Fine Motor Skills and Messy Play As Occupational Therapists we are often asked about the link between fine motor skills and “messy play”. If you have been to one of our GAP Groups, or another baby stimulation group, you would have had loads of fun exploring messy play. As a caregiver you know it’s important …
Discipline and Boundaries with Strong Willed Toddlers As Occupational Therapists we are often asked to advise on how to manage difficult behaviour in the classroom or at home. One of the most challenging times of development to set boundaries and manage behaviour is with toddlers. Below we offer some tips on how to discipline and …
In our previous blog we chatted about the rise in Motor Planning (Praxis) difficulties we are seeing in our classrooms and therapy practice. If you missed this blog, you can take a quick read here https://www.jumpleapfly.co.za/why-are-motor-planning-challenges-on-the-rise/. To better understand how to tackle Motor Planning difficulties, we need to first look at its roots. In our …
For any first time mom, bath time can cause a certain amount of anxiety. The thought of letting that precious baby slip through your fingers is terrifying. While some babies love bath time, others find this sensory rich task somewhat overwhelming and their fussing and crying can make this even more of a daunting task. …
Getting your little one down and dirty with some non-toxic paints is not only fun, but good for their tactile sensory development. Here is how: Create an “art area” in your kitchen, garage, outside, or even bathroom Stick the paper down so it doesn’t slip around Cover the floor with newspaper or an old …
Can smell really trigger emotions and affect my child’s behavior? You may be surprised to learn a little more about these links. April 29th is International Smell Day so we thought we would take a closer look at this amazing sense we have been gifted with. What do you think of when you smell …
Time for Tummy-Time! The most important muscle development that your small baby needs to master during the early stages of development is gaining control of his head. He will move from being in a tight little ball to a more open body position as he gains some control of his body and muscles. For …
The holidays will soon be here! We thought you might be looking for a few extra activities at this time of year to do with your toddler. Here are some of our favourites with a Christmas twist! Travellers (toddlers who are in the stage from taking steps to running): What’s hiding in there? – …
“I may be tiny but my heart is immeasurable” Julia Toivonen With 1 in 8 babies born early (before 37 weeks), World Preemie Day is significant for a rising number of families. For some – the experience is real to them today, and for others it is a reminder of a pocket of time …
Have you considered creating a Book Corner for your Groovy Adventurer? We all know how important reading is for our precious little ones, but is there a special place in their room/playroom or your living area for their books? A book corner can be created in a very small space with just a little creativity! …
