Incorporates principles of sensory integration and Social Thinking (TM) 

Designed to help children stay regulated (calm and organized) while learning and practicing the skills needed to navigate social environments

Can be used with children as young as two-and-a-half and is very effective for helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Learning Difficulties (LD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Its purpose is to build strong social skills

Couples bottom-up (foundational sensory work) and top-down (cognitive behavioral) approaches

• the sensory work helps prepare the child's nervous system to process the information it is receiving through their senses in a way that is effective to keep them calm and focused; once the sensory system is regulated, the cognitive and social skills are taught and practiced

• the cognitive component helps the child learn how to "tune in" to others, their own thoughts and feelings, and very importantly, to other's thoughts and feelings-- which is essential for developing positive, healthy relationships with peers and adults

Therapist provide guidance at regular intervals to parents, and whenever possible, the child's teachers or other important caregivers, to support their ability to implement similar strategies at home and other settings

In-home and school visits are also available; with the Occupational Therapist and our parent educator to provide in-vivo coaching on how to support the child most effectively.

This approach is effective when used both in individual and small groups settings

When used in a group setting, we are very careful to ensure that the children in our groups are well-matched to maximized the benefit of the group experience.  

Due to the fast paced, dynamic and challenging nature of the group setting, it is important that foundational skills are in place to prepare the child for success in more challenging social situations.  

This process begins with an evaluation or consult