Shannon Rolph Occupational Therapy

A little fall Kids in the Woods update!

Three of our four fall groups are now full, with space still available in our Tuesday morning group for kids in JK–Grade 2.

We start on September 29, so if you’ve been thinking about Kids in the Woods for your child this fall, now is a great time to reach out!

Tuesdays | 9:00–10:30
JK–Grade 2 | Guelph

Learn more through the link in our bio, or drop me a line if you’re wondering whether the group might be a good fit for your child! 🌳

What if building social skills didn’t have to feel like therapy?

Kids in the Woods is our OT-led outdoor group where kids build confidence, flexibility, problem-solving and social skills through real play and real relationships with other kids.

No worksheets. No practicing social skills around a table. Just supported opportunities to navigate the kinds of social situations that actually happen in everyday life, while spending the morning outside.

And about those weekday mornings...

Our morning groups can be an especially great fit for kids who are freshest and most available for learning earlier in the day, as well as kids who benefit from a break in their school week and the chance to learn and connect in a completely different environment.

We currently have space in our Tuesday morning group for kids in JK–Grade 2, beginning September 29 in Guelph. We also have one remaining space in our Friday morning group.

As an OT-led program, receipts are provided for occupational therapy services and may be eligible for reimbursement through extended health benefits or OAP Core Clinical Services funding.

Learn more about Kids in the Woods through the link in our bio!

NeurodiversityAffirming

🌿 I'm so excited to introduce Emilee, a super valued member of our team! 🌿

Growing up, Emilee spent weekends camping and exploring the outdoors with her family, where she found a deep connection to nature. As an adult, she continues to prioritize time outside, finding that it brings her a sense of calm and balance.

But what really sets Emilee apart is her holistic approach to therapy. She believes in looking at the whole person, not just the symptoms or behaviours, and is passionate about helping others live meaningful lives, regardless of their abilities or challenges. Her approach goes beyond the typical medical model, focusing on what truly matters to each individual.

We’re thrilled to have Emilee as part of the team and can’t wait for you to experience the care and expertise she brings to our practice.

I'm not sure that a 'calm' morning routine is actually an achievable goal for families, but I do believe that a bit of mindful planning can make a difference in how the morning feels.

Here’s how you can create a morning routine that supports success:

- Start with a Visual Schedule: Outlining expectations for the morning can help to reduce stress. (Download a free customizable visual schedule at the link in my bio!)
- Build in Extra Time: Avoid the rush by allowing a bit of extra time for a smoother start.
- Add Connection Time: Spend a few moments connecting with your child to help them feel secure.

Is your child feeling anxious about the first day of school?

One powerful way to ease their worries is by reminding them of their past bravery.

Talk about other times they felt scared but did it anyway—whether it was a previous first day or something like learning to ride a bike.

Reflecting on these moments helps them draw on their inner strength. 💪

Uncertainty can make the first day of school especially tough for anxious kids. Swipe through to learn how you can help by walking your child through the day step-by-step, turning the unknown into something more familiar and manageable.

We’re hiring!!

We’re looking for an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to join our Kids in the Woods team this fall!

If you’re passionate about neurodiversity-affirming practice, fort building, supporting children to be their most authentic selves, and bird watching, we’d love to hear from you!

Learn more about the role by swiping through the post, or visit www.shannonrolph.ca/work-with-us

Please share this post with someone who might be a great fit!

We’re moving!

As of September 1st, Shannon Rolph Occupational Therapy will have a new home at 394 Woolwich Street in Guelph.

It’s a lovely old character home at the corner of Tiffany and Woolwich, right in the Exhibition Park neighbourhood, and we’re really excited to make it ours.

Emilee, Daniella and I are looking forward to getting settled in and welcoming you into the new space this fall!

If you see us in clinic, appointments from September 1st onward will take place here. Our nature-based and equine programs will continue in their usual spots.

See you at 394 Woolwich!

I am beyond thrilled to introduce you to our newest team member, Daniella!

I first met Daniella years ago when she was an OT student at a clinic where I was working. You know those people who instantly put you at ease? That was Daniella.

Even as a student, there was something about the way she connected with people that stood out. Since then, whenever I’ve imagined my dream team of OTs, Daniella has always been at the top of my list of people I’d love to work alongside.

Daniella brings a warm, collaborative, and neurodiversity-affirming approach to her work with children and families. She is passionate about helping families better understand the unique needs behind their child’s behaviour and finding practical strategies that help children feel safe, connected, and successful in everyday life.

As a new mom herself, she has also developed a special interest in supporting babies and parents through feeding, play, routines, and connection. She understands firsthand that parenting is both deeply rewarding and incredibly hard, and she brings that empathy into every interaction.

Outside of work, you’ll often find Daniella outdoors, trying a new coffee shop, reading a good book, or spending time with family and friends.

I genuinely couldn’t be happier that she’s joining our team. I know so many families are going to feel the same sense of ease that I felt when I first met her years ago. I can’t wait for you to meet her ❤️

Kids in the Woods Summer Camp is now open to the wider community!

This is a fully outdoor, morning-only camp (9:00–12:00), led by experienced pediatric OTs, with small groups and lots of individual support. It’s designed for kids who do best with a calmer pace, supportive adults, and time outside to move, play, and connect.

Details and registration are available at the link in my bio.