Sensory Activities
Jill McCarthy
Boulder's Best Spring and Summer Activities for ...

As a mom, occupational therapist and Boulder native, I am frequently asked the question… “What activities do you like to do with your kids in Boulder?” I know we all have our favorite spots, but I thought I would share some more places and ideas from both a mom’s perspective, but also an OT’s perspective!

Boulder's Best Spring and Summer Activities for Children
Sensory Activities
Jill McCarthy
Fun Sensory Activities for a Cold or Rainy Day

Here's a round-up of the best sensory activities for a cold or rainy day! Created with love by an OT and a Mom. 

Fun Sensory Activities for a Cold or Rainy Day
Potty Training
Jill McCarthy
Potty Training 101: Guidance from an OT

As an OT and a mother of two, I’ve been through the potty training experience more times than I can count. I know it can often be challenging and trying, but it’s also an experience you can help progress quickly through with some activities and an established routine. Here are the tips I stand by when potty training! 

Potty Training 101: Guidance from an OT

What are Executive Function Skills? The basics . . .

What are executive function skills and how they do impact my child?

Executive function skills help us plan, organize, focus, stay self-regulated/emotionally regulated, problem solve and allow us to adapt to new or unexpected situations during our day to day interactions.

When a child struggles with executive function skills, it can impact their ability to engage in school with adequate focus and processing, develop and maintain friendships and have flexibility with transitions and the day to day challenges.

A Personal Side to Kid Skills Therapy

I wanted to share a more personal side to me and spread a little holiday cheer! I was born and raised in Boulder County. My family was/is everything to me. My mother was an elementary school teacher and my father and mentor was a Director of Special Olympics. I grew up with an older biological older sister and two younger adopted brothers. My youngest brother, Tye, has a multiple special needs. My childhood was wonderful but not always easy with a large family and a brother with special needs. As an adult, I am one of his guardians although he is truly my guiding light. 

I am writing this post in November as the holiday season is upon us. However, in our family the lighting of the iconic Flagstaff Star in Boulder is the first thing on my brother Tye’s calendar every year. Years ago my brother’s dream of being the one to “turn on the star” was supported by a single person. For the last 10+ years my brother, with support of my father and an electrician (Craig Reynolds), work to put up the lights for the star and on Veteran’s Day, we all meet up at the star to “turn it on”. With a flip of a switch, the mountain is aglow! The Flagstaff Star has brought so much light to our community, especially over the last couple of years. 

When you look up at the star, remember that it is being watched over by my brother and his friend Craig!

Here’s a daily camera article: https://www.dailycamera.com/2016/12/23/the-man-behind-boulders-flagstaff-star-a-shining-christmas-tradition/

Happy Holidays! 

Jill

Boulder's Best Spring and Summer Activities for Children

Boulder's Best Spring and Summer Activities for Children

As a mom, occupational therapist and Boulder native, I am frequently asked the question… “What activities do you like to do with your kids in Boulder?” I know we all have our favorite spots, but I thought I would share some more places and ideas from both a mom’s perspective, but also an OT’s perspective!