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Showing posts from February, 2024

The Most Widely Used Interdisciplinary Behavior Strategies

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  Children with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder, and other developmental delays often have professionals of all different backgrounds providing strategies for their success. While occupational, physical, and speech therapy, special education, and applied behavior analysts have different focuses, these professionals often use the same foundations to help kids learn and grow. Read on for the most common behavior strategies that the whole team uses: Use Positive Reinforcement Teachers and parents use positive reinforcement with both neurotypical children and kids with disabilities for a valid reason. Their developing brains make stronger connections with positive reinforcement than negative. Try to catch them at their best, whether by saying hello to a friend, listening to your message, or trying something new without getting frustrated. Recognize and praise their behavior. A  Pediatric Therapist  and educator are as specific as possible with praise and ...

The Vestibular System: Four Places for Intervention

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The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, gives us information about how our head is oriented in space and is essential for balance. The vestibular system is closely linked to the visual system and postural control. Some children experience challenges related to the development of this system, and it may reflect in their poor balance, frequent movement-seeking behaviors, or reluctance to participate in activities that involve positional changes. Input to the vestibular system is often organized, and the effects of stimulation can last for up to eight hours! An Occupational therapist provides interventions that develop the vestibular system to help children fully participate in movement activities, whether they: Seek vestibular input- These children love to spin, swing, and be on the move. Have postural control challenges- Postural challenges are indicated by frequent leaning, falling out of a chair, or a child resting their body on a table surface. Are over-responsive to vesti...