Living in the Tampa Bay, Florida area means we have to prepare for the 5-months of hurricane season. We have all kinds of systems for preparing our homes for severe weather, stocking up on food and water, and establishing safe spaces to shelter. When storms approach, there is a graded buzz of anxiety and uncertainty in the air. We watch the weather diligently for a week and as predictions become more reliable, the community comes alive with preparations.
Student Reflections at Treeline from OT Student Sean Vercellone, St. Augustine University I have always enjoyed spending time in nature. It is a place where I feel safe and most like myself. This fact shaped my career path and led me to work at a summer camp for kids and adults with disabilities. I loved this job! I lead activities like kayaking, tubing, and ziplining, while also building meaningful connections with so many unique kids and adults. Working at this camp for three summers changed my life. Not only did it lead to me applying to occupational therapy school, but it was the first time I witnessed the therapeutic benefits of nature.
Childhood development is fascinating – no two children take the same course. We know you understand this as a homeschool parent. Even two children with the same parents are drastically different. The strengths, needs, learning styles, and preferences of each of your children are unique. At Treeline Enrichment, we understand this.
The holidays are just around the corner and you might be reflecting about the best gifts to give! Based on your requests, I put together a nature inspired gift guide with my Top 10 Nature-Inspired Gifts for 2020!
Why do we do occupational therapy in nature? Because nature is inspiring, challenging, changing, and renewing. Because the theories and research tell us that as humans, we are drawn to nature. Because in the course of human history, the great outdoors has been our most valuable classroom. And because, well, kids find it WILDLY fun.
Did you know that the way a body senses things internally and externally plays a huge role in creating a sense of self? The Lab of Action and Body at the University of London puts it this way: “Awareness of one’s’ body is intimately linked to self-identity, the sense of being ‘me’” As a parent, I am sure you want to support your child’s senses so that they can become their best self. Enriching your child’s sensory input may sound overwhelming, but it can be as simple as playing outside with your family! Come along as we explore the sensory systems and discover how nature supports all 8 senses.
Whew – you have started the school year! It has been months of roller coaster emotions, information (or lack thereof) and tough decisions. Now that you know a bit more about your child’s schedule, teachers, expectations, and school day, we put together 12 tips for e-learning to help you and your child make the most of this opportunity.
Are you trying to find calm in the middle of chaos? Life sure seems crazy these days. So much uncertainty and change wreaks havoc on our nerves. Whether you are in the middle of difficult school decisions, feeling disconnected from others or tired of being cooped up with your family for far too long, we have some tips to help you find the calm you are searching for.
School is scheduled to resume soon. Covid-19 is still around. Extra cleaning and safety precautions are being implemented. And using outdoor learning spaces is strongly encouraged. But how do we teach outdoors … in Florida … in August? It’s too hot. It’s not practical to teach outside in August. These are some of the comments I have heard or read in response to the idea of using outdoor classrooms as an alternative setting this fall. And they are right. It is hot. But we can TRY. We can PLAN. And we can be OPEN to this idea! As a professional that works outdoors with children in all kinds of weather, here are a few thoughts to consider.
Have you been told that your child may need occupational therapy but you have no idea what that means? Sure you have heard of physical therapy and speech therapy, but occupational therapy seems like it relates to a job. And you are thinking, my child is only 5, he doesn’t have a job! You are not alone!
