IPT

If your child’s poor handwriting is affecting their academic performance or if they get frustrated with fine motor activities to the point where they avoid them, it is time to see an occupational therapist.

By Rebecca Russell, Occupational Therapist

Being cooped up indoors is the perfect time to get creative with household items like painter’s or washi tape. Here are some fun ideas to try with your family.

Early intervention is the term used to describe services and support that help babies and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families. “Starting early intervention can significantly change a child’s developmental path and increase their success in school and life,” says Jennie Marble, Director of Integrated Pediatric Therapies.  

At JCFS Chicago, helping children, teens, and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) integrate into the community and improve their quality of life is at the core of what we do.

Having books in the home is proven to positively benefit children in a myriad of ways. A two-decade long study found that the mere presence of a home library increases children’s academic success, vocabulary development, attention and job attainment.

Safety is a critical concern for families who have children whose communication may not be understood by everyone. The most constructive way to face these concerns is to have a safety plan in place that is updated and addressed on a regular basis.

Through play, children develop motor coordination, social skills, emotional regulation, as well as learn how to process the sensory input in their environment.  The occupational therapists at JCFS Chicago’s Integrated Pediatric Therapies and Therapeutic Day School make sure each child has fun at work!