Steps 2 Grow

Put on your comfy pants, and let's talk simple ways you can support
your child's motor milestones through movement and play.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Long term support in PDX

VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS

Connect with me over video

COURSES FOR CAREGIVERS

Self-paced caregiver education

Before you get any further..

Let me introduce myself! I'm Austen. I am a pediatric occupational therapist, Athleta legging addict, total nerd when it comes to child development, self educated amateur chef, Bouvier des Flandres puppy parent, and non stop learner. I am an expert in typical and atypical movement and motor development, and specialize in birth to 5 year olds. My happiest days are spent playing with kids and empowering parents with practical tools to support their little one's development.

Maybe you found me because you are concerned about your child's development. If this is the case, I am sorry that you are experiencing that, and I am here to help! Maybe you found me because you are a new parent or first time parent and want a little guidance on how to provide the best developmental support for your kiddo. If that's you, you're also in a great place! Whatever brings you, I am glad you are here.

LIKE STORIES? HERE'S MINE

My mission

The first years of your child's life are the most important. The amount of learning that occurs is truly incredible! But, there are bound to be questions, concerns, and bumps in the road. I am here to guide you through those motor bumps, educate you on how you can support your kiddo's sensory motor development, equip you with science inspired tools, and encourage you. My mission is to navigate the messy and magical phases of your child's physical development with you, every little step of the way.

My approach

No two children develop at the same rate. I value respecting each child's innate developmental timetable, encouraging their natural process, and meeting each child where he or she is at. Development is not a race. It is an opportunity to lay each building block on top of the last one in order to create the strongest foundation possible, organically. I optimize this process by providing the conditions for your child's brain to work at the level necessary for mastering new skills and discovering their next unique ability. And I teach you how to, also!

My guiding pillars

Science shows that kids learn and master skills with the combination of 3 essential things; play and exploration in an enriching environment, rich sensory and movement experiences, and a loving engaged caregiver. Whether you are interested in in-home OT, one-on-one virtual consults, or my online courses, implementing this scientifically proven powerful trio is at the heart of everything I do.