The OT Toolbox

Your Prescription for Fun: The Occupational Therapy Blog You Need.

Why Your Child’s Mouth Might Be Their Secret Superpower

Why Your Child’s Mouth Might Be Their Secret Superpower

Have you ever noticed that your child chews their collar when they're anxious, or settles after sucking on something? That's not a habit problem that's their nervous system doing exactly what it's designed to do. Pediatric OT Ezette Potgieter explains the surprising science behind oral sensory tools and how a simple straw or whistle can genuinely change how your child feels.

Fidget Toys in the Classroom: Tool or Toy?

Fidget Toys in the Classroom: Tool or Toy?

Fidget toys can be genuinely powerful for children who struggle with attention or anxiety in the classroom, but only when used correctly. As an occupational therapist, I see both sides: the right fidget tool can transform a child's ability to learn, while the wrong one just becomes an expensive distraction. Here's how to tell the difference.

Child playing with wooden open-ended toys on a wooden floor - Tiny Tree Toys South Africa

Why Play Doesn't Need Rules

The Power of Open-Ended Play and Why Your Child Keeps Getting Bored with Their Toys Picture this: it's a Saturday morning, the playroom is overflowing with toys, and your child...
toddler biting an Occupational Therapist  perspective

"My child is biting” What it really means and what to do about it.

Is your child biting at school or at home? Paediatric OT Ezette Fourie breaks down the real sensory and developmental reasons behind toddler biting, and gives parents five practical steps to take when it happens.

Parent calmly comforting distressed toddler on lap.

Is it a tantrum or sensory overload? Here's hoe to tell the difference.

Not every meltdown is a tantrum and not every tantrum is sensory overload. Paediatric OT Ezette shares the 5 clues she uses in practice to tell the difference, and why responding correctly changes everything.

Toddler meltdowns that  “Come out of nowhere” - an OT explains what's actually happening.

Toddler meltdowns that “Come out of nowhere” - an OT explains what's actually happening.

Every toddler has big moments. But how do you know when it’s a normal tantrum or something more? Paediatric OT Ezette breaks down what’s really happening in your toddler’s nervous system, and what actually helps.

Liquid Sensory Tiles

Liquid Sensory Tiles

Why Liquid Sensory Tiles Are a Game-Changer for Early Learners

In the world of early childhood development, hands-on, multi-sensory experiences are the foundation of meaningful learning. Among the many tools available to support young learners, liquid sensory tiles stand out as a playful, powerful resource that offers far more than just visual appeal. These colourful, gel-filled floor tiles are not only captivating—they’re packed with developmental benefits that support movement, coordination, emotional regulation, and cognitive growth.

SHOP LIQUID SENSORY TILES HERE

Ding Ding Ring: The Fun Way to Improve Fine Motor Skills

Ding Ding Ring: The Fun Way to Improve Fine Motor Skills

Individual finger movements are important because they are a foundational aspect of fine motor development, which involves the use of the small muscles in the hands and fingers to perform...
Tricky Fingers: A Fun and Affordable Game for Developing Fine Motor Skills

Tricky Fingers: A Fun and Affordable Game for Developing Fine Motor Skills

We love Tricky Fingers  as it is a versatile game that can be used for a wide variety of fine motor and cognitive skills. Whether you're working with young learners or adults, this game is sure to provide hours of fun and learning. Let's explore a few ideas how to use it!
6 Things To Consider When Shopping For The Perfect Toy Gift - tiny tree toys

6 Things To Consider When Shopping For The Perfect Toy Gift

Ezette Fourie
What is better than the look of bursting excitement on a child’s face when you surprise them with the perfect gift? Regardless of what age they are, the pure excitement...