When my kids started therapy, I had every intention of being the mom who did all the recommended home exercises. Spoiler alert: That lasted about three days. Between medical appointments, everyday chaos, and trying to squeeze in a little bit of normal family time, sitting down to do structured therapy activities felt impossible.

1. I Stopped “Doing Therapy” and Started Playing Instead

At first, I thought home therapy for kids meant setting aside dedicated time to run through exercises like a pro therapist. Turns out, that’s not realistic for us. Instead, I figured out how to sneak therapy into playtime so it actually happens.

✔ Obstacle courses for gross motor skills

✔ Bubble blowing for oral motor work

✔ Building with blocks for fine motor skills

✔ Singing silly songs for speech practice

If my kid thinks we’re just playing, he’s way more into it. And honestly? So am I.

2. Sensory Toys Are My Secret Weapon

Some days, I just don’t have the energy to lead activities. That’s when sensory toys do the work for me.

Other sensory must-haves:

✔ Textured balls for grip strength

✔ Chewable necklaces for oral sensory needs

The key? If they love it, they’ll actually use it.

3. I Lowered the Bar (Then Lowered It Again)

There was a time when I thought we needed to do all the therapy exercises, every single day. That’s cute. Now? If we do one small thing a day, I call it a win.

Some days, that means practicing standing for 10 seconds. Other days, it means full-on therapy play. Either way, progress is progress.

4. I Avoid These Common Mistakes

I’ve learned a few things the hard way, so let me save you some stress:

🚫 Trying to do it all. Therapy should fit into your life, not take it over. Pick one goal at a time.

🚫 Being too rigid. Some days, your kid won’t be in the mood. That’s okay.

🚫 Forgetting to rest. Burnout helps no one—breaks are productive, too.

5. I Celebrate Every Tiny Win

When you’re deep in therapy life, it’s easy to focus on what still needs work. But every step forward matters.

✔ Holding a toy with two hands? Cheer.

✔ Signing “more” without help? Cheer.

✔ Trying a new texture? Cheer.

Yes, I absolutely throw a mini party over the smallest things. Because to us, they aren’t small.

6. I Stopped Comparing & Started Trusting Our Own Pace

At one point, I stressed myself out comparing my child’s progress to others. Now, I remind myself:

✨ Every child’s journey looks different.

✨ Some weeks, therapy will happen. Some weeks, it won’t.

✨ A happy, engaged parent is more important than a perfect therapy schedule.

Your child needs you—present, patient, and willing to try. That’s enough.

So, Does This Mean I Have It All Figured Out?

Absolutely not. But I’ve found what works for us. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, know this—you’re not failing. You’re adjusting. And that’s exactly what good parents do.

For more tips on managing life after the NICU, check out my post:
NICU Discharge Survival: Our First Year

Need More Help Staying on Top of Therapy at Home?

If you’re looking for a simple, stress-free way to track therapy goals, appointments, and progress, check out my Medical Mom Reset Workbook—designed to help busy parents stay organized without the overwhelm.

And if all else fails? Hand them a sensory toy and call it a day.

**Heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase. I only recommend things I actually love and use in my own medical mom life!