Nature-based pediatric occupational therapy in Seacoast New Hampshire
When everyday moments feel challenging, having the right support can make a meaningful difference.
I support regulation, sensory processing, motor development, attention, and emotional growth through play-based, nature-informed OT.
Whole-child support grounded in your child’s strengths and needs.
Signs your child may benefit from pediatric occupational therapy
You may be noticing your child is having a harder time with everyday moments.
Your child may be experiencing:
big emotions that feel hard to manage
sensory experiences that feel overwhelming or “too much”
difficulty with attention, transitions, routines, or flexibility
a strong need for movement, or difficulty slowing their body down
challenges with coordination, motor planning, or body awareness
difficulty connecting with peers or expressing emotions
frustration, overwhelm, withdrawal, or decreased confidence in daily activities
challenges with play, independence, or participation in everyday life
These experiences often reflect how a child’s nervous system is processing and organizing sensory, emotional, and movement information as they develop.
Pediatric occupational therapy that supports regulation, sensory processing, and motor development
Children thrive when therapy feels meaningful, engaging, and aligned with how they naturally learn and grow.
In pediatric occupational therapy, I support your child by looking at the whole picture—how regulation, sensory processing, motor development, attention, and emotional skills interact together in daily life.
I help identify patterns that may be impacting your child’s daily experiences, and support children and families in making meaningful shifts toward greater regulation, confidence, and participation.
My approach is:
play-based and child-led
grounded in movement and real-life experiences
family-centered
focused on regulation as the foundation for skill development
supportive of the nervous system while intentionally building functional skills
Rather than teaching skills in isolation, I weave them into play, movement, and daily activities in a way that supports integration and carryover into everyday life.
Sessions may include:
outdoor exploration and nature-based movement
climbing, balancing, running, and coordinated play
sensory experiences that support regulation and body awareness
activities that build attention, flexibility, and engagement
co-regulation and emotional support through connection
motor planning, coordination, and functional skill-building through play
Over time, children develop greater balance across regulation, sensory processing, motor skills, attention, and emotional development—supporting more ease and confidence in daily life.
Support tailored to your child and your family
There are several ways we can work together depending on your child’s needs and your goals.
Individual Pediatric Occupational Therapy
One-on-one support focused on regulation, sensory processing, motor development, attention, and emotional growth through play-based, nature-informed therapy.
Nature-based play groups for children
Small group sessions supporting social connection, regulation, social-emotional skills, flexibility, and play-based development in a natural environment.
Parent Coaching for Regulation and Daily Life Skills
Support for parents who want strategies, understanding, and confidence in supporting their child at home and in daily routines.
School-Based Occupational Therapy Support
I work directly with children during their school day, as well as alongside teachers and school teams, to support regulation, attention, motor skills, and participation across the school environment.
Professional Training for Schools and Communities
Workshops and trainings for schools, professionals, and community groups that are tailored to the needs of the audience. Sessions can be designed to address specific challenges being experienced in classrooms or programs, offering practical strategies and collaborative problem-solving to better support regulation, sensory needs, attention, and participation across the school or community environment.
Why early pediatric occupational therapy support matters
When a child’s nervous system is working hard to manage regulation, sensory input, movement, or emotions, everyday experiences can begin to feel more challenging and overwhelming over time.
Early support can help:
strengthen regulation and emotional capacity
support sensory and motor development
improve confidence in movement and participation
build flexibility in transitions and routines
support attention and engagement in daily life
strengthen connection between child and caregiver
The goal is to support your child’s development so they can feel more balanced, confident, and connected in everyday life.
Getting started is simple and supported
I offer a free consultation to learn more about your child and help you understand whether this approach feels like the right fit for your family.
From there, we’ll decide together what next steps make the most sense.
No pressure. Just clarity and support.
Kind words
“I can’t say enough good things about Gayle - she’s a gem of a person, and any family would be lucky to have her in their corner. I’d highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone with genuine expertise, compassion, and heart when it comes to supporting children.”
“We had a wonderful experience with Gayle- she was so kind and communicative. Highly recommend!”
About Gayle, pediatric occupational therapist
I’m Gayle Vardakis, MS, OTR/L, a pediatric occupational therapist specializing in nature-based, play-centered support for children and families based out of Seacoast, New Hampshire.
My work is rooted in connection, regulation, and helping children thrive through meaningful real-world experiences.
A gentle next step
If you’re wondering whether this might be the right support for your child, I would be happy to connect and talk it through with you.
