Explore every episode of the podcast Growing Strong Roots:  an Occupational Therapist’s Perspective on Parenting, Self-Regulation, and Resilience

Permissive parenting often comes from a place of love, but what happens when warmth comes without enough structure or follow-through? In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom and parenting partner Tom Guiney unpack the research behind parenting styles and explore why permissive parenting can unintentionally fuel anxiety, dysregulation, and dependence, especially for neurodivergent kids. Through real-life examples and occupational therapy strategies, they discuss the difference between control and structure, why consistency matters, and how parents can hold boundaries without losing compassion. You’ll hear practical tools for managing meltdowns, scaffolding independence, and avoiding reinforcement of unwanted behaviors. This conversation is a grounded look at how loving limits and predictable routines help children build resilience, self-regulation, and confidence over time.

 

Linked research studies:

• Baumrind, D. (1966). *Effects of Authoritative Parental Control on Child Behavior* Child Development, 37(4), 887–907.
• Baumrind, D. (1967). *Child Care Practices Anteceding Three Patterns of Preschool Behavior* Genetic Psychology Monographs, 75, 43–88.
• Darling, N., & Steinberg, L. (1993). *Parenting Style as Context: An Integrative Model* Psychological Bulletin, 113(3), 487–496.
• Steinberg, L. (2001). *We Know Some Things: Parent–Adolescent Relationships in Retrospect and Prospect* Journal of Research on Adolescence, 11(1), 1–19.
• Kuppens, S., & Ceulemans, E. (2018). *Parenting Styles: A Closer Look at a Well-Known Concept* Journal of Child and Family Studies, 28, 168–181.
• Garcia, F., Serra, E., Garcia, O., Martinez, I., & Cruise, E. (2019). *A Third Emerging Stage for the Current Digital Society? Optimal Parenting Styles in Spain, the United States, Germany, and Brazil* International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
• Kim, S., Wang, Y., Orozco-Lapray, D., Shen, Y., & Murtuza, M. (2013). *Does “Tiger Parenting” Exist? Parenting Profiles of Chinese Americans and Adolescent Developmental Outcomes*

 

Dr. Lisa Hancock on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Twice Exceptionality, and Advocacy in Schools   Dr. Lisa Hancock, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment and therapy, with expertise in ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, anxiety, mood disorders, independent educational evaluations, and IEP/academic accommodations, especially for twice-exceptional and gifted individuals. Hancock explains her path from securities trading to psychology through advocacy for her four children’s varied needs, mentorship from Dr. Linda Silverman, and joining Summit Center with Dr. Dan Peters. She describes DSM-5’s 2013 shift combining autism and Asperger’s into ASD, and how traditional (male-based) criteria can miss females who may camouflage and have less “unusual” special interests. The discussion covers genetics, COVID-era changes affecting masking, workplace/school inclusivity and accommodations, barriers to school recognition of “functional impact” beyond grades, and how ASD often co-occurs with learning differences, processing issues, anxiety, and depression, supporting earlier identification and resources. 00:00 Meet Dr. Lisa Hancock 02:05 Career Pivot Story 04:14 Summit Center Connection 06:14 Why Autism Seems Rising 07:51 DSM Five Changes 10:28 Girls Women Presentation of ASD 12:58 Genetics And Family Patterns 14:06 Masking  18:13 Inclusive Accommodations 21:33 Advocating In Schools 27:46 Early Diagnosis And Comorbidities 32:01 Neurodiversity Future View 35:15 Closing And Next Steps  

In this episode, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom speaks with educator and digital readiness consultant Betty Ray about raising children in today’s complex digital world. Together they explore how technology shapes emotional regulation, identity development, and family relationships, especially for neurodivergent children. The conversation introduces the concept of parenting with both guardrails and attunement, balancing connection, safety, and growing independence. Parents will learn practical strategies for navigating screen use, supporting healthy digital habits, recognizing warning signs, and scaffolding responsibility as children mature in an increasingly online environment.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and guest welcome 00:10 Betty Ray’s background and digital readiness work 00:40 Why digital parenting is a timely topic 01:31 Competing with screens in modern parenting 01:53 Big picture question: what feels different today 02:19 Technology designed to capture attention 03:17 Devices moving from shared spaces to private pockets 03:54 Screens and emotional regulation challenges 04:50 Limits, conflict, and identity development online 05:49 Belonging, agency, and purpose in digital spaces 06:13 Benefits and risks of online identity formation 07:06 Positive communities versus harmful influences 08:11 Example of harmful online solidarity and self-harm 09:06 Helping kids reflect on friendships and choices 10:02 Parenting through relationship first 10:18 Guardrails and attunement framework 10:56 Parent self-regulation as the foundation 11:18 Power struggles and secrecy around screens 12:17 Parenting differently from previous generations 13:07 Privacy, monitoring, and parental discomfort 13:17 Building trust through relational connection 13:25 Using reflective questions as guardrails 14:27 Encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking 15:52 Escalating boundaries when safety concerns grow 17:02 Gradual developmental scaffolding 17:41 Recognizing warning signs in kids 18:18 Maintaining communication during adolescence 19:33 The reality of daily screen exposure 20:32 Parenting reactions to harmful online content 21:37 Emotional responses and regulating yourself first 22:19 Advocacy and responsibility of tech companies 23:10 Responding with attunement instead of shame 24:08 Talking openly about difficult online content 25:18 Partnering with kids instead of opposing them 26:03 Teaching body awareness and internal signals 27:03 Limits of parental controls and collaboration 28:03 Developmental stages of digital independence 28:52 Safety first for younger children 29:07 Building trust and gradual freedom 29:38 Agency, responsibility, and real-world skills 30:55 Service and values as the final developmental stage 31:17 Building resilience and independence offline 31:37 Occupational therapy perspective on independence 32:21 Opportunity cost of excessive screen time

In this episode, I share a heartfelt reflection on failure and why failing well is essential for growth in both children and adults. I talk about how setbacks are not a reflection of our worth, but signals pointing us toward areas that need strengthening. Using my own experience of not getting into graduate school on the first try, I walk through how reflection, feedback, and perseverance turned failure into forward momentum. We explore why it is especially important for parents and caregivers to model failure openly, rather than hiding it. I also discuss how perfectionism and fear of failure show up in bright, high-achieving kids. The episode closes with an invitation to reflect, share, and grow together through setbacks.

Timestamps [00:00] Why failure matters for human development [00:27] Reframing setbacks as information, not inadequacy [00:47] Learning from past failures [01:06] Personal story: not getting into grad school [01:43] Sitting with disappointment and making a plan [02:18] Identifying gaps and rebuilding stronger [02:45] Perseverance and failing well [03:22] Modeling failure for children [03:43] Perfectionism, pressure, and fear of failing [04:09] Reflection as a tool for growth [04:16] Invitation to share experiences and connect

     

Join Lee-Anne Bloom, owner of Oak Bloom OT in Oakland, California, as she shares practical occupational therapy strategies for supporting highly sensitive children. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent, Lee-Anne addresses the challenges families face when raising children who experience intense emotional reactions to developmentally appropriate tasks.

In this episode, Lee-Anne explores:

• Understanding sensory sensitivities and why children become overwhelmed
• Breaking down occupational barriers that prevent children from participating in everyday activities
• Teaching self-advocacy and communication techniques for sensitive kids
• Creating adaptations for classroom and social situations
• Using gradual exposure methods to help children engage with challenging stimuli

Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional working with sensitive children, this episode offers compassionate, evidence-based guidance for helping kids navigate their sensitivities while building coping skills and resilience.

 

This episode is an honest, unscripted conversation about gentle parenting and where it may have gone too far. Drawing from my experience as a parent and occupational therapist, we explore how cultural overcorrection has shifted parenting toward over-validation and emotional mediation. We discuss when gentle parenting can be supportive and when it may undermine independence, resilience, and long-term outcomes. Real clinical examples highlight downstream effects like anxiety, dependency, and difficulty functioning outside the home. We also talk through practical alternatives that balance empathy with firm boundaries. Ultimately, this episode centers on raising capable, independent kids who can grow into healthy adults.

Timestamps [00:00] Gentle parenting as overcorrection [00:41] Episode format and conversation setup [01:00] Parenting perspective and lived experience [01:27] Defining gentle parenting [02:18] Cultural shifts and discipline backlash [03:19] Entitlement and overvalidation concerns [04:02] When gentle parenting works vs fails [05:16] Preparing kids for environments beyond home [06:33] Dependency, control, and separation challenges [07:26] Clinical case example: sleep dependency [08:22] Role of parent coaching in OT [09:18] Risks of total emotional mediation [10:12] Neurodivergence and regulation challenges [11:29] Concrete examples: bedtime and routines [12:30] Tracking behavior and gathering data [13:07] Ferber chair method and prompt fading [15:20] Progress, sleep gains, and family relief [16:40] Sustainability and long-term independence [17:06] Parenting culture and power dynamics [18:34] Ceding power and “child ruling the roost” [19:02] Hierarchy, boundaries, and learning to cope [20:14] Seeing kids as younger than they are [21:41] Raising expectations and capability [22:47] Ease vs growth for parents [24:32] Why this podcast exists [25:06] Needs vs wants and developmental growth [26:12] Finding the middle ground [27:05] Non-negotiables and parental bandwidth [27:57] Accountability and parent coaching [28:43] Predictable, consistent consequences [29:27] Holding boundaries and agreements [30:28] Long-term outcomes into adulthood [31:49] Independence as the goal [32:11] OT’s role across the lifespan

When a child is struggling with daily life skills, self-regulation, sensory challenges, or independence, Occupational therapy is often one of the best places to start. In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, Lee-Anne Bloom explains what OT truly is at its core: helping people participate more fully in the occupations that matter most in everyday life. She breaks down how occupational therapy supports development, why mismatched expectations can create barriers for children, and how parents can better understand what is age-appropriate. You’ll hear real-life examples of how OT empowers children toward independence while guiding families with practical strategies. Leanne also clarifies the three main practice settings in pediatric OT: medical, school-based, and private practice. This episode will help you understand when OT may be the right support for your child and what steps to take next.

[00:00:00] Areas of occupation and OT’s role in child development [00:00:30] What occupational therapy really means at its core [00:00:52] Removing barriers to participation in daily life [00:01:19] Individualized therapy through real-life activities [00:01:42] Developmental timelines and pediatric OT focus [00:02:02] Supporting children who struggle with milestones [00:02:24] Holistic care in private practice OT [00:02:44] Mismatch between expectations and a child’s abilities [00:03:12] How helping too much can limit independence [00:03:41] Underestimating ability versus expecting too much [00:04:08] Example: shoe routines and building self-help skills [00:04:35] Parent-child dynamics and effort differences [00:04:56] Empowering independence through daily tasks [00:05:24] Letting kids do hard things and avoiding dependence [00:05:50] Observation as a key tool for understanding struggles [00:06:16] Example: wiping independence and motivation [00:06:57] Coaching parents to step back during routines [00:07:25] High expectations and ADHD-related challenges [00:07:48] Identifying where a child gets stuck in tasks [00:08:09] Practical adaptations: breaking tasks down, timers, rewards [00:08:39] OT guidance for problem-solving and regulation [00:09:02] Practice area 1: medically based occupational therapy [00:09:22] Practice area 2: school-based OT and curriculum access [00:09:45] Understanding IEP eligibility and OT services [00:10:27] School OT focus: handwriting, regulation, classroom skills [00:10:47] Limits of school OT versus home-based needs [00:11:12] When challenges fall outside the school setting [00:11:33] Combining supports across medical and private contexts [00:11:58] Practice area 3: private practice OT and family routines [00:12:23] Support without diagnosis and “gray area kids” [00:12:45] ADHD, autism, and kids who don’t qualify but still struggle [00:13:11] Sensory processing and self-regulation challenges [00:13:35] OT’s mission: helping children thrive in meaningful life roles [00:13:57] Choosing the right support path: school, medical, or private OT [00:14:23] Next steps: referrals, IEPs, and combined approaches [00:14:52] Closing thoughts and invitation to subscribe

     

In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom discusses the common parent question: should I pursue a diagnosis for my child? She explains how occupational therapy looks at a child’s daily occupations, including routines, emotional regulation, and participation at home and school. Lee-Anne explores how challenges with tasks, relationships, or self-management may signal a need for additional support. She also walks through factors that influence whether a diagnosis is helpful, such as access to school services or insurance coverage. Ultimately, diagnosis is only one path, and families can seek skill-building and support even without one. The goal is helping children and caregivers thrive with the tools they need.

 

Watch on YouTube

 

Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction to podcast 00:00:27 Purpose and mission 00:00:50 Growing stronger together 00:00:59 Asking if a diagnosis is needed 01:01:02 Defining occupation in OT 01:01:17 Why parents seek OT 01:01:35 Challenges as signs of underlying needs 01:02:01 When diagnosis may be considered 01:02:28 Factors influencing the decision 01:02:44 Matching support to a child’s needs 01:03:02 Considering school feedback 01:03:23 Challenges at home and routines 01:03:45 Insurance and financial considerations 01:04:09 OT support without a diagnosis 01:04:30 OT also supports parents 01:04:48 Reframing the diagnosis question 01:04:55 Encouragement for next steps

 

Questions? Comments? Suggestions for future episodes? Want to book me for a parenting or development consultation?  Contact us at https://www.oakbloomot.com/contact.  Please leave a comment here as well! Thanks for listening.

In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom walks through “What’s in My OT Backpack” and shares the sensory, emotional, and practical tools she carries every day to stay regulated and prepared for dealing with challenging kids. She explains how each tool supports self-regulation, resilience, independence, and sensory needs, and how families can teach children to build their own toolkits for daily self-management.

 

Watch on YouTube

 

Timestamps [00:00:00] Podcast introduction and mission [00:00:27] Helping children grow resilient with science-based support [00:01:01] Introducing “What’s in My OT Backpack” [00:01:28] Why carrying tools builds independence and executive skills [00:02:14] Sensory tools are individualized and support regulation [00:02:39] Touch and smell tools: lotion and grounding scents [00:03:10] Therapeutic benefits of lotion as simple self-care [00:03:38] Peppermint balm for calming and stimulation [00:04:05] Oral tools and taste as regulation strategies [00:04:37] Chewing, flavor, and regulating through the mouth [00:05:10] Ginger chews and tea for anxiety and stomach regulation [00:05:33] Keeping snacks and quick energy tools for busy days [00:05:57] Caffeinated endurance gels for sustained adult focus [00:06:20] Creatine gummies inspired by evidence-based wellness podcasts [00:06:40] Water and electrolytes for hydration and sensory balance [00:07:02] Tactile regulation: hairbrush, clips, and staying warm [00:07:23] Temperature awareness as a sign of dysregulation [00:07:56] Managing visual overwhelm with hats and sunglasses [00:08:25] Personal care essentials for comfort and readiness [00:08:49] Noise regulation: AirPods, music, and silence [00:09:15] Earplugs, sound protection, and performance needs [00:09:46] Practical items: cards, medication, pens, preparedness [00:10:11] Self-regulation and self-care tools woven into daily life [00:10:39] Periodically cleaning out the backpack [00:11:00] Backpack weight guidelines and ergonomic considerations [00:11:22] How a backpack should fit to protect the body [00:11:45] Checking posture and strap positioning [00:12:12] Using a hip pack for quick and ergonomic access [00:12:33] Final thoughts and invitation to share what’s in your bag

 

 

In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom explores the importance of consent and communication when using touch with children, especially those who are sensory sensitive or have trauma histories. She explains how different kinds of touch activate the nervous system and why some children may react instinctively with fight, flight, or shutdown responses. Through real examples and practical strategies, Lee-Anne highlights how caregivers can use touch to build trust, co-regulate, and support emotional development. She discusses the difference between reacting and responding, and how repeated safe experiences can shift a child’s sensory processing over time. The episode also offers simple communication systems families can use to help children express what feels good, what doesn’t, and how to advocate for their bodies.

Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction to podcast 00:00:27 Parenting challenges and mission 00:00:50 Growing stronger together 00:00:58 Introducing topic of consent and touch 00:01:17 Importance of communication and skilled touch 00:01:42 Proceed with awareness for sensitive kids 00:02:09 Light touch can be alerting or irritating 00:02:38 Real example of defensive reaction 00:03:01 Deep pressure as grounding and calming 00:03:30 Tools for co-regulation in the clinic 00:03:55 Weighted tools and ball squishes 00:04:28 Why touch affects the nervous system 00:05:20 Instinctive responses and brain pathways 00:06:12 Rewiring through repeated safe touch 00:06:34 Difference between reacting and responding 00:07:26 Temperament and trauma influence touch perception 00:08:18 Importance and controversy around therapeutic touch 00:08:44 Touch builds trust and physiological change 00:09:08 Intention behind touch matters 00:09:29 Establishing communication systems 00:10:02 Observing body language and emotional cues 00:10:28 Using rough and tumble play to teach feedback 00:10:49 Predictable touch builds safety 00:11:15 Modeling signals and responses 00:11:52 Teaching children to interpret body reactions 00:12:15 Individualizing sensory tools with OT support 00:12:36 Touch as calming or alerting 00:13:00 Asking for consent and reading cues 00:13:34 Choosing touch based on current state 00:14:02 Combining touch with other regulation supports 00:14:30 Gathering observations throughout the week 00:14:50 Sharing insights with caregivers 00:15:09 Website resources and research links 00:15:25 Closing and invitation to connect

In this episode, host Lee-Anne Bloom, OTR/L, explores realistic, attainable self-care strategies for parents who are supporting sensitive or neurodivergent children. Instead of idealized or time-consuming routines, she shares simple, daily practices that nourish the body, mind, and emotions. Topics include physical regulation through small movement habits, supportive bedtime and meal routines, mental boundary-setting, emotional nourishment, and practical tools like habit stacking, visual cues, and setting reminders. The episode emphasizes that even five minutes of intentional self-care can help parents stay grounded, improve co-regulation with their children, and build resilience as a family.

 

Link to Youtube video

00:00 – Podcast Introduction 00:27 – Mission: Raising Resilient Children 00:50 – Invitation to Grow Together 00:59 – Parenting When You’re Depleted 01:24 – The Extra Demands of Parenting Neurodivergent Kids 01:48 – Balancing Parenting With All Your Other Roles 02:20 – Why Self-Care Matters for Parents 02:40 – Simple, Realistic Self-Care Tools 03:09 – Physical Self-Care: Movement as Regulation 03:38 – Small Routines Build Resilience 04:03 – Sleep and Nutrition as Foundational Supports 04:29 – Practical Meal Planning Tips 04:52 – Mental Self-Care Strategies 05:19 – Protecting Your Mental Space 05:40 – Emotional Self-Care Practices 06:02 – Purpose and Meaning as Emotional Nourishment 06:23 – Making Self-Care Realistic and Small 06:52 – Habit Stacking to Build New Routines 07:11 – Visual Cues to Support Consistency 07:36 – Reminders and Gentle Prompts 08:16 – Protecting Your Time and Energy 08:37 – Accountability and Support from Others 09:01 – Your Regulation Sets the Tone for Your Child 09:16 – Encouragement for Small, Consistent Steps

 

Episode: Complaint O'Clock – A Family Ritual for Emotional Expression and conflict management

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Downloadable PDF instructions

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome and Podcast Overview

00:27 – Mission: Helping Families Raise Resilient Children

00:50 – Invitation to Grow and Bloom Together

01:00 – Introducing Complaint O’Clock

01:19 – Emotional Intensity in Neurodivergent Kids

01:40 – Wanting Children to Feel Heard Without Overwhelm

02:03 – Discovering That the Whole Family Benefits

02:37 – What Complaint O’Clock Looks Like

03:03 – Ground rules

04:00 – The "triforce of communication" framework for responses

04:30 – Using the Triforce Framework at Home

04:54 – Creating a Focused, Distraction-Free Space

05:19 – Explaining the Triforce in Detail- communication Goals in Three Categories

06:08 – Listening, Empathy, and Problem-Solving Options

06:32 – Additional Ground Rules for Respectful Sharing

06:59 – Three-Minute Pause for Regulation

07:25 – Why Complaint O’Clock Works

07:44 – A Safe Container for Family Expression

08:39 – Teaching Emotional Regulation and Communication

09:01 – A Real-Life Example of Vulnerability and Repair

09:22 – Growth Through Reflecting and Owning Mistakes

09:45 – “Know Better, Do Better” Mindset

09:53 – How Complaint O’Clock Has Transformed the Family

10:13 – Reducing Complaints and Strengthening Skills

10:18 – Encouragement to Try It at Home

 

Please like, subscribe, and share with someone who could benefit from creating a safe space for emotional expression in their family. Thanks for listening to Growing Strong Roots!

About Oak Bloom OT

Oak Bloom OT provides holistic occupational therapy for children in Oakland, California, helping them develop functional life skills through interest-led learning and strong family collaboration.

If You Found This Episode Helpful

Please like, subscribe, and share with someone who could benefit from creating a safe space for emotional expression in their family.

Thanks for listening to Growing Strong Roots!

In this episode of Growing Strong Roots, occupational therapist Lee-Anne Bloom explains how to understand and manage aggressive behavior in children through a regulation-focused lens. Instead of viewing aggression as defiance, she explores the sensory, emotional, and communication needs underneath the behavior and offers practical OT strategies for prevention, co-regulation, emotional awareness, and meaningful repair after conflict.

Watch on Youtube

 

Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and mission [00:00:27] Raising sturdy children with science-based strategies [00:01:00] The goal: helping children self-regulate before they act aggressively [00:01:12] How OTs view aggression as a signal, not defiance [00:01:40] Looking beneath behavior to identify underlying causes [00:01:52] HALT framework: Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired [00:02:23] Why relationship and trust matter for co-regulation [00:02:43] Adults staying grounded and modeling calm [00:03:08] Using tone, body language, and breathing to co-regulate [00:03:36] Sensory diet activities for regulatory support [00:04:03] Creating a safe space for intense emotions and release [00:04:35] Deep pressure tools for calming the nervous system [00:05:10] Structure and predictability during transitions [00:05:38] Teaching emotional awareness and self-expression [00:06:30] Repair, reflect, and reset after aggressive moments [00:06:56] Practicing alternative responses and role play [00:07:18] Supporting meaningful apologies and understanding impact [00:07:41] Introducing consequences with clarity and consistency [00:08:39] Episode wrap-up and future topics

  About Oak Bloom OT

Oak Bloom OT provides holistic, child-led occupational therapy in Oakland, California, helping children develop functional life skills through meaningful activities and strong family collaboration.

If You Found This Episode Helpful

Please like, subscribe, and share with someone raising or working with young children.

Thanks for listening — see you next time on Growing Strong Roots!

Episode: How Screens Impact Neurodivergent Kids and What Parents Can Do

In this episode, Lee-Anne Bloom, occupational therapist and mom, dives into the challenges of parenting neurodivergent children in the age of screens. She explains how ADHD, autism, and sensory differences make screen use more intense, why dopamine crashes can lead to emotional and behavioral struggles, and how parents can structure balanced free time using a “plate” model of focus, movement, creativity, connection, and moderated screen use. Learn practical, research-based strategies to help your child self-regulate, enjoy screens without conflict, and grow resilient.

 

Download printable PDF for step-by-step at-home instructions

Watch on Youtube

 

Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome and Podcast Mission Introduction to Growing Strong Roots and supporting families through occupational therapy strategies.

00:48 – Parenting Challenges with Screens Why modern digital devices create new difficulties for children and parents.

01:30 – Neurodivergent Brains and Screen Impact How ADHD, autism, and sensory differences make screen use more neurologically intense.

02:20 – Dopamine Crashes and Behavioral Responses Why overstimulation can lead to aggression, shutdowns, and difficult transitions.

03:15 – It’s Not Misbehavior, It’s Neurological Recovery Understanding that children are regulating after intense screen exposure.

04:00 – Balancing Ease and Boundaries Around Screens Why screens can be useful but still require thoughtful structure and limits.

04:40 – The Balanced Plate of Free Time A model to structure focus, movement, creativity, connection, and screens like a healthy meal.

05:10 – Protein: Focused, Skill-Building Time Activities that strengthen learning, attention, and confidence.

05:40 – Vegetables: Movement and Regulation Body-based play that supports emotional and neurological balance.

06:15 – Carbs: Creative, Open-Ended Play Imaginative play and exploration that fuel curiosity and expression.

06:50 – Condiments: Connection with a Parent Using co-regulation, conversation, and shared experiences to build trust and resilience.

07:25 – Dessert: Screens in Small Portions How screens can be a treat rather than the main activity when balanced with other play.

08:05 – Level Up: Screen Days Instead of Daily Use Reducing screen frequency to prevent conflict and promote self-regulation.

09:00 – Expect Pushback and Stay Firm Consistency and adult leadership help children adjust and thrive.

10:00 – Takeaways and Next Episode Preview Leading around screens builds resilience; next episode addresses screen-related aggression.

00:00 – Introduction

Welcome to Growing Strong Roots. Host Lee-Anne Bloom introduces herself and the mission of Oak Bloom OT.

00:59 – The Screen Time Dilemma Introduction to the episode’s main topic: the impact of screens on neurodivergent children.

01:25 – The Reality of Modern Childhood Lee-Anne reflects on how today’s children face constant digital stimulation and social pressures.

01:49 – Navigating Screen Challenges Discussion of the difficulties for neurodivergent children and families in managing screen time.

02:19 – Research and Real-Life Solutions Lee-Anne shares her research and personal experience, emphasizing the importance of not just removing screens but replacing them with meaningful activities.

02:45 – The Double-Edged Sword of Screens Screens can be helpful for parents but also create real problems, especially for motivation, mood, and relationships.

03:07 – The Impact on Children How screen time affects self-regulation and the parent-child relationship, especially in neurodivergent brains.

03:37 – Neurological Recovery After Screens Explaining the intense reactions children may have after screen time and the science behind it.

04:01 – Transitioning from Screens to Real Life The challenge of moving from digital motivation to real-world activities.

04:08 – The Balanced Plate Metaphor Introducing the "balanced plate" approach to free time, inspired by Daniel J. Siegel’s "The Yes Brain."

04:35 – Screens as Dessert Comparing screens to dessert: enjoyable in moderation, but not the main course.

05:05 – Building a Healthy Plate of Free Time How to create a balanced mix of activities for children, including focus time, movement, creativity, and connection.

05:42 – Focus Time (Protein) Encouraging activities that build focus and confidence, like puzzles, reading, and building.

06:09 – Movement (Vegetables) The importance of physical activity for regulation and well-being.

06:33 – Creative Play (Carbs) The value of open-ended, imaginative play in child development.

07:09 – Connection (Condiments) The role of parent-child connection in making all activities more meaningful and digestible.

08:09 – Screens (Dessert) Screens as a treat, best enjoyed after a balanced "meal" of other activities.

08:31 – Using the Plate at Home Practical tips for building a daily routine that balances focus, movement, creativity, and connection.

09:15 – Leveling Up: No-Screen Days Introducing the concept of "screen days" and the benefits of having days without screens.

09:43 – Handling Pushback Advice for parents on managing resistance and holding boundaries around screen time.

10:17 – Consistency and Grit Encouragement to stay strong and consistent as a parent.

10:43 – Looking Ahead Preview of future episodes on screen-related aggression and maintaining connection.

11:11 – Closing Final thoughts and thanks from Lee-Anne Bloom.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions for future episodes? Want to book me for a parenting or development consultation?  Contact us. Help grow the show by leaving a comment here!

yours,

Lee-Anne

 

References and citations:

• Podcast (1:22:8) “dopamine depletion from screens”
  • Resource: https://newsroom.ucla.edu/magazine/children-screen-time?utm_source=chatgpt.com 
  • Cepnit, A. B., Ledoux, T. A., & Johnston, C. A. (2020). Screen media: A powerful reinforcement. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 14(2), 126-129. 10.1177/1559827619892543
    • Evidence: Dopamine overstimulation– short-form video exposure triggers constant dopamine hits, reducing pleasure sensitivity. The drug-like neurochemical effects; high screen linker to reward system changes similar to addiction (“electronic cocaine”). Imaging studies show decreased D2 receptor availability in internet-addicted users. Excessive screen engagement may dull the brain’s response to slower, less stimulating tasks. 
• (2:25:0 - 2:53:0) neurodivergent brains and screen time
  • Resource: Yuan, G., Zhu, Z., Guo, H., Yang, H., Zhang, J., Zhang, K., Zhang, X., Lu, X., Du, J., Shi, H., Jin, G., Hao, J., Sun, Y., Su, P., & Zhang, Z. (2024). Screen Time and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Risk, Usage, and Addiction. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 10.1007/s10803-024-06665-z. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-024-06665-z 
  • Resource: Chen, J. Y., Strodl, E., Wu, C. A., Huang, L. H., Yin, X. N., Wen, G. M., Sun, D. L., Xian, D. X., Chen, Y. J., Yang, G. Y., & Chen, W. Q. (2021). Screen time and autistic-like behaviors among preschool children in China. Psychology, health & medicine, 26(5), 607–620. https://doi.org/10.1080/13548506.2020.1851034
  • Resource: Hill, M. M., Gangi, D. N., & Miller, M. (2024). Toddler Screen Time: Longitudinal Associations with Autism and ADHD Symptoms and Developmental Outcomes. Child Psychiatry & Human Development, 1-12. doi: 10.1007/s10578-024-01785-0 
  • Resource: Dong, H. Y., Feng, J. Y., Wang, B., Shan, L., & Jia, F. Y. (2021). Screen Time and Autism: Current Situation and Risk Factors for Screen Time Among Preschool Children With ASD. Frontiers in psychiatry, 12, 675902. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.675902
    • Evidence: Systematic review links prolonged preschool screen exposure to higher ASD likelihood. 
      • A Chinese cohort found early screen use (<3 years) predicts autistic-like behaviors.
      • ASD kids with >2 hour/day screens show delayed development and poorer parent-child interaction.
      • Higher problematic screens exposure correlates with developmental delays in ASD
      • Toddlers with more screen time developed more ASD/ ADHD symptoms and lower developmental scores. 

• (3:29:2): Quoted The Yes Brain book
  • Resource: Siegel, D. J., & Bryson, T. P. (2018). The yes brain: How to cultivate courage, curiosity, and resilience in your child. Bantam Books. 
    • Evidence: draw ideas from developmental neuroscience, attachment theory, and emotional regulation research. Making connections before corrections; balance, resilience, insight, empathy.
    • Linking concepts to interpersonal neurobiology (prefrontal cortex function, social engagement, and emotional regulation) can be nurtured through supportive caregiving. 
• (5:25:6) - physical exercise and emotional regulation
  • Resource: Wang, T., Nie, Y., Yao, X. et al. The chain mediating role of emotion regulation and stress perception in physical activity alleviating college students’ health anxiety. Sci Rep 15, 29189 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-14481-3 
    • Evidence: Physical activity is positively linked to emotional regulation and negatively associated with health anxiety and stress perception. 

Learn how to set loving, effective boundaries that support your child’s emotional regulation, independence, and resilience. Host Lee-Anne Bloom OTR/L shares practical strategies for scaffolding tasks, reducing overwhelm, and creating calm, connected family routines. She explores one of the most common but most challenging parenting topics: how to set loving, effective boundaries with children, especially those who are neurodivergent or navigating big life transitions. Lee-Anne breaks down why boundaries feel uncomfortable for both kids and caregivers, and why they are still essential for emotional regulation, independence, and family harmony. She explains how boundaries create predictability and safety, reduce stress, and ultimately help kids build resilience and real-world skills. 

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Time stamps:  Setting Loving Boundaries

In this episode, Lee-Anne Bloom explores the power of loving boundaries in parenting. She explains why boundaries are essential for both children and parents, how scaffolding supports independence, and why parental self-regulation is key to modeling healthy behavior. Using practical examples from daily life, she shares strategies for setting routines, handling pushback, and breaking down tasks so children can thrive while parents maintain energy and calm.

Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Podcast Mission and Host Background 00:28 – The Challenge of Parenting Resilient Children 00:51 – Episode Overview: Rooting Down Together 01:00 – Setting Loving Boundaries: Why It Matters 01:55 – Boundaries’ Role in Family Life: Routines and Self-Regulation 02:19 – Boundaries as Structure, Predictability, and Safety 02:44 – Scaffolding: Supporting Kids at Their Level 03:11 – Daily Life Examples of Boundaries and Scaffolding 03:41 – The Observer Effect: Building Independence Gradually 04:37 – Handling Pushback as a Sign of Growth 05:03 – Differentiating Struggle vs. Resistance 06:03 – Parental Self-Regulation and Modeling Calm 07:39 – Knowing Your Why: Values Behind Boundaries 08:52 – Breaking Down Overwhelm Into Manageable Steps 09:39 – Boundaries Benefit Parents: Energy, Self-Care, and Reduced Conflict 10:20 – Episode Wrap-Up: Combining Boundaries, Scaffolding, and Self-Regulation

 

Questions? Comments? Suggestions for future episodes? Want to book me for a parenting or development consultation?  Contact us at https://www.oakbloomot.com/contact.  Please leave a comment here as well! Thanks for listening.

 

 

 

Host Lee-Anne Bloom, an experienced occupational therapist and owner of Oak Bloom OT,  discusses how her diverse career background and experiences with her son’s neurodiversity have shaped her holistic approach to occupational therapy and helping "hard kids". She explains the importance of resilience, creative problem-solving, and personalized strategies in helping children and parents thrive. Listen in to gain valuable insights and practical tips for fostering strong, resilient roots in children.  Rooted in lived experience, creativity, science-based strategies, and 15 years of clinical work, Lee-Anne shares how OT can help children and families move from surviving to thriving. 

Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Oak Bloom OT and the Podcast 00:28 – Why the Podcast Exists and Its Purpose 00:51 – Invitation to Grow and Build Resilience Together 00:58 – Personal Story and How Motherhood Shaped Her Career 01:19 – What Occupational Therapy Is and What It Focuses On 02:06 – Being Both a Parent and an OT Supporting Her Neurodivergent Son 02:31 – A Diverse Background That Informs Her Approach 02:55 – Overcoming Disability, Pain, and ADHD Builds Empathy and Insight 03:18 – Family Influence and Lessons From Her Father’s Experience 04:09 – Sensory Sensitivities and Real-Life Adaptations 04:32 – Celebrating Creativity and Determination in Neurodiverse Learners 05:19 – Tailored Strategies for Strong-Willed and Sensitive Kids 06:02 – Challenging the Myth of Laziness and Supporting Atypical Learners 06:41 – Embracing a Nonlinear Career Path as Valuable Preparation 07:09 – Helping Families Thrive Through Experience and OT Training 07:32 – Sensory and Emotional Tools as Essential Protective Armor 07:58 – Collaborative Parent Coaching as a Key to Lasting Growth 08:24 – The Ferret Approach: Following Interests in a Screen-Filled World 08:47 – Helping Kids and Parents Discover Strengths and Coping Tools 09:00 – What It Is Really Like Raising a Hard Kid 09:14 – Building Systems That Support Confidence and Independence 09:41 – Refining Solutions Together Over Time 10:34 – Closing Message of Encouragement and Resilience 10:54 – Contact and Outro

At Oak Bloom OT, we provide holistic occupational therapy for children focusing on increasing functional life skills through interest-based learning and family involvement. 

Questions?  Comments?  Suggestions for future episodes?  leave a comment here, contact us at https://www.oakbloomot.com/contact