• How Play-Based Reflex Integration Helped My Child Thrive at Home, School & Socially | Ep 35
    Sep 21 2025

    Watch how play, patience, and RITP is helping a little boy grow into a confident, curious, and strong young man!Today Sarah Wen shares her journey as the mother of 4-year-old Robert, who faced challenges with motor planning, muscle tone, and emotional regulation, with Kokeb. Through Reflex Integration Through Play™ (RITP), Sarah found a supportive, play-based approach that helped Robert build strength, confidence, and independence. From learning to ride a bike to thriving in social settings and even managing daily routines with joy, Robert’s transformation has reshaped his entire family dynamic. Sarah highlights the power of incorporating exercises into everyday life, the role of the RITP app in keeping consistency and motivation high, and the peace that comes from seeing her son flourish.Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, this testimony shines a light on how RITP can make an incredible difference for children struggling with retained reflexes, motor planning delays, or emotional regulation.Episode Highlights

    00:00 Meet Sarah Wen and her son Robert01:00 Early challenges: torticollis, plagiocephaly, weak muscle tone, and emotional regulation struggles02:30 How motor planning delays affected confidence and social life04:00 First impressions and hesitation about RITP05:00 How a school OT introduced the family to reflex integration therapy06:00 Play-based therapy using cars and favorite toys to motivate Robert07:00 The RITP app: making home exercises fun and manageable09:00 Building exercises into daily routines (bedtime, reading, hallway games)10:00 Overcoming initial reluctance with sticker charts and progress motivation12:00 Breakthroughs: independence, bike riding, better sleep, trying new activities14:00 Emotional, physical, social, and academic improvements16:00 Transformation in family dynamics and home life17:00 Positive feedback from teachers, peers, and grandparents18:00 Reduced parental stress and healthier family rhythms19:00 Sarah’s encouragement to other parents considering RITP20:00 Final reflections: three words that describe Robert now

    • Learn more about the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ Certification program at https://ritp.info/certification
    • Previous episodes and resources: RITP Podcast


    👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧Working to integrate reflexes at home? Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox. https://ritp.info/7-steps📱RITP Reference App📱Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos!https://ritp.info/app📚BOOKS📚 https://amzn.to/3R1hoE5Our best-selling Reflex Integration Through Play book series is available now!✅ Moro Reflex✅ Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex ✅ Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex ✅ Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex ✅ Spinal Galant Reflex🌟COMMUNITY🌟 Connect with us inside our FREE Facebook group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695

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    22 mins
  • A Collaboration between RITP and SJSU – Bringing Specialized Training for OT Students | Ep 34
    Sep 14 2025

    With Guest: Dr. Courtney Boitano, San José State University

    Reflex Integration Through Play™ is moving from clinics to classrooms—and now to the university level! In this episode, Kokeb and Dr. Courtney Boitano share how RITP is shaping future occupational therapists with hands-on, play-based training that bridges the gap between theory and practice.

    Dr. Boitano - OT, professor, and capstone coordinator at San José State University - talks about integrating reflex-based, play-centered training into OT education. She shares her journey from pediatric practice to academia, how she discovered RITP, and why giving OT students hands-on experience with reflex integration creates the “missing link” between theory and practice. Together, they discuss piloting a bridge program for students, the importance of observation skills, and how reflex integration through play transforms not only classrooms but also therapy outcomes for children and families.

    Whether you’re an OT student, educator, or seasoned therapist, this episode highlights how collaboration is reshaping the future of occupational therapy.


    Dr. Courtney Boitano has been a practicing OT since 2007. She is currently the capstone coordinator at San Jose State University in San Jose, California. Her primary practice area is pediatrics and school-based practice. She is also the owner of OT Outside and works with children in private schools and in their homes.


    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Courtney Boitano and her background in pediatrics and academia

    03:00 – Why reflex integration wasn’t taught in traditional OT programs

    04:00 – How Kokeb’s OT Schoolhouse interview led to this partnership

    06:30 – SJSU students using RITP books and games in real sessions

    08:00 – Making reflex integration practical and functional for clients

    13:30 – Creating a “bridge program” to mentor new OTs after graduation

    17:00 – Building student confidence with mentorship and applied learning

    18:30 – Shifting OT perspectives on reflex integration as functional, play-based practice

    21:00 – Why results matter: transforming skepticism into support

    23:00 – Reflexes as the missing link in treatment planning

    25:00 – Post-pandemic challenges in pediatrics and the value of group/social therapy

    26:30 – Advice for OT students and professors: the power of observation and hands-on learning


    🎓 Learn more about Reflex Integration Through Play™ Certification: https://ritp.info/certification

    🌐 Connect with Dr. Courtney Boitano - San José State University OT Program https://www.otoutside.com/

    📘 RITP Reflex Integration Book & Game: https://ritp.info/resources

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    26 mins
  • Reflex Integration Through Play™: Real Results Shared by a Parent | Ep 33
    Sep 7 2025

    What if just six months of playful therapy could transform your child’s focus, strength, and even their spine? In this inspiring parent interview, you’ll hear how Reflex Integration Through Play™ (RITP) has changed one family’s life.

    In this heartfelt episode, Kokeb speaks with Jeanine Allen, a disability attorney and devoted mom, who shares her powerful story of walking alongside her daughter’s journey with Reflex Integration Through Play™ (RITP). Diagnosed with a rare chromosome deletion, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and motor challenges, Jeanine’s daughter faced overwhelming obstacles in daily life—from feeding difficulties and poor balance to limited communication and social engagement.

    Through the support of an RITP-certified occupational therapist and consistent practice with the RITP app, Jeanine witnessed life-changing improvements. Within weeks, her daughter began focusing better, following multi-step instructions, and even engaging socially with peers. Over six months, her physical strength, emotional calm, and academic participation grew dramatically—surprising even her medical specialists with changes that “should not have happened.”

    Jeanine’s testimony offers hope and encouragement to parents navigating similar challenges, highlighting how RITP’s playful, structured approach can unlock new levels of growth and independence for children with complex needs.


    Episode Highlights:

    0:00 – Meet Jeanine Allen, disability attorney and parent of an RITP child

    1:00 – Her daughter’s rare genetic condition and early medical challenges

    2:00 – Daily struggles with feeding, mobility, communication, and independence

    3:45 – Discovering RITP through occupational therapy

    4:30 – Breaking down exercises (like snow angels) into achievable steps

    5:00 – Remarkable spinal changes confirmed by orthopedics

    6:00 – Improvements in listening, responding, and following directions

    7:00 – Using the RITP app daily at home to build consistency

    8:30 – Emotional growth: reduced anxiety, more peace, classroom focus

    9:30 – Physical milestones: climbing stairs, stronger grip, improved balance

    10:30 – Academic and social gains—peer play, group tasks, classroom engagement

    12:00 – Rapid results noticed by teachers, therapists, and riding instructors

    14:00 – How the therapist tailored sessions with compassion and teamwork

    15:30 – Parent stress relief and greater confidence at home

    16:30 – Transformation in three words: Focused, Stronger, Less Anxious

    17:00 – Why Jeanine encourages all parents to try RITP


    👉 Learn more about the Reflex Integration Through Play™ Certification program here: https://ritp.info/certification

    👉 Explore the RITP App for guided exercises and video demonstrations.

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    19 mins
  • Functional OT and Reflex Integration Skills | Ep 32
    Aug 31 2025

    Are you struggling to connect reflex integration with real-life therapy goals? In this episode, Kokeb unpacks how to connect reflex integration work with meaningful functional goals in occupational therapy. While many therapists can identify retained reflex patterns, translating that knowledge into daily treatment sessions can feel overwhelming. Kokeb shares practical strategies for linking reflex patterns to functional outcomes, following developmental progressions, using done-for-you home and school programs, and embedding reflex work into purposeful play. She also highlights the importance of clinical observation, so therapists can better assess how reflexes impact movement and participation. Whether you’re working on handwriting, fine motor development, or social play, this episode will help you create treatment plans that are measurable, trackable, and truly functional.

    Episode Highlights -

    • 00:00 – The challenge of bridging reflex integration with functional therapy goals
    • 01:00 – Why reflex goals alone don’t meet functional needs
    • 02:00 – Linking reflex patterns (e.g., palmar grasp) to functional outcomes like handwriting
    • 03:00 – Using developmental milestones as a treatment framework
    • 04:00 – The importance of revisiting foundational skills for lasting growth
    • 05:00 – How the RITP app and done-for-you programs support therapists, parents, and schools
    • 06:30 – Embedding reflex work into purposeful play-based sessions
    • 08:00 – Making therapy engaging through obstacle courses and child-led play
    • 09:00 – Building stronger clinical observation skills to identify reflex patterns in natural play
    • 11:00 – How to create treatment plans that are measurable, repeatable, and trackable


    👉 Learn more about the Reflex Integration Through Play™ Certification Program - https://ritp.info/certification

    👉 Explore the RITP App & Done-for-You Programs - https://ritp.info/app


    👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓

    For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists


    👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧

    Working to integrate reflexes at home? ⁠Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox⁠. https://ritp.info/7-steps


    📱RITP Reference App📱

    Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos! ⁠https://ritp.info/app⁠


    📚BOOKS📚

    Our best-selling Reflex Integration Through Play book series is available now: ⁠https://amzn.to/3R1hoE5⁠

    !✅ Moro Reflex

    ✅ Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

    ✅ Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

    ✅ Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex

    ✅ Spinal Galant Reflex


    🌟COMMUNITY🌟

    Connect with us inside our FREE Facebook group ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695⁠

    ReflexIntegration #OccupationalTherapy #PediatricOT #FunctionalSkills #ChildDevelopment #Reflexes #TherapistTips #ReflexIntegrationThroughPlay #RITP #PediatricTherapy


    SUBSCRIBE to our channel to receive free occupational therapy resources.

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    11 mins
  • From Overwhelm to Organized: Streamlining Your Pediatric OT Treatment Planning | Ep31
    Aug 24 2025

    Ever feel like you spend more time planning than treating? In this episode, Kokeb McDonald tackles the overwhelm many pediatric OTs face when it comes to treatment planning. Instead of drowning in endless prep work and scattered resources, discover how to create clear, focused, and effective session plans that prioritize progress. Kokeb shares practical strategies like starting with targeted screenings, applying the “one thing” approach, embedding repetition and carryover through home and classroom programs, collaborating with the child’s team, and incorporating the child’s personal interests for better engagement. Learn how to simplify your planning so you can focus on what matters most—helping kids thrive.

    Episode Highlights-

    00:00 – Why pediatric OTs feel overwhelmed with treatment planning-

    01:00 – How a targeted screening (like the RITP Screening Checklist) sets the foundation-

    02:00 – Choosing 1–3 goals per session for clarity and success-

    03:00 – Applying the “one thing” approach from *The One Thing*-

    04:00 – Embedding repetition and carryover through home and classroom programs-

    05:00– Leveraging the RITP app’s done-for-you programs-

    06:00 – Collaborating with parents, educators, and other service providers-

    07:00 – Tailoring treatment to a child’s personal interests for better motivation-

    08:30 – How to involve the child directly in home practice-

    09:00 – Wrapping up: streamlining planning to reduce burnout and improve outcomes

    Resources Mentioned-

    👉 Learn more about the Reflex Integration Through Play™ Certification program: https://ritp.info/certification

    - *The One Thing* by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

    👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓

    For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists


    👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧

    Working to integrate reflexes at home? Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox. https://ritp.info/7-steps


    📱RITP Reference App📱

    Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos! https://ritp.info/app


    📚BOOKS📚

    Our best-selling Reflex Integration Through Play book series is available now: https://amzn.to/3R1hoE5

    !✅ Moro Reflex

    ✅ Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

    ✅ Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

    ✅ Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex

    ✅ Spinal Galant Reflex


    🌟COMMUNITY🌟

    Connect with us inside our FREE Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695

    #PediatricOT #ReflexIntegration #RITP #OccupationalTherapy #ChildDevelopment #OTTreatmentPlanning #OTTips #TherapyTools #OTBurnoutPrevention #SensoryIntegration

    SUBSCRIBE to our channel to receive free occupational therapy resources.

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    11 mins
  • The Overlooked Link Between Vision Problems & ADHD Symptoms | Ep 30
    Aug 17 2025
    What if that child’s “attention problem” isn’t ADHD or behavior at all—but a hidden vision challenge that’s been overlooked? In this episode of the Reflex Integration Through Play™ podcast, pediatric OT Kokeb McDonald uncovers the surprising link between visual skills, primitive reflexes, and attention, sharing research, real-life examples, and strategies every therapist and educator should know.While many children (and adults) are referred for self-regulation or sensory issues, underlying visual skills—rather than vision clarity—may be the real culprit. Kokeb shares research linking visual problems to ADHD-like symptoms, explains how primitive reflexes impact vision and attention, and outlines what therapists should look for in holistic screenings. You’ll also learn practical ways to identify signs of visual fatigue, task avoidance, and postural challenges so interventions can be more effective from the start. This episode encourages therapists to consider vision as part of the “whole child” approach and provides resources to help you sharpen your clinical skills.Episode Highlights -01:00 – Why “visual” is different from “vision”03:00 – Attention as a whole-body skill, not just cognitive05:00 – How postural control and vestibular input affect focus06:00 – Signs of visual attention challenges: gaze shifts, fatigue, distractibility08:00 – Task avoidance and fine motor impacts09:00 – How retained reflexes interfere with vision and attention11:00 – The role of peripheral vision and spatial awareness in safety and anxiety12:00 – Research linking visual problems to ADHD-like symptoms14:30 – Why vision screening is part of RITP’s holistic approach16:00 – Case example: attention challenges tied to visual deficits17:00 – Importance of screening across all developmental domains18:30 – Collaborating with specialists and educating parents19:30 – Whole-child approach to attention: integrating vision screening into treatment plans Links and Resources Mentioned - ⁠Eye Tests, Exams & Therapy for Kids and Adults with ADD/ADHD⁠⁠**⁠⁠https://www.visiondevelopmentcenter.com/best-eye-exam-is-vision-exam/vision-therapy-for-add-adhd-eyes-attention-disorders/**⁠⁠Undiagnosed eye problems can affect children’s learning⁠⁠**⁠⁠https://www.aoa.org/news/inside-optometry/aoa-news/aoa-president-champions-back-to-school-eye-exams-in-nationwide-media-blitz**⁠⁠Understanding Overlap Between Vision Problems and Attention Challenges⁠⁠https://www.insightvisionoc.com/vision-therapy/understanding-the-overlap-between-vision-problems-and-attention-challenges/⁠👉 Learn more about the Visual Skills and Primitive Reflexes course here: ⁠https://ritp.info/visual⁠👉 Learn about the RITP Certification Program: ⁠https://ritp.info/certification⁠👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧Working to integrate reflexes at home? Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox. https://ritp.info/7-steps📱RITP Reference App📱Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos! https://ritp.info/appConnect with us inside our FREE Facebook group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695 SUBSCRIBE to receive free occupational therapy resources.
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    20 mins
  • How Retained Primitive Reflexes Influence Vision and Learning | Ep 29
    Aug 11 2025
    It wasn’t until Kokeb took her own children to a vision therapist that everything clicked. What she discovered changed how she viewed reflex integration—and how it could transform outcomes for other kids, too.In this episode of the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ podcast, host Kokeb McDonald explores how unintegrated primitive reflexes can disrupt visual development in children—often leading to behavioral, learning, or postural challenges in the classroom. Sharing personal experience as both a pediatric OT and a parent, Kokeb discusses how early visual issues like poor eye teaming and tracking can be misdiagnosed as attention disorders, and why a holistic assessment approach is crucial. She outlines several reflexes—such as ATNR, STNR, TLR, and the Landau reflex—and their impact on visual coordination, posture, balance, and functional classroom skills.Kokeb encourages therapists, educators, and parents to work collaboratively with vision therapists and emphasizes the importance of functional-based reflex screening. Whether you're a therapist seeking better evaluation tools, a parent wanting answers, or an educator noticing attention issues in the classroom, this episode highlights the critical (but often overlooked) link between vision and reflex integration.Episode highlights:[02:30] Why vision therapists prioritize reflex work before visual skills training[03:30] Overview: What are primitive reflexes?[05:00] Developmental role of reflex patterns in early life[06:30] How vision is influenced by reflexes like ATNR, STNR, TLR, and Landau[08:00] Importance of tummy time for head control and early vision development[09:00] Why therapists need full, holistic training to address retained reflexes[10:00] Case study: Smart child struggling with group tasks due to vision issues[12:30] Visual screening revealed lack of eye teaming and midline crossing[14:00] Classroom signs: full-body movement instead of isolated head movement, poor eye contact[15:30] Functional red flags: messy handwriting, visual fatigue, letter reversals[17:00] Importance of integrating vision, vestibular, and balance assessments[18:00] Final reminder to collaborate with vision therapists and other professionals[19:00] Access the online course and learn play-based screening and activitiesEpisode Links:Eye Tests, Exams & Therapy for Kids and Adults with ADD/ADHD**https://www.visiondevelopmentcenter.com/best-eye-exam-is-vision-exam/vision-therapy-for-add-adhd-eyes-attention-disorders/**Undiagnosed eye problems can affect children’s learning**https://www.aoa.org/news/inside-optometry/aoa-news/aoa-president-champions-back-to-school-eye-exams-in-nationwide-media-blitz**Understanding Overlap Between Vision Problems and Attention Challengeshttps://www.insightvisionoc.com/vision-therapy/understanding-the-overlap-between-vision-problems-and-attention-challenges/👉 Learn more about the Visual Skills and Primitive Reflexes course here: https://ritp.info/visual👉 Learn about the RITP Certification Program: https://ritp.info/certification👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧Working to integrate reflexes at home? Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox. https://ritp.info/7-steps📱RITP Reference App📱Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos! https://ritp.info/appConnect with us inside our FREE Facebook group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695 SUBSCRIBE to receive free occupational therapy resources.
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    19 mins
  • Why Vision Is More Than 20/20 – The Missing Piece in Learning & Behavior | Ep 28
    Aug 3 2025
    In this eye-opening episode of the Reflex Integration Through Play™ podcast, host Kokeb McDonald dives into one of the most misunderstood and under-assessed areas in child development—functional vision. You’ll learn why passing a 20/20 vision test doesn’t necessarily mean a child can see well enough to learn, focus, and thrive. Kokeb breaks down the three critical components of vision: acuity, efficiency, and processing, and explores how retained primitive reflexes—like the ATNR and TLR—can affect a child’s visual development and performance. She also explains the importance of collaborating with vision specialists, recognizing red flags in both children and adults, and using purposeful, play-based activities to support visual development.You’ll walk away with practical strategies to observe visual inefficiencies, partner effectively with other professionals, and implement the RITP play-based approach using the Visual Skills & Primitive Reflex Development Course, with a live training and Q&A coming up August 29.Episode highlights:01:00 – The 3 parts of vision: acuity, efficiency, and processing02:45 – Real-world examples of vision challenges beyond 20/20 eyesight04:00 – Symptoms and behavior that may signal visual system overload05:15 – Eye-opening stat: 1 in 4 children have undiagnosed vision problems06:30 – How vision issues affect development, school, self-esteem, and adulthood07:10 – The impact of retained reflexes (ATNR, TLR, Palmar, etc.) on visual development08:45 – Why crossing midline isn’t just physical—it’s visual too09:50 – The importance of muscle coordination and perception in vision11:30 – Kokeb’s personal reflections on missing vision screening as an OT12:20 – Observable signs of visual fatigue and dysfunction in therapy and classroom14:30 – Partnering with vision therapists and developmental optometrists15:30 – How RITP’s play-based approach supports visual development16:50 – Movement breaks and classroom-friendly tracking activities for teachers18:10 – Some simple screening examples: tracking, convergence/divergence, etc19:30 – Vision’s role in behavior mislabeling and creating accurate treatment plansImportant research on vision:Eye Tests, Exams & Therapy for Kids and Adults with ADD/ADHDUndiagnosed eye problems can affect children’s learningUnderstanding Overlap Between Vision Problems and Attention Challenges👉 Visual Skills and Primitive Reflex Development Course https://www.integratingreflexes.com/courses/visual-skill-and-primitive-reflex-development/👉 Certification Program Link: https://ritp.info/certification👩🏽‍🎓 FOR THERAPISTS 👨🏼‍🎓For pediatric OTs and service providers, our 5-step Reflex Integration Through Play™️ program will give you the knowledge, tools, and experience to confidently help your clients reach their developmental goals with less stress, while having more fun. https://ritp.info/therapists👩‍👧‍👦 FOR PARENTS 👨‍👧‍👧Working to integrate reflexes at home? Get the 7 Steps to an At-Home Therapy Program for free in your inbox. https://ritp.info/7-steps📱RITP Reference App📱Check out our Reflex Integration Through Play mobile app, with all our exercises, including videos! https://ritp.info/app📚BOOKS📚 https://amzn.to/3R1hoE5Our best-selling Reflex Integration Through Play book series:✅ Moro Reflex✅ Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex ✅ Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex ✅ Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex ✅ Spinal Galant Reflex🌟COMMUNITY🌟 Connect with us inside our FREE Facebook group!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1629371470539695 SUBSCRIBE to receive free occupational therapy resources.
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    21 mins