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.

Proprioceptive Sensory Processing Episode 8 Special Needs Topics

Posted on by

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

In this episode I discuss what Proprioceptive Sensory Processing or Proprioception is in detail. I give examples of what this might look like with kids who are having issues in this area of sensory processing. Examples of activities to do with them are also given.

Here are some useful links from today’s show:
Sensory Stretchy Bed Sheets for Deep Pressure: http://www.sensorystretchyz.com/
Squeeze Machine: Squeeze Machine
Pressure Vest: Pressure Mesh Vest
Sensory Swing: THERAPY SWING


Sensory Brushes

Posted on by


These brushes are used with the Wilbarger Sensory Brushing Protocol. Please consult with a pediatric Occupational Therapist on the appropriate use of this item!
Great for Proprioceptive Sensory Processing, or to help kids who have Tactile Sensory Issues. It can be calming and organizing for their bodies when used correctly.


Dynamic Body Sox

Posted on by


A fun and useful activity for kids who have issues with body awareness and motor planning. Can be used as a Proprioceptive Sensory activity for kids with sensory needs. Kids get inside and push with their arms and legs to feel the resistance and give excellent pressure to their body for calming and organizing sensations.


Gymnic Disc-O-Sit Jr. Inflatable Seat Cushion

Posted on by


This item is great for posture and core activation. However, it is also great for Vestibular and Proprioceptive Sensory Processing. For those kids that have trouble sitting still, this can give them the stimulation they are looking for while they are still sitting in one place. It can help them stay seated long enough to play with toys or maybe even for meal or snack time.


Vestibular Sensory Processing Episode 7 Special Needs Topics

Posted on by

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

On this episode I discuss Vestibular Sensory Processing with kids. I talk about 2 different aspects of this area where one is the kids who are overly sensitive to movements, and the kids who need more stimulation to this area before they feel the movements. Both types are described and some possible suggestions are given as well.

Special Needs
Sensory Processing
Child Development


Milliard Anti-Burst Peanut Ball 23″ X 12″ Size

Posted on by


This peanut ball is great for kids who love to bounce or they can roll over it on their belly. An excellent way to get their head moving through space for Vestibular Sensory Processing!


Mini Trampoline with Handle

Posted on by


A mini-trampoline can be a great activity for kids who love to jump or kids who are learning to jump! The handle is great because they can hold on to it to help with balance, but they can still get the up and down movement they love!


Fat Brain Toys Teeter Popper for Vestibular Sensory Processing

Posted on by


This toy is great for balance and movement. It has suction cups on the bottom of it that make a popping sound when they rock it back and forth. Kids can sit on it or stand with supervision or appropriate assistance for their developmental level. Great for side to side and back and forth movements!


Red Flags for Autism Episode 6 Special Needs

Posted on by

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

In this Episode of The Special Needs Podcast I give a list of 10 things that may be indicators of Autism. This is not a comprehensive list, but just an idea of some things to look for and be aware of as possibilities. Not all kids with Autism will have things on this list, and some kids without Autism will have things on this list. It is meant only to give you an idea of some red flags in development that could indicate a concern. If you have any concerns with your child’s development, please discuss them with your pediatrician!

 

Listen on Stitcher:
http://www.stitcher.com

M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers: https://www.m-chat.org
CDC Criteria for Autism Diagnosis: https://www.cdc.gov
Eczema Information: https://nationaleczema.org
Autism Speaks; learn the signs of Autism: https://www.autismspeaks.org

Children with Special Needs
Sensory Processing
Child Development


Developmental Milestones and Red Flags for Autism

Posted on by

This Kindle Book offers information for parents on general developmental milestones as well as Red Flags in development that may indicate Autism.