It takes a lot of courage to admit that something is not quite right. As a parent and you feel...
Blog
Lawnmower, Helicopter and Hovering Parents – Oh, My!
It’s never easy reading definitions of terms like “Helicopter Parent” or “Lawnmower Parent” and realize, “Oh, my gosh – that...
ADHD – How it Affects Dental and Medical Care
Most people understand the common challenges children and families face once diagnosed with ADHD. They may struggle to pay attention,...
Prioritize Play for Kids to Help Them Thrive As Adults
The idea of play being an instinctual need for children is not one readily discussed. When children are young, play...
Painfully Shy – A Mother’s Story
Twenty years ago when my daughter was in pre-school and kindergarten, her teachers repeatedly told us that her severe shyness...
Parenting Strategies to Help Children Fight Fears and Overcome Anxiety
One of the key components of therapy provided at Amy Zier and Associates is parent-inclusion. We have always believed that...
Playtime Each Day Keeps the Doctor Away – The Art of Playful Parenting
As occupational therapists who specialize in play-based therapy, we couldn’t agree more with the findings discussed in THIS tremendous report on...
Sun’s Out Fun’s Out – The Benefit of Outdoor Play
With warmer weather showing its pretty face, it’s a natural time to get kids outside to play – and according...
Self-Regulation in Kids – Are we asking for too much, too soon?
Change is a tricky word, especially when used in context to “changing” how others self-regulate their behavior. Whether it is...
Reading + Outdoor Adventures = Fun Opportunities to Redirect Behavior
Reading is not just about keeping kids occupied – it’s also a way to spark creative activities that support emotional...
When Failure is a Gift: The Key to Building Resilient Children
No one like to see their children fail. It’s our nature to protect kiddos from unpleasantness, so we’re quick to...
Left, Right or Both? Brain Development Explained
As occupational therapists and parents, brain development in early childhood fascinates us. Watching children interact with others, their environment, processes...