Fall Fun with Speech and OT
This fall in Speech and Occupational Therapy, we embraced all things fall with festive, hands-on activities! Students participated in edible crafts, games, reading comprehension exercises, multi-step direction tasks, and engaging fine and visual motor activities. One of the highlights was creating Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups in small groups.
The Benefits of Small Group Activities
Small group activities encourage social interaction and peer engagement while reinforcing both speech-language and occupational therapy goals. For this fun project, students used Oreos, candy corn, sprinkles, and pudding cups to build their pumpkin patches. They followed a visual recipe that guided them step-by-step through the process.
Occupational Therapy Skills in Action
During the activity, students practiced important occupational therapy skills, such as:
• Bilateral coordination: Using both hands to open/close containers.
• Visual attention and scanning: Maintaining focus and awareness of materials.
• Fine motor control: Scooping and pouring items.
Speach and Language Goals Achieved
• Sequencing: Following the steps of the recipe in order.
• Vocabulary Building: Identify and discussing target words.
• WH Questions: Answering prompts like “What does it taste like?”, “Where do pumpkins grow?”, and “When do we see them?”
Sweet Success!
The students had a great time working together and were excited to enjoy their delicious creations with peers!
This fun, collaborative activity not only supported therapy goals but also provided a sweet reward at the end.
