Optimal function of our bodies occurs when our sensory and motor systems are strong and able to adapt to the demands of the environment. Today’s children often struggle with fidgeting, decreased attention, and immature motor patterns which manifest themselves through frustration and behavior issues. When our body’s systems are not integrated to form a strong foundation, difficulties in many areas occur. This book provides education about using movement to improve overall function. Instruction and pictures for movement activities, which are fun-based are included. A ‘menu’ of activities for therapists are easily accessible by thumbing through the book. By organizing and categorizing activities by target area, therapists will enjoy choosing fun and easily duplicated therapeutic games. Various pieces of equipment designed for therapeutic purposes are commonly utilized by occupational therapists (OTs). Three creative and fun activities are illustrated and explained for each piece of equipment listed in the book. Each activity is broken down into specific target areas. Some target areas are proprioceptive, tactile, vestibular systems, timing, spatial aware-the body system impacted by the activity, visual perception, sensory seeking, sensory modulation, posture, coordination, among many others. About the Authors: Alex Lopiccolo, COTA/L, CPT, NC, owns SensoryDigest.com which designs home and clinic sensory rooms by combining his expertise in Multi-Sensory Environments (Projected Visuals) and Sensory Gyms (Sensorimotor/Movement) to create a therapeutic space that is universal. He also does online consulting with therapists and parents all over the world to spread his knowledge of health and wellness. He is the producer of the #1 Sensory Integration Therapy videos on YouTube. He has written many therapy articles and videos for various sensory toy companies and is recognized as a leader in the SI OT field for treatment interventions. When Alex is not on the clock, he is inventing sensory toys, testing out new OT interventions with his children and sharing his treatment ideas online to other therapists and parents around the world to make the future generations survive. Cara Koscinski, MOT, OTR/L, is the author of The Parent’s Guide to Occupational Therapy for Autism and Special Needs; The Special Needs SCHOOL Survival Guide; and The Weighted Blanket Guide-Everything You Need to Know About Weighted Blankets and Deep Pressure for Autism, Chronic Pain, and Other Conditions. She has successfully founded two pediatric therapy clinics and has created CDs for children with autism and auditory sensitivity. As ‘The Pocket Occupational Therapist, Cara provides OT consultations, trainings, CEUs, and seminars on autism, behavior, sensory, and movement. She is on the advisory board for Autism Asperger’s Digest and Asperkids. Cara’s own two children have autism and she has studied extensively in behavior, sensory processing, and movement integration training. Articles written by Cara have been featured in many publications including, Parents Magazine, Autism Asperger’s Digest, and Autism File. |