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OT in Action: When Making Flowers Becomes a Path to Healing

At Magdala House’s Adult Day Care Program, Occupational Therapy (OT) isn’t just a service—it’s a strategy for growth, regulation, and independence. It’s also one of the ways we honor each client’s dignity, helping them build skills that matter in their daily lives.

During a recent OT-led session at the Adult Day Care Program, clients created colorful flowers out of construction paper. At first glance, it appeared to be a fun craft activity—and it was. But beneath the surface, this project was intentionally designed to support:

  • Motor planning
  • Visual and spatial awareness
  • Following step-by-step instructions
  • Emotional regulation
  • Patience and impulse control

Before beginning, the group revisited their self-created Comfort Agreements—a shared set of community expectations, such as “take turns,” “stay focused,” and “treat people right.” These agreements set the tone for respect, responsibility, and cooperation.

As the session unfolded, something powerful happened.

Clients selected their flower colors, passed the glue, waited patiently, asked for help when needed, and followed the steps with quiet focus. Some worked independently. Others supported their peers. For one client, the experience brought emotional relief.

“This helped me feel better,” they said.
“It helped me work through my emotions.”

That’s the power of occupational therapy at Magdala House. It’s not just about building skills—it’s about building confidence, connection, and healing through everyday moments.

Whether it’s flower-making, Play-Doh beehives, or cooking lessons, every activity in the Adult Day Care Program is designed with care. These aren’t just crafts—they’re tools for life.

Because here, growth looks different for everyone. And every small step counts.

Help Turn Small Steps Into Lifelong Growth
At Magdala House, every craft, every lesson, and every moment of patience is part of something bigger—confidence, healing, and independence.

Your donation supports occupational therapy sessions that empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive in daily life.

Donate today and be part of the progress.

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