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Author: Ally Hicks

Helping Kids Move Better with Serial Bracing

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Carolina Therapy Connection Now Offering Serial Bracing!

Sometimes, kids need a little extra help moving around. That’s where braces come in. Braces are special devices that can support different parts of the body, like hands, ankles, and more. They’re used to help kids get stronger and move better. For children facing mobility challenges due to conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or injuries, the ability to walk and use their hands freely can significantly impact their daily lives. Serial bracing emerges as a crucial intervention in pediatric therapy, offering targeted support to help children walk better and enhance their hand function.

 

Understanding Serial Bracing for Kids

Serial bracing involves the use of specialized orthotic devices/braces designed to provide support and alignment to specific body parts over time. These braces are tailored to meet the individual needs of each child, addressing issues related to walking and hand function. By wearing these braces consistently and undergoing therapy interventions, children can experience improvements in their mobility and functional abilities.

 

Does Your Child Experience…

  • Tight heel cords (toe-walking)?
  • Tightness in the hand, wrist, elbow, or knees?
  • Tight Muscles even after using orthotic braces?

Bracing can help support the hands, wrists, legs, ankles and feet!

 

Supporting Walking with Bracing

For children with conditions affecting their ability to walk, due to increased/decreased tone/range of motion, poor alignment, weakness, or structural abnormalities, serial bracing plays a vital role in promoting stability and proper alignment of the lower limbs. Many people have heard of braces like ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) help support the ankle joint, correct foot alignment, and improve walking patterns. Over time, consistent use of braces combined with physical therapy can lead to improved ankle alignment and range of motion resulting in enhanced balance, coordination, and overall mobility.  Even kids who toe walk can improve their walking patterns and decrease their toe walking through the use of leg braces.

 

Enhancing Hand Function through Bracing

Hand function is essential for children to perform daily activities independently, from writing and drawing to feeding themselves. Serial bracing offers support and alignment for children with conditions impacting hand function, such as cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries. Orthotic devices like hand splints or wrist-hand orthoses (WHOs) provide stability while allowing for functional movement. With regular use of these braces and targeted occupational therapy, children can develop better hand control, grip strength, and fine motor skills.

 

The Difference Between Serial Bracing vs. Serial Casting

Serial Bracing is similar to serial casting but is removable and easily custom-molded for the child in the clinic setting. 

Benefits of Serial Bracing:

  • Non-invasive
  • Typically improves range of motion in 4-6 weeks
  • Can be removed by caregivers for skin check, stretching, strengthening, bathing
  • Can easily be remolded in 15-30 minutes per limb at home/clinic without special equipment 
  • Can be worn for all typical daily/nightly routines, including walking, running, sleeping, swimming, or bathing

 

The Turtle Bracing Difference

The turtle brace is a form of casting or splinting. It provides an amazing alternative option as opposed to traditional plaster casting. Braces are available to fit all shapes and sizes, from newborn babies to adults. They offer braces for the wrist and fingers, elbow, and ankle.

The turtle brace is a moldable brace that is heated up and then applied to the treated area, which is fastened with a zipper. Once it is positioned, it begins to harden as the brace cools. Once the brace hardens, it is good to go!  

The nature of the fabric allows it to be reshaped many times without losing its qualities, which is beneficial to making adjustments for children growing, serial casting adjustments, and other requirements. You can get the turtle brace wet – wear the turtle brace in the shower, bath, or the beach, and it will dry!

 

What makes Turtle Braces so amazing?

  • It is lightweight and comfortable.
  • It is waterproof.
  • It provides an easy zipper to assist with the removal.
  • It can be removed if there is a problem, for example, a pressure area, or a child is struggling and needs a break. The brace can be removed without compromising the cast or the treated joint.
  • It is re-moldable with the application of heat and can transform back to its original shape!

 

More from the Turtle Brace manufacturer

*Turtle Brace Website 

 

Customized Care for Optimal Results: I’m Interested in Turtle Bracing, How Do I Get Started?

Each child’s journey with serial bracing is unique, requiring personalized care and attention. Turtle Braces are custom-made to fit the child’s body comfortably and effectively. Moreover, therapy interventions are tailored to address specific goals and challenges, ensuring comprehensive support for walking and hand function. 

  1. If you are a NEW patient of ours and are interested in Turtle Bracing, contact us and mention you would like Turtle Bracing. Our referral coordinator will meet you with one of our certified and trained therapists for an evaluation.  She will also walk you through the insurance process to determine coverage for braces.
  2. If you are a CURRENT patient of ours and are interested in Turtle Bracing, talk with your current therapist about this option! Our referral coordinator will be in touch to walk you through the insurance process to determine coverage for braces.

 

Empowering Children for Success

The benefits of serial bracing extend beyond physical improvements; they empower children to participate more fully in daily activities and social interactions! By gaining greater independence in walking and hand function, children can experience increased confidence and self-esteem. Moreover, improved mobility opens up new opportunities for exploration, learning, and participation in recreational activities.

Through a combination of customized bracing and therapy interventions at Carolina Therapy Connection, children can overcome mobility challenges and achieve greater independence in their daily lives!

 

 

Written By: Cindy Taylor

 

Making the Transition Back to College Easier with a Counselor’s Help

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Going back to college can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re a freshman or returning for another year, the transition can bring new challenges. Speaking to a counselor can make this process smoother. Here’s how a counselor can help you with various aspects of your college life.

Coordinating Class and Social Schedules

Balancing academics with a social life is vital for a well-rounded college experience. A counselor can help you coordinate your class schedule with your social activities. They can assist you in finding time for clubs, sports, and social events without compromising your studies. This balance can enhance your college experience, helping you stay engaged and motivated.

Creating New Study Habits 

Effective study habits are key to academic success. If you’re struggling with your current methods or facing new academic challenges, a counselor can provide strategies to improve your study habits. They can introduce techniques like time management, active learning, and setting realistic goals. With their support, you can develop a study routine that works best for you, boosting your productivity and confidence. As for the study habits part, the counselors help combat task paralysis and procrastination/motivation concerns. Disorders like ADHD and Anxiety can make keeping up with scholastic responsibilities more difficult, and a counselor can help build new skills and coping mechanisms.

Finding New Self-Care Strategies

College life can be stressful, making self-care more important than ever. A counselor can help you identify self-care strategies that fit your lifestyle and needs. Whether it’s regular exercise, mindfulness practices, or hobbies, they can guide you in integrating self-care into your daily routine. This can help you manage stress, stay healthy, and maintain a positive outlook throughout the school year.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand the challenges of returning to college. Our counselors are ready to help you navigate this transition with ease. We offer free 15-minute screenings to get you started, and we can set up an evaluation to create a personalized plan for your success. Reach out to us today, and let us support you on your college journey.

 

Empowering Parents and Caregivers of Special Needs Children: The Impact of Mental Health and Peer Support

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Parenting is an adventure full of joyful moments, challenging times, and learning opportunities. While parenting is tough and offers both challenges and chances for growth, raising a child with special needs comes with its own unique set of difficulties and rewards. Parents and caregivers of special needs children often have to attend multiple specialist appointments, ensuring their child receives the right care and support at school and other settings. They also participate in meetings to advocate for their child’s needs, research and locate specialized treatments and services, and spend additional money on treatments not covered by insurance. Additionally, they must learn about their child’s unique requirements and take care of themselves to manage the physical and emotional demands of caregiving. It’s no wonder that parents of special needs children are often called superheroes.

Understanding the Challenges

Parents and Caregivers of special needs children face many challenges that can affect how they feel:

  • Chronic Stress: Attending multiple doctor and specialty visits, therapy sessions, school meetings, and daily care routines can be challenging.
  • Emotional Impact: Parents of children with special needs often feel guilt, frustration, worry, or isolation. They may struggle with a lack of support or finding others who understand their situation. Social events can be challenging due to their child’s unique needs, and they may experience grief over a different parenting journey than they had imagined.
  • Financial Pressure: Special treatments and therapies can be costly and not always covered by insurance, adding even more stress.
  • Navigating Systems: It’s hard to know where to receive support, understand the different available services’ processes, and get timely and accessible services.

The Role of Mental Health

As a parent or caregiver, taking care of your own mental health is not always on the top of the priority list when there are so many other things that need care, but it is equally as important. We cannot pour from an empty cup. Learning ways to handle stress and anxiety brings an opportunity to give yourself support, model support for other parents and caregivers, and model for your children that taking care of yourself and their own mental health is essential, strong, and normal. Even superheroes have a little support, and that’s okay.

  • Managing Stress: Learning to navigate stress helps parents and caregivers face challenges and increase their ability to respond to difficulties versus react. 
  • Emotional Support: Having someone to talk to who can be a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or give a hug that takes our breath away can make a difference; who’s your superhero sidekick or team? 
  • Self-Care: Taking time to yourself that’s just for you helps you to understand your own unique needs, be more present for your child and loved ones, and respond accordingly in times of stress. Make a list of self-care ideas, something sustainable and achievable. 
  • Building Resilience: Developing self-awareness around your own mental health needs, managing your emotions, and accessing support when needed helps parents deal with tough times; you’re adding tools to your superhero tool belt. 

The Power of Peer Support

Talking to other parents and caregivers who are going through similar situations can help:

  • Shared Experiences: Connecting with other parents and caregivers who understand what you’re going through can encourage connection and help you feel less isolated.
  • Practical Tips: Other parents and caregivers can give guidance based on their own experiences that might help you or lead you to additional resources. It’s important for superheroes to come together when needed. 
  • Feeling Empowered: Knowing that other parents and caregivers support you can boost your confidence and give you inspiration. 

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we know how important mental health and support are for parents and caregivers of special needs children. Here’s what we offer:

  • Free 15-Minute Screening: Call us to set up a free 15-minute talk with one of our counselors. It can help you decide if therapy might be helpful for you.
  • Therapy that Fits You: Our counselors are experts at helping parents with treatments that work and are tailored just for you.
  • Peer Support Groups: Join other parents and caregivers like you in groups where you can share stories, learn, and support each other. 

Supporting parents and caregivers of special needs children means caring for both the kids and the parents and caregivers themselves. When we focus on mental health and peer support, we partner with parents and caregivers to assist in providing the superhero strength they need for their journey.  

 

Contact Carolina Therapy Connection at 252-341-9944 or visit carolinatherapyconnection.com to learn more.

 

What is Play Therapy in a Mental Health Setting? 

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Play Therapy is a type of therapy that uses play to help children understand and deal with their emotions and problems. It’s a natural way for kids to express themselves and work through issues they may face. In a mental health setting, Play Therapy can be very helpful in addressing various psychological problems, offering many benefits for young patients.

Appropriate Age Range for Play Therapy

Play Therapy is usually for children aged 3 to 12 years. However, it can also be adjusted for older kids and teens who might benefit from it. This flexibility makes Play Therapy accessible and useful for different age groups, ensuring that each child gets the support they need in a way that works for them.

Who Can Benefit from Play Therapy?

Play Therapy can help children with many emotional and behavioral problems, including:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Behavioral disorders
  • ADHD
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Social and relationship issues
  • Grief and loss

Children can deal with complex emotions and experiences by playing in a safe and supportive environment. This therapy is also great for kids who may struggle to talk about their feelings, as it lets them communicate through play.

The Process of Play Therapy

The Play Therapy process has several stages, each tailored to the child’s needs:

  1. Assessment: The therapist first understands the child’s needs, behaviors, and family situation.
  2. Building Rapport: Creating a trusting relationship between the therapist and the child is crucial. This is done through engaging and non-directive play.
  3. Therapeutic Play Sessions: In these sessions, the child can play with various toys and materials. The therapist watches and interacts, using specific techniques to address the child’s problems.
  4. Parental Involvement: Parents or caregivers are often involved in the therapy process, receiving guidance to support the therapy at home.
  5. Evaluation and Progress Monitoring: The counselor regularly checks the child’s progress and adjusts the therapy as needed.

Positive Impact on Mental Health

Play Therapy provides deep insights into a child’s emotional world and helps them develop healthier coping skills. It builds resilience, enhances emotional intelligence, and improves problem-solving abilities. By working through their issues in a playful and non-threatening way, children can achieve significant psychological growth and stability.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand how powerful Play Therapy can be. Our team of skilled mental wellness counselors is here to support your child’s mental health journey. We offer free screenings to see if Play Therapy is the right fit for your child. Contact us today to schedule a screening and take the first step toward your child’s mental well-being.

 

Understanding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a special treatment that helps people heal from trauma and other difficult experiences. Created by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is now used to treat many mental health issues.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

This therapy has several advantages:

  1. Quick Results: EMDR often works faster than regular talk therapy. Many people feel better after just a few sessions.
  2. Trauma Treatment: EMDR is very good at treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related problems.
  3. Whole-Person Healing: EMDR addresses the root cause of distress, helping people feel better overall.
  4. Versatile: EMDR can help with anxiety, depression, phobias, chronic pain, and grief.
  5. Less Need for Medication: Some people find they need less medication when using this method.

The EMDR Therapy Process

This therapy has eight phases:

  1. History Taking: The counselor learns about your history and plans your treatment.
  2. Preparation: The counselor explains how this type of therapy works and teaches relaxation techniques.
  3. Assessment: The counselor identifies specific memories and the negative beliefs and feelings connected to them.
  4. Desensitization: The counselor uses bilateral stimulation, like guided eye movements, to help you process the traumatic memory and lessen its emotional impact.
  5. Installation: Positive beliefs replace the negative ones linked to the traumatic memory.
  6. Body Scan: You check for any leftover physical tension related to the memory.
  7. Closure: The counselor ensures you feel safe and stable before the session ends.
  8. Reevaluation: The counselor checks your progress and addresses any remaining issues in future sessions.

Differences Between EMDR and Other Therapies

EMDR is different from other therapies in a few ways:

  • Eye Movements: This type of therapy uses bilateral stimulation, like eye movements, to help process memories, which is different from regular talk therapy.
  • Memory Focus: EMDR targets specific memories and the negative feelings linked to them rather than just focusing on current symptoms.
  • Faster Relief: Many people feel better faster with this type of therapy when compared to other types of therapies.

Who is Appropriate for EMDR Therapy?

This therapy can help many people, including those who:

  • Have experienced trauma, like abuse, accidents, or natural disasters.
  • Suffer from PTSD or other trauma-related conditions.
  • Struggle with anxiety, depression, or phobias.
  • Have unresolved grief or loss.
  • Experience chronic pain or distress related to illness.
  • Want an alternative to traditional talk therapy or medication.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

Carolina Therapy Connection offers EMDR therapy as part of our mental wellness and counseling services. Our trained counselors are ready to help you find relief from trauma and other distressing issues. We provide a free screening with one of our mental wellness counselors to get you started. Contact us today to schedule your screening and take the first step toward healing.

For more information or to make an appointment, visit our website or call our office. We look forward to helping you improve your mental well-being.

 

The Benefits of Teletherapy in Mental Health Settings

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Teletherapy has become very popular in recent years. It uses technology to provide mental health services through video calls, phone calls, or online chats. This method makes getting help easier for many people. In this blog, we’ll look at the benefits of teletherapy, who can use it, and how it can help everyone.

What is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy, or online therapy, lets you talk to a counselor from home using your computer or phone. This means you don’t have to travel to a counselor’s office to get help.

Benefits of Online Therapy

  1. Accessibility and Convenience: Online therapy makes it easier to get help no matter where you live or how busy you are. You can have therapy sessions from home, work, or any private place.
  2. Comfort and Privacy: Being in your own space can make it easier to talk and open up during therapy. Teletherapy also keeps your therapy sessions private since you don’t have to go to an office.
  3. Flexibility: You can schedule therapy sessions at times that work best for you, including evenings and weekends.
  4. Continuity of Care: If you travel a lot or have a busy schedule, teletherapy allows you to keep having regular sessions with your therapist, no matter where you are.
  5. Reduced Stigma: Some feel embarrassed about visiting a counselor’s office. Virtual sessions can help reduce this embarrassment and make it easier to seek help.

Who Can Benefit from Virtual Sessions?

Teletherapy is great for many different people, including:

  • Busy Professionals: People with demanding jobs can easily fit virtual sessions into their schedules.
  • Parents and Caregivers: Teletherapy allows parents and caregivers to get support without needing to find someone to watch their kids.
  • Individuals with Mobility Issues: Teletherapy is perfect for people with difficulty traveling due to physical disabilities or chronic illnesses.
  • Rural Residents: People living in remote areas can get mental health services that are unavailable nearby.
  • Students: College students can fit virtual sessions into their busy academic schedules.
  • Anyone Seeking Convenience: Virtual sessions are ideal for anyone who wants ease of getting therapy from home.

 

How Teletherapy Benefits the Everyday Person

Teletherapy can help people improve their mental health every day. It makes getting support easier, more flexible, and more private. Virtual sessions help people take care of their mental health without dealing with the challenges of traditional therapy.

 

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

Meet Imani Rodriguez; she is here to explain the benefits of online therapy for all ages!

 

We can help by setting up a free screening with one of our mental wellness counselors to get started! At Carolina Therapy Connection, we offer high-quality teletherapy services that fit into your life. Contact us today to learn more about our virtual session options and take the first step toward better mental health.

 

Celebrating Excellence: Our Pediatric Therapy Company Named Best Employers of NC for 2023 and 2024!

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We are thrilled to announce that our pediatric therapy company has been recognized as one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for 2023 and 2024 by Business North Carolina! This incredible achievement is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire team, and it highlights our commitment to providing exceptional care and services to the children and families in our community.

 

A Commitment to Excellence in Pediatric Therapy

Over the past 14 years, our organization has specialized in a comprehensive range of pediatric therapy services, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, mental wellness and counseling, and educational services. We have recently expanded to include services for adults in the past year and a half.  Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each child receives individualized care tailored to their unique needs, fostering their development and helping them reach their full potential.

 

  • Occupational Therapy: Our skilled occupational therapists help children develop the skills they need for daily living and academic success, focusing on fine motor skills, sensory processing, and more.

 

  • Speech Therapy: Our speech-language pathologists work with children to improve their communication skills, addressing challenges related to speech, language, and social communication.

 

  • Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists are dedicated to enhancing children’s mobility, strength, development, and coordination, enabling them to participate fully in everyday activities.

 

  • Mental Wellness and Counseling: We provide a supportive environment for children and adults to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve their mental health and well-being.

 

  • Educational Services: Our educational specialists offer academic testing and tutoring support for children with learning differences, helping them thrive academically.

 

Serving Eastern North Carolina with Dedication and Care

With multiple locations around Eastern North Carolina, our clinic is committed to making our services accessible to families throughout the region. We also have several virtual speech-language pathologists who can serve children across all of North Carolina. We understand the importance of providing high-quality care close to home, and our convenient locations ensure that children and families can receive the support they need without extensive travel.

 

Recognized as a Top Employer

Being named one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for two consecutive years is an honor that reflects our dedication to creating a positive and supportive work environment for our staff. We believe that happy, fulfilled employees are the foundation of excellent patient care. Our team members are passionate about their work and committed to making a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.

 

The survey conducted by DataJoe for Business North Carolina covered essential workplace topics, including organizational health, leadership, engagement, work-life balance, pay, training, benefits, and corporate social responsibility.

 

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on our mission to provide the highest quality pediatric therapy services in Eastern North Carolina. We are continually exploring new ways to enhance our programs, support our staff, and expand our reach to better serve our community.

Thank you to our incredible team, our wonderful patients and families, and everyone who has supported us on this journey. We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional care and to being a part of your child’s growth and development for many years to come!

Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you and your child’s needs. Together, we can help every child reach their full potential!

 

 

 

https://businessnc.com/topping-the-list-of-north-carolinas-best-employers-2024/

 

Embracing Mental Wellness: The Importance of Therapy for Pregnant and Postpartum Women Introduction

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Pregnancy and the postpartum period are times of significant change and adjustment for women and men. While these phases often bring joy and excitement, they can also be accompanied by emotional and psychological challenges. Hormonal changes, physical changes, and the demands of caring for a newborn can impact a woman’s mental health. Seeking mental wellness therapy during pregnancy and after childbirth can be a powerful step in ensuring overall well-being for both the mother and her baby.

Understanding Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common complications of childbirth, affecting approximately 1 in 7 women. PPD is more than just the “baby blues” — it is a severe form of depression that can occur after the birth of a child. Symptoms may include intense sadness, anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty bonding with the baby. If left untreated, PPD can affect the mother’s ability to care for her child and herself, potentially leading to long-term emotional and developmental issues for both.

The Benefits of Mental Wellness Therapy

Mental wellness therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where pregnant and postpartum women can express their feelings, learn coping strategies, and receive professional guidance. Here are some of the key benefits:

 

  1. Emotional Support

Therapy provides a non-judgmental space for women to share their thoughts and feelings. This emotional support is crucial, especially when friends and family may not fully understand the new mother is experiencing.

 

  1. Coping Strategies

Therapists can teach coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. These techniques can help help mothers navigate the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum life.

 

  1. Bonding with the Baby

Therapy can also focus on strengthening the mother-infant bond. By addressing issues such as postpartum depression and anxiety, therapy can help mothers develop a stronger, healthier relationship with their babies.

 

  1. Addressing Relationship Changes

The arrival of a new baby can put some tension on relationships with partners, family members, and friends. Therapy can help women and their partners communicate better, manage conflicts, and adjust to new roles and responsibilities.

 

  1. Preventing Long-Term Issues

Early intervention through therapy can prevent the rise of mental health issues. Addressing these concerns early can lead to better long-term outcomes for both the mother and the child.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we are committed to supporting the mental health of pregnant and postpartum women and their spouses. Our team of therapists has experience in maternal mental health and understands the different challenges faced during this time.

 

We begin by offering a detailed screening with one of our therapists. This initial step helps us understand your specific needs and concerns. Following the screening, we will work with you to schedule a therapy session. We aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where you can openly discuss your feelings and receive the help you need to thrive.

 

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or other mental health challenges during pregnancy or after childbirth, please reach out to Carolina Therapy Connection. We are here to help you on your mental wellness journey, ensuring you and your baby have the healthiest start possible.

 

Take the first step today by contacting us to schedule your screening and therapy session. Your mental health is our priority, and we are dedicated to walking this path with you.

 

🌟 Meet Starr, one of our dedicated Mental Wellness Therapists! With compassion and expertise, Starr helps individuals navigate pregnancy and postpartum journeys. She supports both parents, understanding the importance of a strong support system. Starr believes in the power of therapeutic alliance and meeting clients where they are on their path to healing. Click the link below to learn more!🤍

https://youtu.be/C1CQ-JJNMVU 

 

Zones of Regulation

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What are the Zones of Regulation?

The Zones of Regulation is a curriculum that your child’s therapist may use to help your child develop self-regulation skills. Self-regulation is “the ability to achieve the preferred state of alertness for the given situation.” Other terms often interchanged for self-regulation include self-control, impulse control, and self-management. The curriculum focuses on lessons and activities to help the child identify their different “Zones” and strategies to increase self-regulation. Additionally, your child will be able to increase their understanding of emotions and coping skills. 

The Zones: Self-Regulation

“The Zones of Regulation creates a system to categorize how the body feels and emotions into four colored Zones with which the students can easily identify.” 

There are four zones within the Zones of Regulation

  • Blue Zone
  • Green Zone
  • Yellow Zone
  • Red Zone

The Blue Zone is a state of low alertness. Feelings can include sad, tired, sick, or bored. 

 

The Green Zone is a state of ideal alertness. This includes feeling calm, happy, or focused.

 

The Yellow Zone is a state of heightened alertness. Feelings can include frustration, worry, excitement, silliness, or fear. 

 

The Red Zone is a state of extremely heightened alertness. This includes anger, rage, extreme fear, and explosive behavior. 

 

How are the Zones used?

Your child’s therapist will work with them to identify which Zone they are in and strategies to help them self-regulate within each Zone. They will work together to develop a “toolbox” with strategies and techniques for obtaining optimal alertness in everyday situations. It is important to understand that no zone is “bad,” and all are expected from time to time. Instead, the intention is to help your child identify tools and coping strategies to self-regulate within each Zone. 

 

What can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

For the Zones of Regulation to work as intended, home carryover is super important. Strategies include using the same language and talking about the Zones within the home and community environments. Applying strategies to yourself can also increase carryover. For example, you may say, “This is super frustrating, and I am starting to go into the Yellow Zone. Maybe I will take some deep breaths.” Additionally, validate the zone that the child is in and help them implement the strategies and tools to self-regulate. Your child’s therapist can share the language and strategies used with the Zones of Regulation to increase carryover at home. 

 

By: Carolina Zissette, OT

 

24-Month-Old Milestone

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What speech development will my child be doing at this time? 

At 24 months, most children have developed a vocabulary of at least 200 words or more. They can now use simple two-word phrases and may even begin to form simple phrases. These sentences may not be grammatically correct, but they convey meaning and reflect the child’s attempts to express themselves more elaborately. For example, a 24-month-old might say “big truck” or “mommy book.”

One notable aspect of language development at this age is the emergence of pronouns. Many toddlers start using pronouns such as “I,” “me,” and “you” to refer to themselves and others. This marks a significant step in their ability to express personal experiences and interact with others. 

In addition to vocabulary expansion and sentence formation, toddlers are refining their articulation skills at this stage. While their speech may still be unclear to unfamiliar listeners, families can usually understand their child’s words and phrases. Sound errors are typical at this age, and most children gradually improve as they continue to practice and refine their speech sounds. 

What else should my child be doing for Speech Development?

Another exciting 24-month-old milestone in language development is the ability to follow simple directions. Toddlers can often understand and respond to basic instructions, such as “give me the ball” or “come here.” This newfound skill contributes to their growing independence and ability to engage in simple tasks.

Social communication skills also make significant strides at this age. Many 24-month-olds enjoy engaging in simple conversations and sharing their thoughts and observations with those around them. They may imitate adult speech patterns and gestures and even attempt to participate in back-and-forth exchanges. Furthermore, imaginative play also begins to blossom. They might pretend to play with dolls or stuffed animals, using words to narrate their play and express creativity. 

What Can I Do at Home? 

It’s important to note that while there are general milestones for speech and language development, each child is unique and may progress at their own pace. Regular exposure to language-rich environments, positive interactions with caregivers, and engaging activities that stimulate language development all contribute to a child’s linguistic advancement.

The 24-month mark is an exciting stage in a child’s speech and language development. It represents a time of significant growth in vocabulary, sentence structure, and social communication skills, laying the foundation for more advanced language abilities in the future. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in fostering this development through supportive and enriching interactions with their toddlers.

 

By: Lindsey Bryant CF, SLP