More Than “Life Skills:” Teaching Advocacy Through Occupational Therap

One of the most meaningful reminders of why I do this work arrived in my inbox recently. It was a full circle moment, from being told I would never succeed, to empowering others to do just that. It was a message from a former high school student I worked with, letting me know they had just graduated and were heading to college. Their story stayed with me, because it reflects two core truths in occupational therapy: progress is rarely linear, and feedback—when approached with curiosity instead of fear—can be deeply transformative.

Aya PorteFebruary 15, 2026Occupational Therapy, OT, School Skills, Challenges

Navigating Challenges with Your Child: Lessons from the Kitchen ⏲️

Today we’re going to discuss the time I imprisoned a child and parent in their kitchen…Okay, so that’s not what actually happened, but it did feel as bad as it sounds. Let me take you back several years ago.

In early 2020, I collaborated with a family aiming to enhance their child's self-help and independence at home. This child was brilliant and creative, but he was tethered by the invisible strings of his neurodivergence and a fresh ADHD diagnosis.

Aya PorteApril 14, 2024Occupational Therapy, Challenges, Lessons, Impact versus IntentComment