Life Stages Archives - On The Other Hand

Limb different toys & dolls matter – here’s why

By Laura | December 1, 2025

Blue background with a lighter blue circle and white text that says, “2025 update | limb different toys & dolls” and a pink teddy bear with a limb different arm and @ontheotherhandtherap

Limb different toys are fabulous for all children for so many reasons! There now are so many incredible options available at the click of a button

When physical issues cause SADNESS for your child

By Laura | September 16, 2024

We delve into potential areas of distress related to physical issues that may underlie your child’s sadness about their upper limb difference

When social-emotional issues cause SADNESS for your child

By Laura | September 16, 2024

Blue gradient with pink text that says "reflections from an OT with a limb difference" and a bubble with blue and black text that says "? | when social-emotional issues *cause SADNESS for your child with a limb difference." Small pink circles with an icon of a child with a partial arm and partial leg and "ontheotherhandtherapy"

We delve into potential areas of social-emotional distress that may underlie your child’s sadness about their upper limb difference

What to say & do when your child feels SAD about their limb difference

By Laura | September 8, 2024

Blue and pink gradient with white text that says "reflections from an OT with a limb difference" and a bubble with blue and black text that says "? | what to say & do when your child feels SAD about their limb difference" Small blue circles with an icon of a child with a partial arm and partial leg and "ontheotherhandtherapy"

In this blog, we apply Jancee Dunn’s genius empathetic parenting strategy of asking your child when they’re sad about their limb difference: “Do you want to be hugged, heard, or helped?” (NYTimes column 4/23)

What NOT to say when your child feels SAD about their limb difference

By Laura | March 4, 2024 |

Many of us were conditioned to respond to children when they are sad in ways that aren’t the best for them. Some of the following responses are less helpful in the moment than using reflective listening and offering empathy. Many of us heard these from our families of origin. Knowing why they can be harmful can empower us.

Preparing yourself for when your child feels SAD about their limb difference

By Laura | March 4, 2024

On social media, parents often share about the hard moments when their children feel sadness about their limb difference for the first time. Before offering suggestions for supporting children during these difficult moments, I wanted to examine this situation from the parents’ perspective. All children experience sadness about aspects of their life, but this situation is a little different. Let’s explore it!

When your child realizes they have a limb difference

By Laura | February 21, 2024

Blue gradient with white text that says "reflections from an OT with a limb difference" and a bubble with blue and black text that says "? | when your child realizes they have a limb difference." Small pink circles with an icon of a person with a partial arm and partial leg and "ontheotherhandtherapy"

What happens when your child starts to notice their upper or lower limb difference? This post offers insight and practical tips to help you support your child with warmth and confidence.

Choosing High Quality Picture Books for Your Child

By Laura | October 29, 2023

There are many wonderful books for children written about characters with limb differences! As a parent, you want to choose books that align with and reinforce your values and steer clear of books that teach messages that you prefer to avoid.