Tag Archives: Autism

Typical Development 12-24 month old Toddler Episode 42

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On this episode, I discuss the typical development of toddlers between the ages of 12-24 months (or 1-2 years).  All areas of development are included such as: gross motor, fine motor, language, cognition, social/emotional, and self help.

Speaking Presentation October 21st in Overland Park, KS

Learning Resources
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Autism Parenting Magazine

Melissa & Doug Classic ABC Wooden Block Cart Educational Toy With 30 Solid Wood Blocks

The First Years Stacking Up Cups

Fisher-Price Little People Farm Animal Friends

Research Article:
Toddler Persistence Study
Bober, Sally J., et al. “Toddlers’ Persistence in the Emerging Occupations of Functional Play and Self-Feeding.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, 1 July 2001, ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1869010&resultClick=3. Accessed 29 Sept. 2017.

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Head Lag Infant Development Episode 41

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In this episode, I talk about head lag in infant development.  Head lag is where you pull the infant to a sitting position and watch to see if their head lags behind or lifts along with their body.  I discuss potential red flags with head lag.

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Speaking Presentation October 21st in Overland Park, KS

Typical pull to sit:
head lag youtube

Typical and Atypical pull to sit head lag:
pull to sit youtube

Research Study:
https://ajot.aota.org
Flanagan, Joanne E., et al. “Head Lag in Infants at Risk for Autism: A Preliminary Study.” American Journal of Occupational Therapy, American Occupational Therapy Association, 1 Sept. 2012, ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=1851612&resultClick=3. Accessed 25 Sept. 2017.

Head lag website:
http://lifesciencesjournal.org

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Infant Bright Starts Floor Mirror

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Perfect for encouraging infants to lift their head up during tummy time to strengthen their head and neck muscles!  Great for social play, language, and cognition too!


Auditory Processing Disorder Episode 40

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On this episode, I talk about Auditory Processing versus Typical Toddler “Ignoring”.  This is a question so many parents of toddles with auditory processing issues have!  It can be difficult to tell if kids are acting certain ways because of sensory issues or just typical toddler behaviors.

Research Article
https://ajot.aota.org
Ahn, R. R., Miller, L. J., Milberger, S., & McIntosh, D. N. (2004). Prevalence of parents’ perceptions of sensory processing disorders among kindergarten children. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 58, 287–293.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD Episode 39

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On this episode, I talk about the criteria for receiving a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  I am not qualified to diagnose anyone with Autism, but I can help you recognize some of the possible symptoms, and describe what the criteria for the diagnosis mean.

CDC Autism Diagnostic Criteria: https://www.cdc.gov
“Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 18 Apr. 2016, www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/hcp-dsm.html. Accessed 12 Sept. 2017.

Autism Speaks Diagnostic Criteria for Autism: https://www.autismspeaks.org
“DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria.” Autism Speaks, 28 July 2013, www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/diagnosis/dsm-5-diagnostic-criteria. Accessed 12 Sept. 2017.

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Autism Engagement and Joint Attention Information Episode 37

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On this episode I talk about ways to make connections with kids who have Autism both at home and in clinic or school settings.

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Website: https://mymidwesttherapy.com/
Instagram: milestonespodcast

Research Article:
https://ajot.aota.org
Kinnealey, M., Pfeiffer, B., Miller, J., Roan, C., Shoener, R., & Ellner, M. L. (2012). Effect of classroom modification on
attention and engagement of students with autism or dyspraxia. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 66,
511–519. http://dx.doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2012.004010

Autism Teacher Tip Sheet:
https://www.aota.org


Fisher Price Bright Beginnings Activity Walker

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These walkers are perfect for the 7-18 month age range, where they are learning to pull to stand, and start taking some steps forward with assistance.


Transition to School Episode 34

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On this episode I talk about the transition from Early Intervention to Early Childhood, and the transition from summer to back to school for parents, teachers, and therapists.

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Special Needs
Early Intervention
Early Childhood
Occupational Therapy


Hair Cut with Sensory Processing Disorder Episode 33

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On this episode, I discuss issues with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and hair cuts, styles, and overall tactile sensory issues related to the hair and head. I provide some suggestions for helping kids with sensory processing disorder try to get through a hair cut.

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Sensory Processing Disorder
Tactile Sensory Processing
Developmental Milestones


Vibrating Item for Kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

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For kids with Sensory Issues! They may love the vibration and seek out that sensation for deep pressure on their arms and legs. If they don’t like the sensation, it may be something to work towards.