Workshops 1. Try a Learning Disability on For Size. A hands-on workshop to sample the frustration children with visual or auditory processing dysfunction suffer in the classroom. 2. Getting a Grip on Handwriting. A video developed by the American Occupational Therapy Association and discussion of the component skills necessary for the development of fine motor coordination and legible writing, and classroom adaptations to assist the process. 3. Perceptual-Motor Delays in the Classroom. An overview of the normal development of the sensory, perceptual and motor system and the identification of variations of normal and points of true concern. 4. The Alert Program for Self-Regulation. A review of this systematic approach to teach children the sense of controlling their own activity level to match the environmental requirements using the analogy of an engine going too fast, too slow or just right. 5. Dysfunction in Sensory Integration. What is it? How is it diagnosed? How is it different from ADD/ADHD? What is the status of current research? Answers to these questions and more. 6. Developmental Dyspraxia in the Classroom. This subcategory of dysfunction in sensory integration disorder can be especially difficult for parents and teachers to understand and get a grip on how to manage in daily life.  7. Sensory Modulation Disorder. Formerly called sensory defensiveness or tactile defensiveness this subcategory of Dysfunction in sensory integration often stands alone. Understanding the reasons for the behaviors these children display and the basic theory of the neurology involved can help teachers and parents to adapt the environment while therapeutic intervention helps to diminish the symptoms. The Wilbarger Deep Pressure Protocol (Brushing Program) is also explained.  8. Alternative Medicine Options. An overview of other theoretic approaches to SI and ADHD beyond Western Medicine including Jin Shin (Japanese accupressure), homeopathy and myofascial release. 9. Learning About Learning Disabilities. A video produced by the University of Minnesota Occupational Therapy Department with re-enactments of various sensory, perceptual and motor coordination issues in the classroom, followed by discussion of the principles illustrated.  10. Vision and Visual Perception. Covers very basic anatomy and physiology of the eye, the oculomotor system and neurological processing of visual information. Includes the sequential development of visual perception development needed for reading. 11. Basic Postural Control. A quick overview of the development of the gross motor system and the how's and why's of good posture for efficient performance of learning and doing. Includes group and individual exercises children can complete at school or home. 12. Sensorimotor Fun. Group and individual activities to promote tactile and vestibular sensory development. 13. Why are Some Children Different? An overview of early childhood development from a sensory and motor standpoint. Covers auditory/listening development, speech and language acquisition, the development of balance, tactile and visual perception, motor planning and motor coordination. We also talk about how personalities can be affected by perceptual skill development, what can go wrong and the consequences. 14. Early Identification of Developmental Delays. Developmental milestones are reviewed with qualitative analysis. How children perform, not just what tasks they can complete, is important in identifying minimal lags. How to differentiate immaturity from deviant developmental patterns. When should you be concerned versus what a child will "outgrow." 15. Task Analysis. Learn to think like a therapist. This strategy can be used by teachers and parents to analyze how to teach a skill to a child. The audience practices breaking down everyday tasks into all of the component parts to see which pieces the child can easily complete, and precisely where the struggles lie. 16. Diagnosis and Treatment of ADD/ADHD. This session includes a basic overview of the information necessary to make a diagnosis, i.e. behavior rating scales, interview and standardized tests. Specific suggestions for dealing an ADD child one-to-one and in the classroom are then given. We are happy to talk to you about developing a program specific to parent and staff needs. Presentations can range from one hour to all day depending on the depth of information or the breadth of topic you would like to cover.