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We're joined by Renee Mathews, an occupational therapist known for her innovative activity ideas geared toward kids both indoors and out. This lively conversation dives into Renee's journey from working in inpatient rehab to becoming a leader in the world of school-based teletherapy, where she helps students and families access vital OT services no matter where they are.

We'll chat about the ins and outs of teletherapy, exploring what it looks like for families in remote areas or those who choose virtual schooling, and how occupational therapy can be adapted creatively for the online space. Renee shares her process for developing fun, accessible activities that support kids' body awareness, motor skills, and overall development—using everyday household items and a spark of creativity! Plus, you'll hear practical tips for parents considering teletherapy, advice for building an at-home OT toolkit, and resources to help keep kids moving and engaged throughout the year.

Whether you're new to occupational therapy or looking for inspiration to shake up your daily routine, this episode is packed with fresh ideas, expert wisdom, and plenty of encouragement for both parents and professionals.

In this episode you'll hear about:

• Renee Mathews' professional journey
• Education: Master's in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University
• Initial work in inpatient rehabilitation and transition to school-based OT
• Experience coaching a Special Olympics unified track and field team
• Move to teletherapy in 2019, especially with COVID-19's onset
• Creation of digital resources (YouTube, Instagram, Teachers Pay Teachers)
• Current role as a teletherapy clinical manager
• Teletherapy: What It Looks Like and Who It Serves
• Teletherapy as an option for families far from OT services or choosing virtual education
• Roles of caregivers, schools, and support staff in teletherapy
• Dispelling myths about teletherapy
• Flexibility: Activities can be hands-on, in different environments (even outdoors)
• Creativity and adaptability required for effective teletherapy sessions
• Considerations for Choosing Teletherapy
• How to find a teletherapist
• Through school assignments, private providers, or online searches
• Assessing whether teletherapy is the right fit
• Activities for Body Awareness and Movement
• Renee's approach to designing activities
• Engaging her audience for feedback on needed activities
• Theming activities (e.g., summer-themed surfboard video)
• Making activities accessible using common household items
• Tips to adapt video pace for varying child needs
• Importance of movement for children

Links and Resources From Today's Show

• Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?
• Connect with Sarah Collins on IG
• The Homeschool OT Teachers Pay Teachers
• Executive Functioning For Teens Course
• Handwriting Motor Assessment
• Connect With Renee On IG
• Connect With Renee On Youtube
• Miss Renee's Teachers Pay Teachers
• Episode 5: Beyond 20/20 vision: understanding crucial aspects of visual assessment in children
• Episode 6: Harnessing the Great Outdoors for Visual Development and Learning
• Episode 7: How Form Drawing Supports Vision, Handwriting, and Academics
• Episode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting Success
• Episode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling Perspective
• Episode 21: Exploring Primitive Reflexes: From Birth to Integration
• Episode 22: Supporting Children Through Play-Based Reflex Integration
• Episode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better Handwriting
• Episode 24: Understanding the Handwriting Journey: Tools and Techniques for Homeschoolers
• Episode 37: Reading, Writing, and Growing: The Bigger Picture of Developing Fine Motor Skills in Children
• Episode 55: Understanding Dysgraphia: Tools and Strategies for Homeschoolers

Connect With Our Guest, Renee Mathews

Renee is a licensed occupational therapist with a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University. She brings extensive experience across diverse settings, including inpatient rehabilitation, private and public schools, and teletherapy. Throughout her career, she has supported a wide range of populations and collaborated closely with families navigating both asynchronous and synchronous virtual learning environments. Renee is highly skilled in the use of teletherapy tools/resources and has developed original educational content to support therapists, educators, and families. Under the brand "Miss Renee OT," she shares resources through platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Teachers Pay Teachers. Currently, she serves as a clinical manager, providing guidance to therapists and school districts to ensure student needs are met with evidence-based, individualized support.