Written specifically for parents and caregivers, “The Dragonfly Approach of Pediatric Occupational Therapy” is a compassionate, easy-to-understand guide that helps families navigate the often-overwhelming world of developmental delays, autism, sensory challenges, ADHD, dyslexia, retained reflexes, and more.
After more than 27 years as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Sharon Y. Mandeville-Edlin, OTR/L, repeatedly heard frightened and frustrated parents ask questions like:
“Why didn’t anyone tell me this?”
“What do I do now?”
“Why won’t anyone listen when I know something is going on with my child?”
This book was written to help answer those questions in a clear, approachable, parent-friendly way — offering practical guidance without overwhelming readers with difficult clinical language. Written with warmth, compassion, and moments of gentle humor, this guide helps parents better understand their child’s needs while feeling supported, informed, and empowered along the way.
Inside, parents will discover practical information about:
• retained reflexes
• dietary considerations
• developmental concerns
• sensory processing challenges
• important specialists and professionals
• questions to ask during appointments
• helpful checklists and guidance
• and practical next steps after a diagnosis
Blending professional expertise with heartfelt understanding as both a clinician and a mother of a child with special needs, Sharon offers parents the kind of resource she wished more families had access to during those confusing early years.
Every child and every family is unique. “The Dragonfly Approach” was created to help parents feel less alone, less overwhelmed, and more confident as they move forward on their journey.