Our Blog
News and insight from Franciscan about our philosophy of hope through healthcare and recent issues affecting children’s wellness.
Occupational Therapy at Franciscan Children’s
Occupational therapy (OT) practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to the fullest by helping them promote overall health and prevent, or live better with injury, illness, or… Continue Reading
Adaptive sports Education Support Services
How Adaptive Sports Can Influence Your Child’s Life
Written by Paul Ward, Director of Adaptive Sports As someone who was born with spina bifida, I know firsthand how beneficial getting involved in adaptive sports can be. Adaptive sports… Continue Reading
National Rehabilitation Week:
The Rewards of Rehab
In honor of National Rehabilitation Week, we asked a handful of our rehab staff to answer the question, “What is the most rewarding part of working as a rehabilitation professional at Franciscan Hospital for Children?”
Sensory Play for a Rainy Day
Our Occupational Therapy team shares their favorite and creative play ideas that provide sensory input when outdoor activities are not available!
Kennedy Day School Expands Vision Services
Recent enhancements to the Kennedy Day School’s Vision Center room has allowed the program to expand services and created an even brighter place for students to grow!
Backpacks & Back Pain: There’s a Strap for That!
Heather LaCroix, MOTR/L, an Occupational Therapist at Franciscan Hospital for Children, reviews simple backpack changes and accommodations that can be made to to help ensure your student a healthy start, and finish, to the school year!
Please… Take a Bite! Making Mealtime Fun
Heather LaCroix, MOTR/L, Occupational Therapist at FHC, talks physical and sensory challenges in feeding disorders and tips for how to make mealtime fun!
Is it Sensory or Behavior? OT Detectives to the Rescue!
Do you find yourself asking, why does my child do that? Why does my child not take a bath? Why won’t they eat a banana? How can I stop them from doing that behavior? You’re not alone, and many parents have turned to Occupational Therapy as a way to help answer these seemingly never-ending questions.
Bike Helmet Safety
Carrie Barlow, PT PCS, Director of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy programs at FHC, talks bike helmet safety and tips for happy riding!
Occupational Therapy: Favorite iPad Apps
Numerous (and often free) iPad applications can be used to help children of various ages and abilities to develop and master skills in a fun way. Take a look at some of our favorite apps, grouped according to the skill area typically addressed by occupational therapists.