Therapy Works Blog

Empowering Every Child Through Connection & Function

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 16:45:21 GMT

It’s National Autism Awareness Month & Occupational Therapy Month

Autism Focus: Understanding, Acceptance, Communication

OT Focus: Independence, Daily Function, Sensory Support

Weekly Focus Breakdown

Week 1 – Awareness → Acceptance

Educate on autism spectrum diversity
Shift messaging from awareness to inclusion & support

Week 2 – Daily Function Matters (OT Spotlight)

Highlight OT’s role in routines: feeding, dressing, play
Share simple at-home strategies

Week 3 – Communication & Connection

SLP + OT overlap: play, social skills, engagement
Parent coaching wins (telehealth advantage)

Week 4 – Caregiver Empowerment

Give parents tools, not just insight
Reinforce: progress happens at home, daily

Check Out Our Pediatric Therapy Resources

Our pediatric therapy team is dedicated to helping you and your child thrive. Our services are designed to maximize your child's potential and success. We offer free resources to help you reinforce your child's therapy. Check out our Resources Page for information and free downloads designed to help elevate your child's therapy. Feel free to CONTACT US today!

Target Developmental Skills

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:52:31 GMT

Want to target Developmental Skills with your child? Check out the helpful information below.

Speech Therapy Skills

Speech sound production: practicing correct production of target sounds in words

Expressive language: Naming colors in the rainbow, expanding sentences by describing colors.
Vocabulary development: learning & using descriptive and color words.
Following directions: listening to and completing steps in each activity.

Occupational Therapy Skills

Fine Motor Skills: picking up coins/small items to strengthen the small muscles in the hands and fingers

Hand/eye coordination: Using vision to guide hand movements while tracing and coloring
Visual perceptual skills: Recognizing shapes, lines, and color differences

Physical Therapy Skills

Gross motor skills: Practicing whole-body movements such as jumping, stepping, and moving through obstacles

Balance & Stability: Maintaining balance while standing, jumping, and moving across different surfaces
Strength Development: Building leg and core strength through jumping and obstacle course activities
Coordination: Coordinating arms and legs during jumping and movement activities
Following Directions/Participation: Listening to instructions and completing multi-step movement tasks

Compassionate and Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services in Altanta

Our pediatric therapy services are designed to provide quality, compassionate and research based services that help families reach their full potential. Check out our Resources Page for information and free downloads designed to help elevate your child's therapy. Feel free to CONTACT US today!

Why Subscribe To The Therapy Works Blog?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:21:42 GMT

Your Digital Headquarters For Pediatric Therapy

We know that the journey of pediatric therapy can feel overwhelming. Parents often find themselves juggling appointments, school meetings, and daily life.

We created this space to be your "digital headquarters" for:

Expert Advice: Practical tips from our therapists on how to support your child’s development at home.
Teletherapy Trends: Insight into how we use technology to make therapy fun, engaging, and effective.
Georgia Community Events: A curated look at inclusive events, health expos, and advocacy days happening in our 159 counties.
Empowerment: Resources to help you feel confident as your child’s biggest advocate.

The WBT Difference: Family-Centered Care

What sets WBT Therapy Works apart is our commitment to the Parent-Coach Model. We don't just work with your child; we partner with you. By integrating therapy into your family’s natural environment. We ensure that progress doesn't just happen in a clinic, but in the moments that matter most.

Join Us On Your Child's Pediatric Therapy Journey

From the Metro Atlanta bustle to our rural communities, we assist families throughout Georgia. We are honored to be a part of your child’s story. Contact Therapy Works today with any questions your may have or to Get Started!

Celebrating OT Month: Meet Our Incredible Occupational Therapists at Therapy Works

brooke.terrell03@gmail.com (Brooke Terrell) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:37:06 GMT

Celebrating OT Month: Meet Our Incredible Occupational Therapists at Therapy Works

�� What is Occupational Therapy—and Why Does it Matter?

Occupational Therapy (OT) plays a vital role in helping children participate in the activities they need and want to do each day—things like playing, dressing, writing, eating, and interacting with peers. For children who face developmental delays, sensory challenges, or difficulties with fine motor or executive functioning skills, OT provides essential support to help them gain independence and confidence.

At Therapy Works , we specialize in pediatric telehealth OT , bringing high-quality therapy services directly into the homes of families across Georgia and beyond. Through virtual sessions, our licensed occupational therapists work one-on-one with children and their families to build skills, overcome challenges, and celebrate every milestone—big or small.

Telehealth allows us to:

Support children in their natural environments (home, school, daycare)
Coach caregivers in real time for better carryover
Offer flexible, accessible care without travel time
Use everyday objects at home to make therapy functional and meaningful

This OT Month, we’re highlighting the incredible team of therapists who make this possible. Their passion, creativity, and dedication help children grow not only in skill—but also in self-belief.

�� Meet Our OTs ��

Deidre, OTR/L

Born and raised in Georgia, Deidre brings over 15 years of experience to the pediatric OT world. She earned her bachelor’s from the University of Georgia and her master’s from Brenau University . Her passion lies in helping children develop the skills they need to thrive—both in therapy and in life. Deidre finds immense joy in watching her clients’ confidence bloom as their abilities grow. When she’s not supporting families, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter. We are so lucky to have her steady, compassionate presence on our team!

Yuko, OTD, OTR/L

With over 15 years of experience and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Loma Linda University , Yuko is a powerhouse of knowledge and compassion. She also holds certification as a lymphedema therapist and a pelvic floor rehabilitation practitioner . Yuko’s diverse clinical background—from hospitals to outpatient pediatric clinics—makes her a versatile and empathetic therapist. Her mission is simple but powerful: help children engage, grow, and thrive. We’re honored to have her as a part of our Therapy Works family.

Mariah, OTR/L

Hailing from Vermont, Mariah is a vibrant and energetic therapist who brings a fresh perspective to our team. A graduate of the University of Southern Maine , she has years of experience working with children in various settings. Mariah is especially passionate about helping kids find practical, creative ways to become more independent. In August 2024, she welcomed a beautiful baby boy into her family—and we couldn’t be more thrilled for her! Mariah’s heart for children and families shines through in everything she does.

Isayda, OTR/L

Pronounced E-sigh-duh, this dynamic OT brings creativity and a love for learning to every session. A graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University , she has experience across multiple settings, including inpatient rehab, outpatient clinics, and school-based therapy. Her background as a military child has instilled in her a deep empathy and desire to help others succeed, no matter where they come from. As a pelvic floor rehabilitation practitioner , she also brings a specialized skill set to our team. In her free time, you might find her throwing pottery, reading, or spinning vinyl records.

Why We Celebrate OT Month

OT Month is a time to recognize the dedication and heart that occupational therapists bring to their work every day. At Therapy Works, we know that pediatric OT changes lives —and we’re so proud of our team for making that change happen through compassionate, personalized telehealth care.

Whether it's helping a child hold a pencil correctly, zip up a jacket, or build confidence in social situations, our therapists are here to support every step of the journey.

Join Us in the Celebration ��

This April, join us in celebrating the therapists who are transforming lives one session at a time. From building fine motor skills to encouraging emotional regulation, our team is committed to helping kids shine.

Happy OT Month from all of us at Therapy Works!

March Into Success: Building Healthy Habits with Virtual Therapy

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:00:28 GMT

March Into Success: Building Healthy Habits with Virtual Therapy

As the days get longer and spring begins to blossom, March presents the perfect opportunity to focus on renewal and growth—both for your child and for your therapy journey. Whether it's improving executive functioning, building social skills, or gaining independence in daily tasks, our virtual therapy clinic is here to help guide your child through the challenges of the season and toward success. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for parents to support their child's progress in therapy during March and beyond.

1. Spring Into Routine: Helping Kids Build Healthy Habits
Spring is all about new beginnings, and what better way to celebrate this than by helping your child build or refine healthy routines? Virtual therapy is a great way to provide the structure and support necessary for success. Whether your child is working on social skills, fine motor coordination, or self-regulation strategies, here are a few tips to help reinforce new habits:

Use Visual Cues: Reinforce routines at home with visual schedules or charts that remind your child of the steps in a task (e.g., getting ready for school or preparing for bed).
Create a Consistent Routine: Children thrive on structure, so consistency is key. Try to keep daily tasks in the same order and at the same time to build familiarity.
Celebrate Small Wins: Each small victory counts! Use positive reinforcement like praise, stickers, or a reward system to acknowledge progress.

2. Celebrate Social Growth: Practicing Social Skills in Real Life
March is also a great time to help children focus on improving their social skills as they interact with others, especially as more in-person activities become available. Virtual therapy provides a safe and controlled environment to practice social interactions, but how can parents encourage social growth at home?

Role-Playing Social Scenarios: Whether it's greeting a friend or managing conflicts, role-playing can help your child feel more confident in social situations. Practice in therapy, and then use the skills in real-life scenarios like family gatherings or playdates.
Reading Facial Expressions and Body Language: Understanding non-verbal communication is a key part of social skills. Have fun with your child by playing games that involve identifying facial expressions and discussing how emotions are expressed through body language.
Encouragement and Patience: Be patient as your child practices social skills. Positive reinforcement and regular practice will go a long way.

3. Executive Functioning and Focus: Tips for Staying On Track
Spring often brings a burst of energy, but it can also mean distractions for kids who are struggling with executive functioning skills such as staying focused, organizing tasks, and transitioning between activities. Here are a few strategies to support your child’s executive functioning at home:

Use Timers and Reminders: Break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Set timers for each step, or use reminder apps to keep your child on track.
Visual Supports: Use visual aids to reinforce task completion, whether it’s a checklist for schoolwork or a visual timer for how long they should focus on a task.
Model Organization: Show your child how to break tasks into smaller parts by doing it together. For example, organizing their backpack or creating a homework plan.

4. Spring Cleaning Your Goals: Check-In and Adjust for Success
March is a great time to assess progress in therapy. Just like you would “spring clean” your home, consider checking in with your therapist to review goals and make adjustments as necessary. Are you seeing improvements? Are new goals needed? Virtual therapy provides flexibility, so you can adjust plans as needed based on your child’s progress.

Conclusion: Stay Connected and Motivated
At our virtual therapy clinic, we’re excited to help you and your child bloom into a new season of growth and development. Whether it’s refining social skills, building routines, or improving focus and independence, we’re here to support every step of the way. Don’t forget to take a moment this month to reflect on the progress made and celebrate every milestone—big or small.

Looking forward to continuing the journey with you!

Call to Action:
If you’re interested in starting or adjusting your child’s therapy plan for the season, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for personalized support. We’re here to help!

Holiday Routines: How to Set Your Kids Up for Success This Season

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:43:28 GMT

Holiday Routines: Setting Kids Up for Success This Season

The holidays are a time of excitement, joy, and fun—but they can also bring a whirlwind of activities, changes in routine, and extra stress, especially for kids. For parents and caregivers of children, it’s essential to find ways to manage this time of year so that kids feel supported and set up for success. Here are some simple strategies to establish a holiday routine that can help kids of all ages thrive through the busy season.

1. Maintain a Consistent Daily Schedule

While the holidays can be full of disruptions—travel, special events, and different sleeping arrangements—keeping a consistent daily schedule can help your child feel more secure and balanced.

Keep wake-up and bedtime routines the same : Sleep is crucial for children’s development, mood, and behavior. Try to maintain consistent sleep times, even if family gatherings run late or travel plans get in the way.
Build in structured time for play : Use a visual or written schedule to show kids when it’s time to play, when they need to rest, and when to eat. This helps them feel a sense of predictability and control during an otherwise busy time.

2. Offer Clear Transitions Between Activities

The holidays can bring a lot of changes from day to day—whether it's a family party, a trip to visit relatives, or a special outing. Giving children clear transitions between activities can reduce stress and help them feel more prepared.

Use visual cues or timers : If you’re moving from one event to another, let your child know in advance what’s coming next. Visual timers can help, especially for younger children, so they know when it’s time to finish an activity and transition.
Allow for a wind-down period : After an exciting activity, give kids a chance to calm down with quiet time. This could include reading, listening to soft music, or practicing some deep breathing. Transitioning smoothly into the next part of the day can help prevent meltdowns or overwhelm.

3. Keep Sensory Needs in Mind

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming for children, especially those with sensory sensitivities. Noisy gatherings, bright lights, and crowded spaces can create a lot of sensory input that may be difficult to handle.

Create sensory breaks : Ensure your child has access to a quiet space where they can take breaks when they need them. This could be as simple as a cozy corner with soft pillows or noise-canceling headphones.
Use calming activities : Gentle activities like deep pressure (a hug or weighted blanket), fidget toys, or a simple mindfulness exercise can help kids self-regulate when they’re feeling overstimulated.

4. Set Realistic Expectations for the Holidays

It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday excitement and over-schedule. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations for your child and family. The holidays don’t have to be packed with every activity or event to be enjoyable.

Focus on quality time, not quantity : Instead of filling every day with non-stop activities, prioritize a few key moments that are meaningful. This could mean baking cookies together, watching a holiday movie, or simply enjoying a quiet walk.
Know your child’s limits : Be mindful of when your child might need rest or space. They may not be able to handle long periods of socializing, large crowds, or intense activities. It’s okay to skip an event or take a break when needed.

5. Encourage Gratitude and Connection

The holiday season is an excellent time to reinforce positive social behaviors and emotional skills, such as empathy, gratitude, and kindness.

Practice gratitude together : Spend a few moments each day talking about what you’re thankful for. This can be a simple conversation or a special activity, like creating a gratitude jar or journal.
Teach the value of giving : Engage your child in acts of kindness during the holidays. Whether it’s donating toys, helping prepare meals for others, or writing thank-you notes, these activities can foster a sense of connection and compassion.

6. Focus on Fun and Flexibility

Holidays are a time to celebrate, so it’s important to create space for fun. Stay flexible with your routines to allow for spontaneous moments of joy, whether it’s a last-minute snowball fight, a holiday craft project, or an impromptu dance party in the living room.

Conclusion: Setting Kids Up for Holiday Success

With some thoughtful planning, it’s possible to create a holiday routine that helps your child feel grounded, safe, and supported during this exciting but often overwhelming time of year. By maintaining consistency, offering sensory breaks, setting realistic expectations, and focusing on meaningful connections, you’ll help your child thrive through the holiday season—and have a little extra fun along the way!

Remember, the goal is not perfection, but creating a joyful and manageable experience for everyone. By adjusting routines to fit the needs of your family, you’ll be setting kids up for success in the weeks ahead!

Fun and Festive Holiday Activities to Support Your Child’s Development

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:55:03 GMT

Fun and Festive Holiday Activities to Support Your Child’s Development

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How Can Teletherapy Help My Child?

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:01:30 GMT

How Can Teletherapy Help My Child?

Answers to Common Questions

Teletherapy is an increasingly popular and effective way to deliver pediatric therapy services. Whether your child is receiving speech, occupational, or physical therapy, teletherapy offers a flexible and convenient alternative to in-person sessions. Many families may still have questions about how this model works and whether it can truly benefit their child.

At WBT Therapy Works, Inc., we’ve embraced teletherapy as a way to continue providing high-quality services to children, even during challenging times like the 2020 pandemic. Since then, we've seen firsthand how this innovative approach has helped children thrive, meet their therapy goals, and make progress in a safe, familiar environment.

To help you better understand how teletherapy works and how it can help your child, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions:

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes! Studies have shown that children can make consistent progress in therapy, whether it's delivered in person or through teletherapy. For instance, research on teletherapy-based parent training for children with Autism demonstrated significant improvements in both parents’ ability to apply therapeutic strategies and in the children’s language skills. Both direct interventions and parent coaching via teletherapy have proven to be highly effective.

What kinds of activities can we do during teletherapy?

Teletherapy allows for the same engaging activities as in-person therapy! Your child can participate in reading books, playing interactive games, doing arts and crafts, and more—all while connected through a screen. Therapists can also use virtual backgrounds to create fun and immersive environments, making the therapy experience more engaging and dynamic.

What if my child can't sit at the computer?

That’s perfectly okay! Some children find it challenging to focus on-screen for long periods. If your child prefers more hands-on activities, we can work with a parent coaching model, where you play an active role in supporting your child during the session. This approach not only keeps your child engaged but also empowers you to reinforce therapy strategies throughout the week.

What are the technical requirements for teletherapy?

To participate in teletherapy, you'll need:

A device with a webcam and microphone (computer or tablet)
A reliable internet connection
A quiet, comfortable space where your child can focus and engage in the session

How can we ensure a successful teletherapy session?

Clear communication is the key to success. Collaborating with your therapist to discuss your child's specific needs, preferred activities, and any necessary materials ensures the session runs smoothly. Be sure to reach out with any questions or concerns before the session to make sure everyone is prepared.

Observed Benefits of Teletherapy

Parents and therapists alike have noticed numerous advantages of teletherapy, including:

Convenience and Flexibility
No travel time, no worries about weather or transportation. Sessions happen in the comfort of your own home, which can be especially helpful for busy families.
Increased Access to Real-Life Environments
Therapists can observe and utilize your child’s home environment—such as stairs, personal toys, and daily living items—making therapy even more relevant to their everyday life.
Enhanced Parent Involvement
Teletherapy gives parents a front-row seat to therapy sessions, allowing them to see and practice strategies that help with carryover. This increases the likelihood of success and helps reinforce skills outside of therapy.

Teletherapy has proven to be a highly effective model for helping children reach their therapy goals. At WBT Therapy Works, Inc., we’re committed to supporting your child’s growth and success through this innovative service. We’re excited about the progress we’ve seen and look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional care through teletherapy.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s therapist or our office.

Thank you for choosing WBT Therapy Works, Inc., where we are dedicated to Developing Skills & Enhancing Lives!

References for Teletherapy in Pediatric Therapy:

Kuhn, M., & Alvarado, C. (2021). Telehealth and teletherapy for children: A review of the literature. Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 14(1), 49-58.

Tucker, C. A., & Roberts, R. L. (2020). Telehealth services for children with special healthcare needs: A systematic review of outcomes. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 26(1-2), 3-12.

Mello, R., Emslie, C., & Johnson, A. (2020). Parent-implemented teletherapy for children with autism: Improving fidelity and language outcomes. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 50(10), 3420-3431.

Ghinassi, F., Repetto, C., & Mazzoni, E. (2021). Teletherapy for children with developmental disorders: A review of effectiveness and feasibility. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 24(1), 21-30.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). (2020). Telepractice in speech-language pathology. Retrieved from https://www.asha.org/

The National Center for Special Education in Charter Schools (NCSECS). (2021). Teletherapy: A resource guide for families and professionals. Retrieved from https://www.ncsecs.org/

The Ultimate Holiday Toy Guide for Supporting Your Child's Development

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 21:32:16 GMT

With the holiday season upon us, choosing toys that entertain and nurture your child's growth can make each gift even more special. Here’s a guide to help you select toys that support occupational, physical, and speech therapy skills—along with tips on the benefits of open-ended toys that encourage creativity and imaginative play.

Why Open-Ended Toys?

Open-ended toys are designed to spark imagination and creativity. Unlike toys with a single function, open-ended toys offer endless ways to play, allowing children to use their imagination to explore, create, and problem-solve in their own unique ways.

Benefits of Open-Ended Play: Encourages cognitive development, social skills, and flexible thinking by allowing children to come up with their own play scenarios and solutions.

Examples: Blocks, dollhouses, magnetic tiles, and even simple items like scarves or cardboard boxes can transform into anything a child imagines—from castles to spaceships—promoting creativity and exploration.

Toys That Enhance Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills are essential for tasks like writing, buttoning, and using utensils. Toys that build hand strength and coordination are especially helpful.

Play-Doh or Modeling Clay: Strengthens hands, enhances creativity, and builds coordination.
Bead Kits and Stringing Activities: Improve the pincer grasp and bilateral coordination.
Construction Sets (like LEGO or Magna-Tiles): Great for precision, grip strength, and spatial skills, all while fostering open-ended creativity.

Gross Motor Skill-Boosting Toys

Toys that promote movement and physical activity help with balance, coordination, and overall body strength.

Balance Boards or Wobble Boards: Encourage core strength, balance, and stability in a fun, challenging way.
Scooters and Tricycles: Boost leg strength, coordination, and confidence in body movement.
Soft Play Equipment: Foam climbing blocks or tunnels offer safe ways to climb, crawl, and explore.

Speech and Language Development Toys

Toys that encourage communication and interaction help children develop essential language skills.

Pretend Play Sets (like a kitchen or doctor’s kit): Expand vocabulary, storytelling, and social interaction in an open-ended format.
Interactive Books and Story Cards: Improve listening, attention, and expressive language.
Board Games (like Guess Who? or Charades for Kids): Practice turn-taking, following instructions, and building conversational skills.

Sensory-Engaging Toys

Toys with tactile, auditory, or visual feedback can support sensory processing and are great for children who benefit from calming sensory input.

Sensory Bins or Kinetic Sand: Perfect for tactile exploration, building sensory tolerance, and calming play.
Musical Instruments (like tambourines or maracas): Enhance auditory processing, rhythm, and coordination.
Weighted Stuffed Animals or Blankets: Provide calming, deep-pressure input, ideal for children who benefit from sensory regulation.

Cognitive and Executive Functioning Toys

Toys that challenge problem-solving, planning, and memory skills are ideal for cognitive and executive functioning development.

Puzzles and Memory Games: Build problem-solving skills, working memory, and focus.
STEM Kits (like coding robots or science kits): Foster critical thinking, sequencing, and curiosity.
Matching and Sorting Games: Help with categorization, math skills, and attention to detail.

Tips for Choosing the Right Toy

Look for Open-Ended Options: Toys that can be used in various ways encourage your child to take charge of play and explore their creativity.
Choose Montessori-Inspired Toys: Simple, natural, and purposeful toys give children hands-on learning opportunities at their own pace.
Age Appropriateness: Select toys suitable for your child’s age and developmental level.
Durability: Choose high-quality toys that can endure active play and exploration.

Wrap-Up

Picking toys that support OT, PT, and ST goals adds value to holiday gift-giving, and the right toy can bring both joy and developmental support. From open-ended and Montessori-inspired options to skill-building games, choosing thoughtfully can help make playtime meaningful and engaging for your child’s growth.

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Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:15:13 GMT

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Turning Crafts into THERAPY!

Sat, 02 Nov 2019 15:35:58 GMT

Fall Themed Crafts

Our Fall themed crafts & activities allowed our kiddos to be creative while targeting some of their goals! ��

Goals targeted included:

��fine motor skills

��basic concepts

��following directions

��wh-questions

��requesting

��attention

Most crafts will encompass the above mentioned skills especially targeting joint attention to the task and fine motor skills. So craft away with your little one at home and know that Therapy is in action!