Callibration

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

What is it? Using movements of appropriate force, speed, or extent when interacting with task objects (AOTA, 2014, p. S25). 

Why is it important? Calibration is a skill necessary for occupations across the lifetime such as: 

  • Bathing/showering (squeezing soap bottles enough to release an appropriate amount of soap, not scrubbing body too hard, etc.) 
  • Toileting 
  • Eating (chewing with an appropriate amount of force) 
  • Feeding (appropriate amount of force to successfully bring food to mouth) 
  • Grooming 
  • Academic performance (writing, cutting, typing) 
  • Driving (not applying too much force to pedals, turning the wheel with appropriate speed and force) 
  • Home management 
  • Opening doors, drawers, and containers (enough force to open/close without slamming) 
  • Play and leisure activities (golf, soccer, basketball, etc.) 
  • Job performance  

5 activities to try at home: 

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

1. Jump and land like a feather. 

Tip: Tell the child to pretend they are landing gently like a feather or snowflake. 

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

2. Heavy work activities. 

Tips: Push a piece of furniture from point A to point B; Pull a wagon with objects in it; Help with vacuuming around the house! 

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

3. Picking up a glass full of water and carrying it from point A to point B without spilling. 

Tip: Use a glass that will not break! 

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

4. Egg obstacle course. 

Tip: Have the child carry an uncooked egg through an outdoor obstacle course without letting it crack or break! 

Dr Laura Mraz and Callibration

5. Rainbow scratch art. 

Tip: Try using aluminum foil to indent art into if you do not have scratch art paper. 

References 

American Occupational Therapy Association. (2014). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process (3rd ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(Suppl. 1), S1-S48.