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 […]

Tactile Toys

The tactile system is one of the first ways children learn about the world. Through touch, they begin to explore, discover, and make sense of what’s around them. From squishing and squeezing to brushing, rubbing, and digging—tactile input plays a powerful role in development. Tactile input is how we take in information through out skin […]

Vestibular & Proprioceptive Toys

Our vestibular system and proprioceptive system are two of our 8 senses. It’s something I didn’t learn about until I started working with children and working with an occupational therapist. However, it’s something I start to teach parents about during our first session because it’s so important to understand in child development. The vestibular system […]

Developmental Skills Reference Guide

Have you ever found yourself wondering “Is my child developing at the right pace?” or “How can I help this child who seems stuck in one area?” -You’re not alone. As parents, teachers, therapists, or caregivers, we all want to give the kids in our lives the very best start. The early years are when […]

Parts Of The Brain

The more I learn about the brain, the more I realize how important it is for kids to learn about their brains. There is so much power in knowing how your brain works, and yet it’s not something taught in many schools.  Many of us working with kids didn’t learn about the brain in school, […]

Preschool Music

Music is a powerful tool that helps many of us teach young kids all kinds of skills. You can teach colors, shapes, numbers, ABCs, social skills, language, motor skills, etc. all through music. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, therapist, or early childhood educator, incorporating simple songs, rhythms and movement can boost skills across multiple areas […]

Jello Dig

If you have a child that enjoys touching slimy textures, is working on fine motor skills, and likes to make a mess, this activity is for you! I did this activity with my class of 2-year-olds, I also did it with my daughter who was 4 at the time, and it was a hit. This […]

Flashlight Games

Early intervention is all about giving extra help and support to a child that has developmental delays. Every child is different and needs different supports. It’s important to be aware of where the child is developmentally so that you can help in the best way possible. For today I’m going to primarily focus on kids […]

Exercise Ball

An exercise ball is one of my must-haves when working in Early Intervention or Preschool Classes.  This is a great activity IF your child enjoys vestibular or proprioceptive input. If your child avoids these types of activities, you can still try it, but you’ll need to be sensitive to your child’s preferences and go at […]

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 […]

Login to access your content

Get Your Free Developmental Skills Reference Guide

Parents, educators, and therapists – Add this to your toolbox to better understand key areas of child development. Plus get extra tips, activities and strategies to your inbox.

Unsubscribe at any time. See Privacy Policy for more details.