For families
Resources
Thoughts and ideas for parents and carers from Sang, our occupational therapist. They are general information and are not a substitute for advice about your own child.
What does a paediatric occupational therapist actually do?
“Occupational” doesn’t mean jobs. Sang explains what an OT looks at, why sessions look like play, and what that means for your child’s everyday life.
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“Did I do something wrong?” Fussy eating, without the guilt
Fussy eating is common, and it isn’t a sign you’ve failed. Sang shares why eating can be hard, small steps towards new foods, and what to say at the table.
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Stimming and self-soothing: what it is and how to support it
Rocking, humming, flapping and tapping are common repeated movements. Sang shares what autistic adults say about stimming, when to leave it be, and when to look for a gentler swap.
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Body signals: helping your child notice hunger, tiredness and big feelings
Interoception is the sense of what’s happening inside your body. Sang explains what it is, what the research says so far, and simple ideas to try at home.
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When can my child use scissors?
Cutting takes more than you’d think. Sang looks at what scissors ask of a child, what the research says about age, hand games to try, and easy ways to make cutting easier.
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More than “good job”: ways to encourage your child
“Good job” is fine, but it doesn’t tell a child what you noticed. Sang shares a simple way to give encouragement that helps your child feel seen.
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Why big feelings often come out after school
Many children hold it together all day, then fall apart at home. Sang shares why that can happen, and some gentle ideas for the afternoon.
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Making mornings easier: small ideas for families
Mornings can feel like a race. Sang looks at why they ask so much of children, with a few small ideas for getting out of the door.
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What to expect at your child’s first occupational therapy visit
Sang walks you through a first appointment at SAY Health in Warrnambool: what happens before you arrive, what we do together, and how you can prepare.
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