How Movement Impacts Behavior: OT Insights for the Classroom
Description
This month on the Special Education for Beginners podcast, we’ve been focused on behavior—what causes it, how to prevent escalation, and how to respond when it happens. But today, we’re flipping the script and talking about what it looks like when things are going well.
In this episode, I’m joined by Marga Grey, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of CoordiKids, to discuss what true self-regulation looks like in the classroom and how educators can support it through movement, sensory-friendly strategies, and brain-based practices.
If you’ve ever wondered:
- "Is wobble seating really effective?"
- "What does regulation actually look like?"
- "How can I build a classroom that supports ALL students—especially those with sensory needs?"
Then this episode is for you!
🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- What a regulated child really looks like (hint: it’s not always about being calm or quiet)
- How movement affects focus, behavior, and learning
- Why some trendy strategies (like exercise balls) work for some students—but not all
- The connection between posture, rhythm, and emotional control
- Practical ways to build a sensory-friendly classroom that meets individual needs
📘 Resources Mentioned:
- 💻 CoordiKids Home Course 1 – FREE for listeners
➤ Use coupon code: homecoursepod
A ready-to-use series of brain-based movement videos designed for students to develop self-regulation and motor skills at home or in small group instruction.
🔗 Connect with Marga and CoordiKids:
- Website: https://www.coordikids.com
- Instagram: @coordikids
🎧 Tune in and Share!
If this episode gave you a new perspective or practical ideas to try in your own classroom, please share it with a fellow educator and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more teachers find the show!
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