Melissa Petcu MS OTR/L, occupational therapist at the Midtown office of Child and Family Development, emphasizes that pediatric occupational therapy is all about “the job of living”. Families can capitalize of events and activities already happening when they are out and about in the community to facilitate development and improve skills. In May, she shares:

Does your kiddo ever leave a trail of destruction in his path- at your home or someone else’s?  Melissa encourages you to make cleaning up toys part of the routine.  In fact, it is her favorite part! Not only do you get a tidy space back, cleaning up wit great exercise for your children?

• Sorting items incorporates visual skills. Try playing  ‚ÄúI spy‚Äù with your older children during this time.
• Bending over, lifting and reaching builds core strength and enhances balance and proprioception.
• Singing the “clean up” song incorporates expressive and receptive language skills.