Problem Solving Games

Problem solving games are one of my favorite ways to support executive skills with elementary-aged kids and older. These are the kinds of games I often use in sessions when we’re working on things like planning, flexible thinking, memory, and problem solving. They give kids a chance to think through challenges, try different strategies, and […]

Games For Early Learners

When kids start to participate in associative and cooperative play (stages 5–6), they may be ready to start playing some simple games. At this point, children are beginning to engage more with others, share ideas, and participate in back-and-forth interactions. Simple games can support this by giving them a structure for turn-taking, shared attention, and […]

Joy’s Favorite Toys

If you’re looking for simple, meaningful ways to support play, I’ve gathered all of my favorite toy ideas in one place. Instead of searching through multiple posts, you can now click on the category that fits what you’re looking for and find my go-to recommendations for that type of play. Whether you’re thinking about sensory […]

Obstacle Course

First off, what is a gross motor skill? Gross motor skills are activities that involve the large muscles of the body. In child development, it’s so important to be exposed to activities that help develop all the muscles in their bodies. As adults we try implementing exercise regimens, but even as adults we have a […]

Balloons

How to Increase Expressive Language With a Simple Balloon I always love activities that can target multiple developmental skills at the same time—and balloon play is one of those. This simple, play-based activity can support engagement, attention, communication skills, and both fine and gross motor development. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, playing with […]

1-2-3 Go Games

Improving Developmental Skills Through Play I love that I get to play with kids for a living. I have been working with neurodivergent kids for years, and as a typical work day I get to figure out how to work on skills in the most fun way possible. My goal is to engage kids in play […]

Animal Actions

How Animal Actions Can Help Improve Motor Skills This is one of my favorite early intervention activities because it supports so many areas of child development all at once. It can help build language skills, cognitive skills, executive functioning, social skills, and motor development. In this post, I’m going to focus on perceptual motor skills, […]

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