Childhood development involves so many different variables. One thing that occurs throughout the lifespan is the development of our executive functions. We continually shape our executive functions from infancy into adulthood.

The holidays can be stressful for everyone, even for those of us without special needs or sensory processing differences. There are plenty of ways we can be mindful of ourselves, as well as help others in our lives be mindful when gathering together.

Motor skills help us explore the world around us, and begin developing as soon as we’re born. Providing a variety of toys that pique their interest with bright, fun colors and interesting shapes will help develop their minds, coordination, and curiosity, preparing them to grow into confident and capable individuals.

The holiday season is the perfect time to implement new, fun, therapeutic activities into your child’s routine. Since there are so many activities to be done during the season, you can aid your child’s development by simply being conscious of the different ways you can positively affect their growth.

The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, especially for the little ones! Kids might be tired and more likely to have a meltdown, but sometimes they might be experiencing a sensory overload.

The month of January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month. The National Birth Defects Prevention Network’s theme for their efforts in 2021 was “Best for You. Best for Baby.” Their goal is not to prevent all birth defects, as some are not preventable, but to encourage mothers to increase the likelihood of having a healthy baby simply by keeping healthy practices yourself during and before pregnancy. About one in 33 babies in the US is born with a birth defect.

For this month, we would like to highlight one of our wonderful Speech-Language Pathologists, Racheal Morse! Racheal began her career journey majoring in Elementary Education at Augusta College in Rock Island, NY. After her advisor suggested she specialize in something more specific, Racheal observed some speech therapy sessions at a clinic on campus and fell in love with the profession.

This month’s featured therapist is Jessica Pierson, occupational therapist!

Jessica has worked in this industry or a similar position for about seven years and received her education first from California State University, Fullerton for her bachelor’s degree in Human Services. She later received her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Touro University in Nevada.

For this month, we are featuring occupational therapist Tori Tobin!

Tori has worked as an OT for the last three and a half years — one and a half years with the Tilton’s team. Before her work as an occupational therapist, Tori gained experience working in respite care as well as serving as a paraprofessional in the school district for children with autism.

This month, we are excited to feature our awesome Director of Occupational Services, Samantha Gregg!

View our list of local Las Vegas food distribution, activities, online educational resources, and more.

In light of our school closures until April 6th, you can find some great ideas and insights, a schedule suggestion (below), links to other resources and what to do to continue learning during the closure.

As we are in uncertain times, it is important to be certain that the information you receive is accurate and the best for you and your family. You might have seen information from the CDC, which is good! The recommendations from the CDC are your best source for guidance on how to navigate during these extraordinary times.