Occupational Therapy Assistant Creates Box Full of Possibilities

Critical Intervention Connecting Therapy and Independent Practice

Amanda Glassburner, a COTA from Texas, recognized the need for continued therapeutic activities beyond formal sessions while working in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. She started creating a “homework” box of activities with simple but detailed instructions for her clients to use outside of therapy sessions. At the time, there was nothing like these boxes available for the general public, so Amanda decided to create a product that anyone could use at home. The COVID-19 pandemic provided the impetus to bring her idea to life, leading to the creation of the Therapy Busy Box. This toolkit encourages clients to take control of their rehabilitation journey, offering resources to improve hand strength and fine motor coordination through over 50 engaging activities. Designed to be functional and fun, the Therapy Busy Box motivates clients of all ages to participate in exercises that feel less like work. Each kit includes a comprehensive instruction manual to help clients meet their individual goals. With the Therapy Busy Box, clients no longer need to wait until their next therapy session to work on improving fundamental skills necessary for independence in dressing, self-feeding, writing, and more; they have the freedom to continue their rehabilitation in the comfort of their home. By combining innovation with empathy, Amanda’s creation provides not just exercises but also hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Transforming Lives One Box at a Time

The Therapy Busy Box has touched countless lives, from school-based therapists and students to survivors of stroke and their families. The testimonials from users and customers demonstrate the wide impact that Amanda and her toolkit have had. The Therapy Busy Box has proven to be an invaluable tool, fostering growth, healing, and the rediscovery of joy through meaningful activities.

“Loved the busy box for my daughter. She had a stroke and her right side is affected. This box is fantastic for fine motor tasks. It came with a unicorn for “sewing.” She loves it and it helps make therapy fun! Definitely recommend!”

Kelly Slaten Wilson

Therapy Busy Box customer

“Therapy Busy Box keeps my 3-year-old busy. There are various items in the box that work on cognitive and fine motor skills. I definitely recommend this! It’s great for all kids, whether they’re in OT or not.”

Erin

Parent who uses Therapy Busy Box with her child

“After my husband suffered a stroke and was released from the rehabilitation center; I wanted to continue to make sure he got the same techniques. This box is amazing! We enjoy the different activities. We would recommend this box!!!”

Katrina

Therapy Busy Box customer

“Thank you so much for creating the Therapy Busy Box! What a wonderful and creative therapy tool that I use every day with my students. It has everything you need for fine motor, strength, coordination, visual motor, visual perceptual, crossing midline, and sensory motor skills all in one box! My students that I see in schools love the therapy box and it is helping to improve all of the skills mentioned above. They look forward to using the fine motor box daily and their skills are improving because of the contents and creative therapeutic plans that in the box. My students and I can’t thank you enough for creating this wonderful OT tool for us and plan on using it for many more years to come!”

Tracy DeJonge, COTA/L

Transforming Clinical Knowledge into a Market Success

Amanda’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with her deep clinical expertise, led to the creation of a product that has resonated with people from coast to coast. The Therapy Busy Box is not only a commercial success but also a powerful tool for promoting occupational therapy and its benefits. By addressing a critical need in the market and providing a high-quality, user-friendly solution, Amanda exemplifies the positive impact occupational therapy can have on everyday life. Her dedication to improving client outcomes and her ability to translate clinical knowledge into a tangible product make her a true inspiration to the occupational therapy community. Amanda’s commitment to excellence and her passion for her profession are truly commendable.