The past few weeks I have had moms ask me about how to do occupational therapy at home with their children. There are many ways you can do that. A lot of the OT offices have long waiting list to get in. We worked a lot with Justin at home. When he was diagnosed there were not many offices that handled it in Alabama.Occupational therapy can be an effective way to help children with autism develop important skills and abilities. While traditional occupational therapy sessions may not be possible during the current times , there are many things you can do at home to support your child’s development.One easy way to incorporate occupational therapy into your child’s routine is to use items you already have at home. For example, you can use a yoga ball to work on balance and coordination, or a therapy putty to improve fine motor skills. Other items, such as weighted blankets or sensory toys, can help children with sensory processing issues.It’s important to remember that every child is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. Always consult with a licensed occupational therapist or other healthcare professional before beginning any new therapy program. We also had dried beans in Tupperware bowls for him to get used to touching. We would use them to spell words and glue them to paper.In addition to using items around the house, there are many other ways to support your child’s development. Encouraging physical activity, providing opportunities for creative play, and offering a variety of sensory experiences can all be beneficial. One of Chef Justin’s favorite things was learning to write with whip cream or shaving cream on the bathtub walls. We also had bath crayons.Overall, by using items you have at home and being creative in your approach, you can help your child with autism develop important skills and abilities. Remember to always consult with a professional, and to have fun and enjoy the process!