Author Archives: Allison

About Allison

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, and went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. As soon as I graduated I began building my caseload by contracting with the state of Missouri infant and toddler program. Over the last 10 years I have worked with the infant and toddler program as well as private pay cases with children up to 15 years old. I work with families on practical ways to make positive changes to their lives. I provide hands on direct therapy as well as parent education and consultation. Therapy is individualized to each child and family's specific needs. I prefer to start out with direct in home services and decrease to face to face consultation or internet-based consultation via Skype.

Toothbrushing and Sensory Processing Issues Episode 30

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On this episode, I discuss issues with toothbrushing in kids with Sensory Processing sensitivities. The topic includes brushing teeth and home and at the dentist office.

Research Study:
http://ajot.aota.org
Stein, Leah I., et al. “Oral Care and Sensory Concerns in Autism.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, 1 Sept. 2012, ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1851619&resultClick=3. Accessed 6 Sept. 2017.

Website: https://mymidwesttherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymidwesttherapy/
email: [email protected]
Instagram: milestonespodcast


Nuk Brush for Oral Motor Skills

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Nuk brush is great for introducing oral motor stimulation to kids with Sensory Processing Disorder.


Jigglers for Oral Motor Activities

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These cute animals vibrate when you twist the handle/post. Kids can use them to stimulate their mouth for awareness, or use them to help become desensitized through the vibrations.


Jumbo Nuts and Bolts Set for Fine Motor Skills

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This game is great for bilateral skills – using both hands together to turn the pieces. Wrist control and hand coordination is used to twist the pieces to come off or go back on.


Mini Muffin Match Up for Fine Motor Skills

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Fine Motor Skills are used in this game to use the tongs to pick up the pieces, and to use fingers to get the pieces out of the muffin tin. Great for matching and cognitive skills as well!


Fine Motor Skills in Occupational Therapy Episode 29

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On this episode, I discuss the history of the profession of Occupational Therapy in the United States. I also discuss fine motor skills in kids and adults including crossing midline and bilateral coordination.

Wikipedia OT history:
https://en.wikipedia.org

Wikipedia Greek Doctor: https://en.wikipedia.org

AJOT OT WWI article
http://ajot.aota.org

Gutman, Sharon A. “Influence of the U.S. Military and Occupational Therapy Reconstruction Aides in World War I on the Development of Occupational Therapy.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, 1 Mar. 1995, ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1870396. Accessed 6 Sept. 2017.

AOTA:
https://www.aota.org

Website: https://mymidwesttherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymidwesttherapy/
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: milestonespodcast

Sensory Processing
Fine Motor Skills
Autism


Sensory Processing Versus Autism Episode 28

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On this episode, I talk about Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism and how they are 2 different things. You can have Sensory Processing issues without having Autism. However, it is very uncommon to have Autism without Sensory Processing issues.

Research Article:
http://ac.els-cdn.com
https://doi.org
“Abnormal white matter microstructure in children with sensory processing disorders.” Abnormal white matter microstructure in children with sensory processing disorders – ScienceDirect, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213158213000776. Accessed 6 Sept. 2017.

Website: https://mymidwesttherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymidwesttherapy/
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: milestonespodcast

Autism
Child Development
Sensory Processing Disorder


Sleep in Children with Sensory Processing Issues Episode 27

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On this episode, I discuss the topic of sleep in children with sensory processing issues. Many kids who have sensory issues will have a difficult time falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. I discuss some strategies to try when you have a child who has trouble sleeping due to sensory issues.

Website: https://mymidwesttherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymidwesttherapy/
Instagram: milestonespodcast
Email: [email protected]

Sensory Squeezee Bed Sheets for Sleeping: http://www.sensorystretchyz.com
AJOT article abstract:
http://ajot.aota.org

Vasak, Mark, et al. “Sensory Processing and Sleep in Typically Developing Infants and Toddlers.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, 1 July 2015, ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=2360711. Accessed 6 Sept. 2017.

Dream Pad: https://dreampadsleep.com

Sensory Processing Disorder
Infant and Child Development
Occupational Therapy


Senseez Vibrating Pillow

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Senseez vibrating pillows for kids with sensory processing disorder that benefit from the vibration as a means of deep pressure stimulation. Helps with body awareness and calming sensations.