Written by Lisa Hughes, Founder of OTHC
It’s Term Four — we’ve made it! The Christmas decorations are already appearing in stores, holiday plans are being made, and for many children (and parents), the finish line is in sight.
Having guided my own daughter through 13 years of schooling and working with my own clients, I know this time of year well. Term Four is full of opportunity and excitement, but also challenges. Here are some of the strategies I’ve seen make a real difference for children and families during these busy final weeks of the school year.
Making the Most of OT Sessions
The start of Term Four often begins with a positive mood — the weather is warmer, energy is high, and students settle back in quickly. At school, however, teachers are racing to gather assessment results and prepare reports. Testing usually happens in the first couple of weeks, which means learning can ease off not long after.
This makes Term Four an ideal time to schedule intensive Occupational Therapy sessions. With the reduced pressure at school, children can focus on building skills they’ll need for a smooth start next year.
If possible, consider scheduling sessions during the school day rather than after school, when everyone is tired. I know from experience — it’s far more relaxing for both parent and child.
Keeping Routines Consistent
One of my biggest survival strategies for Term Four is routine. Predictability gives children a sense of control, helping them stay regulated even when things get busy. Unfortunately, routine during school hours can go out the window so routine at home is critical.
Use a visual schedule on the fridge so your child knows what’s happening before and after school each day.
Keep mornings and bedtimes consistent — sleep and nutrition are key for emotional regulation.
Prepare your child in advance for any changes, such as orientation days, concerts, or excursions. Mark them on the calendar and talk through what to expect.
Children cope so much better when they’re prepared, and it can ease anxiety significantly.
Managing Social Events and Sensory Overload
As we get closer to the end of the year, the invitations start rolling in — school concerts, end-of-year parties, Christmas gatherings. While these are wonderful, they can also be overwhelming for children.
Choose carefully which events you’ll attend. If you do go, keep an eye on your child and have an exit plan if they start to show signs of overload. A dysregulated child can take a whole day to recover from sensory overwhelm, so protecting their energy is just as important as participating.
The Value of Down Time
Children need down time — but not all down time is created equal. Devices and TV can sometimes add to stimulation, rather than reduce it.
Instead, try:
Quiet play in a cubby or darkened room
Reading alone without interruptions
A “mental health day” off school if your child is particularly worn out
Mindfulness activities can also be a wonderful tool. Apps such as Wellbeyond Meditation for Kids or DreamyKid are a gentle introduction. And if you’re after something more active, kids’ yoga (I particularly love animal-themed poses on Pinterest) can help the whole family reset.
Using Proprioception to Calm and Regulate
Heavy work, or proprioceptive activities, give the body feedback that helps children feel calm, centred, and organised. These are especially helpful before or after busy events.
Some simple activities include:
Bouncing on a trampoline
Push ups or wall push ups
Animal walks (bear, crab, frog)
Commando crawls
Wrestling games or pillow squashes
Climbing trees or playground equipment
Rolling your child tightly in a blanket “like a burrito”
These activities provide body awareness and a sense of calm that can make a huge difference in daily regulation.
There are plenty of challenges in Term Four, but with the right supports, your child can finish the year feeling capable and confident. Routines, planned downtime, and the right regulation activities can go a long way toward easing the load.
And if you feel like your child needs extra support to manage their self-regulation, we’re here to help.
Call us on 9913 3823 or email hello@occupationaltherapy.com.au.
Our team can work with you to develop strategies that help your child not just survive, but thrive in Term Four.
