The gift of OT.

The holiday's are a OT's dream in the school world.
For one, I have to say 89% of OT have some crafting hobby.  Not to mention, the history of OT actually started with crafting. 

In the 1700's, during the "Age of Enlightenment", Occupational Therapy began to emerge. It was during this period that revolutionary ideas were evolving regarding the "infirmed" and mentally ill. At that time in history, the mentally ill were treated like prisoners; locked up and considered to be a danger to society.

It was the use of crafting, that taught the mentally ill new skills.  From how to socialize, to motor planning, to direction following.

In 1793, Phillipe Pinel began what was then called "Moral Treatment and Occupation", as an approach to treating people with mental illness.  Much later on, knowing to be Occupational Therapy.

In fact, the OT education still holds a great follow in the study of emotions and mental health.

Well, 1840-1860 were the "golden years" for the application of Moral Treatment and Occupation in American hospitals. It was during this time that the benefits of arts and crafts began to be noticed. Arts and crafts thus became a highly used activity to promote both relaxation and feelings of being productive, at the same time. A whole new approach was just about to emerge!

From the 1940's through the 1960's, the "Rehabilitation Movement" was in full force. With the thousands of injured soldiers (physically and mentally) returning home from the war, there was a surge in the demand for Occupational Therapists (or, OT's as we now call ourselves). At this point, OT's were not only treating the mentally ill who were already institutionalized, but began treating physical disabilities due to the injuries sustained in battle.

Using what tools??? CRAFTING

I tell you this, so you can see the history of OT, and the benefit doing crafts can be.  This isn't just a meanless task.  It has history!!  It's changed people of all kinds life.

So this season, think of your child as being apart of history in OT.  Making a gift for a loved one.  Creating a decoration for your home.  Inspiring a piece of art work that brings you and your child together, while adding 

Here are a few of my favorite ideas!!

Merry Hands .  Foam cut outs, and add for sparkle

 

 

 

sugar cookie fun!  A great gift for teacher, or party!

 

 

Something for the tree that a Aunt, Brother, Cousin, Friend.. and so on will LOVE!

 

 

 

I will be doing some fun activities with your children this month, and I hope they feel proud of the crafting skills they have.  Each of my students, your children, are what the spirit of Christmas is all about.  Joy, Happiness, and finding the fun or magic in a holiday gift.