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Children learn through play. As an occupational therapist who works with children and youth, I use games and toys almost every day to help develop important cognitive, visual perceptual, motor, sensory, social, play and leisure skills. While many different types of activities can be used in therapy, this blog focuses on off-the-shelf games and toys that are accessible to most. Whether you are a therapist, parent, teacher, or a game lover like me, I hope you discover something useful while you are here. Learn a different way to play a game you already own or discover a new game for your next family game night. Either way, just go play. It's good for you!

The OT Magazine named The Playful Otter one of the Top 5 Pediatric OT Blogs.


Nov 15, 2015

It's a Charlie Brown Christmas Android App


A charming Christmas story from my youth that still offers hope today. It's A Charlie Brown Christmas is one of several interactive apps from Loud Crow based on the Peanuts gang. This app features original images and voices from the TV special that aired 50 years ago. Plenty of interactive features makes this app a kid pleaser. Start by decorating your own Christmas tree for the story, then change the shape of falling snowflakes by tapping them, help Snoopy decorate his house for the contest, play a piano tune with Schroeder, make the stars twinkle by tapping them, and help Linus knock the cans off the wall. Follow along with the written story (at the bottom of the app) as it is read by the now-adult Linus (Christopher Shea).

Some of the scenes from the story:

 


My favorite parts are Linus stepping onto the stage and quoting several Bible verses from the Christmas story and the gang singing Hark the Herald Angles Sing at the end. A Christmas favorite for me.
 
If you are interested in purchasing this app or just want more information, click on the image below. I see that there is a free version right now.
 
 
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Nov 5, 2015

Oriental Trading Thanksgiving


One of my favorite places to shop for craft kits and sticker sheets is an online store called Oriental Trading.  I also shop at my local Michael's and Hobby Lobby, but if you need at least a dozen of one thing, Oriental Trading will have a better price and more greater selection. Shipping is expensive these days, but if you sign up for their newsletter, they will send you offers from time to time for free shipping on any order, no dollar minimum. Some of the crafts I am using this season are the sun catcher turkeys, the Thanksgiving sticker scenes, and the cornucopia. The cornucopia offers opportunities to lace, remove the backing off adhesive stickers and work with letters. I have had a problem with an order only twice and the customer service is fast and fair in resolving issues. I have been a regular customer for many years. They have a lot of variety and things for all holidays as well as everyday.

If you are interested in checking out Oriental Trading this link will take you there.
Oriental Trading


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