Growing Skills Australia

Most kids, especially neurodivergent children - process and retain visual information far better than verbal instructions alone.

In my 20 years as a paediatric OT I have witnessed this over and over again. A child who struggles to follow verbal instructions will follow a visual step by step. A child who melts down during transitions becomes calmer when they can see what’s coming next. A child who needs constant prompting will check the visual and act when the steps are right there in front of them.

Why? Because visuals stay. Your voice disappears the moment you speak. A visual on the wall is always there - something to refer back to, something that makes the world more predictable, something that reduces anxiety and builds real independence.

That’s exactly why I created Growing Skills Australia. Visuals that work. Visuals that last. No laminate in sight!

Use code STOMP for 25% off - link in bio. Offer ends Sunday 17 May at 11:59pm.

That’s the kind of high we’re chasing - calm, confidence, and independence that lasts.

This OT Week, we’re celebrating Occupational Therapy in action - creating real tools that help neurodivergent kids and families turn daily routines into everyday wins.

✨ Because independence isn’t just a goal - it’s a skill we grow together.

A few weeks ago I had the privilege of attending the launch of the Impact Magazine 2025 through the UNE Smart Region Incubator - a celebration of innovation and small business in the New England North West.

I am so grateful to be part of such a supportive community that champions small business. It was both exciting (and a little scary!) to share Growing Skills’ journey as part of the panel on the night.

Thank you - Jess Bradbery for inviting me to be part of the panel and for the encouragement to do it!

Here’s to community, courage and growing together.