Bilingual Speech Therapy of Clearwater

08/07/2026

08/07/2026

08/07/2026

PENCIL PRESSURE

Do any of these handwriting issues sound familiar?
>Pressing so hard on the paper, that lines are very dark when writing.
>The pencil point breaks.
>When erasing, the pencil marks don’t completely erase, and the paper is torn.
>The non-dominant, assisting hand moves the paper so roughly that the paper crumbles.
>When turning pages in a notebook, the pages tear or crumble.
>Movements are not fluid or efficient.
>Handwriting takes so much effort, that the child becomes fatigued, frustrated, and sore.
>It may take so much effort to write a single word, that handwriting is slow and difficult.

Or any of these...
>Kids may write so lightly that you can’t read the overall writing sample.
>You can’t discern between certain letters.
>The writing pressure is just so light that the child’s hand or sleeve smudges the pencil lines and the writing sample is totally not functional or legible.
>The student starts out writing at a legible pencil pressure, but with hand fatigue, the writing gets lighter and lighter.

What's going on with heavy pencil pressure? And how to support these needs??

Some simple ways to start is to address proprioceptive input through the hands. You can use a few activities and tools to work on pencil pressure. Here are some easy ways to work on heavy or light pencil pressure.

Head to this blog post to read alllll the facts and tips: https://www.theottoolbox.com/pressing-too-hard-when-writing-tips/

08/07/2026

This! When we see disorganization, trouble focusing, trouble getting started with tasks…these underlying causes aren’t discussed!

Image:: NeuroClastic

08/07/2026

Executive functional skills are cognitive tasks that present challenges that are hallmark characteristics in kids and adults affected by brain-based conditions like FASD and ADHD.

This piece on the OT Toolbox blog presents an excellent overview of these tasks and provides helpful links to more information.

https://www.theottoolbox.com/executive-functioning-skills-kids-daily-activities

Includes references to:

https://www.search-institute.org/downloadable/exec-function-feb-2015.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18792714

http://alzonline.phhp.ufl.edu/en/reading/executivefxlatest.pdf

08/07/2026

Did you know that proprioception can significantly enhance attention, focus, and other executive functioning skills? Proprioceptive activities, like the options in the image, provide deep pressure input that helps regulate the nervous system. https://www.theottoolbox.com/proprioception-sensory-activities/

Heavy work input through the proprioceptive system can be calming and organizing, making it easier for individuals to concentrate and stay on task. Engaging in these exercises can improve body awareness, which is crucial for planning and executing movements effectively. https://www.theottoolbox.com/proprioception-activities-improves-body-awareness/

By integrating proprioceptive activities into daily routines, individuals can experience better self-regulation, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive functions, leading to improved performance in academic and everyday tasks.

💚Image lists proprioception ideas: Wall push ups, hand squeezes, jumping jacks, animal walks, chair push ups, obstacle courses, deep breathing, weighted blankets, resistance tunnel, weighted ball use, therapy band exercises, burrito roll in in a blanket, stomping, planks, joint compression, therapy ball activities, massage, crab walks, bear walks, wheelbarrow walking with hands on tape lines to keep it slow and controlled, body sock, yoga, push ups, chair dips, squish between couch cushions...

08/07/2026

🌿 2 Spots Left | 5th/6th Grade Learning Pod
A thoughtfully designed boutique learning experience where students thrive in a small-group setting with personalized instruction and meaningful support.

✨ Boutique Education
👩‍🏫 Led by a Licensed Florida Teacher
🗣️ Integrated Speech & Occupational Support

At BSTC Learning Collective, we combine high-quality academics with a nurturing, relationship-centered environment that helps students grow with confidence.

Enrollment is limited, and only 2 spaces remain for the upcoming school year.

📩 Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour.

[email protected]

08/05/2026

WHAT IS MODULATION?

Modulation is the ability to adapt or respond to circumstances. On a cellular basis in the brain, modulation refers to responses to neural activity that occurs as a result of sensory input being processed and interpreted by peripheral and neuronal cells in the central nervous system. https://www.theottoolbox.com/how-does-sensory-modulation-impact/

08/01/2026

One spot left in our 5/6 grade pod! Contact our office for more information!

07/31/2026

😱 Sensory differences can mean STRESS!

Signs of sensory avoiding and more information from The OT Toolbox at: https://www.theottoolbox.com/understanding-sensory-dysregulation/