Hands on Play Pediatric Therapy

08/06/2026

08/05/2026

Deep pressure is one of the most powerful forms of sensory input for helping the nervous system feel calm, organised, and regulated.

Deep pressure activates receptors in our muscles and joints (our proprioceptive system), providing the brain with clear information about where the body is in space. For many children, this can reduce feelings of overwhelm, improve body awareness, and support self-regulation.

Some children naturally seek deep pressure by:
• Giving very tight hugs
• Wrapping themselves tightly in blankets
• Leaning or crashing into furniture
• Enjoying firm squeezes or massage
• Wearing weighted items

Benefits of deep pressure include:
✔️ Promotes relaxation
✔️ Improves attention and focus
✔️ Supports emotional regulation
✔️ Increases body awareness
✔️ Can reduce feelings of anxiety or sensory overload
✔️ Helps prepare the body for learning, play, or sleep

08/05/2026

08/02/2026

🎒 Roanoke families—we'd love to meet you!
Hands On Play Pediatric Therapy will be at the CHIP of Roanoke Valley Back-to-School Event on Thursday, August 6, from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM!

Stop by our booth to:
✨ Learn what pediatric occupational therapy is 🧠 Ask our OTs your questions
✅ Receive a free developmental screening
🌈 Make a fun sensory fidget bracelet

This FREE community event also includes:
🎒 500+ backpacks with school supplies
💇 Free haircuts
❤️ Wellness activities
🤝 Community resources

📍 1201 Third Street SW, Roanoke, VA 24016
Come say hi—we can't wait to meet you and help your child start the school year with confidence!

💙🩷
CHIP HandsOnPlayPediatricTherapy RoanokeEvents SensoryPlay ChildDevelopment

07/30/2026

Therapists & parents... it's almost game time. 🍎😂 Who else is mentally preparing??😂🍎📚

Wishing everyone a smooth start to back-to-school season! ❤️

07/30/2026

💙 We love celebrating our people!
Join us in congratulating our Founder & CEO, Allie Newton, MS, OTR/L, on being recognized as an ATHENA Award nominee by the Roanoke Regional Chamber! We are so proud of the leadership and heart she brings to Hands On Play and to the families we serve. 👏🩷

07/27/2026

Being a pediatric OT isn’t your typical work day. Our days are loud, messy, creative, and completely purposeful — and we wouldn’t trade it for anything. 💛If you know, you know.