Building Core Skills for Independence (Age 4, Autism & Complex Needs)

When I first met this child in January 2024, he struggled with many everyday tasks. He couldn’t use a pincer grasp, unwrap food, hold a pencil, pull up his trousers, or wait his turn during simple games. These challenges affected his confidence and his ability to participate in school.

Through weekly sensory-informed occupational therapy, we focused on fine-motor foundations, body awareness, and emotional regulation. I also provided:

· EHCP recommendations

· Support with EHCP review amendments

· Direct sensory strategies for school

· A personalised home programme with developmentally relevant toys and activities

Today, he can write his name, cut with scissors, undo buttons, pull up his trousers, isolate his fingers for classroom tasks, and take turns during shared play. His teachers describe him as more independent and engaged, and his parents say he is “proud of himself in a way we’ve never seen before.”

From Daily Meltdowns to Emotional Regulation (Age 6, ADHD & Sensory Processing Differences)

This child was experiencing daily emotional outbursts, especially after school. Noise, transitions, and sensory overload made everyday routines overwhelming.

After a full sensory assessment, I created a tailored sensory diet, coached parents in co-regulation strategies, and worked closely with school to adjust the environment.

Within weeks, his meltdowns reduced significantly. He began recognising early signs of overwhelm and using sensory tools independently. Evenings became calmer, and his teacher noticed improved attention and participation.

Supporting School Readiness & Confidence (Age 5, Developmental Delay)

This child was preparing to start Reception but struggled with balance, coordination, early mark-making, and following routines. His parents worried he would fall behind socially and academically.

Through sensory-motor play, movement-based therapy, and parent coaching, we strengthened his core stability, hand skills, and ability to follow multi-step instructions. I also provided a transition plan for school.

By the time he started school, he could climb, balance, draw simple shapes, follow routines, and join group activities with confidence. His teacher commented that he settled “far more smoothly than expected.”

Transforming Mealtimes & Fine-Motor Skills (Age 7, Autism & Sensory-Based Feeding Difficulties)

This child avoided most textures, struggled with cutlery, and found mealtimes distressing. His fine-motor challenges also affected handwriting and classroom participation.

After a sensory-based feeding assessment, we introduced gentle exposure strategies, strengthening activities, and a structured routine to reduce anxiety. I trained both parents and school staff for consistency.

He now tries new foods, uses cutlery confidently, and writes for longer without fatigue. Mealtimes are calmer, and his teacher has seen a clear improvement in handwriting and engagement.

From Fear and Overwhelm to Play, Confidence & Connection (Age 3, Autism & Significant Sensory Differences)

When I first met this little boy, he was pre-verbal and overwhelmed by sensory input. He avoided toys completely, struggled to tolerate new environments, and found it difficult to engage with others. Play felt frightening, not fun.

We began by creating a sensory-safe foundation, using gentle, attuned approaches to help him regulate, explore, and feel safe. I introduced toys gradually, supported his

motor planning, coached parents, and worked closely with nursery to ensure a smooth transition.

Today, he can access nursery without distress. He explores toys independently, presses buttons, engages in early social interaction, and moves through his day with far less fear. His parents describe him as “more open, curious, and free to be himself.”

Every child can thrive with the right support

These stories reflect what becomes possible when sensory-informed practice, specialist occupational therapy, and emotionally attuned support come together. If you’d like to explore how I can support your child, your family, or your school, I’d be honoured to walk that journey with you.