Moorestown Clinic Launches New Programs To Help Kids Keep Routines, Fight Distractions

MOORESTOWN, NJ — The freedom and fun of a spring break or summer vacation can often times lead to a few other side effects most parents and children don't think about.

Wright Choice Therapy, a pediatric therapy clinic, just concluded its series of new programs to fight dysregulation, behavioral challenges, and increased stress at home.

"Breaks from school sound great in theory, but for many children, especially those with sensory or developmental needs, the lack of routine can lead to frustration, boredom, and difficulty managing emotions," said Jaclyn Heineman, an Occupational Therapist at "Wright Choice."

As the group gears up for future offerings, they are looking back at the past week's successes, including a parent/caregiver art workshop alongside children as they dive into bold colors, build fine motor skills, attention, and shared social interactions.

"A lack of structure within daily routines is often a key factor leading to increased distractions and unhelpful habits at home," Heineman told Patch. "Many children thrive on the predictability of consistent morning, school, and evening routines."

To combat these detractors, Wright implements sensory and social skills groups into their workshops that help children self-regulate, communicate, and engage.

Common signs that your child may be struggling, according to Heineman, include:

• Difficulty with moving forward in the day (such as leaving the house and getting dressed)
• More frequent meltdowns or heightened emotional reactions to small issues
• Challenges completing tasks
• An increased reliance on screens
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Resisting previously-enjoyed activities.

Changes in sleep patterns, decreased appetites or awareness of hunger cues, increased seeking or avoidance behaviors, and difficulty settling the body for daily routines should also be considered.

"The most rewarding part of seeing a child's journey...is watching them thrive again in their home and community environments," Heineman said. "I also value supporting families in understanding their child's nervous system and empowering them with strategies to help their child fully participate in the routines and experiences that matter most to them."

Wright Choice will be launching new collaborations in the near future with a local music company and a local art group, but Heineman wants families to know they don't need to wait to start seeing a difference.

"Moorestown has so many great opportunities to continue building the skills we work on in therapy in a fun, natural way. I often recommend local parks or Kid Strong. These spaces are great for climbing, swinging, and running, which support overall regulation," she added.

The Moorestown Library or local events also offer great opportunities for kids to interact with others, follow routines, and manage moving in real-life settings.

Visit the Wright Choice Therapy website for more on their future programs and tools you can use to support your child to achieve their full potential.

The clinic is located at 312 Route 38 Suite 105 in Moorestown.

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