occupational therapy - Swift Health

Struggling with Sleep? Here Are Some Practical Strategies to Improve Sleep in Children with Autism (ASD)

February 20, 2026Leona Neziri Pediatrics Educational occupational therapy

Struggling with sleep challenges in children with autism? You are not alone. Learn practical, evidence-informed strategies to improve sleep routines, reduce bedtime resistance, and support better rest for children with ASD. Why Sleep Challenges Are Common in Children with Autism Sleep difficulties are very common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Research shows that many children with autism […]

Why Some Kids Crash, Jump, and Push: Sensory Processing Disorder and Proprioception in Children

February 9, 2026Danielle Saga Pediatrics BCBA Educational Mental Health occupational therapy

Understanding Proprioception in Children Does your child crash into furniture, jump constantly, or play a little too rough? These behaviours are often linked to proprioception; an important sensory system that helps children understand where their body is and how it moves. If your child seems to crash into furniture, jump constantly, push friends too hard, […]

Understanding Meltdowns in Autism: What’s Really Happening and What Helps

February 6, 2026Leona Neziri Pediatrics Services BCBA occupational therapy Educational

Meltdowns are very common and can be the result of your child being overwhelmed, distressed, or just not able to regulate their emotions. Meltdowns are not tantrums, not “bad behaviour,” and not something a child necessarily chooses to do. They are a neurological response to overwhelm and big emotions. Understanding what’s really happening can help parents, caregivers, and educators […]

Transitions, Sensory Overload, and Autism: What Helps

January 26, 2026Danielle Saga occupational therapy Pediatrics

Research consistently shows that people with autism experience the world through a nervous system that processes information differently. Transitions and sensory input—two features of everyday life—often place especially high demands on that system. When those demands exceed a person’s capacity, stress and overload follow. Understanding the why behind these challenges helps shift the focus from […]

Toilet Training Tips: How to Help Your Child Build Independence With Positive, Developmentally-Appropriate Strategies

January 16, 2026Leona Neziri Pediatrics occupational therapy

Toilet training is a major developmental milestone and every child reaches it at their own pace. While some children adapt quickly, others may need more support with body awareness, routines, or motor skills. Pediatric occupational therapy can play a key role by helping children build the skills necessary for successful and confident toilet training. Whether your child […]

Gross Motor Skills: How Pediatric Occupational Therapy Can Improve Your Child’s Gross Motor Skills

January 9, 2026Leona Neziri Pediatrics Services occupational therapy Educational

Gross motor skills play a crucial role in a child’s physical development and daily functioning. These skills involve the large muscle groups that allow children to sit, stand, walk, run, jump, climb, and participate confidently in play, school, and community activities. When gross motor skills are delayed or underdeveloped, children may struggle with balance, coordination, endurance, and confidence. Pediatric […]