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The Harmonious Blend of Music and Occupational Therapy for Children

Author: Tayla Gabin, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

Music is a universal language that resonates with people of all ages, but for children, it holds a special kind of magic. In occupational therapy (OT), music can be an incredibly effective tool to engage young clients and support their development. In this blog post, we’ll explore the relationship between music and OT for children, designed to bring the joy of music into therapy sessions.

The Role of Music in Occupational Therapy for Children

Occupational therapy focuses on helping children gain independence in daily activities, and music can play a significant role in this journey. Whether it’s improving motor skills, enhancing sensory processing, or promoting emotional well-being, music offers a fun and engaging way for kids to work on their goals.

For example, using rhythm can help improve coordination and timing, while melodies can aid in memory retention. Many children find music motivating, turning what might feel like hard work into an enjoyable experience. When kids tap their feet or sing along, they’re actively participating in their own healing and growth.

How It Works for Children

  • Sensory Integration: The tracks in the Therapeutic Listening program stimulate the auditory system in a therapeutic way. This can help children with sensory processing challenges become more aware of sounds in their environment, making it easier for them to interact with those sounds.
  • Emotional Regulation: Music can evoke powerful emotions. Using therapeutic music, children can explore and express their feelings in a safe environment, which helps them learn how to manage their emotions.
  • Social Interaction: Many activities incorporating the Therapeutic Listening tool are designed for group settings, encouraging social skills and peer interaction. Kids often enjoy making music together, which can strengthen friendships and improve communication.

How music can be incorporated into treatment to help children thrive

1. Drumming for Self-Regulation
Drumming activities are an excellent way to help children regulate their energy and emotions. By playing steady rhythms on a drum or percussion instrument, children can align their internal state with the beat. Therapists can adjust the tempo to either ground a child who is overstimulated or energise a child who is feeling sluggish. The predictable nature of drumming provides a sense of structure, helping children feel grounded and in control.

2. Movement Songs for Engagement
Songs that incorporate movement, like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” or “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes,” engage children’s bodies and minds. Adding props such as scarves or ribbons can make these activities even more fun and interactive. Movement songs promote motor coordination, body awareness, and listening skills, all while keeping children actively engaged in therapy.

3. Calming Playlists for Sensory Regulation
Carefully curated playlists can serve as powerful tools for sensory regulation. Calming music with slow tempos and soothing tones can help children settle during transitions or stressful moments. On the flip side, upbeat tracks can boost energy and focus when children need motivation. Using music as a sensory tool provides an immediate way to influence a child’s emotional and physical state.

Conclusion

Integrating music into occupational therapy for children is a powerful approach that can enhance regulation and engagement. So, whether you’re a therapist looking to make your sessions more engaging or a caregiver exploring ways to support a child’s development, consider the transformative potential of music in occupational therapy. After all, when it comes to healing, a little harmony can go a long way!

If you feel like your child is struggling with emotional regulation or engagement, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

Why is Play-Based Therapy Important?

Author: Maisie Thompson, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

Play is a child’s primary occupation. It’s how they explore and learn about the world, understand cause and effect, and develop their sensory systems. Play-based therapy is a structured yet free and intentional approach used by occupational therapists to help children achieve therapeutic goals while building connection and engagement. At MoveAbout Therapy Services, play-based therapy is at the heart of our approach, supporting one of our core values: We are Playful. Every day, we create new and exciting activities to encourage growth and development through play.

What is Play-Based Therapy?

Play-based therapy is a child-centred approach where therapists use play to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social challenges. By following the child’s lead, therapists create a joyful and safe space for growth through both structured and unstructured activities.

This method is particularly effective for children with neurodevelopmental diagnoses, as it meets them where they are developmentally while fostering active participation. Common techniques include:

  • Role-playing
  • Storytelling
  • Creative visualisation
  • Sensory-motor activities
  • Imaginative play

Why is Play-Based Therapy Important?

Play-based therapy has a profound impact on children of all ages. Here are six key reasons why it is vital:

  1. Engages the Child’s Interests
    Play-based therapy captures a child’s curiosity, making therapy sessions engaging and enjoyable. Unlike more rigid approaches, play provides a natural and fun environment for learning and growth.
  2. Supports Holistic Development
    Play encourages simultaneous development of multiple skills. For instance, building a block tower enhances fine motor coordination, fosters social interaction when done with peers, and develops problem-solving skills.
  3. Facilitates Communication
    Play opens up opportunities for spontaneous communication, especially for children with speech or language challenges. Therapists can model language in real-time, helping children practice effectively.
  4. Builds Social and Emotional Skills
    Group play fosters skills like turn-taking, sharing, and social problem-solving. Pretend play, in particular, helps children process emotions and navigate real-life challenges in a safe, supportive context.
  5. Promotes Self-Regulation
    Play-based activities are ideal for developing self-control. For example, waiting their turn in a game or following rules helps children practice patience and manage their emotions.
  6. Aligns with Developmental Stages
    Play-based therapy is flexible, adapting to a child’s developmental stage and guiding them toward the next level of growth.

Applications in Occupational Therapy

Play-based therapy is a cornerstone of paediatric occupational therapy and is tailored to address diverse needs and goals. It supports children by:

  • Enhancing communication skills
  • Helping with sensory processing through exposure to various sensory inputs
  • Encouraging fine and gross motor development
  • Promoting emotional regulation and expression
  • Strengthening connection and social engagement
  • Achieving activities of daily living (ADLs)

The Power of Play

Incorporating therapeutic goals into play transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. Play-based therapy empowers children to build resilience, independence, and self-regulation while fostering joyful connections with others.

Whether it’s engaging in pretend tea parties, messy sensory bins, or constructing the tallest tower imaginable, play-based therapy reminds us that meaningful progress often begins with the simple act of play.

If you feel like your child would benefit from play based therapies, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding toilet training, sensory processing, and regulation.

Building Confidence and Independence in School Readiness

Author: Kim Berry, Paediatric Occupational Therapist & Clinical Manager
5 min read

As a paediatric occupational therapist, one of my primary goals is to help children develop the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. School readiness goes beyond academic knowledge; it involves nurturing a child’s confidence and independence, which are critical for their overall development and success.

Why Confidence and Independence Matter

Confidence and independence are the building blocks of a child’s ability to navigate the world. When a child feels confident, they’re more likely to take on new challenges, interact positively with peers and teachers, and develop a love for learning. Independence allows children to take responsibility for their tasks, make decisions, and solve problems—skills that are vital for school and life.

Key Strategies for Building Confidence and Independence

1. Encourage Problem-Solving Skills

  • Allow Independent Problem Solving: Give children opportunities to solve problems on their own. Whether it’s figuring out how to open a snack or resolving a conflict, letting them try first builds their confidence in their abilities.
  • Collaborate on Problem-Solving: Work with your child on the first steps of a task but let them complete the final part independently. For example, help them put on their shoes but let them fasten the Velcro straps. This lets them experience pride in their accomplishment, preparing them for independence in a classroom setting.

2. Promote Self-Help Skills

  • Daily Routines for Independence: Routines like dressing, feeding, and hygiene provide perfect opportunities for children to practice independence. Start with small tasks and gradually increase complexity as they master each one. Celebrate their efforts to reinforce the importance of trying.
  • Create a Visual Schedule: Use visual aids to help your child follow daily routines. A chart showing steps for tasks like brushing teeth or packing a lunch helps them develop a sense of routine and independence, making it easier to manage tasks on their own.

3. Create a Supportive Environment

  • Set Up for Success: A child’s environment plays a big role in their confidence and independence. Make sure they have accessible tools and resources to complete tasks on their own. In a classroom, this could mean having visual schedules or organizing materials within easy reach.
  • Encourage Personal Ownership: Designate spaces or materials for your child, like a personal cubby for their school supplies. Managing their own space fosters responsibility and boosts their self-confidence.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

  • Encourage and Praise Efforts: Positive reinforcement builds confidence. Praise specific actions, such as “I love how you kept trying until you zipped up your jacket!” This boosts self-esteem and encourages independence.
  • Celebrate Successes: At the end of the day, highlight moments where your child demonstrated independence. For example, “I really liked how you asked Sarah to play at preschool today.” This reflection helps them recognize their growth.

5. Foster Decision-Making

  • Involve Your Child in Decisions: Give children small choices, like picking out their clothes or choosing a book. This helps them feel in control and teaches them to weigh options and make decisions.
  • Encourage Problem-Solving Choices: Offer opportunities for decision-making when solving problems. For example, ask how they want to organize their play area. This practice builds decision-making skills and reinforces confidence.

6. Model Confidence and Independence

  • Be a Role Model: Children learn by watching. Model confidence in your actions and show them how you handle challenges. When they see you approach problems positively, they’ll likely mirror that behavior.
  • Share Your Thought Process: Explain your decision-making steps to your child. For example, if you’re choosing a recipe, explain your thought process. This shows them how to approach decisions with confidence.

Practical Tips for Parents

Celebrate Effort: Focus on your child’s effort rather than just the outcome. This teaches them that trying is valuable, and failure is part of learning., knowing that your connection remains their anchor even when you’re apart.

Be Patient: Building confidence and independence takes time. Allow children to learn at their own pace and resist the urge to step in too quickly.

Offer Guidance, Not Solutions: When your child faces a challenge, guide them with questions rather than giving them the answer. This encourages critical thinking.

Building confidence and independence in children is an ongoing process that requires patience, support, and encouragement. As a pediatric occupational therapist, I see firsthand how these skills contribute to a child’s school readiness and overall development. By nurturing these traits early, we help children enter school with the tools they need to succeed, both academically and socially.

If you feel like your child is struggling with confidence and independence, or you are concerned about your child starting school next year, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

Managing Separation Anxiety When Your Child Starts Kindergarten: A Neuroaffirming and Connection-Driven Approach

Author: Sophie Robertson, Paediatric Occupational Therapist & Clinical Manager
5 min read

Starting kindergarten is an exciting yet often anxiety-provoking milestone for both children and parents. This transition can be particularly challenging for children who experience separation anxiety, especially those who may struggle with changes in routine and new environments.

Separation anxiety is a natural response, reflecting a child’s strong attachment to their caregiver. While it can be difficult to manage, the good news is that with the right support—rooted in understanding and empathy—children can navigate this change, building both independence and maintaining a secure connection with you. Here are some practical strategies to help ease separation anxiety as your child starts kindergarten.

Understanding Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can look different for every child. For neurodiverse children, this anxiety can be amplified by sensory processing differences, transitions, or struggles with understanding social interactions. A neuroaffirming approach acknowledges that every child has a unique nervous system, and starting school can trigger a heightened state of alertness and uncertainty.

Children rely on predictable routines and strong connections to feel secure. When a big change—like starting kindergarten—disrupts that routine, it’s natural for their nervous system to signal discomfort. Understanding this from a neurodevelopmental perspective helps us approach the situation with empathy, rather than trying to “fix” the anxiety. Instead, we support their nervous system by providing consistent, connection-based strategies to help them feel safe.

Fostering Connection

Connection is a powerful tool in easing separation anxiety. When children feel securely connected to their caregivers, they are better equipped to explore the world around them with confidence. This connection doesn’t have to stop when your child steps into the kindergarten classroom—there are ways to maintain that sense of security even during separation.

  • Create a Goodbye Ritual: Establish a consistent and predictable goodbye routine. Whether it’s a special hug, handshake, or a brief mantra like “I love you, see you soon,” this small ritual helps your child know what to expect, providing them with a sense of comfort as they say goodbye.
  • Stay Calm and Regulated: Your child can sense your emotions. If you appear anxious or uncertain, they’re more likely to mirror those feelings. Before dropping your child off, take a moment to regulate your own emotions—practice deep breathing or repeat calming affirmations. Your calm energy will reassure your child that the separation is manageable and safe.
  • Transitional Objects: Giving your child something small and comforting to hold onto throughout the day can be a tangible reminder of your connection. This could be a small note, a family photo, or even a matching bracelet that you both wear. These objects help children feel connected to home and can soothe their nervous system.

Supporting Sensory and Emotional Regulation

Children with sensory processing differences may find the sensory-rich environment of a kindergarten classroom overwhelming. This sensory overload can contribute to heightened anxiety. To help your child feel more regulated, consider adding sensory strategies to your morning routine that support their nervous system:

  • Morning Movement: Physical activity can help your child regulate their nervous system before heading to school. Whether it’s a quick walk, some jumping jacks, or even dancing to their favourite song, movement can help reduce anxiety and set a positive tone for the day.
  • Calming Touch: If your child responds well to deep pressure or calming touch, you could offer a firm bear hug or let them spend a few minutes with a weighted blanket before leaving. This kind of sensory input can help regulate their nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety.
  • Quiet Time: For children who become easily overstimulated, consider offering a few minutes of quiet time before the busy school day begins. Engaging in a calm, low-stimulation activity like reading or drawing can help centre your child and prepare them for the transition.

Building Independence Gradually

A neurodevelopmental approach respects that children grow and develop at their own pace. While kindergarten encourages independence, it’s important to support your child’s autonomy in a way that feels safe for them.

  • Practice Short Separations: To ease your child into the idea of being apart from you, gradually practice short separations at home. Start by leaving them with a trusted caregiver for brief periods or encourage them to play independently while you’re in another room. Celebrate their success, no matter how small, to build their confidence.
  • Use Visual Schedules: For children who need help understanding the structure of the day, visual schedules can provide reassurance. Create a simple schedule that shows what their day at school will look like and when you’ll be back to pick them up. Visuals offer predictability, helping to reduce anxiety about the unknown.

Validating Their Feelings and Empowering Their Strengths

It’s important to acknowledge that your child’s feelings are real and valid. Let them know that it’s okay to feel nervous or sad about starting school, while also empowering them to face the challenge with confidence.

  • Validate Their Emotions: Use phrases like, “It’s okay to feel worried about starting school. It’s a big change, and I’m here to help you through it.” This lets your child know that their emotions are normal, reducing any sense of shame or fear.
  • Highlight Their Strengths: Remind your child of other times they’ve been brave or tackled something new. For example, “Remember when you were nervous about your swimming lesson, and you did so well? I know you can do this too!” Helping them recall past successes can boost their confidence in handling new challenges.

Starting kindergarten is a big step for both you and your child, and managing separation anxiety is part of that journey. By approaching this transition with a neuroaffirming and connection-driven mindset, you can support your child’s emotional and sensory needs while fostering a sense of security and independence. With the right strategies, you can help them navigate this milestone with resilience, knowing that your connection remains their anchor even when you’re apart.

If you feel like your child is struggling with separation anxiety or you are concerned about your child starting school next year, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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Understanding the Vagus Nerve and Its Role in Your Child’s Regulation

Author: Tayla Gabin, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

As parents, we often see our children experience a range of emotions, from joy to frustration, calm to chaos. Understanding what helps children regulate their emotions and behaviour is key to supporting their development. One vital component in this process is something many of us may never have heard of: the vagus nerve.

In this blog, we’ll explore the vagus nerve, its importance to emotional and physiological regulation, and how parents can help their children activate it to foster calm and focus.

What Is the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, connecting the brain to various organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive system. The word “vagus” means “wanderer” in Latin, which is fitting, as this nerve “wanders” through many important areas of the body. It plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” system.

The vagus nerve helps regulate heart rate, digestion, and the body’s relaxation response. When it functions well, it promotes a state of calm and helps us recover from stress more quickly. For children, having a well-regulated vagus nerve is essential for maintaining emotional balance, focus, and overall well-being.

The Vagus Nerve and Emotional Regulation

When a child faces stress, such as frustration over a difficult task or a disagreement with a sibling, their body enters a “fight, flight, or freeze” state, part of the sympathetic nervous system. This state is useful in emergencies but can make it hard for children to think clearly, focus, or remain calm during everyday challenges.

The vagus nerve acts like a brake on this stress response. When activated, it helps to slow the heart rate and calm the body down. This is where emotional regulation comes into play. A well-functioning vagus nerve enables a child to move out of stress mode and into a calmer, more regulated state, where they can manage their emotions and behaviours better.

How Can You Help Your Child Activate Their Vagus Nerve?

Thankfully, there are simple, everyday techniques that can support your child’s vagus nerve function and improve their ability to regulate their emotions. Here are a few practical strategies you can try at home:

1. Deep Breathing

Slow, deep breathing is one of the most effective ways to activate the vagus nerve. Encouraging your child to take slow breaths, filling their belly as they inhale and slowly exhaling, can quickly shift them into a calmer state. Practising this together when they are calm can make it easier for them to use when they are feeling overwhelmed.

2. Humming or Singing

The vagus nerve runs through the vocal cords, so activities like humming, singing, or even chanting can help stimulate it. This can be particularly useful for children who enjoy music or who may be feeling anxious and need a simple distraction to help them calm down.

3. Cold Water Splash

Splashing cold water on the face can also stimulate the vagus nerve. This is because the nerve is connected to the part of the body that senses temperature changes. While this method might not work for every child, those who enjoy sensory input might find it soothing during times of high stress.

4. Movement and Exercise

Gentle physical activity such as walking, jumping on a trampoline, or even dancing can help activate the vagus nerve. Regular physical movement helps children regulate their nervous system and process emotions in a healthy way.

5. Gentle Pressure or Massage

For some children, deep pressure through a firm hug or a gentle massage can help activate the vagus nerve. Weighted blankets or soft, soothing touch can also provide comfort and help your child return to a state of calm.

children running through water fountain

Why Is This Important for Parents to Know?

Understanding the vagus nerve gives parents an important tool to support their child’s emotional and physical regulation. It allows you to see that, when your child is upset or stressed, they might not be able to simply “snap out of it.” Their nervous system is playing a significant role in their reactions, and by helping them activate their vagus nerve, you are giving them the tools to manage stress and find balance.

The vagus nerve plays an essential role in your child’s ability to regulate their emotions and stay calm in stressful situations. By using simple techniques like deep breathing, singing, and physical activity, you can help your child activate their vagus nerve, bringing them back to a calmer, more focused state.

The more we understand how our children’s bodies and brains work, the better equipped we are to support them. With these strategies, you can help your child navigate their emotional world with greater ease and confidence.

If you feel like your child is struggling with emotional regulation, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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Self-Regulation: Expectations vs Reality for Kids

Author: Elise Foxall, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
6 min read

Self-regulation has become a buzzword in child development, but when is it realistic to expect a child to regulate their emotions independently? Many assume that by the time a child reaches school age, they should be able to manage their emotions and behaviours with little to no help. However, is this really the case?

Sensory play at MoveAbout Therapy Services.

What Does Self-Regulation Mean for Kids?

Before diving into when children can self-regulate, it’s important to understand what self-regulation actually is. Self-regulation is the ability to manage your energy, emotions, behaviors, and attention in socially acceptable ways. This skill is essential for achieving positive outcomes like building good relationships, learning effectively, and maintaining overall well-being.

While the roots of self-regulation begin in infancy, this skill continues to develop well into late adolescence. Just as a newborn isn’t expected to walk immediately, children need time and growth to independently regulate their emotions.

The Development of Self-Regulation

It’s commonly believed that children start acquiring critical self-regulation skills around the age of two. However, this doesn’t mean they’ve mastered the art of managing their emotions at such a young age. The brain’s frontal lobe, which is responsible for thinking, logic, and reasoning, continues to develop until our mid-twenties. This prolonged development period means that true emotional self-regulation isn’t fully attainable until late adolescence.

Play therapy at MoveAbout Therapy Services.

Supporting Self-Regulation in Children

Given that children won’t fully develop self-regulation skills until much later, how can parents and caregivers support them in the meantime?

One crucial approach is for caregivers to model their own self-regulation. Children learn a lot from observing how adults respond to various situations. When caregivers manage their emotions calmly, children pick up on these behaviors and start to mimic them.

Another key element is the practice of co-regulation. This involves warm, responsive interactions between a child and their caregiver, coupled with the support, structure, and guidance that helps children develop self-regulation. Co-regulation allows children to practice basic self-regulation skills, like focusing attention, adjusting behaviour, and using words to express needs. However, they still rely heavily on external support to manage their impulses and calm down when upset.


Self-regulation is a complex skill that takes years to develop. Expecting young children to handle their emotions independently is unrealistic, as their brains are still growing and maturing. It’s vital for caregivers to understand this developmental process and be ready to guide and support children as they learn to navigate their emotions.

For more information on co-regulation and how to practice it effectively, check out Kim’s blog here.

If you feel like your child is struggling with regulation contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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