The American Occupational Therapy Association (2020) states, “Occupations have the capacity to support or promote other occupations. For example, children engage in play to develop the performance skills that later facilitate engagement in leisure and work.” Summer is the perfect time for children to grow and learn through play! Many everyday summer activities naturally support developmental skills. Here are some fun, meaningful ideas to help children build important skills

After an illness, injury, surgery, or a long hospital stay, it's common for the arms and hands to become weak or stiff. Starting gentle movement early—as recommended by a healthcare provider—can help people regain strength, prevent stiffness, and make everyday tasks easier. Using our arms and hands is essential for daily activities like getting dressed, brushing our teeth, eating, bathing, writing, cooking, and returning to work or school. Occupational therapists help people

Many children have occasional handwriting struggles as they learn to write. However, when writing remains significantly difficult despite practice and instruction, it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as dysgraphia. What Is Dysgraphia? Dysgraphia is a neurological learning disability that affects written expression and handwriting. Children with dysgraphia may know what they want to say, but have difficulty getting their thoughts onto paper efficiently and legibly

VMI is the brain’s ability to take in visual information and translate it into coordinated motor output. W hat the eyes see → what the body does Signs of VMI Difficulties You may notice: Messy or uneven handwriting Difficulty staying on lines Poor letter or shape copying Trouble with cutting, coloring, puzzles, or fasteners Awkward or fatigued grasp Clumsiness or poor coordination Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder often experience challenges with attentio