If your child struggles to get started on tasks, forgets things easily, or has big reactions when plans change, you’re not alone. These challenges are often connected to executive functioning, which we often describe as the set of skills that help kids manage themselves, their thoughts, and their actions in everyday life. At Puzzle Pieces, […]
Understanding Executive Function in Kids Read More »
Gaming is a huge part of childhood today. For many kids, it’s where they connect, explore their identity, and feel capable. For many parents, it can also become one of the biggest daily stress points. If turning the game off leads to meltdowns, bedtime battles, or your child “disappearing” into a screen, you are not
Untangling Problematic Gaming: A Guide for Parents Read More »
Family life can be joyful, messy, challenging, and everything in between, especially when a child is experiencing big emotions, developmental differences, or behavioral concerns. Family therapy isn’t about identifying a “problem child” or assigning blame, but about strengthening connection, increasing empathy, and helping the family function as a more regulated and supported team. Whether you’re
Your Guide to Family Therapy at Puzzle Pieces Read More »
When it comes to child development, connection is essential. A relationship-based approach recognizes that children grow best through trust, emotional safety, and joyful interactions. At Puzzle Pieces, we use the DIRFloortime® model to foster meaningful relationships between children, caregivers, and therapists because we believe that every breakthrough begins with a bond. In this blog, we’ll
Connection First: A Relationship-Based Approach to Supporting Development Read More »
For many of us, Zoombinis brings back memories of elementary school computer labs and the irresistible urge to beat that quirky pizza troll. But for clinicians like Chloe MacDonald, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Puzzle Pieces, and Emma Silberman, Speech-Language Pathologist, this beloved 90s game is more than just nostalgic—it’s a powerful tool for building
Starting school can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for children with autism and their families. With shifting routines and navigating new environments, the transition to school requires thoughtful planning and support. Whether your child is entering preschool, kindergarten, or starting at a new school, there are simple but powerful ways to make the experience
Starting School With Autism: Tips to Ease the Transition Read More »
Do you find yourself constantly battling over screen time or wondering if your child’s obsession with video games, YouTube, or social media is more than “just a phase”? Problematic Interactive Media Use (PIMU) is a growing concern among families of kids and teens, and we are answering some frequently asked questions to help you understand
Is My Child Addicted to Screens? Read More »
Summer groups at Puzzle Pieces are the perfect place to support your child’s growth this summer. Our summer social learning groups are focused on fostering peer connections, strengthening play skills, and building confidence, all while feeling like a fun, camp-like experience! What do summer groups consist of? At Puzzle Pieces, we offer two types of
Summer Groups at Puzzle Pieces Read More »
Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can bring a wave of emotions: relief in having answers, uncertainty about next steps, and even a sense of overwhelm. You are not alone in this journey. While there is no single “right” path to take, there are many ways to build a support system to honor your
Navigating Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis Read More »
When children face emotional, social, or developmental challenges, it’s not always easy for them to express what they’re feeling or experiencing. This is where play therapy comes in. At Puzzle Pieces, we believe in the power of play to foster connection, support emotional growth, and help children thrive. Our therapists engage children through intentional, child-led
The Power of Play: How Play Therapy Helps Children Thrive Read More »
