Occupational Therapy & Our Sensory Gym
BKS has a robust Occupational Therapy program and offers free OT services to all students who may benefit. Our Licensed Occupational Therapist visits each of our centers monthly. She also conducts sessions at our state-of-the-art Fran Bernstein Sensory Gym at our Weeksville Gardens Children’s Center in Crown Heights. A sensory gym is a gym-like environment with a variety of fun activities through which children can explore through their senses. We are thrilled to serve students in this incredible space!
What is OT?
Occupational therapy provides fun, physical, positive opportunities for children to learn new skills. OT sessions use a child-led, play-based approach to help children overcome obstacles and thrive in school (and all) environments. OT sessions help children to reach their fullest potential and be the best version of themselves.
What do children practice?
- Hand Skills Writing, manipulating buttons to dress themselves, using utensils during eating, playing with toys
- Self-Regulation Managing emotions, practicing frustration tolerance, responding adaptively to challenging situations
- Body Movement Learning how strong their bodies are, learning how to safely move around on a playground and in the classroom
- Social Skills Working on better communicating their wants/needs and how they play with their friends and classmates
Questions?
Colleen O’Neill, OTR/L
coneill@bksny.org
(718) 395-9001 ext.523
View photos from The Fran Bernstein Sensory Gym ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony honoring Mrs. Bernstein, her generosity, and her dedication to Brooklyn Kindergarten Society and our mission.