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VitalStim Therapy, a specialized type of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), is a therapeutic intervention used to treat dysphagia.
One of my favorite things about being a parent of littles AND a pediatric occupational therapist is taking notice of ways to “sneak in” therapy and address skills in daily life. As a therapist, it is easy to say “add this extra activity to your life to support your child’s progress.”
However, as a parent, wouldn’t it be easier if you could view daily activities as opportunities to sneak in some therapy? Personally, I feel viewing daily tasks through a more therapeutic lens is easier and research supports the idea that activities completed in a natural environment (meaning where an activity would normally take place, like home or a playground) can be effective.
For example, let's explore feeding the ducks.
Is your child a selective eater working on expanding their variety of tastes and textures?
Take care in noticing the “just right challenge” for your child, or using a food you know they can use successfully. Once they have success, work up to some of their more challenging foods. If you need help finding that just right challenge, ask your therapist for some ideas.
Is your child working on building visual-motor skills?
Is your child working on fine-motor skills?