Our occupational therapists offer a wide variety of programs to address each client’s individual motor, social, and educational developmental needs. Several examples are described below:
Sensory Integration
There are 3 types of primary diagnostic groups under the umbrella of Sensory Processing Disorder:
Our therapists utilize a treatment approach based on Sensory Integration theory in order to address many of our clients’ functional deficits from a sensory standpoint. Sensory integration is a neurological process in which sensations are organized for functional use in everyday activities. Our brain receives information from our body and the surrounding environment through our external and internal senses. When working efficiently in a typical nervous system, this information is then processed and organized in such a way that we are able to appropriately respond to our environment, often without conscious effort. Here at Pediatric Therapy and Learning Center, each child’s unique “sensory profile” is determined through extensive observation and evaluation methods. Our skilled occupational therapists then tailor an individualized treatment plan in order to facilitate improved awareness of and response to the sensory stimuli that are encountered on a daily basis, so that the child has more refined adaptive responses in his or her own environment.
Early Intervention Services
We provide services to infants and toddlers (birth-3 years) who are experiencing difficulties with various areas of development. Some commonly seen conditions are torticollis, plagiocephaly, developmental delays, muscle tone abnormalities, or difficulties with feeding (9 months+). At PTLC, we value a proactive approach in treating infants and toddlers, with the philosophy that early treatment for difficulties promotes optimal outcomes and may prevent current developmental concerns from becoming more severe.
Handwriting Remediation
There are various reasons a child may have difficulty with handwriting; therefore, it is important to
evaluate the motor skills and visual perceptual skills in conjunction with the handwriting product.
For treatment purposes, our therapists are certified in the Handwriting Without Tears program. This
program addresses pre-kindergarten through cursive handwriting skills, and it does this by utilizing a
developmental approach and multisensory strategies. With multiple manipulatives, fun songs, and
playful characters, children expand their letter awareness and formation. For more information,
ordering information, and on-line activities to play with your child, visit: www.hwtears.com.
Interactive Metronome
Interactive Metronome (IM) is a computer based program that aims at improving timing, sequencing,
coordination, and attention in children six years old and up, diagnosed with Sensory Processing
Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, cerebral palsy and balance disorders. The program
aims to have the user coordinate specific body movements with a rhythmical beat using either
visual or auditory cues or both, depending on the level of performance. The functional goals include
improved focus and attention, increased ability to filter out environmental auditory stimuli, and
improve coordination. For more information about Interactive Metronome, please visit their website at
www.interactivemetronome.com.
Auditory Programs
Our OTs incorporate evidence-based listening programs to support children in improving self-regulation, sensory processing, attention, communication, and social engagement. They are trained and certified in each of these systems and are ready to guide families in determining the most appropriate program for their child’s unique needs.
Therapeutic Listening® – Uses specially modulated music to enhance sensory integration, attention, and motor skills, helping children process and respond to their environment more effectively.
Integrated Listening System (iLs) – Combines auditory stimulation with movement and cognitive activities to strengthen brain-body connections, supporting learning, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) – A non-invasive intervention designed to calm the nervous system, improve emotional regulation, and enhance social connection, particularly beneficial for children with anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or trauma histories.
Our team is dedicated to helping families navigate these powerful interventions, ensuring that each child receives the most effective and individualized support. Contact us to learn more about how listening therapy can benefit your child!