Here at My Creative Box, we are passionate about helping families ignite meaningful experiences whilst elevating children's growth and development, the fun way! 🙌🏻 That's why we have leading experts in the field contributing to help you as a parent be the best parent possible.
Sally an Australian Mum and Paediatric Occupational Therapist with over 15 years experience has contributed expert tips and prompts in our latest products and has joined us on the blog to tell you why she loves and recommends My Creative Box.
Hi, I’m Sally Galloway, and I’ve spent the last 15 years as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, working closely with children, families, educators, and teachers. I firmly believe that learning flourishes within relationships, and through My Creative Box, families discover engaging activities that cater to each child’s unique developmental journey. From fostering joy to overcoming challenges, we’ve seen firsthand how these experiences can empower children of all abilities to thrive. Looking forward to going on this adventure together! Overarching tips for parents and caregivers With 15 years of experience as a Pediatric/ Paediatric OT, we’ve uncovered numerous benefits of My Creative Box. Among them, I’ve discovered two powerful ways to amplify its impact:
1. Independent Play Excellence: Once your child has mastered the skills required for the activities in the box, My Creative Box becomes an exceptional tool for independent play. It offers screen-free entertainment that allows children to extend their abilities and creativity freely.
2. Connection Ritual: My Creative Box isn’t just about the amazing activities; it’s an opportunity to strengthen your bond with your child. By engaging in these activities together, you can create a special connection ritual. The beauty of My Creative Box lies in its
presentation: it's novel, has clear beginnings and endings, and removes the mental burden of sourcing materials. This allows you, as a parent or caregiver, to carve out dedicated time to be fully present with your child, fostering social-emotional development and overall well-
Being. This focus on social and emotional development is crucial because it sets the foundation for children’s success in various aspects of life. When children learn to manage their emotions, build relationships, and communicate effectively, they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. These skills are not only essential for their well-being but also pave the way for success in school, the workplace, and beyond.
One of the most impactful ways to support social-emotional development is through the
The concept of ‘serve and return’ This interactional technique acts like a game of catch for the brain. When children initiate communication or gestures (they’re seeking
engagement and connection. When caring adults respond it’s like catching the
ball and throwing it back, reinforcing neural connections and fostering learning,
communication, and emotional growth.
However, if these interactions are inconsistent or absent, it’s like dropping the ball. This lack
of return can hinder proper brain development and leave children feeling
overlooked or stressed, negatively impacting their well-being. Therefore, prioritising
responsive interactions with children is essential for their healthy development.
In My Creative Box, you’ll find numerous opportunities for serve and return moments.
Engaging in these activities fosters connection, strengthens relationships, and supports
children’s social and emotional growth, laying the groundwork for a bright future.
I'm excited to be working with My Creative Box to empower families to get the best out of their child's learning and development.