A Resource for Children, Families, Therapists and Pediatric Medical Professionals

Kings Day Out is the story about a puppy named King, and his best friend, a boy named Ben. Ben is a child with sensory processing sensitivities and other developmental disabilities. King and Ben go on every day adventures together, and they navigate these adventures using tools and strategies that Ben has learned and practiced in OT.

This children’s book series has been a labor of love of kidSHINE Owner, Dr. Amy Wheadon, and children’s author Maggie van Galen for the past year. Amy was inspired to partner with Maggie on this book series after meeting through the Women’s Business League and discussing a possible collaboration after Maggie spoke about writing a story about the child of close family friend and his service dog. Amy has always valued instilling self-awareness, self-actualization and empowerment in her clients, and her goal as a clinician is to help clients to independently use therapy tools at any age. King’s Day Out is a merging of these ideas, and highlights Ben’s journey towards independence and empowerment through the eyes of his beloved dog. Amy was excited to lend her OT expertise to this project, including details about specific sensory strategies for specific situations. Beautiful illustrations that capture each adventure and each sensory tool were crafted in detail by local artist and illustrator, Leslie Beauregard.

The website has links to children’s activities, OT tips and additional information for parents looking for support for sensory processing needs. Check it out!