The leaves have begun to change, and families have settled into the rhythm of the school year. However, sometimes children and their parents experience bumps in the road. After the initial excitement of new classrooms, friends, and routines wears off, underlying social, emotional, behavioral, or developmental issues may start to surface.
And those first parent-teacher conferences? They can sometimes feel like a report card on your child’s ability to navigate the classroom’s complexities. Many parents find themselves bracing for what teachers may be noticing in their child, and a new set of challenges to overcome.
At Zier Institute (Omaha) and Amy Zier + Associates (Chicago), we understand that the school environment can be a pressure cooker for kids who are struggling to hold it together. From understanding social dynamics to managing emotions and staying focused on learning, the demands can be overwhelming.
Zier Institute and AZ+A not only support children, but the entire family. Once the wheels start to fall off, it affects everyone. Don’t worry – you’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
Recognizing When to Seek Support:
Perhaps you’re hearing concerns from your child’s teacher about:
- Difficulty with communication: Struggling to express themselves clearly, understand instructions, or engage in conversations.
- Social skills challenges: Difficulty making friends, fitting in with peers, enjoying social situations, or understanding social cues.
- Anger and anxiety issues: Frequent outbursts, difficulty managing frustration, excessive worry, or difficulty separating from parents.
- Emotional regulation difficulties: Big reactions to minor frustrations, difficulty calming down once upset, or experiencing frequent mood swings.
- Behavioral issues in the classroom: difficulty following rules, staying seated, or keeping hands to oneself.
Do any of these concerns resonate with you? If so, it’s time to consider seeking additional support for your child.
Pediatric Occupational Therapy Can Help
Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) can significantly impact the lives of children who struggle in the school environment. OTs work with children to develop the skills they need to succeed in all areas of their lives, including social, emotional, behavioral, and academic. But at Zier Institute and Amy Zier + Associates, we take a unique approach:
The DIRFloortime® Difference: Connection, Relationship, and Resilience
We view pediatric OT through a DIRFloortime® lens, emphasizing the importance of connection, relationship, and individual differences. Instead of focusing solely on specific skills, diagnosis, or behaviors, we prioritize building a solid foundation in emotional regulation, social interaction, and problem-solving.
How a DIRFloortime-informed OT approach can help:
- Stronger Connections: We help children develop the skills to build meaningful relationships with their classmates, teachers, and family, promoting a sense of belonging and support.
- Emotional Regulation: We teach children strategies for managing their emotions and harnessing their energy in healthy and adaptive ways, reducing anxiety, frustration, and the frequency of outbursts.
- Communication Skills: Helping children express themselves effectively and understand the communication of others enhances positive social interactions in and outside of school.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: When children are empowered to think critically, solve problems, and adapt to new situations, they develop stronger resilience and independence.
- Addressing Sensory Needs: We assess and address any underlying sensory processing difficulties that may be contributing to behavioral or emotional challenges.
- Classroom Support: We collaborate with teachers and school staff to develop strategies that support children in the classroom environment, ensuring they have the necessary tools to succeed.
We’re Here to Help: In the Classroom and Beyond
Whether your child fumbles with social skills on the playground like a football, cannot get a solid grip on their emotions in the classroom, or has difficulty focusing on their work, Zier Institute and Amy Zier + Associates can provide the support they need. We offer:
- Individual Clinic Sessions: Personalized therapy sessions tailored to your child’s unique needs and goals.
- School Consultations: We can work directly with your child’s school to develop strategies for supporting them in the classroom environment.
- Parent Coaching: We empower parents with the knowledge and skills they need to support their child’s development at home.
Smooth(er) Roads Start Here:
The school year can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. If you’re concerned about your child’s social, emotional, behavioral, or developmental well-being, please contact us today.
Contact Zier Institute (Omaha) or Amy Zier + Associates (Chicago) today to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to help your child thrive this school year and beyond.