“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” the old saying goes. If your child happens to have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), that saying goes double for him or her. Playtime is crucial to stimulating the social, physical and mental development of children with...
As we learn more about the way the brain works and how that functioning relates to movement, we are learning more about the incredible influence of the cerebellum on so many of our daily functions. Historically the cerebellum has been relegated to the functions of...
For many occupational therapists the question continues to arise regarding how to label the motor organization and coordination difficulties we treat in children. Popular terms include developmental dyspraxia, dyspraxia, and developmental coordination disorder. As...
As we now head into fall with winter right around the corner, many parents of children with SPD are beginning their seasonal struggle to dress their child for the cold weather. Many children with SPD experience sensory defensiveness, especially tactile defensiveness....
In our ever-growing attempts to provide resources and materials to professionals and parents, the Spiral Foundation has partnered with Amazon to bring you our NEW! A-Store. In our A-store/ Book Club you will find recommended reading for parents, professionals and...
Many people are already aware that our beloved friend and colleague, Dr. Jane A. Koomar, passed away this year on February 23, 2013 after a three year battle with breast cancer. Jane was the heart and soul of her private occupational therapy clinic, OTA The Koomar...
About three years ago, we were approached by a young engineer, Brian Mullen, who was working to create a deep pressure vest for adults with mental health concerns. Impressed by his work, we partnered with Mullen and his business partner Chris Leidel so they could...
Many are understandably unsure of the relationship between Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) and dyspraxia. Though I’ll try to clear the issue here, I admit, it’s complicated. First, the definition of “dyspraxia” is not always very clear and its...
In April I was honored to receive the American Occupational Therapy Association’s 2011 A. Jean Ayres Award, which according to AOTA, is given annually, (T)o recognize occupational therapy clinicians, educators, and researchers who have demonstrated sustained...
