Strategies to Maximize Engagement in Play-Based Therapy
Drawing on insights from Katie Zelinski, this article shares practical, bottom-up strategies to create therapy environments that invite safety, curiosity, and sustained engagement, from sensory setup to child-led structure.
7 Reasons Autistic Children Withdraw from Play in Therapy
When a child turns away, walks off, or “checks out” during play, it’s not defiance – it’s communication. In this article we explore seven common reasons autistic children disengage in therapy, what those subtle cues might be telling us, and how to respond with empathy instead of pressure.
Following the Child’s Lead – A Strength-Based Approach in DIRFloortime®
DIRFloortime® is a strength-based, relationship-driven framework that honors each child’s individuality. Rather than focusing on “fixing” behaviors, therapists use emotional attunement and play to build trust, safety, and motivation – creating the conditions for growth. In our Play Conference interview with OT Kerri Ciskowski, we explored how DIRFloortime helps therapists and families move away from […]
DIRFloortime® in Action: Supporting Growth Through the Developmental Capacities
If you work in a play-based practice, you’ve probably heard of DIRFloortime®, but you may still be wondering what it really looks like in action. In this interview from The Play Conference, pediatric occupational therapist Kerri Ciskowski shares how the DIRFloortime model helps clinicians and families understand each child’s unique developmental journey – especially for […]
Co-Planning That Works: Aligning Therapy with Academic Goals
Co-planning empowers teachers and therapists to work side by side, blending therapy and instruction so every student can succeed within the classroom. As classrooms become more diverse and collaborative, educators and therapists are finding that intentional co-planning opens the door to more meaningful, consistent support. During the Inclusive Classrooms Summit, speech-language pathologist Abigail Long shared […]
Primitive Reflexes in the Classroom: What Therapists Need to Know
When we look around the classroom, primitive reflexes may not be the first thing that comes to mind. We often associate them with infants and early intervention. But what happens when these reflexes don’t integrate as expected? For many students, retained primitive reflexes continue to shape their development well into the school years – impacting […]
Supporting ADHD Success in the Classroom
ADHD is one of the most misunderstood learning difference in classrooms – even among professionals who work with children every day. Too often, students with ADHD are seen as lacking motivation, willpower, or discipline, when in reality, their challenges stem from a mismatch between what is being asked of them and how their brains naturally […]
Learning Through Play: How Clinicians Use Play-Based Therapy to Foster Child Development
In the realm of pediatric therapy, the concept of learning through play has gained significant traction. Highlighting its effectiveness in fostering developmental milestones, clinicians are embracing this approach. OT’s, SLP’s, and PT’s are crafting therapeutic offerings that harness the power of play to promote learning and growth in children. This blog post delves into the […]
Family-Centered Therapy in Natural Environments
Family-centered practice is redefining the approach to pediatric therapy. Moving beyond traditional clinic settings to involve the entire family in dynamic, real-world settings. Occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, and physical therapists are increasingly embracing this holistic method. Using play as a medium, they are integrating therapeutic activities into everyday life. How Clinicians Enhance Child […]
Empowering Parents and Educators: Clinicians Revolutionize Learning Through Diverse Platforms
In today’s digital age, the landscape of education is rapidly evolving, and clinicians are at the forefront of this transformation. By utilizing a variety of platforms and innovative methods, healthcare professionals are providing parents and educators with valuable educational resources. They are equipping them with the knowledge and skills to effectively support child development. This […]