Last June, the Holy Cross Health Family Health Center opened in Oakland Park, becoming the only health care facility in Northeast Broward County to provide pediatric occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech language therapy under one roof. The Pediatric Therapy Clinic serves pediatric patients of all developmental stages from birth to age 21. It features a sensory gym and low stimulation room for those who experience sensory processing difficulties, including individuals on the autism spectrum. These differences can impact how children process visual cues, bright lights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures. Their vestibular (balance), proprioception (body awareness) and interoception (internal bodily states) can also be affected.
Through a thorough evaluation process, we customize an individualized treatment plan for each of our patients. We help children navigate their world with confidence by integrating sensory activities during therapy that promote efficient processing, teaching practical strategies for home, school and community, and provide self-regulation tools to help children understand and advocate for their own needs.
Play is central to our therapy. Our sensory gym includes a range of equipment, including a tactile caterpillar, tunnel, wooden slide, variety of swings, rock wall, scooters and pressure-sensitive floor panels, all designed to provide sensory input while helping children develop movement, strength, coordination and body awareness. Meanwhile, the low stimulation room features ambient lighting, calming bubble tubes, bean bag chairs, a soft rocking chair, a Lite-Brite, and touchable fiberoptic lights that glow and change color. These tools help children stay calm and regulate their sensory systems, so they feel safe, focused and ready to engage in learning.
In the short time since our clinic has been open, we have been privileged to witness remarkable progress in the children we serve. Our very first patient is one of our greatest success stories. He was struggling to cope with overwhelming sensory experiences at home and school. His frustration sometimes led to non-compliant behaviors including hitting and pushing his peers, which made daily routines and classroom participation difficult. The sensory equipment in our gym helped soothe him, and he learned self-regulation techniques to recognize and control his feelings. With the involvement of his parents and teachers, he applied these lessons at home and school. After a few months, his progress was remarkable, and he recently received an award for outstanding behavior at school. This is a testament to what thoughtful, sensory-informed intervention and consistent support can achieve…