Occupational Therapy

Pregnancy Self-Care

| Mary Stoffel, MOT, OTR/L

Modern expectant moms (especially first-time moms) hear a gamut of unsolicited advice during their pregnancy term. “You need to take care of yourself,” strangely seems to be one of the more annoying pieces of noise.

It makes sense. But with a 9-month (or sooner) deadline, how can one balance preparing for baby AND fulfilling professional and personal commitments AND taking care of yourself? Let’s also not forget finding time to read the baby books, going to all of the appointments, and having people touch your belly all the time…

From an OT perspective, self-care is a part of daily living that includes meaningful and intentional actions to address one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. These activities can range anywhere from personal hygiene to health management, sleep, and social participation.

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The Baby (Development) Registry

| Mary Stoffel, MOT, OTR/L

Oh, the baby registry. It’s an exciting time to search for all the things that baby (and you) could ever need. But what is really necessary? When it comes to growth and development, here are our suggestions for items that help in more ways than one. 

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The Quick, Long List of Water Play Activities

| Mary Stoffel, MOT, OTR/L
The Quick, Long List of Water Activities

Not gonna lie. We are really dependent on bringing our kids to the pool and splash pad in the summer. But since we have no idea when those facilities will be opening up, we need some easy at-home alternatives to get our kids in the water. Try these water play activities to get their minds and senses working.

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Jump in with H2O

| Mary Stoffel, MOT, OTR/L
Jump in with H20: Water Play in Child Development

Water is one of the most basic raw materials for play. It’s readily available, open-ended, and developmentally appropriate. There is no right or wrong way to engage in it. Water can spark curiosity, imagination, and experimentation.

So, when it’s 80 degrees this summer and your kids want to get out, throw on their swimsuits and SPF because we’re going for a dip.

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Junior Ninja Warrior: DIY Backyard Obstacle Course

| Mary Stoffel, MOT, OTR/L
Junior Ninja Warrior: DIY Backyard Obstacle Course

For the last two months, we’ve all been spending a lot of time at home. Kids particularly are going to reach peak boredom once online school ends, if they haven’t already. As a parent, we sometimes feel like were grasping at straws trying to find new ways to keep our kids occupied.

Here is an opportunity to get creative, physical, and have your kid get in some extra hours outside. 

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