I wanted to tell you some of what we learned from Oliver's Occupational Therapy Assessment. I, as well as many of you, were curious about what exactly an Occupational Therapist would do with a 2 year old. I will say there were lots of "ah-ha" moments. For example, Oliver has always been very difficult to manage when changing his diaper. Many of you, to your surprise, have experienced his Jackie Chan-type maneuvers. He has always been much harder to change than any other child we've known. He also is constantly, and I mean constantly, in motion. He loves to wedge himself in between objects and push hard against things. He clearly seems to have a very high pain tolerance- immunization shots rarely cause tears. So it is clear that Oliver has some sensory needs that hopefully, with tools and professional help, we can address.
During the assessment they gave us some items to try with Oliver. One thing to help with his oral issues is a chewy tube. It is extremely helpful. When Oliver wants to have something in his mouth (almost always) we give him this instead. He usually will give you the toy in his mouth in exchange for it. The speech therapist really likes it because it doesn't inhibit speech as much as a pacifier or similar item. It is nice to find something appropriate and safe to give him. Who knew they made things like this? Cool, huh?
They also left us with a weighted blanket which can help kids settle down. We use it at night with Oliver and it seems to help. The other thing is a compression vest that gives Oliver a big squeeze or a tight hug. This time of "deep pressure stimulation" is calming for him. The problem is he is fascinated by the Velcro on the vest so he won't keep it on :)
Overall it is great to know there are tools out there that can help us and most importantly, Oliver. The bottom line is, for him, his needs more intense sensory input than the average person. The OT said it is likely he will like extreme sports/experiences as he gets older. Guess sky-diving and bungee jumping might be in his future? I'm thinking those might be a father/son bonding activity.
2 comments:
Daily prayers continue for you guys.
Thanks, Stephanie, for your updates.
Chewellery are wonderful too. Kinda like those bungee cord wrist band-key rings...for kiddos who need the oral stimulation.
Also, another option you may ask the OT about is a weighted vest...or if you're out and about and don't have these tools with you...having him wear a cute little back pack with some heavier items in it will help too.
Our older son like the deep pressure and weight as well. While our little one, who has TSC, has different sensory touch issues. He HATES tags in his clothing and that sort of thing.
These kiddos are amazing as they are all so different...yet in some ways the same. Sweet hearts who deserve love.
Hang in there. It's all such a learning process.
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