Posts

The Digital Child - Building Occupational Therapy Cultural Competence--NAIDOC Week 2023

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'DIGITAL' CHILDREN Current issues about 'digital children include the ban on mobile phones in schools, which is soon to be introduced for Queensland, but already in place in other states of Australia. There is concern for the rise in cyber-bullying, which is most prevalent in the primary school age group. Inconsistencies abound for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in schools, and uncertainty around the use of new digital platforms, especially with overseas connections. Parents worry about data harvesting and sensitivities about what they post about children on social media. Some use parent control applications.  The  ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child website addresses, 'What are the best ways of supporting children's participation in digital technologies?'  Many children are referred for occupational therapy with parent/teacher requests around concerns with emotional regulation, sensory modulation, and the need for nature play--with worries ...

Fishing -- Bayside Recreation and Adaptations

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Many Bayside residents enjoy fishing on the jetty, rock wall, or near the boat ramp at Wynnum Creek. We take many of the skills for granted in being able to go fishing alone, or with family and friends. This raises opportunities to explore fishing to consider how the occupation can be modified for those with difficulties using conventional methods. Not everyone can clamber over rocks and balance on slippery, wet surfaces. " Sunset Fishing Manly Dam " by  Fletcher Arrastia  is licensed under  CC BY-SA 4.0 .  Occupational therapists refer to 'occupations' as things that people want or need to do, not necessarily paid employment . Fishing may be work, recreation, or a living skill--depending on the meaning and purpose to the individual or community. Being able to fish is a valued occupation for many people who like to get out and socialise with friends. It can be seen as relaxation or freedom to some. The process of activity analysis involves breaking down an activity ...

New Adventures: Preparing for Term 3, 2023

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New Learning and Lifestyle We have moved house and occupational therapy practice to Wynnum-Manly in the beautiful Brisbane Bayside. This area is familiar to me because I grew up at Cannon Hill and have friends still living in the area. I love walking along the waterfront in the mornings, and meeting up for coffee. Referrals are starting to come in for occupational therapy, music, and community cultural development. Sandra enjoying a lifestyle change to the beautiful Bayside I'm now preparing for Term 3 -- investigating local communities, meeting support coordinators/service providers, and identifying gaps in services. I've circulated my new business cards to GPs and health services to request referrals for Medicare, NDIS and private health. Also, I've been visiting playgrounds, toilets, community garden, and checking out access and mobility. Happy to chat about ideas and plans. I bulk-bill Medicare for those who live within 30 minutes drive from my home base at Wynnum Wes...