One of the most valuable life skills we can teach our kids doesn’t come from a textbook or test—it’s the ability to speak up for themselves.
Self-advocacy is a cornerstone of independence, confidence, and emotional regulation. I’ve covered this topic at home, but it’s just as important at school. In school, self-advocacy can be the difference between a child silently struggling and a child who gets the support they need to thrive.
Read MoreAs adults, we might take a few deep breaths before a big meeting, when we’re feeling overwhelmed, or to pause before reacting. But for kids, especially those with sensory sensitivities, big feelings, or difficulty focusing, learning how to use their breath can be a game-changer.
Read MoreOur homes play a huge role in how children regulate their emotions and behaviors. For sensory-sensitive kids—whether they’re over-responsive, under-responsive, or sensory-seeking—small environmental shifts can lead to big changes in how safe, calm, and connected they feel.
Read MoreMany children struggle to express their needs, especially when they’re overwhelmed, unsure, or navigating multiple cultural or sensory environments. But self-advocacy isn’t something kids are just born with, it’s a skill we can teach and develop at home.
🗣️ Self-advocacy means helping your child recognize and communicate what they need, whether it’s a break, support, or space. When we teach this skill early, kids build confidence, self-regulation, and resilience.
Read MoreMany children are expected to sit for extended periods, whether in traditional classrooms or virtual learning spaces. But research (and experience) shows that gross motor development—the ability to control large body movements—is closely tied to attention, memory, emotional regulation, and academic success.
Read MoreHandwriting is more than just forming letters on paper. It plays a crucial role in cognitive development, motor coordination, and self-expression. And for many children, especially those navigating multiple languages and cultures, mastering handwriting can be a bridge to stronger communication, confidence, and academic success.
Read MoreThis year has been filled with meaningful conversations, practical strategies, and personal reflections aimed at empowering you and your family. Let's take a moment to revisit some of the standout topics we've explored and the valuable resources available to support your child as they continue to grow in the next school year and beyond!
Read MoreA child may be labeled as spoiled when they frequently act entitled, struggle with boundaries, or have difficulty handling disappointment. This behavior often stems from being overindulged—whether through material items, attention, or inconsistent discipline—and not being held accountable for their actions.
Read MoreIs this sensory or behavior?”
It’s a question that comes up often, sometimes out of genuine curiosity and other times from a need to categorize and solve a problem:
“We see all these behaviors in our child and wonder if they’re sensory-related.”
“We need to figure out whether it’s either sensory or behavior.”
How are you doing with yours so far? If you’ve veered off course, don’t worry—starting over is not failure, it’s part of the process. Last December, I shared strategies for effective goal-setting to help you begin the new year strong. As we step into 2025, I find myself revisiting these ideas with a deeper lens of cultural connection and diversity.
Read MoreOver the past four years, I’ve continued my work as a bilingual OT, serving cross-cultural and multicultural communities in Tokyo and beyond. The need for heart-centered care has only grown in recent years. Our communities need care from those who have lived through similar experiences and can be empathetic without pity, focusing on empowerment and building capacity for growth.
Read MoreLet's explore some of the most frequently asked questions and insights to help you feel more confident and prepared.
Read MoreIt's natural to have questions or feel unsure about what to expect during this process. You might wonder how the evaluation will benefit your child or what it means for their therapy journey. Clear communication and collaboration between parents and OT professionals are essential to address any questions or concerns and ensure the evaluation process is thorough, informative, and supportive of your child's overall well-being and progress.
Read MoreBefore I found my calling as an OT, I was uncertain about my career path. I hopped around from one idea to another, following what seemed logical rather than what truly resonated with me. School was just something I did, not something I felt deeply invested in. I firmly believe that a child should have intrinsic motivation to do anything. It's our responsibility as adults to meet children where they are, rather than expecting them to meet our high expectations.
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