Over the last few months, there have been several staff changes at the therapy center Kay has been attending since she was about six months old. Unfortunately, that included the departure of both her speech and occupational therapists. As a result, Kay now only sees her physical therapist weekly and occasionally receives speech therapy—only if the therapist happens to be available during our visit.
While we’ve typically focused more on speech and physical therapy, I know how valuable occupational therapy is for Kay as well. OT helps with so many essential life skills—like dressing, putting on and taking off jackets, fastening buckles, and learning to put on shoes. Kay’s fine motor skills have come a long way, but continued practice and the opportunity to build on those skills will be such a benefit.
Kay can get easily frustrated when a task feels too hard or takes longer than she expects. She’ll sometimes grunt, throw what she’s working on, and give up—even when we offer to help. That’s exactly why staying consistent with therapy is so important: to help build both her skills and her confidence.
I’m so happy to share that Kay has now started occupational therapy again—this time through The Speech House! Several of her friends already go there and have shared nothing but positive experiences. Even better, The Speech House partners with GiGi’s Playhouse and offers therapies right there onsite.
As of last week, Kay officially began OT at GiGi’s with The Speech House! We’re especially excited because her new OT is someone who has been a dedicated volunteer at GiGi’s for a long time—someone we know well and absolutely love. Kay is completely comfortable with her, and I truly believe that having someone who understands Kay and her moods is a huge advantage.
Kay will now attend occupational therapy once a week, and I’m so excited to watch her continue to grow, learn, and thrive.