These therapy balls can be used with kids to increase their core muscle strength and endurance for sitting. 12″ size is good for toddlers, but you may want 25″(65 cm) or 36″ (75 cm) for slightly older kids. It depends on if you want their feet to be able to touch the ground or not when they are sitting on the ball. They will be able to use their feet for stability if they touch the ground, but if their feet do not touch the ground they will need to use more of their core muscles (tummy and back muscles).
Tag Archives: Special Needs
Primitive Reflexes and Special Needs Episode 12
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On this show, I discuss some of the primitive reflexes we are born with or are present early in life. Specifically I talk about the following reflexes: Moro, Rooting, Palmer, ATNR (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex), Spinal Galant, and STNR (Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex).
Information on what happens when these reflexes do not become integrated at the correct age, and how this can affect kids when they get to a school age.
I share a research study on Reflexes in Kids with ADHD versus kids without ADHD. That study can be found at: http://link.springer.com
Konicarova, Jana, and Petr Bob. “Retained Primitive Reflexes and ADHD in Children.” SpringerLink, Springer International Publishing, 23 Feb. 2017, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03379591. Accessed 6 Sept. 2017.
STNR for Teachers of School Aged Kids: http://ndcbrain.com
Additional information on primitive reflexes: http://www.whattoexpect.com
ATNR Information: https://spectrumkid.com
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymidwesttherapy/
Child Development
Special Needs
Developmental Milestones
Sensory Processing
Theraband Non-Latex Resistive Bands
As discussed in today’s show, these bands can be helpful for kids who have a difficult time sitting still in their chairs either at home or school. You can use these bands around the legs of their chair so they can hook their feet around it for extra support, or just for additional sensory input.
Sensory Processing for Everyone Episode 10 Special Needs Topics
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On this episode I discuss how Sensory Processing is part of every person’s daily life, but some people have more difficulty with processing sensory information than others.
Some children with special needs have difficulties with Sensory Processing and other Child Development issues.
Think about your own life, and how you handle sensory information throughout your day. What about your kids? If you see any signs that are affecting their ability to play, learn, eat, grow, or develop in some way, bring it up to your pediatrician or seek an evaluation from an early intervention program in your area.
Eye exams are important for people of all ages! Get eye exams for your kids even if there are no concerns just to make sure nothing gets missed.
Next episode #11 will have a new name: “Milestones”
The content will continue on course with what I’ve been discussing, but hopefully the broader name will catch the attention of all parents, not just those looking for information on kids with special needs.
Eye Exams for Kids: http://thinkaboutyoureyes.com
Over the Ear Headphones for Kids: Headphones
Special Needs
Sensory Processing
Child Development
Visual Sensory Processing Episode 9 Special Needs Topics
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On this show I discuss Visual Sensory Processing as it relates to kids. Visual Sensory Processing is explained in detail, plus suggestions are given for things to look for with these kids and how to possibly help them when appropriate.
Sun Shade for Strollers: Sun Shade for Strollers
Sensory Processing
Child Development
Special Needs
Proprioceptive Sensory Processing Episode 8 Special Needs Topics
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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
Vestibular Sensory Processing Episode 7 Special Needs Topics
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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
Red Flags for Autism Episode 6 Special Needs
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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
Early Intervention Program Episode 5 Special Needs Topics
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Listen on Stitcher: http://www.stitcher.com/
On this show, I explain the Early Intervention Programs available throughout the U.S. Each state has their own program for children with disabilities or who are “at risk” for disabilities ages birth to 3 years.
Information for parents of Children with Special Needs, Sensory Processing, and Child Development or Developmental Milestones
Links to some of the states Early Intervention Sites:
Missouri: https://dese.mo.gov
Illinois: http://www.dhs.state.il.us
Kansas: http://www.ksits.org/
Arizona: https://des.az.gov/
Washington: https://del.wa.gov/
Texas: https://hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/early-childhood-intervention-services
Wisconsin: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov
Minnesota: http://www.dhs.state.mn.us
Michigan: http://www.michigan.gov
Tactile Sensory Processing Episode 3 Special Needs Topics
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Episode 3: Tactile Sensory Processing
In this Episode of The Special Needs Podcast, I talk about one aspect of Tactile Sensory Processing. In my Occupational Therapy practice with kids and families I see issues with this area a lot! There are so many things to talk about, that I will be breaking this one up into multiple episodes in order to try and keep things from getting too confusing!
Today, I am focusing mostly on kids that have some sensitivities to things touching them, and I give one long example with explanations.
Please email with questions and comments to: [email protected]
Special Needs
Child Development
Sensory Processing