Explore every episode of the podcast The Sensory Code Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top 5 things I'd do if I just realized my child was neurodivergent | 09 Sep 2026 | 00:13:16 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Summary Let me tell you about the top five actions I would take if I just discovered my child was neurodivergent. I emphasize the importance of pausing to process the information, embracing accommodations, documenting progress, taking proactive steps for occupational therapy, and communicating about neurodivergence in a positive and affirming light. Takeaways Pause and process before taking action. Accommodations can make daily life easier. Documenting progress helps recognize growth. Don't wait for referrals; seek occupational therapy directly. Communicate about neurodivergence in a positive way. Links & Resources:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| WELCOME TO THE SENSORY CODE PODCAST | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:02:53 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast — now The Sensory Code Podcast. Every week, pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix helps you view behavior through a nervous system lens. When parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists understand how sensory processing differences affect learning and behavior, it changes the game forever. Laura brings a unique POV to the table: her clinical experience as a pediatric OT, her lived experience as a neurodivergent, ADHD, sensory-sensitive person, and her firsthand knowledge of parenting a neurodivergent child. However you're showing up — parent, provider, or both — you're in the right place. Just pull up a chair, grab your fidget, and lock in. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| The best app for kids that won’t leave them in tears… even when they need to turn it off | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:49:44 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I’m an Occupational Therapist, and I’m also a Mom with an invisible mental load that never ends. Screen time is a tool that I am NOT afraid to use. But not all screen time is created equal. Some games or apps are more dysregulating than others, which is probably a HUGE reason for the meltdowns and behaviors that come up when it comes to turning off the device. Since the day I was introduced to Pok Pok (in 2021) until now, this has remained our ONE app that has never, and I mean NEVER caused behaviors or meltdowns. Melissa Cash is the Co-Founder and CEO at Pok Pok, the award-winning company reinventing healthy screen time for kids. One of Canada’s Top 100 Most Influential People of 2024, Melissa is also an advocate and start-up advisor for women and underrepresented founders. Previously, she was a Product Designer for the Walt Disney Company and worked at start-ups in Europe and Canada. Esther Huybreghts is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Pok Pok. With a Master's degree in Animation from the RITCS institute in Brussels, Belgium, she's the creative visionary behind the award-winning children's app Pok Pok, reimagining the way young children interact with technology from the ground up. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| “But everyone does that!” and other things people say about neurodiversity | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:17:29 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen to this short and sweet episode to help you understand the difference between kids who enjoy some sensory input, and kids who NEED some sensory input to function properly in their day. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Recess is necessary for all kids- stop taking it away! | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:27:58 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Did you know some kids are getting their recess taken away as punishment for not focusing, being distracted, not getting their work done, and other behavioral issues in the classroom? Maybe you’re the parent to a child who has had this done to them. The American Academy of Pediatrics and The Center for Disease Control and Prevention have both made public statements emphasizing the necessity of at least 20 minutes of recess for elementary aged kids, and they both further state that recess should never be taken away as a punitive measure. This episode breaks down those research briefs and gives you the tools to advocate so that your child never misses out on their right to recess again. Here are the links mentioned: Results from the School Health Policies and Practices Study 2014 Sign up for the Sensory Detectives BootCamp ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| "Help! My child is so dysregulated after school" | 02 Sep 2024 | 00:26:08 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Many of us are back into the swing of things at school, and with that comes so much more dysregulation! Listen in as I talk about where that dysregulation comes from and how you can try to get ahead of it (key word: try!). You’ll learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| A kids book about neurodiversity (Author’s notes version) | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:22:20 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen in to this episode to hear more context and insight behind some of the wording and passages I used in my book, A kids book about neurodiversity. You might be surprised to learn that this book’s intended audience is actually neurotypical kids, because I want to spread awareness and acceptance and celebration for our neurodivergent kids; it shouldn’t always be left up to us neurodivergent folks and families to constantly explain ourselves and our kids’ behaviors and needs to the world; what if we lived in a world where everyone just knew that there are variations among humans? Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" here. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| story time: updates on my medication & diagnosis journey | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:35:48 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen in to this casual, story time episode where I catch you up to speed with my anxiety/ADHD journey and why I stopped medication. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| 9 stupid-simple self regulation tools for parents (that don’t include deep breaths) | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:22:56 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Do you ever feel like your patience runs out before your coffee does? In this episode, we focus on why it's essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to prioritize their own regulation. It's not just about being able to stay calm when your child spills cereal all over the floor—it's about being equipped to handle life's daily challenges with a sense of calm and control. Join me as I share some straightforward and practical strategies for self-regulation that you might already be doing without realizing their true potential. From chewing gum to changing your clothes, discover how these simple acts can actually help you maintain your cool. We’ll dive into the science behind why our bodies react the way they do and explore how we can proactively use these sensory strategies to reclaim our brain's resources and be the best versions of ourselves for our kids. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Does my child need classroom accommodations? | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:27:19 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Are you receiving constant feedback about your child's behavior or learning challenges in the classroom? ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Re-AIR: The "size of the problem" lesson & why I don't use it anymore | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:28:03 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! The size of the problem is a common lesson therapists and teachers use to teach kids emotional regulation skills. As I have learned more about the neurodivergent community, I’ve started thinking about this lesson in a different late and want to share that with you in this episode. Don’t worry, it’s not all bad! ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| RE-AIR: How to support regulation around the summer break | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:24:14 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! The transition to summer comes with so many emotions and behaviors, it can be really exhausting. There are ways to support your neurodivergent child through this transition. In this episode, you’ll learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Re-writing the script: Unlearning childhood narratives with Stephanie Pinto | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:51:41 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Calling all millennial parents! Did you grow up hearing things like: ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Keeping sensory seekers entertained AND regulated (easy solutions you can do at home!) | 08 Jul 2024 | 00:17:49 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! If you have a sensory seeker and you're in need of easy, indoor ideas to keep them both entertained AND regulated... this is the episode for you. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Why Is My Child's Behavior Worse When They're Sick? | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:21:26 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! If you have a child who’s been sick recently, you’ve probably found yourself wondering “Why are they so moody?” “why do they seem more sensitive than before?” You’re not imagining it. The nervous system is in a state of stress when it’s fighting viruses, ailments and bugs. Sensory systems are more impacted and so is behavior. Listen to this episode to feel validated for an experience you might have had recently or a reminder for what to expect next time. Stay till the end to hear my practical tips that I think every neurodivergent parent needs to know when helping their child transition back to “normal life” after an illness. PS- If you’re listening to this episode before June 30th, there’s time to register for my FREE masterclass, “4 steps to less stressful daily routines with your sensory sensitive child (without using punishments or sticker charts)” Register at THEOTBUTTERFLY.COM/4Steps Can’t wait to see you there! ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Breaking generational & cultural cycles as a neurodivergent parent with Marcela Collier | 17 Jun 2024 | 00:37:44 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Are you a late diagnosed adult with childhood trauma relating to their missed/ignored neurodivergent needs who is NOW trying to provide better support for their own neurodivergent child? *Sigh* us too. Join Marcela Collier, certified parenting coach and neurodivergent mom to discuss our journey to accepting our neurodivergent brains and advocating for our own needs so we can better show up for our kids.
Instagram @highimpactclub Marcela interviews me on her podcast: Spotify link apple link Website: HICparenting.com ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Your Body, Your Rules: Masturbation, Orgasms & intimacy with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:32:07 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! It’s 2024, self-pleasure, masturbation, orgasms…. It’s one of the most natural, fun, immediate ways to regulate our bodies, why should we be ashamed of it? Listen in to this unfiltered discussion about changes to intimacy after becoming parents and how burnt out, touched out moms can start getting bringing sexy back! Dr. Tracy Dalgleish helps empower women and couples to improve their communication and build strong and healthy connections with themselves and their partner through therapy, wellness seminars, and her work outside of the therapy room. She contributes to popular media sites, including Motherly, Huffington Post, and Bustle. In addition to hosting the podcast, “I’m not your shrink” where she dives deeper into clinical knowledge and research in a relatable and informal way, her book “I Didn’t Sign Up For This: Stories of Unlocking Old Patterns and Finding Joy in Your Relationship” is a fantastic resource, which I highly recommend. Dr. Tracy is a mom of two young children and owner of Ottawa’s mental health clinic, Integrated Wellness, she knows what it means to balance the full load. Learn more from Dr. Tracy: Dr. Tracy’s free guide to nurturing intimacy ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| THC, CBD and Neurodiversity, with Dr. Miyabe Shields Ph.D. | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:57:14 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Dr. Miyabe Shields, is a Ph.D. pharmaceutical scientist who specialized in the structural biochemistry of the endocannabinoid system for drug discovery. They have received national and international recognition for their pre-doctoral research in the endocannabinoid system and industrial accomplishments in the cannabis and emerging psychedelics industries. After co-founding a cannabis research startup post-PhD, they delved into rare extract and formulation research, exploring heat-transformed cannabinoids and developed a novel form of cannabis extraction. Miyabe transitioned to community education and science advocacy through social media and podcasts, reaching over 6 million people. Shifting away from production-focused roles, they now advocate for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and psychedelics for neurodivergent brains. They co-founded the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), a new research non-profit, to disseminate real-world applications of the synergies of nature by analyzing data and communicating research and educational information to the public. In this episode, we’ll talk all about the difference between ways to take in cannabis, the different ingredients, and how this can be helpful (or harmful) to various neurotypes. Again, please keep in mind- this is not medical advice. This is just a discussion between 2 neurodivergent adults who happen to use cannabis as a tool in our regulation toolbox, sharing our lived experience and clinical research.
Miyabe's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miyabephd/ Miyaboe's Research: https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Why are restaurants so hard for my neurodivergent child and how can I help them? | 27 May 2024 | 00:23:39 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Restaurants are a multi-sensory experience, and if you've got a neurodivergent child, you know that multi-sensory doesn't always necessarily mean a good thing. Between the sensory overload, confined space and social expectations of "behaving" in a restaurant, it makes sense why eating out as a family feels stressful for some families. Today I'll peel back the layers and talk about the specific triggers that are contributing to dysregulation, and give strategies to best support your children. Plus hacks for keeping busy at the table. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Neurodivergent kids & birthday parties: the struggle is real | 20 May 2024 | 00:30:36 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Whether attending other celebrations or hosting your own, birthday parties can often be overwhelming due to sensory and emotional regulation challenges. However, with proper preparation and accommodations, we can minimize distress and help our neurodivergent kids fully participate and enjoy the experience. In this episode, I'll share my go-to strategies for birthday party guest OR host preparation. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Helping Kids Thrive Outdoors with Nature-Based OT featuring Dr. Laura Park Figueroa | 13 May 2024 | 00:55:43 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Tune in to hear us discuss the benefits of nature-based occupational therapy with Dr. Laura Park Figueroa. We explore how incorporating natural elements into therapy can help children build skills while regulating their nervous systems. I share some of my own experiences as an "indoor cat" to highlight how nature-based approaches aren’t always inherently sought out, but still incredibly important. Dr. Laura Park Figueroa, PhD, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. She is the founder of Outdoor Kids OT, Inc., a nature-based pediatric practice, and Therapy in the Great Outdoors, LLC, an online hub for nature-based pediatric therapists of all kinds. Her PhD research examined the mechanisms of change at work in nature-based pediatric occupational therapy. You can connect with her on Instagram @lauraparkfig and follow Outdoor Kids OT @outdoorkidsot Resource she mentioned: “Last child in the woods” book “Balanced and Barefoot” by Angela Hanscom ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| How an Autism Diagnosis Saved Paige Layle's Life: Interview | 06 May 2024 | 01:01:24 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live as an undiagnosed Autistic person living in a neurotypical world? Maybe you’re a parent to a nonspeaking child or a child who’s too young to be able to properly express their experience. Learning from actually Autistic adults is one of the most valuable things you can do for your Autistic child and other Autistic individuals in the world, and today, we’re lucky enough to be hearing from one of my favorite Autistic adult creators, Paige Layle. She just released her memoir, “But Everyone Feels this Way: How an Autism Diagnosis Saved My Life” and we’re diving into it today. You can buy her book at Target, amazon, or Hachette’s website and I highly recommend it! Trigger warning: Paige discusses her experience with thoughts of suicide. Please listen at your own discretion, and do not listen with your children around. Listen to this story to learn more about:
Link to Paige's book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/paige-layle/but-everyone-feels-this-way/9780306831256/ ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Why wiggle cushions AREN’T helping your child sit still | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:16:40 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! This week I'm diving into some sneaky reasons why some sensory kids might be wigglers that have nothing to do with needing more movement. Prepare to get your mind blown as I break down the connection between core strength, posture, and focus. I'll also give you tons of do's and don'ts for supporting these kiddos in the classroom. By the end you'll be armed with all the deets to help your little learner shine without extra distractions. - The hidden connection between core strength, posture, and attention abilities - Common signs that weak core muscles may be to blame for fidgety behavior - Why approaches like weighted vests or inflated seating options can backfire - Practical seating solutions and positioning tips to support learning ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Helping Kids Understand Occupational Therapy: A Guide for Parents | 22 Apr 2024 | 00:19:51 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! As an OT, I often get asked how parents should explain why their child has to go to Occupational Therapy visits. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month 2024 | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:30:27 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Get ready for an info-packed episode on Occupational Therapy to celebrate this wonderful field in OT month (for U.S.). - Episode 93: How to identify neurodiverse affirming therapists and some green flags to look for - Episode 70: An interview with Dr. Krupa Playforth on advocating for OT with your pediatrician - Episode 24: Making the most out of OT services - Episode 69: Understanding IEPs and 504 plans in a school-based OT setting ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Why does my child hate changes in routine? | 08 Apr 2024 | 00:19:51 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I dive into why some kids – especially neurodivergent ones – thrive on routine and struggle when things change. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| How to provide regulation in a home with conflicting sensory needs | 01 Apr 2024 | 00:20:34 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Do you feel pulled in multiple directions trying to meet the unique sensory needs of each child in your home? In this episode, I’ll dish my top strategies for balancing the often conflicting sensory profiles within families. You'll learn practical ways to create separate sensory spaces, set clear boundaries with alternatives, and rely on sensory layering to make any environment work for everyone. Whether you have an overstimulated child and a sensory avoider under the same roof or just struggle with dinner time chaos, you'll walk away with immediate tips you can start using tonight. By prioritizing inclusion, boundaries and regulation for all, you'll feel more confident in your ability to meet the needs of every unique individual in your home.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Help! My child wakes up dysregulated. What do I do? | 25 Mar 2024 | 00:18:30 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Parents, are you dealing with a kid who just constantly wakes up on the wrong side of the bed? NO matter what you do or offer them, they're just dysregulated no matter what.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Brainstorming solutions WITH our kids, instead of for them. | 18 Mar 2024 | 00:16:07 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I'm exploring an approach I've found really effective called collaborative problem-solving. I'll break down the steps so you can understand the process. And I'll share a real example from my own parenting journey - what happened when I tried validating my daughter's perspective and attacking the problem objectively (minimizing emotions) to find a creative solution that she could agree to? Collaborative problem solving has really shifted our dynamic from a battle of wills to a feeling of partnership. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| The Nervous System Budget: a new way to think about accommodations for neurodivergent individuals | 11 Mar 2024 | 00:15:08 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I wanted to share a new concept I've been thinking about called the "nervous system budget." Basically, it's a way to visualize how different tasks and environments affect our nervous systems. I'll explain how we all have a limited amount of "nervous system cash" each day, and how certain things can cost more than others. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Journey from Referral to Recommendations: what to expect (Tips from a Clinical Psychologist) | 04 Mar 2024 | 00:44:18 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Dr. Alex Reed is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and support of neurodevelopmental diagnoses across the lifespan Alex and I are both contributors in Dr. Becky’s goodinside community- a movement and platform that we really enjoy supporting. Alex and I have so many sideline conversations about neurodiversity and are constantly sharing resources and posts that speak to our souls— they usually have to do with finding ND affirming care. So I invited Alex on today because she does most of her work within the more traditional DSM-medical model, so she can give us more insight into that lens… but more specifically, I invited her on because she and I have both been hearing about how many parents leave this process-their evaluation, their diagnosis with a referral to therapies they aren’t sure about, or they leave with more questions, or they leave feeling icky. I’m hoping Alex can peel back some of those layers for us today so we can understand a bit more about the process and the quote unquote system– and more importantly, what’s within our control as parents if we can ONLY access those services through “the system”- what are our options to help our neurodivergent kids thrive as they are? Find more from her on instagram @dr_alex_reed ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Advice from a 6 year old (Lliana Q&A) | 26 Feb 2024 | 00:26:06 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Liliana surprises me every single day. She’s intelligent, well spoken, mature, empathetic and so so caring. You can see all of those qualities through her in this episode, which was in part created by you who submitted questions for her to answer! In this episode, you’ll hear Liliana give advice about
And so much more! ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| How to use exercise to regulate your nervous system with Dr. Shannon Ritchey | 19 Feb 2024 | 00:44:08 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! We cannot co-regulate our kids if we aren’t regulated ourselves. And most of us (I’m raising both of my hands here) need to make extra effort to activate our parasympathetic nervous system because our sympathetic nervous systems can go into overdrive so quickly as parents to neurodivergent kids. Chronic dysregulation and chronic sympathetic nervous system activation is definitely a THING, our kids can experience, and we can too. And when we’re chronically dysregulated, literally everything in our day just becomes harder, less efficient, and we become crankier, more burnt out, and less able to access the best parenting skills. I put off creating an exercise routine for a long time because I just wasn’t the most active person and it didn’t motivate me- which I’ll share in the podcast, but trust me when I say- it’s true! It’s true what they say- consistent movement in a way that feels good to your body, that incorporates a good warm up and cool down can do WONDERS for your mental health, and I am truly a better parent and wife now that I have a fitness regime that works for me. This episode dives in to: > A little background on my workout journey > Why it’s important to NOT skip the cool down in an exercise program > What is gentle consistency (™) and how can it help you maintain an active lifestyle that works for you > How to get started with an exercise routine if you feel completely overwhelmed Links: Fit Body, Happy Joints podcast episodes Laura recommends: Productive vs. unproductive stress Nervous system tools to improve your results How to train your nervous system Code THEOTBUTTERFLY on www.evlofitness.com for 1 month free trial ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Making screen time work for your family with Ash Brandin, EdS | 12 Feb 2024 | 00:54:53 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Let's normalize screen time use in whatever way works for your family. I know as parents we are CONSTANTLY bombarded by a list of shoulds and shouldn’ts and really big, click-baity headlines that really create a lot of fear and guilt among parents. You see this for almost every childhood concern, but I see it a lot around screens. And in 2024, we’re definitely not decreasing our kids’ exposure to screens so let’s lean into it a bit and really find out- do we really need to stress about limiting screen time? Are there differences between the screentime use our kids are having, and what does this say about neurodivergent kids?
Links: 20% pokpok discount using code 25OTBUTTERFLY ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Understanding nervous system regulation with Dr. Joy Malik-Hasbrook | 05 Feb 2024 | 00:42:28 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Dr. Joy and I chat about why nervous system regulation is so important for parents and kids to understand, and how you can start to explain it to them. We then touch on how you expand the knowledge of nervous system regulation into understanding that some brains and bodies are different, and their nervous system regulation (and finding the green energy) can look different for neurodivergent kids. Dr. Joy Malik-Hasbrook, PsyD (she/her), is a licensed clinical psychologist who helps children feel seen and grownups heal. She provides regulation and resiliency-based parenting support, specializes in neurodiversity assessments with kids, and presents on nervous system regulation and neurodiversity-affirming assessment. She is a mama of 2, a highly sensitive human, and biracial of South Asian Indian/white descent. She values integrating both Asian contemplative practices and contemporary psychology into her work and is committed to anti-oppressive practices. Dr. Joy understands how challenges with dysregulation create more distress. She believes that understanding nervous system regulation leads to compassion and resiliency and that all families should have access to this information—this book is a start!
https://www.drjoymalikhasbrook.com/ drjoy@drjoymalikhasbrook.com IG @drjoy_compassionateparenting ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| 100 episodes “wiser” [with Liliana] | 29 Jan 2024 | 00:25:38 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Welcome to the 100th episode of the sensory W.I.S.E. solutions podcast! I'm so excited to celebrate this milestone with all of you. In this special episode, I'll be reflecting on our journey so far and sharing some of my favorite episodes and key stats from the past 100 shows. You’ll also get to hear from my 6 year old, Lilliana who shares her perspective on neurodiversity and gives some advice to any kids with similar support needs out there. And she'll even read a few pages from my kids book, “A Kids book about neurodiversity”! Thanks so much for listening and supporting the podcast throughout its first 100 episodes. Here's to many more insightful discussions around sensory processing and neurodiversity. Episodes we talked about: ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Kristi Palmer {KIVA founder} on de-stigmatizing cannabis use for millennial parents | 22 Jan 2024 | 00:47:55 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode I chat with Kristi Palmer, founder of Kiva Confection edibles, about how cannabis products can be integrated into our busy lives as parents. Kristi shares how she uses edibles to manage the chaos of dinner time and her kids' bedtime routine. I also discuss how edibles help me relax in the evenings and get a great night's sleep. We talk about dosing, favorite products, educating kids, and more. If you've been curious about edibles but have reservations, give this episode a listen - it may give you the courage to try something new that could make your life a little easier! Kristi Palmer is the co-founder and President of Kiva Confections. In 2010, Kristi and Scott Palmer were on a mission to bring the highest-quality, safest, most delicious cannabis products to consumers and began making chocolate bars out of their California home kitchen. Now established leaders in the cannabis industry, pioneering product innovation and consumer education, the company is focused on growth and expansion. Kiva offers something for everyone with their award-winning Camino and Lost Farm gummies and fruit chews, Petra mints, Terra chocolate bites, and Kiva chocolate bars. The #1 edibles maker in California, Kiva’s products can be found in 10+ states and thousands of dispensaries across the U.S. Links: https://www.kivaconfections.com/blog/kristi-palmer-kiva-co-founder-and-canna-mom ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| So your child was just diagnosed, now what? | 15 Jan 2024 | 00:20:51 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen to this episode if you’re looking for practical next steps after your child receives an autism, ADHD, anxiety or other DSM diagnosis. Listeners will learn how to navigate the many emotions that come with a diagnosis, as I validate the relief, validation but also overwhelmed, confused or worried feelings parents may experience. I recommend taking time to process the diagnosis before making major decisions. Then I outline a step-by-step approach, including re-reading evaluation reports, starting the process for school services if recommended, researching recommended therapies, and focusing research efforts on priority areas during waiting periods for services. My hope is that by laying out this plan, parents will feel less overwhelmed and more empowered to support their child following a diagnosis. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| How does sensory processing actually work? | 08 Jan 2024 | 00:20:55 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I break down the basics of sensory processing in a step by step, easy to understand way. Learn how each of the 8 sensory inputs travel through our bodies, how the brain triggers a response and how that manifests in our behaviors. With this information, you’re ready to start tackling those behaviors from a more sensory informed lens! You’ll learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Unscripted: My husband was the default parent for 17 days | 01 Jan 2024 | 00:42:30 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Follow along as my husband and I do a quick recap of the 17 days I spent away from home while I was in the Philippines and Mark took on the role of default parent for our daughter Liliana. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| How to introduce neurodiversity and sensory tools to a general ed classroom | 18 Dec 2023 | 00:24:10 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! It’s one thing to be able to identify the best supports, tools and accommodations for your neurodivergent child, but I find that implementing it successfully in the classroom isn’t always easy. One of the things I recommend parents or teachers to do is to spend some time introducing the entire classroom to sensory tools, what they are, who they’re for, and how they help. The idea is to normalize neurodiversity early on, so that when sensory tools or fidgets are being used by an ND student in the classroom, it’s less of a disruption, there’s less stigma and more overall acceptance and awareness that different brains are beautiful!
https://theotbutterfly.com/whole-body-listening/sws-podcast/ https://theotbutterfly.com/neurodiversity-talk-with-child/sws-podcast/ https://theotbutterfly.com/gifted/sws-podcast/ ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Navigating Food Allergies with Compassion: A Conversation with the Asian Allergy Mom | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:51:19 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode,I talk with Ina Chung, known as @theasianallergymom on Instagram. Ina shares her personal story of parenting her daughter who has food allergies to peanut, dairy and egg. She discusses how she educated herself on food allergies as a new mom and advocates tirelessly for inclusion of food allergy families. Ina offers practical tips and strategies for managing her daughter's allergies at school and in social settings. We also explore the intersections of food allergies and neurodiversity. This conversation provides valuable insights for both families living with food allergies as well as those wanting to better support their loved ones. You’ll walk away with actionable steps they can take to make food allergy families feel safe and included. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Identifying Neurodiverse Affirming Therapists: Green Flags to look for | 04 Dec 2023 | 00:40:12 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen in as I discuss important signs parents can look for to determine if a therapist or clinic is neurodiverse affirming so they can make the most informed decision when looking into therapy providers for their neurodivergent child. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| The Truth About Labels: Understanding the Pros and Cons | 27 Nov 2023 | 00:34:33 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I explore one of the most nuanced topics in parenting - the use of labels for children. As an OT and mom to a sensory sensitive child, I've seen firsthand both the pros and cons that labels can bring. I discuss my own journey in understanding different perspectives on labels and how my views have evolved. Listeners will gain insight into why labels are so meaningful to some, yet controversial to others. I also share strategies for effective advocacy and community-building regardless of stance on labels. My goal is to start respectful conversations that consider multiple truths on this issue. Ultimately, we must challenge stigma at its root by promoting education over assumptions. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Short, Sweet or Sassy Comeback Responses for Every Judgy Relative | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:27:26 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I share my top comebacks for dealing with judgmental comments about parenting a neurodivergent child. As parents, we've all experienced unwanted advice or passive aggressive remarks from friends and family about our parenting style or our child's behavior. But it can be hard to know how to respond without causing conflict. I'll provide a variety of polite, informative, and sassy responses you can have in your back pocket for common comments like "My parents would never let me get away with that" or "Why don't you just try XYZ intervention?" You'll learn different ways to shut down shaming, set boundaries, and educate others without losing your cool. Whether you need neutral ways to handle helicopter relatives or spicy one-liners to use on particularly judgmental family members, this episode has the perfect comebacks to empower you to engage effectively while still keeping the peace. I'll also share tips for preventing problems and handling difficult conversations with tact. By the end, you'll feel prepared for any parenting critique this holiday season.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance: Accommodating PDA Needs with Expert Casey Ehrlich | 13 Nov 2023 | 01:07:50 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, Laura Petix interviews Casey Ehrlich, a social scientist and expert in Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Casey shares her personal story of discovering her son's PDA diagnosis and journey to understanding. She discusses PDA as a dysregulated nervous system perceiving threats to autonomy. Casey provides 5 key accommodation strategies for supporting PDA needs, including letting kids win games, using declarative language, strewing for engagement, letting go of demands for "please" and "thank you", and allowing kids to opt out. Laura asks challenging questions and Casey explains how to apply accommodations thoughtfully. Parents will learn practical ways to connect with their PDA kids through an autonomy-focused lens. This episode is invaluable for anyone seeking to understand and support the unique needs of children with Pathological Demand Avoidance.
What is PDA? What is like parenting a child with PDA? What are the best ways to accommodate a child with PDA? What are some resources to look further into PDA?
PDA parents podcast https://www.pdaparents.com/podcast - Sally Cat (writes on the internalized expression of PDA) - PDA Society (for journal articles on research about PDA) - “The declarative language handbook” 5 ways to accommodate a PDA child instagram post ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Neurodiversity in Society: Embracing Differences for a Better Future (roundtable discussion) | 06 Nov 2023 | 01:14:52 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I recently had an open discussion with my instagram audience on whether or not someone with a clinical diagnosis of anxiety would be considered neurodivergent. This stemmed from an inner conflict I was experiencing and trying to decide– am I neurodivergent? I actually shared a more in depth view of where I stand on this topic personally and it’s in the previous episode, 88 if you want to go back and listen to that after this. This question brought up such great conversations in my DMs and I realized how nuanced this topic was, and how much I wanted to bring this discussion to a larger platform and to include different voices on the topic. So I reached out to some of my most respected peers in this space who all have some personal and professional tie to neurodiversity. I invited Dr. Cassidy Freitas (LMFT), Andi Putt (speech therapist) and Mr. Chazz (teacher of teachers and parenting coach) to join me for this round table episode. I asked questions like
Links: Mr. Chazz podcast episode: “Conscious Discipline with a ND child” Mr. Chazz podcast episode: “How to handle hitting with an OT” Dr. Cassidy podcast episode:” The trauma experience in parenthood” Dr. Cassidy podcast episode: “Raising a sensory sensitive child” Andi Putt podcast episode: “Celebrating Autism with a neurodiverse lens” ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Unscripted: Am I neurodivergent? | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:35:11 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! It all started when a 4th grader at my daughter’s school asked me if I’m neurodivergent after I finished doing a read aloud of my book to their school. And I don’t know why but I stumbled over my words. I kept thinking about it over and over again that day and then shared it to my stories with a question, am I neurodivergent? ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Ask These 4 Questions to Identify Your Child's Dysregulation Patterns | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:33:12 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! We talk a lot about noticing when your child becomes dysregulated and paying attention to their behaviors so you can identify a pattern, but what if the pattern isn't obvious? ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||
| Why Is Your Child Acting Out? Uncovering 'The Gap' in Behavior | 16 Oct 2023 | 00:20:26 | |
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Are you searching for the answers to help stop a certain behavior that keeps coming up for your child? Maybe they’re always hitting or yelling; maybe they are getting notes sent home from school that they’re not paying attention or keeps disrupting class. Before you can look for solutions to stop the behavior, you need to understand why the behavior is occurring. And the first place to look for the answer to that question is in “the gap”. Listen to this episode to hear how I talk about the “gap where behavior lives”. You’ll learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ A Kids Book About Neurodiversity | |||