Episodes

  • Using Music to Support Regulation, Learning, and Connection in Homeschooling and Therapy

    Using Music to Support Regulation, Learning, and Connection in Homeschooling and Therapy
    Jun 19 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We’re welcoming Anna Galloway, an occupational therapist and music therapist whose passion lies in blending the power of music with the practice of OT. With a background that stretches from working in mental health, hospice, and early intervention to championing collaboration across therapies, Anna dives into how music can regulate emotions, support sensory needs, and help families build connection. You’ll hear her expert insights on using music in everyday life, tips for navigating musical interests in large families, and practical advice for parents looking to make meaningful use of music at home. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, a therapist, or someone just curious about music’s impact on the brain and learning, this episode is filled with actionable ideas and heartfelt stories. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction and Background of Anna GallowayAnna’s professional journey:Started as a music therapist after graduating from the University of Alabama.Worked in diverse settings: with refugees’ families, older adults with dementia, inpatient psychiatric programs, hospice, home health, early intervention.Discovered occupational therapy (OT) while working in inpatient rehab, returned to school for OT.Now a faculty member with a research focus on integrating music and OT.Intersection of Music Therapy, Recreation Therapy, and Occupational TherapyDiscussion of collaborative, creative interdisciplinary teams (e.g., working with recreational therapists).Application of prior therapeutic experiences to homeschooling and daily family life.Exploring Auditory Processing and Music’s RoleTransition to a general discussion on music and the brain, separate from specific programs.How Music Affects the Brain and BodyExplanation of how music releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.Roles of these hormones: motivation, mood, attention, social bonding.Using music therapeutically:For relaxation and coping in hospice/end-of-life care.In the NICU to calm infants, regulate physiological responses, promote bonding.Broader uses for environmental and emotional support, regulation, and coping.Understanding Individual Responses to MusicImportance of individualized, person-centered music preferences for effective outcomes.Dangers of generic, prescriptive music interventions—what’s relaxing to one person might be arousing to another.Non-verbal cues in infants and medically fragile populations to gauge music’s effects:Watching for facial orientation, hand gestures, crying, physiological signs of overstimulation.Adjusting tempo and removing syncopation for NICU use.Using music to build tolerance or mask environmental noise as needed.Practical Strategies for Using Music with Children and FamiliesAdapting music use based on intent (regulation vs. education vs. leisure).Tips for group settings or families with mixed music preferences:Collaborative playlist-making, ensuring everyone’s input and adequate listening time.Observing engagement and adjusting duration to maintain participation.Using music for time management and transitions:“Three songs” as a non-ambiguous marker for children.Opportunities for social sharing and connection during music activities.Integrating Music into Occupational TherapyAnna’s doctoral research: Training OTs to use music more effectively.Barriers OTs may face: comfort with music, creativity, and ambiguity.Basic musical elements: rhythm, tempo, use of beats per minute (BPM).Using tempo to match and guide activity pace: Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?TAP BPM- Online Beats Per Minute CalculatorFind The BMP And Key For Any Song Music As An Occupational Therapy ToolMusic As Support To Occupational TherapyEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in Homeschool Episode 45: Engaging Children Through Project-Based and Interest-Led Homeschooling Episode 63: Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions Episode 64: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families Connect with our Guest, Anna Galloway Anna is a Clinical Assistant Professor in Occupational Therapy at the University of Florida. She has been a music therapist for 13 years and occupational therapist for 7 years. Her current research explores uses of music within the occupational therapy scope of practice.
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    30 mins
  • Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families

    Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families
    Jun 12 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Dr. Jody Jedlicka and I explore the signs and symptoms of APD, delve into its close connections with reading, speech, and even other sensory systems, and break down the process of getting a diagnosis. Most importantly, we highlight the hope and progress possible through effective treatments like auditory training and phonics-based reading support. With practical advice for parents, insight into how speech-language pathologists and audiologists work together, and recommendations for finding resources—even when specialists are hard to come by—this episode is packed with valuable guidance for families navigating APD. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction of guest, Dr. Jody Jedlicka, AuDJody started as an educational audiologist in Milwaukee Public Schools.Responsibilities included hearing screenings and classroom support for hearing-impaired students.Early realization about the impact of hearing on learning and reading.Moved on to clinical supervision at University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh.Led graduate students; gained experience in auditory processing testing, diagnosis, and treatment.Involvement with LearningRx for treatment options.Overview of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)Definition: Neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets sounds, especially speech.Individuals often have normal peripheral hearing but difficulties processing sound.Real-life example: Challenges understanding announcements in noisy environments (like airports).Behavioral manifestations: Appearing to have hearing loss despite passing hearing tests.Relationship Between Auditory Processing and Reading/SpeechAPD’s impact on interpreting speech sounds.Difficulty filling in missing speech sounds (auditory closure).Critical role of auditory processing in reading.Blind individuals can read Braille with good auditory processing, but hearing-challenged individuals struggle more.Connection between APD and speech issues.Can stem from genetics, auditory deprivation (e.g., frequent ear infections), or developmental factors.Difficulty hearing certain sounds can impact both speech and literacy (e.g., issues with the “R” sound and spelling).Diagnosis and Treatment of Auditory Processing DisorderChallenges in diagnosisIntersection of speech and audiology in treatment.Speech therapists as a starting point if audiologists aren’t available.Outcomes of APD overlap with things speech pathologists address (reading problems, following directions, listening in noise).Mention of alternative programs, such as LearningRx.Exploring the Link Between APD and the Vestibular SystemParent perspective: Children with a history of ear infections often seek vestibular (movement) input.Signs and Symptoms of APD Parents Might ObserveExpanded explanation of types of APD:Discrimination difficulties (hearing specific sounds).Prosody difficulties (interpreting tone/nuance).Integration: Putting all the information together. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?LearningRX Auditory Processing Disorder (ADP) Symptoms Successful Treatment Techniques For Auditory Processing Disorders- Key TakeawaysThe Listening Program To Improve Auditory Processing DisordersEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 35: Connecting Speech, Phonemic Awareness, and Literacy: Sydney Bessard Explains it All Episode 48: Transforming Fashion for Sensory Needs: An Interview with Julia, Adaptive Apparel PioneerConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect with our Guest, Jody Jedlicka, AuD As Director of Support, Dr. Jody Jedlicka oversees the support of brain training programs and business processes for all LearningRx Centers and their owners. Jody and her husband, an educational psychologist, have owned 3 LearningRx centers in Wisconsin and Hawaii and know firsthand the day-to-day life of an owner/director. Dr. Jody is an audiologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of children with auditory processing disorders. It was her search for effective treatment options for her patients that led her to LearningRx in 2004. She is also a certified success coach and trainer. Originally from Wisconsin, Jody has been married for more than 36 years, is mom to 3 adult children, grandma to 5 grandchildren and dog-mom to her rescue, Mikey. She spends her free time with family – traveling, biking, exploring breweries and restaurants and cheering for Milwaukee Brewers baseball. She also co-hosts a podcast, The Sisterhood of Success, with her sister.
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    33 mins
  • Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions

    Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions
    Jun 5 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Tom breaks down what misophonia really is, how it differs from simple sound sensitivity, and why it’s so crucial for families to recognize the signs early. They discuss current research, the lack of mainstream resources, and practical, real-world strategies families can use to support children struggling with these intense sound triggers. Tom also highlights the importance of creating supportive environments at home and the need for professional guidance when self-help strategies aren’t enough. In this episode you'll hear about: Tom’s background as a behaviorist and parenting coachHow Tom was introduced to misophonia through a personal family storyUnderstanding MisophoniaDefinition of misophonia as a reflex condition, not a hearing defectTypes of triggers: auditory, visual, and olfactoryTypical misophonia sounds (chewing, talking, birds, lawnmowers, repeating sounds)The inappropriately strong emotional reaction to common soundsReflex pathways and the concept of the “lizard brain”/brain stemThe process by which misophonia develops (pattern recognition, Pavlovian conditioning)Relationship between physical reflex and emotional responseThe lack of misophonia coverage in medical and psychology textbooksPractical Strategies and Supports for MisophoniaImportance of adding background noise (fans, noise machines) at homeBehavioral experiments and increasing body awareness in childrenCase of a young girl displaying unconscious physical reactions to triggersThe analogy to fingernails on a chalkboard as a common non-misophonia sound aversionHow physical reflexes can be more important than initially perceived emotional responsesTechniques to increase body and emotional awareness as a means of reducing triggersThe role of family dynamics and inherited patterns in misophoniaMisophonia’s prevalence in the general population (estimated 5-15%)Differentiating between normal sensitivity and a clinical level of misophoniaImpact on daily life and family relationshipsExamples where sound sensitivity expands to more triggers or worsens over timeWhen and How to Seek HelpIndicators that professional support is neededHow to test simple relaxation strategies and track changes over timeGuidance on working with children and adapting interventions to their developmental levelEncouraging early intervention to prevent escalationThe importance of family support and teamworkThe Role of Environment and Life StagesHow environment (school vs. home) changes trigger severity and coping responsesInfluence of life stress and transitions on misophonia intensityOccupational Therapy (OT) and MisophoniaOT perspective: modifying environment, activities, and body awarenessDiscussion on not altering foods, but instead targeting tolerance to normal soundsGradual reintroduction to triggering environments as part of therapyDifferent therapeutic philosophies and methods (core response vs. tolerance training)Audiologist role in providing ear-level sound generators and alleviating triggers Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? Misophonia InternationalMisophonia InstituteSo Quiet The International Misophonia FoundationEpisode 1: Unveiling the role of OT in HomeschoolingEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseverance Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara KosinskiEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-RegulationMisophonia TreatmentConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect with our Guest, Tom Dozier Tom Dozier, MS, BCBA, is a behaviorist who has researched and provided treatment for misophonia as a reflex behavior condition since 2012 and is a pioneer in misophonia research. He is author of Understanding and Overcoming Misophonia, A Conditioned Aversive Reflex Disorder and 10 journal articles. His research indicates misophonia includes both physical and emotional reflexes and explains how misophonia develops and often progresses with time. With this understanding of misophonia, Tom developed Relaxation and Counterconditioning Therapy as a behavioral treatment for misophonia. He has provided this treatment to hundreds of individuals in-person and by telehealth. Tom founded the non-profit Misophonia Institute in 2016 to promote misophonia awareness, research, and professional training, and he serves as president.
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    30 mins
  • Strategies for Enhancing Cognitive Skills in Children

    Strategies for Enhancing Cognitive Skills in Children
    May 29 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Dr. Moore, a cognitive psychologist and the Director of Psychology and Research at LearningRx, brings her wealth of knowledge and experience. With a background that spans cognitive training, homeschooling, and ADHD, Dr. Moore is an advocate for understanding and nurturing the unique cognitive landscapes of every individual. We're getting into the intersection of cognitive science, homeschooling, and the challenges faced by neurodivergent learners. Dr. Moore shares her journey of using cognitive training to support her own children and clients in overcoming difficulties related to ADHD and other cognitive challenges. We discuss the role of metronome-paced activities in enhancing cognitive skills, the importance of explaining the 'why' behind these tasks to both children and adults, and how these techniques can support learners in real-life scenarios. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction of Guests and Podcast CollaborationDr. Amy Moore’s Background and ExperienceCognitive psychologist and director of psychology and research at LearningRx.Board-certified Christian counselor, licensed pastor.Various roles: curriculum coordinator, classroom teacher, host of Brainy Moms podcast, ADHD momEducational qualifications in education and psychology.Homeschooling Experience and ChallengesHomeschooling her children during different stages.Merging Roles: Cognitive Science, Faith, and EducationIntegrating her roles as a pastor, scientist, and educator.Viewing every mind as uniquely beautiful and addressing struggles compassionately.Supporting Neurodivergent ChildrenCritique of labeling ADHD or neurodivergent traits as a “superpower.”Importance of acknowledging and supporting struggles rather than masking them.Understanding Cognitive Rehabilitation and TrainingDefinition and explanation of cognitive training versus brain games.Unique human-delivered, intense training tasks to strengthen cognitive skills.Use of metronome pacing in cognitive training.Metronome Utilization in TrainingConnecting metronome use to neuroplasticity and brain processing.Different methods for pacing and intensity management during training.Real-Life Application of Cognitive Training Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? How To Use A Metronome To Increase AttentionHow To Improve Working Memory- The OT ToolboxVisuals For Talking About The BrainFree Stuff From Dr. Amy MooreDr. Amy Moore's WebsiteLearning RXThe Brainy Moms PodcastEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy BodkinEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in Homeschool Episode 19: Understanding Screen Time Effects on Children's Development and RelationshipsEpisode 27: Preserving Childhood in a Digital World: Greta Eskridge's Expertise for Families Episode 54: Strengthening Executive Functions through Play: Insights from Carol Brown of Equipping MindsConnect With Dr. Amy Moore on InstagramConnect With Dr. Amy Moore on FacebookConnect With Sarah on Instagram Connect with our Guest, Dr. Amy Moore Dr. Amy Moore is a cognitive psychologist, clinical researcher, board certified Christian counselor, TEDx speaker, host of the Brainy Moms podcast, an ADHD mom, and a mom with ADHD. She is the Director of Psychology & Research for LearningRx in Colorado Springs, CO at the headquarters of the largest network of cognitive training centers in the world. Her ground-breaking neuroplasticity research has been published in peer-reviewed medical and psychology journals and presented at conferences around the country. She has a master’s degree in early childhood education, a PhD in psychology, and 30 years of experience working with children and families. Dr. Amy and her husband Jeff have been married for 27 years and have 3 grown sons.
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    32 mins
  • Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children

    Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children
    May 22 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I'm sitting down with Tere Bowen Irish, an occupational therapist with over 45 years of experience who specializes in mindfulness and yoga, particularly for kids who don’t fit into traditional schooling. Tere's name kept popping up for her innovative work in blending occupational therapy, mindfulness, and movement—from music and books she's written to her continuing education efforts for OTs. Today, we'll unravel the true meaning of mindfulness, moving beyond the buzzword to show how it can help children (and adults!) manage anxiety, build attention skills, and connect more deeply with the present moment. In this episode you'll hear about: Tere’s Background and ApproachTere’s experience as an occupational therapist (45+ years)Current work: private practice, teaching mindfulness and yoga to children, especially those struggling in public school settingsPersonal journey into mindfulness through yoga and certification as a kids’ yoga instructorInitial curiosity about mindfulness vs. meditation and influencesDefining MindfulnessReference to Jon Kabat-Zinn’s definition: purposeful awareness in the present moment, without judgmentTere’s personal understanding and evolution in practicing mindfulnessMindfulness for different agesPractical Approaches to Mindfulness for Anxious or Distracted IndividualsHands-on, co-active practice recommendedAddressing perceptions and misconceptionsUse of metaphorsGentle introduction with simple activities like listening to a bell, with options for howchildren participateEmphasis on comfort and emotional safetyEngaging Children in MindfulnessAllowing children to process their experiences and respond naturallyUsing tactile exercisesAvoiding rigid, prescriptive mindfulness (like mandatory class-wide videos)Positive role of interactive apps for teens (e.g., Calm, Ten Percent Happier)Visualization activities to engage kids’ senses and focusThe Role of Senses and Memory in MindfulnessUsing sensory experiences and recallReference to Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophyDiscussing the importance of “calling back” attention and deepening sensory engagementThe Distinction Between Child and Adult PresenceIllustrative cartoon: child present with surroundings, adult distracted by mental clutterExamples from Tere’s personal life Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Tere on Facebook My Mindful Music- Maryann Harman Are There Really 3 Types of ADHD?Mindfulness and Neural Integration: Daniel Siegel Yoga And Me: Come Be A Tree Book The Whole Brain Child BookEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 10: Streamlining Your Space: Organizing for Better Executive FunctioningEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy BodkinEpisode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and Planning Episode 44: Prioritizing Slow in Homeschooling: A chat with Leslie Martino Connect with our Guest, Tere Bowen-Irish Tere Bowen- Irish has practiced Occupational Therapy in pediatrics and psychiatry for over 40 years. Through her business, All the Possibilities, she continues to provide treatment, assessment, and consultation for clients. Workshops for therapists, educators and parents are offered privately, or publicly on a variety of topics such as inclusion, child development, classroom management, behavioral challenges, executive function, and other topics relevant to the 21st century educational system. The focus is on a common sense, practical approach towards empowering educators and students to create a climate of learning, understanding and inclusiveness for all. Tere is also the creator/author of The Drive Thru Menu Suite of Exercises, which is an initiative to bring movement and mindfulness into today’s classrooms. She is a certified YogaKids teacher and a Certified Mindful Schools Instructor. She is the author of Yoga and Me, Come be a Tree and co-authored My Mindful Music with Mary Ann Harman. Feel free to contact Tere at tereirish@gmail.com
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    41 mins
  • Tackling Childhood Anxiety: How Occupational Therapy Can Help

    Tackling Childhood Anxiety: How Occupational Therapy Can Help
    May 15 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I’m joined by fellow OT Sarah Anderson—an incredible therapist with over a decade of experience, now specializing in mental health. We dive deep into the intersection of OT and anxiety, especially how it shows up in neurodivergent kids with ADHD or autism. Sarah shares her journey into the mental health field and offers powerful insights into identifying anxiety patterns, supporting emotional regulation, and creating environments that help kids feel safe during transitions. If you’ve ever wondered how OT can support your child’s mental health—especially when it comes to anxiety—you won’t want to miss this one. In this episode you'll hear about: Understanding Anxiety in Occupational TherapyAnxiety's function and originNeurodivergence and its connection to anxietyImportance of understanding the base of anxiety for treatmentIdentifying Sources of AnxietyPatterns and manifestations of anxietyAnxiety's connection to neurodivergent conditionsSensory processing componentsParent’s Role in Identifying AnxietyObserving and understanding child’s anxietyEarly detection and support strategiesTransition and routine change managementConnecting Emotions, Feelings, and Body ResponsesDifferentiating between feelings and emotionsInteroception and alexithymiaMethods to help children identify and express emotionsSupporting Children Through AnxietyTolerating discomfort and managing anxietyEnvironmental adjustments and toolsCo-regulation and independenceTherapy Approaches and SessionsWhat to expect in occupational therapy sessionsFamily-focused therapeutic approachesSensory processing and executive functioningProgress and Emotional Management Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Elevated Wellbeing OT Occupational Therapy For The Anxious Child How Occupational Therapy Can Help The Anxiety EpidemicA Chameleon Tale BookA Chameleon Tale Book GuideEpisode 1: Unveiling the role of OT in HomeschoolingEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling Perspective Bonus Episode: Parenthood and Homeschooling: Choosing the Right Activities for a Balanced Lifestyle Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline SantangeloEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in HomeschoolEpisode 16: Navigating the Interoceptive Sense: Insights and Strategies for Parents Episode 43: Collaborative Problem-Solving in Education and ParentingWhat Are Executive Functioning Skills?Field Trips Can Build Executive Functioning Connect with our Guest, Sarah Anderson Dr. Sarah Anderson is a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Elevated Wellbeing OT in Scottsdale, Arizona. She specializes in mental health, trauma, addiction recovery, and life transitions, using a neuroaffirming, client-centered approach to help individuals build sustainable habits and routines that foster resilience and well-being. With advanced training in perinatal mental health, trauma-informed care, polyvagal theory, and emotional intelligence (EQ-i 2.0, MSCEIT), she integrates sensory processing, cognitive strategies, and somatic-based interventions to support emotional regulation and recovery. Dr. Anderson contracts with Scottsdale Providence Recovery Center, providing occupational therapy for individuals in addiction and mental health recovery at the PHP, IOP, and OP levels of care. She incorporates Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and sensory-based interventions to support anxiety, executive functioning, and neurodivergence, with a specialization in working with Autistic individuals and those with ADHD. After seven years as a full-time faculty member at Midwestern University, Dr. Anderson recently stepped back to expand into a group practice. She continues to serve as an adjunct instructor, teaching the mental health curriculum and mentoring future occupational therapists.
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    38 mins
  • Translating OT Concepts: Creating a Children's Book for Sensory Processing Awareness

    Translating OT Concepts: Creating a Children's Book for Sensory Processing Awareness
    May 8 2025

    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out!

    Joining me is my great friend and collaborator, Jackie Adrian. We've been friends since our early 20s, and today, we're thrilled to share something we've been working on together – our brand-new book that highlights the sensory processing journey of two chameleons, Sally and Seth. Jackie's not only an author and illustrator but also a fellow mom navigating the world of neurodiversity with her own children. As we discuss the book's path to fruition, you'll get an inside look at how we blended our expertise to create a resource that speaks to both kids and parents.

    In this episode you'll hear about:

    • About Jackie Adrian
    • The New Book
    • Inspiration and conception of the book
    • The story of how Jackie's personal experiences influenced the book
    • Personal Experiences
    • Jackie's experiences with her son’s diagnoses and sensory processing
    • Importance of creating tools for communication between parents and children
    • Book Details and Theme
    • Chameleons as characters and representation of emotions
    • The story of Sally and Seth
    • Exploring sensory stimuli and responses through a narrative
    • Illustration Process
    • Jackie's process and thoughts in illustrating emotions
    • Discussion on illustrating feelings and simplifying visuals to keep the focus
    • Discussion Encouragement
    • Suggestions on how parents can use art to encourage discussions with kids
    • Empowering children to understand and regulate their emotions
    • Other Works by Jackie Adrian

    Links and Resources From Today's Show

    • Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?
    • Learn More About "A Chameleon Tale" Book
    • A Chameleon Tale Book Guide
    • Jackie Adrian's Website
    • Jackie's Portfolio of Artwork
    • Connect With Jackie On Instagram
    • Check Out Jackie's Books
    • Episode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin
    • Episode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and Planning
    • Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child Development
    • Episode 32: Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self Care and Family Support
    • Connect With Sarah On Instagram

    Connect with our Guest, Jackie Adrian

    Jackie Adrian is an author, illustrator, and visual artist who creates work focused on celebrating the “wild and weird” in all of us, inviting us to be more ourselves. She currently resides in the suburbs of DC but has lived in six different states and has traveled to more than 30 countries. This slightly nomadic existence has given her perspective on the root commonalities we can find in different cultures and landscapes. Her art and writing aim to celebrate this with vivid color combinations and uplifting words of affirmation. Her art is playful while her words are soul-stabilizing.
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    31 mins
  • Practical Tips for handwriting- how to know and what to do if the issue is motor planning

    Practical Tips for handwriting- how to know and what to do if the issue is motor planning
    Apr 24 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Katie Zelinski discusses the intricacies of motor planning, also known as praxis, and its impact on handwriting and daily activities. Katie, with over 11 years of experience in pediatric OT and founder of The Well Balanced OT, shares her wealth of knowledge on how motor planning affects children, from dressing themselves to participating in activities like catching a ball. Katie explores how challenges in motor planning manifest in tasks such as handwriting, and she offers insightful strategies to help parents support their children's development through creative play and practice without the pressure of traditional writing tasks. Whether you're a parent or therapist, this episode provides valuable insights into understanding and addressing motor planning challenges in children. In this episode you'll hear about: Katie Zelinski's BackgroundKatie's experience of 11 years as an Occupational Therapist (OT).Focus on pediatrics.Establishment of Katie's business, The Well Balanced OT.Discussion on Motor Planning and PraxisDefinition and explanation of motor planning and praxis.Multiple components of motor planning.Steps involved in motor planning: Ideation, Sequencing, Execution.Practical examples of motor planning in learning activities.Differentiation between practicing motor planning as a skill and it becoming innate.Observations of Motor Planning ChallengesSigns of motor planning challenges in children.Examples like dressing, catching a ball, play activities.Handwriting and Motor PlanningConnection between motor planning challenges and handwriting difficulties.Ideation’s impact on writing.Ways motor planning affects holding and using a writing tool.Strategies for practicing handwriting without writing.Motivating Children with Motor Planning ChallengesImportance of making learning engaging and incorporating play.Use of resources and creativity to support idea generation.Avoiding stress by focusing on underlying skills.Addressing Motor Planning in Older ChildrenChallenges faced by older kids.Strategies including using technology and alternative methods.Focus on typing and voice-to-text as alternatives to handwriting. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?The Well Balanced OT From Clumsy To Capable: The Surprising Impact of Martial Arts on Kids' Motor Skills Motor Planning: What You Need To Know Motor Planning and Praxis: Understanding, Assessing, and TreatingHow Form Drawing Supports Vision, Handwriting, and AcademicsBlending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better HandwritingUnderstanding the Handwriting Journey: Tools and Techniques for HomeschoolersReading, Writing, and Growing: The Bigger Picture of Developing Fine Motor Skills in Children Crafting Holiday Memories while Building Handwriting SkillsMaking Sense of the Handwriting Puzzle – Homeschool OT Course Narration- A Path To Thoughtful LearningConnect With Sarah on Instagram Connect with our Guest, Katie Zelinski Katie is a pediatric occupational therapist who specializes in regulation and sensory processing. She has a certificate in Ayres Sensory Integration. Katie has worked in various settings including early intervention, preschool, and a pediatric outpatient clinic. She is the founder of The Well-Balanced OT which offers online resources, professional development, and mentorship programs for pediatric OTs. Connect With Katie On Instagram Connect With Katie On Facebook
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    33 mins