170 Free iOS Apps for Occupational Therapists – list compiled by Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids

Here is a list of 170 iOS apps that are currently FREE that pediatric Occupational Therapists may find helpful to use in therapy or as carryover activities to share with families. Some of the apps could target multiple goals but I’ve tried to generally organize them in the list. Most of these apps are not just for use by OTs. I used most of these apps but for different therapeutic reasons as a SLP. And many of them can just be used for fun. I downloaded and tried out all apps before adding them to the list. All apps prices and availability were verified in the USA App Store at the time I wrote this post at 6:00pm CST on 5/13/20. You can save the PDF of this post in the iBooks app on your iPad and then tap on each link to go to that app in the App Store (it’s an 8-page PDF).  I only have access to the USA App Store so be sure to check prices before downloading in other countries.

Tips:

  1. Many of the apps have IAPs (in-app purchases) to add extra features or have unsecured links so make sure the iPad is in “airplane mode” and toggle off the ability to download IAPs in the Settings area BEFORE opening the app. Even apps with “secured links” could be hacked by some kids so it’s always wise to go ahead do these two things before using apps with kids. I typically avoid apps with ads (some can be blocked via “airplane mode” but others cannot).  It’s also wise to use Guided Access to prevent exiting the app you are using.
  2. If you like a “lite” version of an app, it is always a good idea to see if there is a full paid version of the app to purchase vs. using an IAP to upgrade within a free lite app. I’ve had enough problems with IAPs and trying to restore IAPs to avoid them as much as possible. Also most schools & public agencies have purchasing regulations that make it difficult or impossible to purchase items via IAP but can purchase a full paid app. This is the same reason that I typically avoid apps that require a subscription.
  3. If you are looking for Android apps, the quickest way to see if an app has an Android version is to copy the name of an app and then paste into the search area on the Google Play app store or Amazon app store. If the app is available it may not be free on those platforms and/or may contain ads so look closely at each app description. Also look at reviews to see how well apps function since Android versions of apps may not be updated as frequently as iOS apps.

Disclaimers: I’m an SLP not an OT. But I worked with enough fabulous OTs and COTAs over my career and connected virtually with a few others to have a general idea of the types of apps that may be helpful to them. Of course every app that I share will not be a good fit for every child so it’s up to you to determine the ones to use with your particular patients. The purpose of this list is to share free resources but I also want folks to know there are hundreds of fabulous apps that are often very affordably priced or may even be free on a particular day. Please see this blog post and follow OMazing Kids on social media: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/12/31/the-ipad-the-slp-in-2017-app-list-for-slps-sorted-by-goal-area/. I plan on updating that huge post soon. 

Activities of Daily Living:

  1. iDo Hygiene –Daily life skills activities, for individuals with special needs (full version) by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-hygiene-daily-life-skills-activities-for-individuals/id994899641
  2. iDo Community – kids with special needs learn to act independently in the community by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-community-kids-special-needs-learn-to-act-independently/id931891099
  3. iDo Food – Kids with special needs learn dining skills (Full version) by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-food-kids-special-needs-learn-dining-skills-full/id931891855
  4. iDo Chores – Daily activities and routine tasks for kids with special needs (Full version) by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-chores-daily-activities-routine-tasks-for-kids/id931894090 (all IAPs are free)
  5. iDo Getting Dressed – Learn the Routine of wearing clothes, for individuals with special needs. (Full version) by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-getting-dressed-learn-routine-wearing-clothes-for/id994900654
  6. Sequence it! – Create and arrange sequences, for kids with autism and other special needs by C.E.T – THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sequence-it-create-arrange-sequences-for-kids-autism/id1054793304
  7. Sago Mini Babies Dress Up by Sago Mini, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sago-mini-babies-dress-up/id1132213599
  8. WoodieHoo Dress Up: Animal Fun by RTL DISNEY Fernsehen GmbH & Co. KG, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/woodiehoo-dress-up-animal-fun/id1450403346
  9. WoodieHoo Brushing Teeth by RTL DISNEY Fernsehen GmbH & Co. KG, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/woodiehoo-brushing-teeth/id1436715435
  10. Philips Sonicare For Kids by Philips, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/philips-sonicare-for-kids/id1002285219
  11. Brush Teeth with The Wiggles by The Wiggles International Pty Limited, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brush-teeth-with-the-wiggles/id1113805211
  12. Toothbrush Games by Ogilvy & Mather Deutschland GmbH, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/toothbrush-games/id641153644
  13. TVOKids Tooth Time by TVO Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tvokids-tooth-time/id628201571
  14. 32teeth by appomart.com, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/32teeth/id1440048812
  15. Harry’s Healthy Garden by BabyFirst, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/harrys-healthy-garden/id944767396
  16. Feed Twip – Kids learn how to cook healthy food by GAMABILIS, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/feed-twip-kids-learn-how-to-cook-healthy-food/id1173483671
  17. Kid Eats by Learning Games Lab, NM State University, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kid-eats/id1164545702
  18. Foodsburg by BubbleBud Kids by Dweek Studios, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/foodsburg-by-bubblebud-kids/id1445107729
  19. Veggie Bottoms HD Healthy Eating Made Fun for Kids by Red Card Studios, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/veggie-bottoms-hd-healthy-eating-made-fun-for-kids/id626569693
  20. Veggie Bottoms Kitchen Helper – Timer & Converter by Red Card Studios, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/veggie-bottoms-kitchen-helper-timer-converter/id1120279485 (I liked the content enough to share it but be sure iPad is in “airplane mode” to block ads. Also has links to other apps in App Store so be sure to toggle off ability to purchase apps or IAPs)
  21. Pick Your Plate! by Smithsonian Institution, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pick-your-plate/id1471647935
  22. HEALTHY HAROLD, HEALTHY ME by Life Education Australia, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-harold-healthy-me/id983491310
  23. Bento Box Shapes by Two Bulls, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bento-box-shapes/id665768495
  24. Space Chef by The Lawrence Hall of Science, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/space-chef/id1024085303
  25. Laugh & Learn™ Puppy’s Nose by Fisher-Price, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/laugh-learn-puppys-nose/id415895632

Adapted Leisure:

  1. CanTunes by University of Victoria, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cantunes/id670015849 (adapted access to music)
  2. YouTube Kids by Google LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/youtube-kids/id936971630
  3. Just Dice by Code Redman Ltd, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/just-dice/id470876937
  4. Miney Mo by One to Zero, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/miney-mo/id1242461053
  5. Chwazi Finger Chooser by Tenda Digital, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/chwazi-finger-chooser/id689674978
  6. Picture Dots by New York Hall of Science, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/picture-dots/id1225538365

Adapted Writing:

  1. SnapType by SnapType, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/snaptype/id1124115982 (free lite version)

Building / Creating:

  1. Build A Truck by Duck Duck Moose LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/build-a-truck/id734640915
  2. Labo Train (4+) by Labo Lado Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/labo-train-4/id914323527 (free with IAP for more content. I always just use the easiest level)
  3. Labo Brick Car (6+) by Labo Lado Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/labo-brick-car-6/id1139669780 (free with IAP for more content)
  4. Brick Train Build Game 4 Kids by Labo Lado Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brick-train-build-game-4-kids/id1481293079 (free with IAP for more content)
  5. Paper Plate Art Game for Kids by Labo Lado Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/paper-plate-art-game-for-kids/id1460529275 (lite version – get the full paid version if you want all the activities)
  6. KOMA KOMA for iPad by TriggerDevice Co.,Ltd, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/koma-koma-for-ipad/id635794784 (Super easy to make stop motion videos. Fun to pair with off-iPad building activities)

Dot-to-Dot:

  1. DotToDot numbers &letters lite by Apps in My Pocket Ltd, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dottodot-numbers-letters-lite/id333210438 (lite version – get the full paid version if you want all the activities)
  2. Dot-to-Dot Adventure Lite by GiggleUp Kids Apps And Educational Games Pty Ltd, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dot-to-dot-adventure-lite/id623673590 (lite version – get the full paid version if you want all the activities)
  3. Connect the Dots and Count by Whisper Arts, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/connect-the-dots-and-count/id896144409 (use in “airplane mode” to block ads, has IAPs for additional content)
  4. Dots n’ Draw by Prabhjeet Singh
    https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dots-n-draw/id1070460975 (can toggle off grid and toggle on dark mode for High Contrast; can move the dots to create your own dot to dot activity)

(I didn’t find any other free dot-to-dot apps that have enough useable content, are well designed, didn’t have ads and/or are still available in the App store. I’d love to add to this section if anyone knows of any. But there are several good affordably priced dot-to-dot apps in the App Store.)

Drawing & Coloring (may want to consider using a stylus or adapted stylus as the writing tool):

  1. Simple Whiteboard by Qrayon by Qrayon, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/simple-whiteboard-by-qrayon/id1327954704
  2. Tayasui Sketches School by Tayasui. Can import own picture. Has unsecured links when exporting creation. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tayasui-sketches-school/id1354087061
  3. Hello Crayons. Can import own picture. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hello-crayons/id440149103, iOS (has IAPs for additional features)
  4. Brushes Redux. Can import own picture. Lots of cool features for textures of painting. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brushes-redux/id932089074
  5. Autodesk SketchBook. Can import own picture. Incredible amount of features, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/autodesk-sketchbook/id883738213
  6. SketchBook Motion. Can import own picture. Has a limit of 3 scenes without a subscription. Similar to #5 but allows adding animation: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sketchbook-motion/id1061224933
  7. Scribbaloo Paint. A nice super simple kids painting app. Can take a picture of the finished creation. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scribbaloo-paint-simple-easy-to-use-painting-app-for/id959974785
  8. Coloring Games: Painting, Glow by RV AppStudios LLC. Includes fun paint, color fill, drawing, glow pen, number paint & water art (a swipe to uncover watercolor) activities. Completed art is saved to an art gallery within the app. Nice settings options to toggle off background music, select language, choose which activities you want visible as options, toggle off the “show more apps button”, etc. Has links behind parental gate. They have free printable coloring pages on their website, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/coloring-games-painting-glow/id1480696573
  9. Zen Studio meditation for kids by EDOKI ACADEMY, A unique geometric finger painting app designed to help children relax and focus. Calming instrumentals play as you tap or swipe. Nice Parent and Teacher Guide in the app, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/zen-studio-meditation-for-kids/id1051358262 (be sure to get the in-app purchase to upgrade to the full app while it is free).
  10. Crayola Color Camera by Crayola, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crayola-color-camera/id1481094201 (turn any picture into a coloring page that can then be saved to the Camera Roll for importing into a coloring app or printed for coloring with real crayons)
  11. Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets by Crayola, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/crayola-scribble-scrubbie-pets/id1475682282
  12. Draw and Tell HD by Duck Duck Moose LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/draw-and-tell-hd/id504752087
  13. DRAWING FOR KIDS Games! Apps 2 by Bini Bambini Academy, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drawing-for-kids-games-apps-2/id908698556 (Love how it guides you through the tracing and then your drawing is animated. Lite app with IAPs for additional content. You’ll have to be very careful to avoid accidentally tapping on the IAPs or subscription. An adult will need to get it to the screen you want and then lock it in via Guided Access. Also be sure to use in “airplane mode and toggle off the ability to purchase apps or IAPs in your iPad settings. The full paid version is only $4.99: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drawing-for-kids-learning-apps/id908695341)
  14. Drawing Educational Kids Games by Bini Bambini Academy, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drawing-educational-kids-games/id1225122654 (Love how it guides you through the tracing and then your drawing is animated and dances. Lite app with IAPs for additional content. You’ll have to be very careful to avoid accidentally tapping on the IAPs. So be sure to use in “airplane mode and toggle off the ability to purchase apps or IAPs in your iPad settings)
  15. Happy Panda – Color by Numbers by Roman Timurson, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/happy-panda-color-by-numbers/id1467662535 (lite with IAP for additional content)
  16. Finger Paint with Sounds. Fun immediate cause/effect while painting with music. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/finger-paint-with-sounds/id586598528
  17. A new free cause-effect drawing app that plays classical music as soon as you start drawing and stops as soon as your finger is off the screen. Plain black background & rainbow colored drawing. If you don’t want it to save the drawings to your camera roll be sure to tap “no” when camera permissions pops up (or toggle off saving in the app settings (in iPad Settings area, scroll down to app name). You can also pick a different background color, etc. I played with the app for awhile and did not see any ads. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/rainbowy/id1467288651
  18. Oh ! The magic drawing app. Fun creating with shapes. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/oh-the-magic-drawing-app/id977170314 (IAPs to “tip” the developer)
  19. Monster Coloring Book. Includes “tap to fill” option, stickers, paint with patterns, etc.. There are four options for classical background music and options to adjust the levels of music and sound effects in the settings area. Includes an in app art gallery to edit, save and share the creations. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/monster-coloring-book/id435676573
  20. Inspirit – the art of mandala. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/inspirit-the-art-of-mandala/id1262728983
  21. Woolizoo’s Art & Craft Creator by Nick Fettke, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/woolizoos-art-craft-creator/id900329038

Executive Functioning / Planning / Routines:

  1. Time In Kid by Moving Graphics, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/time-in-kid/id1283205523
  2. Little Timer Hatch Countdown by Bitscuit Games, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/little-timer-hatch-countdown/id1496908204 (IAP for additional features)
  3. Time Timer: iPad Edition by Time Timer LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/time-timer-ipad-edition/id434081367
  4. Time Timer by Time Timer LLC (iPhone version), https://apps.apple.com/us/app/time-timer/id332520417
  5. My Own Interactions by Hiffa Oy Ab, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-own-interactions/id1069032256, iPad only (A visual schedule app to keep track of your daily life with text, pictures, photos, video and sound, in a way that makes sense for you.)
  6. Kids ToDo List by LITALICO Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kids-todo-list/id1250309171
  7. myHomework Student Planner by Rodrigo Neri, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myhomework-student-planner/id303490844 (IAPs for additional features)
  8. Google Calendar: Time Planner by Google LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-calendar-time-planner/id909319292
  9. Reminder with Voice Reminders by Sergio Licea. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reminder-with-voice-reminders/id469454389 (IAP for additional features)
  10. Google Keep – Notes and lists by Google LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-keep-notes-and-lists/id1029207872
  11. Google Assistant by Google LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-assistant/id1220976145
  12. SuperNote Notes Recorder&Photo by FITNESS22 LTD, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/supernote-notes-recorder-photo/id484001731 (IAPs for additional features)
  13. Mind Magnets Info Organizer—Visual Grid Checklists by Adams Immersive, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mind-magnets-info-organizer-visual-grid-checklists/id1000970772
  14. Popplet by Notion, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/popplet/id374151636 (full version currently free, there is a free lite version to try out when this goes back up to full price)
  15. iMindMap Kids by OpenGenius Limited, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/imindmap-kids/id1296769948
  16. Buncee by Buncee LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buncee/id1093956684
  17. Post-it® by 3M Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/post-it/id920127738
  18. nemonic – Sticky Notes App by MANGOSLAB Co.,Ltd., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nemonic-sticky-notes-app/id1241934178
  19. Toodledo by Pink Java Media, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/toodledo/id292755387 (IAP for additional features)
  20. Focus Matrix – Task Manager by Denys Yevenko, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/focus-matrix-task-manager/id1107872631 (IAP for additional features)
  21. CanPlan by University of Victoria, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/canplan/id598687543
  22. What2Expect by University of Victoria, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/what2expect/id1234304140
  23. Notepad+: Note Taking App by Apalon Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/notepad-note-taking-app/id920402079 (free lite version)

Games:

  1. Whale Trail Junior by ustwo games, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/whale-trail-junior/id569862218
  2. Square-Off – An Educational Game from School Zone by School Zone Publishing, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/square-off-an-educational-game-from-school-zone/id369230474
  3. Pig Pens by James Durie, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pig-pens/id1448367077
  4. Sound Memo – game for autism by Likomp, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sound-memo-game-for-autism/id763446082

Handwriting & Tracing:

  1. LetterWorks by Alphabet Galleries, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letterworks/id735255024
  2. Handwriting Heroes by Cheryl Bregman, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/handwriting-heroes/id1057029973
  3. Writing Wizard – Handwriting by L’Escapadou, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/writing-wizard-handwriting/id1305242235 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)

Hidden Pictures:

  1. Hidden Pictures Puzzle Play by Highlights for Children, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hidden-pictures-puzzle-play/id1462177299 (Has one free hidden pictures puzzle every day. You’ll have to be very careful to avoid accidentally subscribing. I’d suggest the adult navigate to a free puzzle and then use Guided Access to block exiting that area.)

(I didn’t find any free hidden picture apps that have enough useable content, are appropriate for kids, are well designed, didn’t have ads and/or are still available in the App store. I’d love to add to this section if anyone knows of any.)

Home Activities:

  1. OT at Home by Augusta University, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ot-at-home/id1194078736

Mazes:

  1. Maze Jam by Unusually Brilliant Educational Resources LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/maze-jam/id1458832763
  2. Animal Maze by Busy Things Limited, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/animal-maze/id1256364055
  3. Roly And The Leafy Lair by Play9 Studios, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/roly-and-the-leafy-lair/id1478368388
  4. BeeAmazed! Full by Geo Tots, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/beeamazed-full/id1025619742 (full version currently free, there is a free lite version to try out when this goes back up to full price)
  5. Vehicle Maze – Find a route through the maze by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vehicle-maze-find-a-route-through-the-maze/id1186201607
  6. Animal Maze – Find a route through the maze by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/animal-maze-find-a-route-through-the-maze/id1186203082
  7. Monster Maze – Find a route through the maze by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/monster-maze-find-a-route-through-the-maze/id1186203975

Money & Budgeting:

  1. The Candy and the Coinbot by Applause Learning, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-candy-and-the-coinbot/id1058915119
  2. Envelope+ Kid by Robert E Carr Jr, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/envelope-kid/id949620009
  3. Mind Your Own Budget by K20 Center – University of Oklahoma, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mind-your-own-budget/id721772106
  4. Money Mammals Needs vs Wants by Lanza Entertainment Company, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/money-mammals-needs-vs-wants/id910712865
  5. Currency Challenge by Lanza Entertainment Company, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/currency-challenge/id1025252708
  6. Money Mammals Save for a Goal by Lanza Entertainment Company, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/money-mammals-save-for-a-goal/id1128245668
  7. Dollars & Cents Lite by Attainment Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dollars-cents-lite/id738508003 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)

Movement:

  1. Spin-n-Move by Learning Games Lab, NM State University, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/spin-n-move/id1470631675
  2. Jungle Gym 1 by Learning Games Lab, NM State University, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jungle-gym-1/id1245786895
  3. Jungle Gym 2 by Learning Games Lab, NM State University, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jungle-gym-2/id1470677918
  4. GoNoodle Games by GoNoodle, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gonoodle-games/id1497169748

 Multiple Goals:

  1. Khan Academy Kids by Khan Academy, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/khan-academy-kids/id1378467217 (organized by grade level and activity type)
  2. Daniel Tiger for Parents by PBS KIDS, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/daniel-tiger-for-parents/id1185651115

 Play:

  1. WoodieHoo Animal Friends World by RTL DISNEY Fernsehen GmbH & Co. KG, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/woodiehoo-animal-friends-world/id1354902296
  2. WoodieHoo Birthday Party by RTL DISNEY Fernsehen GmbH & Co. KG, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/woodiehoo-birthday-party/id1475606131

Pre-Vocational Skills:

  1. Community Success Lite by Attainment Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/community-success-lite/id739174434 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)
  2. Computers at Work Lite by Attainment Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/computers-at-work-lite/id833882884 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)
  3. MatchTime Lite by Attainment Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matchtime-lite/id987945960 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)
  4. Personal Success Lite by Attainment Company, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/personal-success-lite/id985701251 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)
  5. JobPro: Get Hired! by Etcetera Edutainment, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jobpro-get-hired/id1036998640
  6. JobPro: My Life by Etcetera Edutainment, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jobpro-my-life/id1326276174

Safety: 

  1. Ready Set Dial by Little Bit Studio, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ready-set-dial/id1435714699
  2. Little Bird by AVG Technologies, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/little-bird/id448923255 (Internet safety)
  3. RED CROSS – Accident prevention and first aid for children by Cruz Roja Española, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/red-cross-accident-prevention-and-first-aid-for-children/id1032660603
  4. Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim by Stew Leonard’s, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/stewie-the-duck-learns-to-swim/id514573567
  5. Sign Bingo by Timothy McLenegan, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sign-bingo/id656984122

Sensory & Calming:

  1. Magic Fluids Lite by Mad Scientist, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/magic-fluids-lite/id1437514764 (lite version with IAPs for additional features)
  2. fluidity HD by nebulus design, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fluidity-hd/id399403909 (free with IAPs to add more features)
  3. Fluid 2 by Fabien Sanglard, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fluid-2/id317959717
  4. Classical Music Shapes Colors by Bret Lester, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/classical-music-shapes-colors/id963541488 (IAP to add more features)
  5. Super Stretch Yoga HD by The Adventures of Super Stretch, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/super-stretch-yoga-hd/id456108738
  6. Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame by Sesame Street, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/breathe-think-do-with-sesame/id721853597
  7. Autism 5-Point Scale EP by Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/autism-5-point-scale-ep/id467303313
  8. Focus 1-2-3 by Oranda, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/focus-1-2-3/id954506517
  9. Kids Mindfulness Meditations by Wellbeyond Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kids-mindfulness-meditations/id1082891966 (usually has IAP for additional content but currently all free until 6/30/20)
  10. The Breathing Butterfly by Elfenworks Productions LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-breathing-butterfly/id975817441
  11. 1-Min Calm by For Jack and Jill, LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/1-min-calm/id997960262
  12. Calming Bottle by eSolution, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/calming-bottle/id1029767551
  13. MindShift CBT – Anxiety Canada by Anxiety Canada Association, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mindshift-cbt-anxiety-canada/id634684825

Visual Discrimination Skills:

  1. Maxilotto Animals by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/maxilotto-animals/id1275102102
  2. Everyday Life Lotto by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/everyday-life-lotto/id1275102326
  3. Maxilotto Food by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/maxilotto-food/id1275102313
  4. TVOKids Match-a Match-a Island by TVO Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tvokids-match-a-match-a-island/id751595890
  5. Princess Match: Learning Game Kids & Toddlers Free by wonderkind GmbH, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/princess-match-learning-game-kids-toddlers-free/id508464233
  6. PopPet Pop with Bato by OTATAA, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/poppet-pop-with-bato/id1064503211
  7. What´s missing here? by appp media UG, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/what-s-missing-here/id549919603
  8. Little Finder – The Hidden Object Game for Kids by Innovative Mobile Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/little-finder-the-hidden-object-game-for-kids/id491990709
  9. My Little Suitcase – The Memory Board Game by Innovative Mobile Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-little-suitcase-the-memory-board-game/id527319993 (may not work on iOS 11.0 or later)

Visual Perceptual Skills:

  1. Fill the Matrix – Place items in the correct cells by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fill-the-matrix-place-items-in-the-correct-cells/id1135867233
  2. Mosaics – Arrange colorful pieces to form a mosaic by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mosaics-arrange-colorful-pieces-to-form-a-mosaic/id1186205878
  3. Pair By Kind – Match visually related items by STEP BY STEP, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pair-by-kind-match-visually-related-items/id1135858883
  4. LudiTab Spatial Recognition by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/luditab-spatial-recognition/id1275104117
  5. LudiTab Geometric Shapes by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/luditab-geometric-shapes/id1275102336
  6. LudiTab Sizes by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/luditab-sizes/id1275104569
  7. LudiTab Numeration by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/luditab-numeration/id1275103847
  8. Large Puzzle Firefighters by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/large-puzzle-firefighters/id1275101358
  9. Large Puzzle Pirates by SEJER, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/large-puzzle-pirates/id1275101758
  10. Puzzle Pop HD by Duck Duck Moose LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/puzzle-pop-hd/id479407696
  11. Comomola Planets Puzzle by Comomola Studios S.L., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/comomola-planets-puzzle/id1315036689 (IAP also free)
  12. Shapes Builder – Educational tangram puzzle game for preschool children by Play Toddlers (Free Version) by PlayToddlers, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/shapes-builder-educational-tangram-puzzle-game-for/id1084234490 (free lite version, has IAPs. If you want all the content, get the full paid app instead)
  13. Very Hungry Caterpillar Shapes by StoryToys Entertainment Limited, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/very-hungry-caterpillar-shapes/id1042298797
  14. Laugh & Learn™ Shapes & Colors by Fisher-Price, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/laugh-learn-shapes-colors/id490650819
  15. RelationShapes by Vizuvizu LLC, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/relationshapes/id1143015542
  16. Piko’s Blocks – Spatial Lite by Creetah Ltd., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pikos-blocks-spatial-lite/id1131697579 (get full paid version if you want more content)
  17. Letter Cross Tracking by Visual learning for Life, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letter-cross-tracking/id971121786 (free with IAP for more content)
  18. Spatial Line Puzzles by Visual learning for Life, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/spatial-line-puzzles/id917127352 (free with IAP for more content)
  19. Slice & Splice Lite by Roman Timurson, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/slice-splice-lite/id590307847

Looking for apps to make your own jigsaw puzzles for specific high interest areas? Here are three apps that allow you to import pics to create your own puzzles:

  1. Puzzlfy app is my favorite for making simple puzzles: Puzzlfy – Jigsaw Puzzles by Radius60 Studios, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/puzzlfy-jigsaw-puzzles/id880679870 (may not work on iOS 11 or later).
  2. Jigsaw Puzzle Collection HD by Veraxen Ltd, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jigsaw-puzzle-collection-hd/id642831690
  3. Jigsaw Box Puzzles by Sparkle Apps, https://apps.apple.com/us/app/jigsaw-box-puzzles/id374251470

For all of three you’ll need to save pics that you want to use to create puzzles to the Camera Roll on your iPad. The downside of these apps are the ads & IAPs but you can block them by putting the iPad into “airplane mode” after you are done downloading pics & before you open the app. It can be expensive to buy the in-app purchases to remove the ads. You’ll also want to toggle off the ability to purchase IAPs as an extra safeguard in the Settings area on your iPad.

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Want to suggest a free iOS app to be added to this list? The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page. I’m pretty picky so they need to be well designed apps and be transparent/honest about any IAPs or subscriptions. Please send the link from the USA App Store so I can download and try it out.

It took me quite a bit of time to compile this list so please “tag” OMazing Kids when sharing it on social media and do not copy/paste it onto other blogs or documents or upload it to servers. I have it available here on my blog and plan on keeping my blog up for the foreseable future.

Thanks,

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC

Facebook: https://bit.ly/2Si6k7Y

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoorad1/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com


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2 Amazing “Must Have” Books for Teaching Kids Self-Regulation Skills

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I absolutely LOVE both of these books! Great for teaching kids self-regulation skills. I love the illustrations, kid-friendly language and analogies used to make the concepts easy to understand and to implement. The concepts are therapeutically sound. I highly recommend both books as “must haves” in the library of anyone working with kids with special needs.

I bought my copies on Amazon. Check out the reviews for yourself…. 100% 5-star rave reviews:

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* The Kids’ Guide to Staying Awesome and In Control: Simple Stuff to Help Children Regulate their Emotions and Senses

Hardcover – July 22, 2014

About the book:
Packed with simple ideas to regulate the emotions and senses, this book will help children tackle difficult feelings head-on and feel awesome and in control!
From breathing exercises, pressure holds and finger pulls, to fidgets, noise-reducing headphones and gum, the book is brimming with fun stuff to help kids feel cool, calm and collected. They will learn how to label difficult feelings, choose the perfect strategies and tools to tackle them, and use these correctly whether at home or at school. The strategies and tools are accompanied by cartoon-style illustrations, and the author includes useful tips for parents and teachers as well as handy visual charts and checklists to track learning and progress.

Armed with this book, kids will be well on their way to managing difficult emotions and feeling just right in whatever situation life throws at them! Suitable for children with emotional and sensory processing difficulties aged approximately 7 to 14 years. (Note: With modifications I’ve used the strategies with kids as young as 4 1/2 years old)

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Free printables from the book:
https://bit.ly/3OMG9BI

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* How to Be a Superhero Called Self-Control!: Super Powers to Help Younger Children to Regulate their Emotions and Senses

Hardcover – November 21, 2015

About the book:
Meet Self-Control, a superhero who wants to teach young children his super powers of self-control! Anxiety, frustration, anger, and other difficult feelings won’t stand a chance against their new-found powers.

Self-Control teaches children with emotional and sensory regulation difficulties aged approximately 4-7 how to calm themselves using self-massage, deep pressure, breathing exercises, and activities such as making an imaginary list and finding their own peaceful place. This illustrated book also features an appendix with photocopiable super power charts, reinforcers, and reminder tools to ensure that parents, teachers, and other professionals can support children in upholding superhero strategies even after the book has been read.

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Free printables from the book:
https://bit.ly/3yGeQU0
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The author, Lauren Brukner, is a pediatric OT: https://twitter.com/brukner_lauren?s=21&t=JN4N-ms77XgvaxEmobXCEQ

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/17426452595789
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
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Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 25 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is a kids book reviewer with a focus on great picture books, a kids toy / product reviewer with a focus on those that are helpful for kids with special needs & an iOS app beta tester for educational and therapeutic app developers. She loves sharing info about great things to use with kids of all abilities.

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{Note: please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I have no control over the ads nor do I make any profit from them}

A peek inside my special needs acceptance & awareness library….

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One of the frequent requests I receive is for suggestions regarding resources to help kids understand & appreciate special needs. The reason why I have a variety of resources for this is that there is no “one size fits all” resource. Some of the books in my library are geared towards group or classroom settings (but can also be modified for individual use). Some are geared towards specific special needs. Some are more subtle with general themes of respect, compassion & caring. Some are new and some have been in my library since I started my career as a SLP over 25 years ago. My library is frequently expanding but here’s what it includes at the moment:

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  • A Rainbow of Friends by P.K. Hallinan
  • All Kinds of Friends by Ellen B. Senisi
  • ASD and Me: Learning About High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder by Teresa DeMars
  • Can I Tell You About Autism?: A guide for friends, family and professionals by Jude Welton
  • Do-si-Do with Autism Friendship Kit by Sarah Stup
  • How Katie Got a Voice (and a cool nickname) by Patricia L. Mervine, SLP
  • I Like Birthdays…. It’s the parties I’m not sure about! by Laurie Renke
  • Ian’s Walk: A Story About Autism by Laurie Lears
  • In Jesse’s Shoes: Appreciating Kids With Special Needs by Beverly Lewis
  • Leah’s Voice by Lori DeMonia
  • Love for Logan by Lori DeMonia
  • Meet the Beaker Kids: A book for anyone who’s ever had “enough” by Shanna Philipson
  • Show You Understand: Learning about Compassion and Caring by Regina G. Burch
  • Someone Special Just Like You by Tricia Brown
  • Sometimes My Brother: Helping Kids Understand Autism Through a Sibling’s Eyes by Angie Healy
  • Special People, Special Ways by Arlene Maguire
  • The Autism Acceptance Book: Being a Friend to Someone with Autism by Ellen Sabin
  • The One and Only Special Me by Rozanne Lanczak Williams
  • The Special Needs Acceptance Book: Being a Friend to Someone with Special Needs by Ellen Sabin
  • This is Gabriel Making Sense of School: A Book About Sensory Processing Disorder by Hartley Steiner
  • We Can Do It! by Laura Dwight

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I only have listed books that I have in my personal library. If you are an author of a book or resource geared towards helping kids understand special needs and would like me to review your work OR if you have questions about any of the resources I have listed, the best way to reach me is via Facebook Messaging on my OMazing Kids Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/messages/174264525957894.

(My e-mail is listed below but I am getting tons of spam mail due to using that account for social media and blogging…. to the point that I may not receive the e-mail or it being buried among the spam.)

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/174264525957894

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

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OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or any ads or unusual hyperlinks that may appear above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here. 

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Woozles Galore: Romping into Speech-Language & Kids Yoga with the Feed the Woozle Game by Peaceable Kingdom

Woozles blog post

Ready to have some fun with a Woozle? What’s a Woozle?! Glad you asked. He’s my new BFF. Met him on my annual shopping trek to the Lakeshore back-to-school sale. As a SLP who has been practicing for almost 24 years, I am pretty picky about the stuff I buy. Pediatric SLP’s are pretty notorious for having lots of “stuff” and I think I probably would have a guaranteed appearance if they ever have a “SLP Hoarders” show. So now I set pickier criteria for anything I buy. It must be: creative, unique, fun, reasonably priced and be adaptable (have a use towards several different goals). So envision me on my typical hour long browsing adventure in Lakeshore….. ruling out tons of stuff (“Already have one”, “That’s very similar to _____”, “They want HOW MUCH for a _____?!”, “Too flimsy”, etc….). I was about to leave empty-handed until I spotted him. A Woozle!  Smart move on Lakeshore’s part to have a sample of most products open to examine. I used the 20% off any regular priced item coupon to buy the game at Lakeshore (after first scanning it with the Amazon app & searching Google to make sure I was getting a good deal). Retail price: $19.99

The Feed the Woozle game is a cooperative game by Peaceable Kingdom. They have several other cooperative games, including Hoot Owl Hoot! which I have and love.

What is a “cooperative game”? Glad you asked….. It’s a game where everyone plays together, no one is left out, and everyone has fun! Traditional games tend to have one winner and one (or many) losers! In a cooperative game, the players work as a team against a common obstacle, not against each other. Cooperative games emphasize play, not competition. Kids learn to work and play together in respectful and compassionate ways. They learn to share, make decisions together, and trust one another. Cooperative games encourage inclusion and build confidence. Cooperative games are great for kids of all ages (as well as the adults in their life). Kids don’t beat a cooperative game every time, so even if kids lose to the game, they lose as a team. There’s always a reason to keep working, thinking and playing together to win as a team! These type of games are awesome to use in social skills groups, in speech-language therapy, kids yoga groups, on family game night & more!

 

The Feed the Woozle game includes:

  • A stand-up Woozle (made of thick cardboard with a shiny finish. While not water or saliva-proof, the slightly laminated feel to it should help it’s durability. It folds nicely to fit in the box)
  • 24 silly snack tokens (made of thick cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
  • 12 “Mmmm! Yummy!” cards (made of a little thinner cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
  • A large die (with the numbers 1, 2, 3)
  • A durable plastic spoon
  • A spinner (very easy to spin & made of thick cardboard with slightly laminated finish)
  • Instructions for 3 different levels of play based on developmental level

While they have marketed this game for kids ages 3-6, I think older kids will enjoy it as well.

What I love about the game:

  • Carrying the snack tokens on the spoon promotes mindful focused attention. Tasks like this are especially great for kids with ADHD.
  • The silly snack tokens are hilarious & full of great descriptive language. Using humor & creative thinking is especially great when working with kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (who tend to be very literal thinkers).
  • It promotes creative movement especially when using the spinner. It adds movements that you do while carrying the spoon with the snack token [ex: Hula Dance, Spin, March (could modify into a Brain Gym Cross Crawl March), Bunny Hop, Walk Backwards & Go Crazy (make up your own movement or could do a yoga pose of their choice)].
  • The cooperative nature of the game promotes the concept of working together as a team.
  • The rules are easy to follow & easy to modify further to meet individual kids needs.
  • The game is colorful & well constructed.

Ways to adapt the game to meet special needs:

  • Use the Woozle symbols (in the PDF below) for kids to comment or request during the game.
  • Create a 12-space token board for kids to collect the “Mmm! Yummy!” cards on to provide a concrete visual support for kids to see how close they are to winning the game. Of course the game could be modified with a rule of collecting a lesser amount of cards to win (for kids with shorter attention spans or to fit the game within a short therapy session).
  • Use a BigMack or other single message output communication aide for kids who are nonverbal or minimally verbal to comment during the game (ex: Ewwww! Feed me! Yeah! We won! My turn, etc.).
  • Put the die into a High Roller (adapted dice roller) to allow kids with physical limitations to be able to “roll” the die.

In addition to the game directions, I have already come up with lots of other ideas for my new BFF the Woozle! I’m one of those folks who can’t just use an item for the advertised purpose. I go to DollarTree or Target and see a cutting board and think “ooh that would be great to make PECS boards out of” or a neoprene iPad case and think “ooh I could cut holes in it to make a keyguard for the GoTalk Now app on the iPad”. I kid you not! Ever since attending a Linda J. Burkhart make-and-take low-tech AAC workshop in 1992, I have lost the ability to think “inside the box” and my venture into kids yoga has just magnified the creative side of my brain. (For those of you who are not familiar with Linda Burkhart, she’s the “MacGyver” of no/low-tech AAC)

So far I’ve come up with the following Woozle-themed activities & printables:

  • Kids yoga activities to go with each of the 24 silly snack tokens
  • Draw or do an open-ended craft to create more snacks to feed the Woozle
  • A fun fruit mindfulness activity (Woozles need mindfulness too! If he was practicing mindful eating, I’m pretty sure he would not consume “toenail toast”)
  • Cards & coloring to show the Woozle how to “Eat the Rainbow” to encourage healthier food choices
  • Color Woozle (could also be decorated in a craft activity)
  • 30 language attribute/category activity cards (ex: Name 2 things that are crunchy)
  • 6 Woozle size cards (2 each of small, medium & big. Plan on using them to order & match by size)
  • A Woozle size sorting board (small, bigger, biggest ~ use with the cards above or with any other manipilatives of snack items)
  • 40 communication symbols (can be used as a communication board, cut apart as PECS symbols and used in aided language stimulation)

Here is a free 16-page PDF with all the printables: Feed the Woozle ~ free printables to use in speech-language therapy or kids yoga

I’m sharing it to encourage others to think “outside the box” when selecting materials. All I ask in return is that you “like” my  OMazing Kids Facebook page and leave a FB and/or blog comment about how your kids enjoyed it or how you plan on using it with your kids. I also ask that you follow the “Printables Terms of Use”.

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Craft Idea: Make a Woozle with these Easy Monsters Finger Puppets. Wouldn’t it be fun to make these & then do “Woozle Mudras” in kids yoga or work on requesting and descriptive language in speech therapy?!

Check out this fun free Monster Pack printable from 3 Dinosaurs! I bet these are the Woozle’s other BFF’s 😉

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Check out more Feed the Woozle activity ideas for SLPs in this post on Activity Tailor: http://www.activitytailor.com/feed-the-woozle/

http://www.activitytailor.com/feed-the-woozle/
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I’d love to hear your ideas for games to use in kids yoga or speech-language therapy! Feel free to leave a comment below or on the OMazing Kids Facebook page :)

BrightIdeas

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist at the JD McCarty Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities (http://www.jdmc.org/)

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

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Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

 

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or in any hyperlinks above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

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Arrgh Matey…. Pirate-Themed Kids Yoga Lesson Plan Ideas & Adapted Yoga

Arrgh Matey…. looking for activities to keep the Monkey Mind Pirates off your ship this summer? Activities that can be adapted for a wide range of ages, needs & abilities? Follow this OMazing Kids treasure map to find the Isle of Calm and a summer filled with pirate-themed yoga, affirmations, relaxation, crafts & more!

Week 1 of Camp ClapHans at the JD McCarty Center primarily had kids with ADHD. After reading through the campers registration forms, I knew that my usual “storybook” approach to yoga would not be the best choice for the older group of boys at camp that week. So I jumped out of my comfort zone & planned some freestyle yoga storytelling with a little structure based on the Monkey Mind Pirates workbook & CD. As I was setting up, I overheard the boys commenting “yoga is for girls”, “I don’t like yoga”, “Do we have to?”. Fearing a mutiny, I calmed & centered myself with yoga breathing & listening to a few tunes from my playlist as I continued setting up. When I set out the Hoberman Sphere & the Vibratone, two of the boys were drawn like moths to a flame. {Ahhhh….. the magic of yoga props!}. Before I knew it, the rest of the boys were seated on mats intrigued by what we were going to do.

To set the stage for our yoga adventure, I played “Welcome Aboard” by Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate and read this script from the Monkey Mind Pirates in my best “piratey” voice:

We went over the “rules of the ship” with this visual support….. we didn’t want anyone to fall out of the ship or have to walk the plank….. Arrgh!

I also used a visual support to show the kids that we would be breathing through our noses (like smelling a flower) and blowing our breath out through our mouth (like blowing out a candle).

We rolled up our treasure maps…… the key to making this a pleasant experience is to ALWAYS ask permission first. Ask who wants to be rolled up. Most kids love this & it is very calming to them. But some kids are fearful of trying it. In this class, I had two boys who were hesitant to try it. One ended up asking to do it after he saw the others enjoying it. One sat and watched. He kept a look out for Monkey Mind Pirates as the rest rolled up in the maps. By honoring his choice to not be “rolled”, it opened up the door for him to feel comfortable participating in most of the activities later in the class.

wrapped up like a map during yoga

The kids were in charge of how long they wanted to stay rolled up & if they wanted to repeat the activity.

wrapped up like a map for yoga and storytelling

Doing a breathing activity from Monkey Mind Pirates…..

This boy initially insisted he was NOT going to do yoga! He didn’t even want to sit on a mat……. but after a few minutes of watching from afar look who got on the pirate ship and ended up LOVING yoga. In fact, staff reported that later in the week he was one of the ones using the 3 strategies we learned to ward off Monkey Mind Pirates as a means to self-regulate. A great example of how yoga is so much more than just having fun in that moment…… it’s also about helping kids discover tools they can use to feel calm and empowered every day 🙂

Monkey Mind Pirates wanted posters

Activities & poses on our Monkey Mind Pirates adventure: rolled up treasure maps, Gyan Mudra spyglass, seated twist to look for Monkey Mind Pirates (Sir Winston, Ansel the Antsy & Lady Bronte. I made a “wanted” poster for each Monkey Mind Pirate so they would know what we were looking for. The Monkey Mind Pirates CD comes with some trading card sized pictures but these were too small to see in a group setting. One of the campers asked if the Monkey Mind Pirates were puppets….. gotta love a child with Aspergers Syndrome’s ability to immediately infer that from the wanted poster pictures! I explained that the real Monkey Mind Pirate puppets were sailing elsewhere but we never knew when they might appear. Fortunately he bought my story… or at least humored me and we kept going with our adventure), raise the sail (triangle pose), pirate flag waving in the ocean breeze (crescent moon), setting sail on our pirate ship in search of the treasure in the “Waters of Calm” (boat), sun shining down (breathing activity pictured above), laugher yoga (the tip for taming Winston), breathing (the tip for taming Ansel the Antsy. I added the Hoberman Sphere), 1-2-3 counting breath + mindful listening (the tip for taming Lady Bronte) {we practiced each of the 3 taming tips several times as we sailed. They knew to look out for a Monkey Mind Pirate when I sounded the Vibratone & held up one of the wanted posters. Made my heart smile to see how quickly they remembered & did the tip for each one}, X marks the spot (star), digging for treasure (woodchopper), treasure chest (seated forward fold), gyan mudra gold doubloons, guided relaxation (using the Relaxing on the Beach mp3 from Relax Kids). At first the boys were a little wiggly but they quickly calmed and a couple almost fell asleep. Remember, this was a group of boys with ADHD who rarely experience that level of “calm”. The calmness was so noticeable that the Camp ClapHans assistants asked if I could come do yoga with the boys every night! I reassured them that they had learned the 3 tips for taming Monkey Mind Pirates along with the boys and that they could use the strategies with them throughout the day & night 🙂 Ahhhh…. yes mateys that is the true treasure found in the “Waters of Calm”.

The girls group in Week 1 went on a beach-themed yoga adventure with “Ladybug Girl at the Beach”. I chose NOT to do a “pirate” class with this group since I knew one of the participants very well after having worked with her in outpatient speech-language therapy. This particular child has a VERY difficult time distinguishing between reality and imagination and would often assume alternate personalities. So I was pretty sure the pirate theme might trigger some swashbuckling aggressive behaviors in her. I also did NOT pass any props (Hoberman Sphere & Vibratone) in this class since this particular child has a history of damaging things. Of course the girls group had no idea that I had chosen a different theme for that reason and LOVED the adventures of Ladybug Girl. (I’ll be including yoga ideas for that book in a summer-themed post soon). The reason I share this is to remind folks that knowing info about kids before doing lesson planning will help guide you in making good choices in customizing a class to best match those kids’ needs.

Ladybug Girl looking out at the big waves in the ocean through the Gyan Mudra binoculars (FYI…. this is not the child I was describing above. She was one of the other campers. It made my heart smile to see how well she already knew how to do yoga! When she saw the seagull in the book she spontaneously went into Pigeon Pose….. one that I have a difficult time getting into myself.)

Week 2 of Camp ClapHans primarily had kids with physical disabilities. Because I had reviewed camp registration forms & knew several of the kids from seeing them as outpatients as JDMC, I chose a book that would lend itself well to these kids developmental levels, interests & physical needs. I played “The Porpoises and the Pirate Ship” by Brent Holmes & “Welcome Aboard” by Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate as I set up for the group to set the scene. We still did a pirate theme. But this time it was all with seated poses with the book “There Was An Old Pirate Who Swallowed a Fish” by Jennifer Ward. The kids chose whether they wanted to stay in their wheelchair or get down on a mat with a camp assistant to support them.

{Note for SLP’s: The repeated & cumulative lines, big vivid illustrations & humorous descriptive vocabulary has made “There Was An Old Pirate Who Swallowed a Fish” a new “fave” to use in speech-language therapy! I scanned the pirate & cut out his lower teeth to make room to “feed” him & made story props for each item he swallows in the story. These are also great to use for receptive & expressive language, sequencing & story retelling. For kids yoga, I wrote pose ideas on the back of each one with a fine-tipped permanent marker after I laminated them. The prop on the far right is for the repeated line “Yo Ho Ho! Watch his belly grow!”. It’s great to attach to a BigMack or other single message voice output communication aide (VOCA) for kids with minimal verbal skills to be able to participate in “reading” the repeating line. Get the free printable story props in this PDF: There Was An Old Pirate Who Swallowed a Fish story props}

{Update: 7/4/13: The illustrator, Steve Gray, generously posted a couple of illustrations on my Facebook page to use as coloring sheets after the author contacted him: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151554767913845&set=o.174264525957894&type=1&theater& https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151554766543845&set=o.174264525957894&type=1&theater

There Was An Old Pirate Who Swallowed a Fish – coloring sheets

Ok on to what we did in yoga…. This child is doing the pose for the pirate ship mast (a seated version of mountain pose with hands up and together for a tall, straight mast). It made my heart smile to see him using his iPad to tell his outpatient PT at JDMC that he wanted to go back to camp this week 🙂

It’s fine to take a rest on the pirate ship…….

Blimey but that fish was slimey!

Adapted activities & poses specifically chosen for this group of kids (all were done while kids were seated in whatever position was comfortable for them): ocean breath, gyan mudra spyglass, pirate (“Arrgh” breath + moving fist across midline on each side), fish (clasped hands together at midline & wiggled them in a modified sign for “fish”), blimey that fish was slimey (palming to wipe off the fish slime), “yo ho ho watch his belly grow” belly breathing w/ Hoberman Sphere (this is a repeated line at the end of each page), bird (stretch arms behind like wings), treasure map (roll arms around each other forwards & then back), gyan mudra gold doubloons, treasure chest (seated forward fold), plank (seated cross crawl, foot stomping or patting on legs as “footsteps” depending on that child’s ability to move their lower extremities), sail (seated side bends as a modified version of triangle), mast (a seated version of mountain pose with hands up and together for a tall, straight mast), pirate ship (boat with lots of support from that child’s camp assistant. The two boys in wheelchairs had a recline feature on their chair so they were able to participate). Because all the poses were done seated, they flowed easily as we repeated them through the cumulative story. I paused at key times to see what the kids would remember……. so fun the see their delight at remembering the word + pose. At the end of the book we sank to the bottom of the deep blue sea like the pirate in the book with a guided relaxation (using the Under the Sea story from the Imaginations: Fun Relaxation Stories and Meditations for Kids book with the Pirate Ship sound from the Relaxing Sounds Of Nature Lite free app (gentle sounds of a pirate ship creaking, waves & seagulls) and a weighted fish toy to ride on the waves of each child’s breath). After relaxation we listened to the song “Seven C’s” by Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate and talked about the “courage” it took for them to come to camp and try so many new things (if you haven’t heard this song yet you should….. a really cool way to incorporate some yamas/niyamas into a pirate themed class! “there’s COURTESY, COMPASSION and a bit of COURAGE too. With CLEANLINESS and CLEVENESS they’re good for me and you. Plus CHEERFULNESS and CHARITY now that makes Seven C’s.…”). We used a gold doubloon & treasure chest prop to talk about treasures inside each of us. As each child said or signed what they were good at or liked about themselves, they added a gold doubloon to the treasure chest. I left an “I’m more precious than gold coin affirmation” page with the camp assistants to offer to the kids during their journaling time later that day so they could write or draw additional things about themselves and their new camp friends.

These were just 30-minute classes so we didn’t have time to do a pirate-themed craft. But I found several online that would be fun to do. See this printable for the coins & treasure chest we used plus more fun ideas: Pirate coin affirmation printables, crafts, activities & coloring pages

Piratey Playlist:

  • Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate CD
  • Monkey Mind Pirates CD
  • Sea Tunes for Kids CD by Brent Holmes
  • Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Swashbuckling Sea Songs CD
  • Disney’s Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me) Instrumental by George Bruns
  • Rockin’ & Rollin’ On the Ocean by John Archambault & David Plummer
  • A Yogi Went to Sea by Kidding Around Yoga
  • Reiki Whale Song CD by Kamal (lots of great songs featuring whale sounds for relaxation)
  • Pirate Ship sound from the Relaxing Sounds Of Nature Lite free app
  • Plus I have lots of songs about individual ocean animals to use if needed

Please remember to keep kids individual sensory needs, developmental level, interests, etc… in mind when choosing particular music to use in a class.

I purposefully did not bring any pirate swords or hooks since those would naturally lead to kids wanting to have swashbuckling sword fights.

I’d love to hear your ideas for more “pirate yoga”! Feel free to leave a comment below or on the OMazing Kids Facebook page 🙂

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

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Music to Promote Acceptance & Love for Kids of All Abilities

Love me for who I am

See the story behind “Love Me For Who I Am”….

videos on their website

“Like” Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could & Celebrate The Children School on Facebook.

Listen to & purchase their great music. This beautiful album honors kids of all abilities with themes that resonate particularly well for kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders or Sensory Processing Disorder:

See the lyrics & artwork at: http://www.bradyrymer.com/grammy2011/interactive/

love me for wh I am lyrics

April is Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month. Inclusion, acceptance & love should be practiced every day…. but months like this are a good opportunity to raise awareness & then go beyond awareness to building programs, services & communities that support individuals of ALL abilities and needs ♥

Autism Acceptance

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist at the JD McCarty Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities (http://www.jdmc.org/)

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

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How yoga assists children with Autism – Yoga in My School Blog Talk Radio interview with Barbara Gini of BodyLogique

                                                                                                     

An interview about the benefits of yoga for kids with autism – it was OMazing!

Founder of BodyLogique, Barbara Gini discusses yoga for children with autism spectrum disorders. This in depth interview includes common adaptations of yoga poses and breathing exercises, techniques to improve sensory integration and ways to promote social interaction. Teachers, parents, therapists and aides who work with children with autism will greatly benefit from Barbara’s wealth of expertise.

On Original Air Date on Blog Talk Radio with Yogainmyschool.com: April 6, 2011

http://yogainmyschool.com/2011/04/06/yoga-for-autism-with-barbara-gini/

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-for-autism-barbara-gini/id369773913?i=92822960

(P.S. I am currently looking into funding options to bring Barbara here to present in Oklahoma so we can learn from her OMazing expertise! )

Yoga, Kids And OT: They fit together like hand and glove By Christine and James Ristuccia, and Amanda Gretsch

“Yoga, Kids And OT: They fit together like hand and glove”  by Christine and James Ristuccia, and Amanda Gretsch

A nice article that summarizes how yoga may assist in helping treat children with occupational issues such as sensory integration and developmental disorders, this article is informative for parents and caregivers in understanding the link between yoga and learning.  The article, by Christine and James Ristuccia and Amanda Gretsch, is featured in the March 14th, 2011 issue of Advance Magazine for Occupational Therapists.

http://occupational-therapy.advanceweb.com/Archives/Article-Archives/Yoga-Kids-And-OT.aspx

Check out  Christine Ristuccia’s cool products for kids yoga at: http://addriya.com/