The Future of OT: Tips from Tomorrow’s Therapists
Some kids find their rhythm in a quiet corner with a book. Others? They find it while spinning in circles, jumping off furniture, or practicing their best cartwheel mid-conversation. (We see you, tiny acrobats.)
We know that every child expresses themselves differently and that movement isn’t just fun, it’s functional. Whether we’re twirling across the floor or pressing pause in the peace corner, we use movement to support regulation, sensory needs, and self-expression for kids of all abilities.
We recently had the pleasure of working alongside two incredible Occupational Therapy students, Abby and Taylor. They brought a fresh perspective to our studio and helped us take a closer look at how movement supports child development in powerful, practical ways. Their research and ideas even helped shape class structures and routines in our studios.
In honor of their time with us (and the fact that we miss them), we’re sharing five signs your child might benefit from a movement-based program, plus some OT-inspired tips straight from the next generation of therapists.
1. They “bounce off the walls”
If your child can’t sit still, fidgets nonstop, or turns your living room into an obstacle course before breakfast, they may not just be full of energy; they may be craving structured movement.
Physical exploration is an important part of childhood development. It helps kids learn how to regulate their energy and emotions by connecting with their body and environment. At MOVE, we use rhythm, repetition, and choreography to turn all that energy into focus, fun, and self-awareness. (Bonus: we save your furniture from being turned into a jungle gym.)
2. They struggle with traditional classroom learning
Some kids learn best by sitting still and listening. Others need to move it to memorize it.
For kinesthetic learners, movement helps the brain retain information. That’s why we pair physical movement with learning tasks. Think following multi-step instructions, memorizing choreography, or working as a group. Suddenly, “learning” doesn’t feel like a chore; it feels like a dance break.
Want more tools like this for your classroom or program?
You’d probably love our Professional Development Workshop designed for teachers, paras, therapists, and homeschool parents who want to bring more movement into learning. We host it twice per year, so keep your eye out for the next one on our social media and website!
3. They love climbing, jumping, or crashing into things
You know the kid who turns every couch cushion into a launching pad? I’ve got one! Or who seems to need to crash into something just to feel settled? That’s actually called proprioceptive input, and it’s your child’s way of seeking deep pressure to regulate their nervous system and build body awareness.
We include obstacle courses and structured activities that help meet this need in a safe, supervised, “no, please don’t dive off the coffee table” kind of way.
4. They seek out spinning or hanging upside down
Your child’s urge to spin in circles or hang upside down on the monkey bars may look like play, but it’s actually doing important work for their vestibular system, the part of the body that helps with balance, coordination, and feeling grounded.
While it might make grown-ups dizzy just watching, these movements can be calming and regulating for kids. At MOVE, we create safe and supportive ways for children to get that input in class, from balance work to carefully structured activities that support sensory needs.
5. They have a hard time calming down after activity
Oh, transitions. They can be tough, especially for kids with sensory sensitivities or difficulty with regulation. That’s why we build in support systems like a quiet “peace corner,” predictable routines, and visual schedules that help kids feel safe, informed, and ready for what’s next, whether it’s starting class or winding down.
Sometimes, they just need to MOVE.
We believe every child deserves a place where they can feel free to explore, express, and grow on their own terms, and we’re honored to be that place for so many families. Plug, we’re endlessly inspired by the kids we serve and the professionals (like Abby and Taylor!) who help us do it better.
If anything in this blog made you think “Yep, that’s my kid,” then you’re in the right place. We’d love to welcome you into our circle.
