Melissa Petcu MS OTR/L, occupational therapist at the Midtown office, emphasizes that pediatric occupational therapy is all about “the job of living”. Families can capitalize of events and activities already happening around the house to facilitate development and improve skills. In July, she shares:

““Happy Independence Day, Y’all!” Once again, I offer some tips to keep fireworks fun for kids and teens with auditory sensory processing difficulties.“

Prior to the event:

• Prepare your body for the fireworks with “heavy work” calming activities. This can be done by animal walks, or other heavy work such as carrying the drinks to the picnic.
• Dampen the auditory input by wearing headphones.
• Cuddle with a weighted blanket. 

During the event:

• Discuss the BOOM that the fireworks make- I even count ‚Äúone, two, three, BOOM‚Äù as they go off.          

Another thought:

• Have you tried watching them on TV? If your little one just can‚Äôt handle the noise of the fireworks, try hosting a Independence day celebration at your house and allow you child to watch the fireworks on TV.

Tell us your favorite spot to watch the fireworks. Do you go to a country club or Romare Bearden Park? 

An occupational therapist provides practical suggestions for parents and caregivers as part of a home program.