Liesel Scheffer Occupational Therapy

02/08/2026

01/08/2026

🫁 Lung Cancer Awareness Day

Today we raise awareness about one of the world's most common cancers and remember the importance of early detection, prevention, and support.

While smoking remains the leading risk factor, lung cancer can also affect people who have never smoked. Knowing the warning signs, such as a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing shortness of breath, can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Occupational therapists play an important role in supporting individuals living with lung cancer by helping them conserve energy, manage daily activities, improve quality of life, and remain as independent as possible throughout treatment and recovery.

Awareness saves lives. Take care of your lungs, encourage regular health check-ups, and support those affected by lung cancer.

30/07/2026

Happy Friendship Day !

Friendships are an important part of childhood, but for some children, making and keeping friends can feel much harder than it looks.

From an occupational therapy perspective, social challenges aren't always about being shy or "not trying." Difficulties with sensory processing, emotional regulation, communication, motor planning, attention, or understanding social cues can all affect how a child joins in, plays with others, and builds meaningful relationships.

Every child wants to belong. Sometimes they simply need support to develop the skills and confidence to connect with others.

We can make a difference by modelling kindness, creating inclusive play opportunities, and remembering that every child is learning at their own pace. Because every child deserves a friend, and every child deserves the chance to be one. 💙

28/07/2026

DIY Activity: All You Need Is One Line!

Sometimes the simplest activities create the biggest learning opportunities. Draw one line with chalk or tape, and let the fun begin!

Try these gross motor challenges:
👣 Walk forwards, backwards, and sideways
🦘 Jump over the line
🐸 Hop on one foot
🧸 Bear walk along the line
🦀 Crab walk beside the line
⚖️ Balance heel-to-toe
🤸 Bunny hops from side to side
🏃 Run, stop, and balance on the line

Learning doesn't have to be expensive, sometimes one line is all it takes to build big skills through play!

28/07/2026

DIY Activity: All You Need Is One Line!

Sometimes the simplest activities create the biggest learning opportunities. Draw one line with chalk or tape, and let the fun begin!

Try these gross motor challenges:
👣 Walk forwards, backwards, and sideways
🦘 Jump over the line
🐸 Hop on one foot
🧸 Bear walk along the line
🦀 Crab walk beside the line
⚖️ Balance heel-to-toe
🤸 Bunny hops from side to side
🏃 Run, stop, and balance on the line

Learning doesn't have to be expensive, sometimes one line is all it takes to build big skills through play!

Balance PaediatricOT MovementMatters RebuildingMindsOneSynapseAtATime

26/07/2026

💙 National Disability Independence Day 💙

Today we celebrate the right of every person to live, learn, work, play, and participate in their community with dignity, choice, and independence.

Independence doesn't always mean doing everything alone. Sometimes it means having the right supports, the right tools, and the opportunity to do things in your own way.

As occupational therapists, we are privileged to help individuals build skills, adapt environments, and discover strategies that empower them to participate in the activities that matter most to them.

Let's continue creating communities where differences are respected, abilities are celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Because independence looks different for everyone, and every journey deserves to be celebrated.

24/07/2026

Can you escape the hula hoop? 🤸‍♀️

It might look like a fun challenge, but this activity is packed with developmental benefits!

As children work their way through the hoop without letting go, they're building:
Motor planning and praxis
Body awareness
️ Balance and coordination
Problem-solving skills
Bilateral coordination
Core strength and postural control

Every twist, step, and stretch encourages children to think, plan, and move in new ways, all while having fun!

Movement is one of the best ways to help growing brains and bodies learn.

24/07/2026

Can you escape the hula hoop? 🤸‍♀️

It might look like a fun challenge, but this activity is packed with developmental benefits!

As children work their way through the hoop without letting go, they're building:
Motor planning and praxis
Body awareness
️ Balance and coordination
Problem-solving skills
Bilateral coordination
Core strength and postural control

Every twist, step, and stretch encourages children to think, plan, and move in new ways, all while having fun!

Movement is one of the best ways to help growing brains and bodies learn.

BilateralCoordination PaediatricOT MovementMatters RebuildingMindsOneSynapseAtATime

23/07/2026