Exactly Is ADHD? So first off, what is ADHD? ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a neurological condition that affects the way a child’s brain is wired. It impacts their attention, their regulation, their ability to sit still, and their impulses. It’s really an executive functioning disorder. How ADHD Affects Kids at School ADHD looks different in every child, but it mostly … Keep Reading…