My Favorite Websites for OT Tools (Plus a Free Back-to-School Activity Calendar!)
As an occupational therapist, one of the questions I hear most often is:
“Where do you find your activities and tools to support kids?”
The truth is, I love curating tools and strategies that are not only fun and effective but also grounded in evidence-based practice. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, having the right resources at your fingertips can make a huge difference in how we support kids—especially during times of transition like the back-to-school season.
So today, I’m sharing some of my go-to websites for OT tools, along with a free printable that’s perfect for easing kids back into routines.
1. Teachers Pay Teachers
This educator-created marketplace is full of downloadable materials for motor skills, social-emotional learning, handwriting, and sensory needs. I personally use and create resources on TPT—and it’s especially helpful for printing visual schedules, social stories, and engaging fine motor activities.
2. Tools to Grow OT
Run by occupational therapists, Tools to Grow offers high-quality, developmentally appropriate materials for all areas of pediatric OT—from early intervention to school-age. I especially love their sensory processing and handwriting collections.
3. Your Therapy Source
This site is packed with digital resources that focus on motor planning, executive functioning, and regulation. The materials are easy to use at home or in the classroom, and they’re created by licensed professionals.
4. Everyday Speech
If you're looking to support social-emotional learning and pragmatic language skills, Everyday Speech is an incredible resource. Their video models, games, and worksheets help kids build emotional regulation, conversation skills, and flexible thinking—all backed by evidence and created by a team of SLPs and therapists.
5. Honeybee OT on YouTube
Yes, it’s my channel—but it’s one of my favorite places to share practical strategies for families! You’ll find real-life tips for sensory regulation, getting back into routines, and supporting emotional development in a way that works for your child and your home.
6. Bonus Resources from Trusted Professionals
Here are a few more websites and blogs I return to often. Each one is grounded in research and created by professionals who truly understand kids’ needs:
The Inspired Treehouse – Movement-based activities that promote strength and coordination
The OT Toolbox – Skill-focused tools and printables by an OT
Harkla – Sensory support tools and evidence-based blog posts
CDC Milestones – A reliable developmental reference for tracking progress
Therapist- and physician-run blogs – Great for deeper dives into evidence and strategy
Freebie of the Month: Back-to-School Activity Calendar
To help families gently transition into the school year, I created a free weekday activity calendar filled with quick, low-prep activities that support fine motor, gross motor, and visual motor skills.
This printable calendar runs from July 14 to August 22 and includes simple projects designed for ages 5–12. Whether you're a parent trying to get into a new routine or a teacher preparing your classroom, this calendar is a great way to build skills while keeping things fun.
📥 Click here to download your free calendar
Final Thoughts
Finding reliable, research-informed resources shouldn’t be overwhelming. These websites make it easier to support your child’s development in meaningful ways—at home, in the classroom, or in therapy sessions.
And remember: you don’t need to do it all. A few well-chosen tools, paired with connection and consistency, go a long way.
Let me know if you try any of these resources—or if you have a favorite I should check out!
With care,
Becca Mattie, OTR/L
