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The New Leaf Blog
Occupational Therapy


Understanding the SOS Approach to Feeding: A Guide for Parents
Feeding challenges can be a significant source of stress for families. When a child struggles with eating, it affects not only nutrition but also daily routines and family dynamics. For parents seeking occupational therapy support, the SOS Approach to Feeding offers a structured, compassionate method to help children develop healthy eating habits. This guide explains what the SOS Approach is, who it benefits, its core principles, and what to expect during therapy sessions. A
Jun 8


Understanding Astronaut Training: A Guide for Families
When your child is receiving pediatric occupational therapy, you may hear about various specialized programs designed to support their development. One such program gaining attention is Astronaut Training: A Sound Activated Vestibular-Visual Protocol. This approach targets specific sensory and motor challenges that many children face. Understanding what Astronaut Training involves, how it helps, and who can benefit from it can empower you as a caregiver to support your child’
May 7


Building Bridges: The Power of Integrating Recreational Therapy, Behavior Management, and Occupational Therapy for Pediatric Care
Children thrive when their supports services makes sense together. Occupational therapy builds the skills kids need to participate fully at home and in the community. Behavior management ensures those skills hold up when emotions run high. Recreational therapy puts it all into practice through meaningful, real-life activities in the community. When these 3 therapies work in sync, children are able to achieve goals more efficiently and have fun in the process!
Mar 19


Tactile System and Occupational Therapy: Supporting Sensory Needs
The sense of touch shapes how children explore and understand the world. When the tactile sensory system works well, children can comfortably interact with their environment, learn new skills, and build confidence. But when this system is over- or under-responsive, it can affect daily life and development. Occupational therapy often supports children with tactile challenges, helping them find balance and improve their abilities. This post explains what the tactile sensory sys
Mar 12


Proprioceptive System and Occupational Therapy: Supporting Sensory Needs
Proprioception is a key sensory system that helps children understand where their bodies are in space without looking. This sense allows them to move smoothly, maintain balance, and perform daily tasks with confidence. For caregivers of children receiving occupational therapy (OT), understanding proprioception can unlock new ways to support development and manage sensory challenges at home. Child engaging in proprioceptive play on indoor climbing equipment What Is Propriocept
Mar 12


Vestibular System and Occupational Therapy: Supporting Sensory Needs
The vestibular system plays a crucial role in how children understand and interact with the world around them. It helps control balance, coordination, and spatial orientation. When this system works well, children can move confidently and safely. When it doesn’t, they may struggle with everyday activities, affecting their learning and play. Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) often focuses on supporting the vestibular system to help children develop these essential skills. Th
Mar 12


Navigating Sensory Dysregulation: A Caregiver's Guide to Supporting Emotional and Behavioral Needs
When a child’s emotions and behaviors feel unpredictable or overwhelming, it can be confusing and exhausting for caregivers. Often, these challenges stem from sensory dysregulation—when a child’s nervous system struggles to process sensory input in a way that feels manageable. Understanding this connection can help caregivers respond with empathy and effective support, rather than frustration or blame. Sensory dysregulation affects how children experience the world and manage
Mar 12


Understanding Occupational Therapy: How It Supports Your Child's Development and Wellbeing
When your child faces challenges with everyday tasks, it can be hard to know where to turn. Occupational therapy offers practical support that helps children build skills for daily life, school, and play. This post explains what occupational therapy is, how it works, and how it can benefit your child’s growth and confidence. What Is Occupational Therapy? Occupational therapy (OT) is a health profession focused on helping people perform activities that matter to them. For chil
Mar 12
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