ARK's Blog

The holidays are often filled with excitement, tradition, and togetherness, but they can also feel overwhelming for kids. Extra noise, changes in routine, new places, and busy schedules can make it harder for children to stay regulated. If your child seems to melt down more easily, cling a little tighter, or struggle with big feelings this time of year, you're not alone. The good news is that with …

Chew tools may seem simple at first glance, but they pack a long list of benefits. For many people, they’re a simple way to self-regulate, focus, and cope with everyday stress and anxiety. For others, they’re a tool to quit smoking or replace nail biting habits.  For others yet, they’re a go-to therapy tool to build oral motor skills like jaw strength.  At ARK, we've de …

Do bite mark indentations on every pencil sound familiar? Fingernails that are bitten down and potentially bleeding? Sleeves or shirt collars with holes in them? This is very common! Why? There could be many reasons behind chewing for both kids and adults, the main one being stress and anxiety. As we look ahead to the new school year starting next month for many kids, it's important to note that s …

This short story is our take on the classic fairy tale of a curious girl who enters a forest home while the bears are away.  Instead of trying out different porridges, chairs, and beds, though, Goldilocks explores chew tools in different toughness levels, textures, and sizes.  Follow along on her journey below: . . Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear had been waiting all day for th …