Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast for Parents

Get ready for an info-packed episode on Occupational Therapy to celebrate this wonderful field in OT month (for U.S.). I shared how OT can help with all different kinds of challenges like motor skills, focusing, anxiety and sensory issues. Whether assessing needs, modifying environments or teaching regulating strategies, OTs have creative solutions to support kids' skills and behaviors. From building body awareness to providing customized interventions, we get to play all day while helping kids learn. I hope this gave you a taste of what OT is all about - it was so fun sharing all the insights!- Episode 30: How to Get Started with OT and how it can change your life- 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 settingSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

In this episode, I dive into why some kids – especially neurodivergent ones – thrive on routine and struggle when things change. As a neurodivergent adult and occupational therapist, I'll share insights into the sensory and cognitive challenges that can make even small changes feel like big disruptions. I'll also dish out practical tips for parents to support their neurodivergent kiddos through these transitions. Join me as we uncover the secrets to smoother sailing in the unpredictable seas of routine changes.Social story podcast: https://theotbutterfly.com/social-stories-for-kids/sws-podcast/ SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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.Link from show: Sensory Layering podcast episodeSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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. This episode is for you. I'll help you make sense of those non-sensical moods and give you an action plan to hopefully curb some of that dysregulation.  Listen into learn: That chronic dysregulation is a real thing and some children's nervous systems can get stuck in a state of fight or flight activation.  Why your child might be chronically dysregulated3 in the moment tips to intercept the morning meltdownHow waking up earlier oneself can help be more present for a dysregulated child.Ideas on how to start proactively regulating their nervous systemSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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. Dr. Ross Greene's Book "The Explosive Child"SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

 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. I'll also give some ideas for how parents can help kids spend less and save more for the things that really matter. My hope is that framing it this way can help parents be more intentional about supporting their kids' regulation. SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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_reedSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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 aboutWhat to do when you’re worried about going to schoolWhat to do when you can’t fall asleepHer favorite calming techniquesWhat to do in the morning if you have a hard time getting up And so much more!SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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.Dr. Shannon is a former physical therapist and the founder of Evlo Fitness. Her mission is to help women get stronger and build muscle with less strain on their bodies. She believes in the power of educating about the physiology of our bodies to create fitness programs that aren’t overly depleting or exhausting. 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: Is walking enough?Productive vs. unproductive stressNervous system tools to improve your resultsHow to train your nervous systemCode THEOTBUTTERFLY on www.evlofitness.com for 1 month free trial Evlo fitness instagramDr Shannon instagramSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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? Ash Brandin, EdS (they/them) has been a public school educator for over a decade. In that time they found innovative ways of using student interests- including video games- to increase engagement and make learning more fun and effective. Since February 2021, their Instagram page- TheGamerEducator- has helped tens of thousands of families make screen time beneficial for the whole family. Ash believes screens should be part of our lives, not the center of our lives, and helps caregivers navigate the world of tech using consistent, loving boundaries. In their free time, Ash loves to hike, bake, play video games, and spend time with their family. Links: https://thegamereducator.com/@thegamereducator20% pokpok discount using code 25OTBUTTERFLYSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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!You can find more of her work at: https://www.drjoymalikhasbrook.com/drjoy@drjoymalikhasbrook.comIG  @drjoy_compassionateparentingEnter for a chance to win BOTH of our books on THIS instagram postRegister here for a FREE meet the author Q&A session on Feb 8th, 5:30 PM PSTSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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: >>What is Sensory Processing Disorder?>>Sensory Processing Disorder: Sensory Sensitive Profile>>High Threshold: Sensory Seekers vs. Low Registration>>Neurodiversity and interoception with Kelly Mahler, MS OTR/L>>The ABA Therapy Controversy>> Why Is Your Child Acting Out? Uncovering 'The Gap' in Behavior>>Why your child is a picky eater, and when to seek help.>> The Number One Reason Your Kid Hates Hygiene Tasks>> Bed time battles: Practice strategies and when to work with OT, with Dr. Tina Bryson>> Is it Sensory or Is it Behavior?>> Having a mixed threshold child >>Using “sensory layering” to enhance nervous system regulation>>  How to Get Started with a Sensory Lifestyle in 5 Easy Steps>> Proprioception: What is it and How does it Support my Child?>> Making the most out of OT services>> When sticker charts backfire>>How to Talk to Your Child About Their Neurodiversity>> Accommodation vs. Exposure for Sensory KidsSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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:www.kivaconfections.comhttps://www.kivaconfections.com/blog/kristi-palmer-kiva-co-founder-and-canna-mom SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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.SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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: The 5-step process of how sensory information is processed and integratedHow sensory processing happens automatically and constantly in the background to allow us to function Why familiar routines and environments require less brain energy than new situationsWhat happens when our basic needs are not met Join us for the FREE detecting Dysregulation training happening now until January 19th, 2024SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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. We discussed how he handled the daily routines like school drop offs and meals without any reminders from me. Mark shared some funny stories like when he tried taking Lilianato a 4D movie experience that didn't go as planned (IYKYK). Overall, Mark rose to the challenge and felt more confident in his parenting abilities after having to fully manage everything alone for over two weeks. Both Mark and I felt this experience strengthened our family dynamic and we are all better for it. Listen to our previous episode together more on his experience as a neurodivergent parent.SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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! Other related podcast episodes: https://theotbutterfly.com/episode10/sws-podcast/https://theotbutterfly.com/whole-body-listening/sws-podcast/https://theotbutterfly.com/neurodiversity-talk-with-child/sws-podcast/https://theotbutterfly.com/gifted/sws-podcast/ SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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.SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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. Links: episode on making the most out of OT servicesSDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

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.SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book