School’s Back in Session: Helping Your Child Readjust
The post-holiday blues can be tough for anyone, but kids have it especially hard. Not only is the excitement over, but now they have to head back to school after a few weeks of parties, gifts, and travel. Part of the challenge is that it can be difficult for kids to fall back into their regular schedule. Kids thrive on routine, and the holidays are a major disruption, affecting bedtimes, mealtimes, and everything in between. The result is that the start of the winter semester can sometimes be harder than the start of the school year!
Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to help ease your child back into their typical daily routine. Here are some tips from the Flourishing Lives pediatric occupational therapists.
Start With These Four Tips Before School Starts Up Again
Re-establish Evening and Morning Routines
If the holidays threw your kids’ morning and bedtime routines off track, start enforcing them before school starts. Depending on how much they were affected, you may need to gradually build up to normal bedtimes. In the mornings, mimic school days as much as possible.
Set Limits on Screen Time
Spending a lot of time watching TV, playing video games, or using a mobile device can affect kids’ ability to focus, making it harder for them to concentrate once they’re back in school. Put limits on screen time and fill the last few days of their vacation with activities that improve concentration and focus, such as puzzles, building blocks, or listening games like Simon Says.
Get Your Kids Involved in the Process
Set aside time to talk with your kids about the upcoming transition. You might start by having them share some of their favorite memories from this year’s holiday celebrations, which will help reinforce the positive aspects of their time off. Next, identify some age-appropriate back-to-school tasks your kids can complete on their own, empowering them to take charge of the transition process for themselves. You might also work with your kids to set small school-related goals for the new semester, such as reading a certain number of new books.
Have a First Day Back Dress Rehearsal
Try a morning routine “dress rehearsal” a day or two before school starts. Have your kids walk through everything they need to do on a school day, from brushing their teeth to getting their school supplies ready. This helps make sure everyone knows what to do on the big day (including you)!
Four Tips to Help Make the Early Days Back to School a Little Easier
Make the First Day Back Special
Add a little something fun to the first day back to school more exciting. For example, you might pack a treat in your child’s school lunch, encourage them to wear a favorite outfit, or prepare a special meal for dinner that night.
Plan Some Fun Outdoor Time
Spending time outdoors is crucial for kids’ mental and physical well-being, and it’s especially important as they transition back to the more formal routines of the school day. You might take your kids on a nature walk, where they can engage their natural curiosity, or make sure they spend plenty of time at a nearby playground.
Don’t Let Learning Be Solitary
Let your kids see that school-style learning can be fun, too! Reading books together in the evening is a great way to foster language and listening skills. If there are any subjects your child struggles with, set aside time to review the concepts in a fun and playful way (for example, a game of Monopoly can help reinforce addition and subtraction skills).
Create a Focus Corner
Set aside a quiet, distraction-free space in your home where kids can spend time reading, drawing, and working on any school assignments. This helps your child refocus their attention back on school work.
Have a Great Winter Semester!
We hope these eight tips will make the transition from holiday time to school time a little easier for you and your children. If you need any additional help, the pediatric therapists at Flourishing Lives are always available for guidance. Call us today to learn more!
Staff Spotlight: Jillian Scaramuzzino
Marketing Manager/ COTAL
Jillian joined Flourishing Lives in June 2022 as an occupational therapy assistant and community outreach coordinator, bringing passion and expertise to our team. Specializing in sensory integration therapy, she adopts a holistic, family-centered approach that supports children’s physical, social, and emotional growth. Jillian works closely with children and their families, offering personalized activities and empowering parents with tools that foster success across all areas of life.
In August 2023, Jillian took on the role of Flourishing Lives’ marketing manager, where she focuses on building meaningful community partnerships and leading initiatives that help families thrive. A proud Saint Clair Shores resident for 12 years, Jillian enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her husband and three daughters. She finds her work immensely rewarding and takes pride in the profound, positive impact Flourishing Lives has on the families and individuals it serves.
What’s Happening This Month at Flourishing Lives
Weekly Thrive Group Call
December 3: 12:20 pm to 1:10 pm with Ms. Kim (MOT, OTRL)
December 20: 2:20 pm to 3:10 pm with Ms. Kim (MOT, OTRL)
January 1: 12:05 pm to 12:55 pm with Ms. Sheena (MOT, OTRL)
Spirit Week
December 16: Christmas Pajamas
December 17: Wear Red & Green
December 18: Christmas Socks
December 19: Flourishing Lives T-shirt (Purchase yours in the clinic!)
December 20: Christmas Shirt or Sweater
December 21: Christmas Accessory
Holiday Closures
Closed Christmas Eve (December 24th)
Closed Christmas Day (December 25th)
Closed New Year’s Eve (December 31st)
Closed New Year’s Day (January 1st)
Patient Spotlight: Emmalee
Emmalee began her journey with Flourishing Lives in the summer of 2022. She describes herself as a determined young lady who’s smart, friendly, interactive, and helpful. Emmalee has made remarkable strides in overcoming significant behavioral challenges throughout her time in occupational therapy.
She’s especially proud of her improved ability to manage her emotions, make thoughtful decisions, and be less impulsive both at home and school.
Through occupational therapy, Emmalee has learned helpful strategies to process her big emotions in a healthy way. Some of her favorites are swinging, crashing, and deep-pressure activities, which provide a calming, grounding effect on her mood. She’s also learned techniques to help her face day-to-day challenges with more confidence, and she no longer experiences self-destructive behaviors.
Emmalee’s relationship with her mom has grown stronger as they’ve learned to validate each other’s feelings–together, they’ve conquered so much as a family. Plus, with improved focus and attention, Emmalee is now excelling academically, earning all A’s in school.
Emmalee is deeply grateful for OT’s impact on her life, and her therapy team at Flourishing Lives has loved seeing her grow in extraordinary ways. She has developed an impressive balance between being a student, working two jobs, and excelling at horseback riding. She recognizes her emotions, understands what her body needs, and confidently advocates for herself.
Emmalee’s journey has even inspired her future career—she’s been accepted into Macomb Community College and aspires to become an occupational therapy assistant!
Emmalee’s Accomplishments
- Mastering emotional regulation
- Using swings and movement to release negative energy
- Enhanced focus and attention at school
- Willingness to embrace new experiences with positivity
- Overcoming self-destructive behaviors
- Improved balance and coordination, allowing her to ride a horse hands-free
- Effective multitasking and self-advocacy
- Achieving top grades in school
- Balancing two jobs and family relationships
- Building confidence for driver’s training
- Strengthening her bond with her mom
- Inspired to pursue a career as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA)
Emmalee’s achievements and resilience are inspiring to her peers and family alike. We’re so proud of her progress and grateful to be part of her journey at Flourishing Lives!
Sensory-Friendly Holiday Gift Ideas for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder
Are you looking for the perfect gift for a child with sensory processing disorder (SPD)? The right choice can make a big difference in helping them feel comfortable, calm, and engaged all year long. Here are some sensory-friendly gift ideas that offer a range of textures, calming effects, and interactive options to delight children with SPD.
- Weighted Blankets or Lap Pads: These blankets provide soothing, gentle pressure that can help with self-regulation and relaxation. They’re perfect for winding down before bedtime or calming down after a busy day.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones can reduce overwhelming sounds, making them ideal for children sensitive to loud environments. A good pair of headphones can make outings or gatherings more comfortable.
- Fidget Toys and Sensory Gadgets: Small, portable toys like squishy balls, spinners, or textured fidget pads provide tactile stimulation, helping children stay focused and grounded.
- Soft, Tagless Clothing: Look for ultra-soft, seamless, and tagless clothing designed for children with sensory sensitivities. For example, soft cotton pajamas or SmartKnit brand socks and undies can make everyday wear more comfortable.
- Chewable Jewelry: For children who seek oral sensory input, chewable necklaces and bracelets can be a safe and stylish way to meet this need.
- Sensory Swing: A sensory swing can provide a calming, enclosed space for children who enjoy vestibular movement (like swaying or spinning). It’s great for providing comfort and a sense of security.
- Kinetic Sand or Therapy Putty: These tactile materials allow children to explore different textures and build fine motor skills while providing a calming experience.
- Light Projectors or Lava Lamps: Gentle visual stimuli like star projectors, lava lamps, or rotating nightstand lamps can create a relaxing atmosphere that helps children unwind.
- Bubble Tube or Sensory Bottle: Visual calming tools, like bubble tubes or glitter sensory bottles, capture attention and provide a calming visual experience for children who need help with self-soothing.
- Compression Clothing or Weighted Vests: These specialty clothing items provide consistent pressure to help children feel more grounded and find relief from anxiety or overstimulation.
- Balance Boards or Rocker Boards: For kids who love to move, balance or rocker boards provide a fun way to build core strength, balance, and coordination while meeting sensory needs.
- Sensory Books: Books with textures, pop-ups, and interactive features can engage children with tactile, visual, and auditory input, making reading time a multisensory experience.
Choosing the Right Gift for the Kids in Your Life
When choosing sensory-friendly gifts, consider the child’s unique sensory preferences and needs. Each child with SPD is different, so a bit of personalization can go a long way in helping them feel supported and engaged. Whatever you choose, know that these thoughtful gifts can help make a child’s holidays bright, comfortable, and fun!
Helping Families Thrive
Activity of the Month: Holiday Scavenger Hunts
This month’s activity is a way to get festive while helping your kids manage sensory difficulties. Best of all, you can design it in multiple ways based on your kids’ needs!
Holiday Lights Scavenger Hunt
Take your kids on a tour of a neighborhood filled with holiday lights. You can drive or walk. Beforehand, provide your kids with a list of holiday-themed items to find, like the following:
- Snowman
- Reindeer
- Santa Claus
- Candy canes
- Icicle lights
- Elves
- Christmas trees
- The Grinch
As you tour the neighborhood, have your kids check off the items they see, helping them practice their focusing and observation skills.
Holiday Hints Scavenger Hunt
If you’re at a holiday gathering, you might try this scavenger hunt to keep kids occupied while they wait for dinner or gift-giving. Rather than giving kids a list of objects, create playful riddles or challenges for them to solve. Here are some examples to get you started:
- A snowy village you can hold in the palm of your hand (snowglobe)
- Run, run, as fast as you can! Will you catch me? (Gingerbread man)
- Frosty’s lost his nose! Can you find him a replacement? (A carrot)
If the clues are too tricky for your kids? Switch things up with a list of small holiday decorations for them to spot instead!
Happy Holiday Hunting!
The team at Flourishing Lives hopes these two holiday scavenger hunts will keep your kids calm and focused this holiday season!
Baking with Ms. Cara: Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour (or longer)
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast (not instant)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 4 1/2 cups bread flour or regular flour
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 stick of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 lb bag of confectioners’ sugar (about 8-10 cups–you may need a little more if the icing is too thin)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Around 2/3 cup of heavy whipping cream (may vary depending on consistency desired for icing–you can add more if it’s too thick)
- 3 tbs real maple syrup
Directions:
- Microwave milk for 45-60 seconds in the microwave (it should be about 110 degrees F).
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk in a large bowl and let it bubble and react for about 5 minutes. Add sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and flour. Mix well.
- Knead dough into a large ball with a stand mixer for about 5 minutes. Place dough in a bowl sprayed with cooking spray and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, thoroughly combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle flour on flat surface (such as the countertop).
- Roll raised dough into a 16×21 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread dough with the softened butter and sprinkle evenly with sugar/cinnamon mixture.
- Roll up dough, starting with the long side. Cut into 12 large rolls and place in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30-60 minutes. (If making the night before, let them rise covered with a dish towel on the counter overnight.)
- Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake rolls until golden brown, about 18-20 minutes, or until center of the roll is cooked. Add more time if not cooked.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. Beat together the vanilla and maple syrup while alternating adding the heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar.
- Beat until the lumps are gone. The icing should be thick but still easily run off the spoon when pulled up from bowl.
- Pour the frosting on the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm so that the frosting melts into the roll. It will set as the cool. Enjoy!
JOIN OUR THRIVE COMMUNITY!
Tools for healing, resilience, inspiration, value, and education.
Are you looking for expert guidance, a supportive network, and resources to help your family or community thrive? We’re excited to introduce the Thrive Community, a membership for our current patients and community partners that offers ongoing support, education, and connection!
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Weekly Office Hours: Join live Google Meet calls to ask your questions and get answers from our experts directly.
COMING SOON…
- 24/7 Access to our Library. Access frequently answered questions anytime.
- Exclusive Content: Access resources, articles, and tips for growth.
- Supportive Community: Connect, share stories, and gain perspectives.
WHY JOIN THE THRIVE COMMUNITY?
- Get expert advice from experienced professionals.
- Empower your journey with tools to build inspiration and resilience.
- Stay connected and supported, even outside of regular therapy sessions.
1:1 Therapeutic Consultation
At Flourishing Lives, our therapeutic consultation program helps parents and family members actively engage and understand their child’s therapy journey.
Our daytime therapeutic consultative service gives parents a private space to discuss treatment options, manage everyday challenges, and actively support their child’s progress. Scheduled while your child is at school, these sessions allow for open, candid conversations without distractions. You’ll gain practical strategies to foster a positive and supportive environment at home and within the community.
Highlights
- Personalized guidance
- Ongoing support
- Feel empowered
- Increased involvement
- Reduce anxiety
- Gain more tools for success
Getting started is easy! Contact us to schedule your consultation for a smooth, supportive experience.
- 1 session for $180
- 4 sessions for $520
