The OT is IN with Sarah Collins the Homeschool OT Sarah Collins

In this episode, I chat with Caroline Santangelo, an occupational therapist who specializes in nature-based therapy for children in Pennsylvania. We dive into the world of interoception and explore how nature can help children develop self-awareness. Caroline shares practical insights on how movement, sensory experiences, and outdoor activities can enhance interoceptive awareness in children. She emphasizes the importance of facilitating conversations and providing language to help children articulate their internal experiences. Our discussion also touches on the benefits of nature in simplifying the learning process and promoting interoception. Tune in to discover how the power of the outdoors can influence the development of interoception in children.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Starfish Occupational Therapy's approach to developing children's grit, grace, character, confidence, and knowledge Using the outdoor environment for sensory-rich experiences and organic interceptive awareness Impacting interoception through movement and internal body signals activation Starting Conversations with Children about Interoception including using open-ended questions like "What do you notice?" and "How do you feel?" Describing experiences to model language and providing visual feedback to help children internalize input Discussion on how external stimuli in nature can affect internal awareness Examples of how different individuals experience the same stimuli differently Suggestions for simple outdoor activities to promote movement, proprioceptive input, and vestibular movement Emphasizing the lifelong journey of learning and development How nature's simplicity allows individuals to understand internal body signals and interception
Links and Resources From Today's Show
The Interoception Curriculum: A Step-by-Step Guide to Developing Mindful Self-Regulation The Body Check Ring: Printable Cards, Activity Booklet, and Online Mini-Course The Interoception Curriculum in The Homeschool Setting with a Homeschooling Mom Building Interoception Awareness: Questions to Ask Integrating Interoception and Language Arts in Your Homeschool Sensory Balanced Homeschool Focus Group Connect with Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website
Connect with Caroline Santangelo
Caroline is the owner of Starfish Occupational Therapy, PLLC a private nature-based occupational therapy practice for children in the Philadelphia region. Combining comprehensive neurology-based approaches with outdoor therapy, individual and small group sessions promote children's development in sensory processing, coordination, ocular motor skills, regulation, and daily living skills. Natural healing strategies and techniques for children with chronic pain conditions and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome are offered. Sessions are focused on fostering children’s Grit, Grace, Character, Confidence and Knowledge, all representing the five arms of the starfish. Let’s find the root cause for healing and get back to the basics all while splashing in the creek and building tree forts!

Specifically, Caroline is Certified in the CONTIGO Nature Therapy approach and is currently in the process of obtaining her Pediatric Functional Vision Rehabilitation Certification.
Caroline has expertise in pediatric chronic pain techniques and daily management. She also has pediatric occupational therapy experience in early intervention, outpatient, acute care, and horse therapy settings.

Caroline loves the beach, her golden retriever, and hiking! Caroline hopes to travel all 50 states with only 8 left to visit!

Starfish Occupational Therapy Website Like Starfish Occupational Therapy on Facebook Follow Starfish Occupational Therapy on Instagram

In this episode, you'll learn how play-based learning isn't just fun—it's also an essential tool to help children connect with their internal world. Our guest, Cara Koscinski, offers her expertise as an occupational therapist and a homeschooling mother to provide practical strategies for recognizing and addressing interoceptive cues before the onset of a meltdown.

Additionally, discover the challenges and joys of homeschooling as Cara and I discuss the balance between structure and the flexibility necessary for children to thrive emotionally and academically. For those homeschooling parents and all intrigued by the complexity of human emotions and body awareness, this episode is full of value.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Impact of Excessive Stimulation on Children Interoception and Emotional Management Cara Kosinski's book, "Interoception: How I Feel Sensing the World from the Inside Out" The Role of Play-based Learning in Interoception Challenges and Rewards of Homeschooling Strategies for Teaching Interoception Understanding Subjective Experiences and Behavioral Cues Integrating Interests and Descriptors in Learning Incorporating Sensory Experiences in the Learning Process Discussion on the Ease of Teaching Interoception Personal Experience with Screen Time and Behavioral Impact Cara Kosinski's Background and Expertise Interoception as a Growing Field of Research Parental Guidance for Supporting Children's Interoceptive Awareness
Links and Resources From Today's Show
Learning about Interoception and Language Arts Together Questions to use to teach Interoception Awareness Interoception: How I Feel: Sensing My World from the Inside Out What Is Interoception and How Does It Impact Those With Autism? Playing Video Games is Associated with Reduced Awareness of Bodily Sensations Visit Cara's website  
Connect with Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website
Connect with our Guest
Dr. Koscinski earned her post-professional Doctorate in occupational therapy in 2019 at Rocky Mountain University and a master’s degree in OT from Duquesne University in 1997. She obtained her certification as an Autism Specialist from the International Board of Credentialing. Cara is a former lead of the Clinical Applications in Pediatrics Courses for MOT and OTD students at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and serves as a capstone mentor for multiple universities.

Dr. Koscinski enjoys presenting keynote and breakout sessions at state and national conferences on topics of executive function, interoception, behavior, and regulation. As the mother of two adult autistic sons, Cara can appreciate the unique perspective of the caregiver. She has published six books for caregivers and therapists and has written chapters in multiple others. Cara’s newest book detailing her Train Model of executive function, will be released in spring of 2024. As the owner of the largest pediatric occupational therapy group on Facebook, she encourages occupational therapy practitioners to connect, learn, and share with over 50,000 members across the globe.

In today's episode, I am joined by a special guest, my daughter, Annabelle Collins, to discuss executive functioning, planning, and organization from her perspective as a homeschooling teenager. She offers insights into her personal experiences, touching on topics such as setting up daily schedules, adapting to different learning systems, managing distractions, and finding motivation. Together, we explore the challenges and successes we have encountered. Join us as we dive into the world of adolescent executive functioning.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Setting Up a Homeschooling Day for a Teenager A teen perspective on transitioning from traditional schooling to homeschooling Adapting to different learning styles The impact of independence and supervision Implementing strategies to motivate and support learning The link between room organization and productivity Using Pinterest for room organization ideas The importance of habit formation Establishing natural consequences for habits Parenting Strategies for Executive Functioning Development Fostering open communication and a strong parent-child relationship Balancing gradual release of control with teenage independence The significance of reflection in learning and self-improvement Using planning to organize and manage daily tasks Prioritizing tasks and setting productive habits Encouraging self-reflection and independence in planning
Links and Resources From Today's Show
Hatchet Book Guide Picture Books that Teach Executive Functioning 8 Quick & Easy Questions to Ask Your Homeschool Teen About Their Social Life 9 Ways to Build Time Management Skills in Your Homeschool What Are Executive Functioning Skills? Executive Functioning Focus Group Metacognition-Thinking about Thinking How to Encourage Note-Taking in Every Stage of Homeschooling Smart but Scattered Teens: The "Executive Skills" Program for Helping Teens Reach Their Potential Participation Patterns of Adolescents with and without Executive Function Deficits: Parents’ Perspectives How to Strengthen Executive Functioning Skills, Sarah on the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast. How to teach your high-schooler organization skills 7 Organization Skills To Teach Your Teen
Connect with Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website  

In this episode we are talking with the incredible Amy Bodkin, a former school psychologist and an autistic adult herself, she brings her unique perspective on homeschooling autistic children with distinct executive functioning skills. Together, they touch upon the critical role of executive functioning skills, metacognition, and adapting educational plans that focus on both group and individual needs.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Discussion on measuring and tracking the progress of children's development Amy's Three-Step Process for Developmental Tracking Individualized Approach to Standardized Testing Balance and Tailoring in Homeschooling Strategies for Managing Executive Functioning Tools and Resources for Homeschooling Parental and Children Collaboration Planning the Academic Year using form guides and seeking children's input for subjects Prioritization and Problem-Solving including brainstorming for homeschool curriculum planning Organizational Techniques including Amy's use of loop scheduling to manage curriculum Custom Curriculum Creation: utilizing guides for a tailored education
Links and Resources From Today's Show
Amy Bodkin's Webiste Booklist to talk about Executive Functioning Executive Functioning Focus Group from Homeschool OT What are Executive Functioning Skills? Educational Resources from Amy Bodkin Booklists from Read Aloud Revival Charlotte Mason Plenary Form Guide Heritage Mom book recommendations Give Your Child the World Book List Primitive Reflexes on Special Needs Kids Are People Too episode 55
Connect with our Guest, Amy Bodkin
Amy Bodkin is an Autistic Consultant and Public Speaker and uniquely qualified to help families with a wide variety of needs. Amy is an Autistic Adult, has an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Neuropsychology, a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, and homeschools her two Autistic kiddos. At Amy Bodkin Consulting, we like to say it's as easy as ABC: Ally, Boost, and Connect! Ally with Amy through her podcast, “Special Needs Kids Are People Too!” Get a Boost with her Educational Resources. And Connect through her Membership Group and Private Consultations!

Like Amy Bodkin on Facebook Join Amy Bodkin's Free Facebook Support Group Follow Amy Bodkin on Instagram Connect with host, Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website  

Are you a parent juggling the demands of homeschooling or simply seeking to create a harmonious living space for your family? In this conversation, we delve deep into the world of executive functioning and the power of a well-organized home. Lauri shares her wisdom on decluttering strategies, establishing functional spaces, and involving kids in the process to ensure that each family member has a personalized system that promotes both growth and independence.
Connect with Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the commmunity: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website
In this episode you'll hear about:
Discussion on how space affects homeschooling productivity and the importance of organization in fostering family connections. Strategies for creating an environment conducive to learning and quality family time. The psychological benefits of letting go of items that do not serve current lifestyle or values. Guiding questions to assist individuals in assessing what they truly need and value in their organized space. The importance of aligning your space with your life goals. Planning and defining areas within a home for their intended function, especially regarding homeschooling needs. Creating multifunctional spaces that adapt to various activities and family members. The necessity for children to develop ownership in decluttering and organizing their spaces as they transition into adolescence. Methods to encourage and inspire teens to organize, drawing from relatable resources like YouTube and memes. Suggestions for using shelving units, pencil boxes, and disguised storage solutions to maintain order. Prioritizing practicality and functionality, especially in children's spaces. Practical examples, such as organizing a coffee station for efficiency and improved workflow. Discussing environment setup to support individual executive functioning skills. Adjusting the organizational system to match an individual's level of independence. Suggestions to simplify the organizational process for both children and adults. The utility of visual aids like labels and pictures in guiding children through organizing tasks. Techniques to avoid losing items with the use of drawer dividers and dedicated storage. Setting realistic organizational expectations that can be followed by all family members. Addressing the emotional challenges of parting with items during life transitions. Recommendations for dealing with sentimental belongings without compromising functional space. Tips on involving children of different ages in organizing, starting with simple choices for toddlers and increasing responsibility over time. Recognizing the benefits of including children in decluttering and space planning, fostering long-term organizational skills.
Links and Resources From Today's Show
What Are Executive Functioning Skills? Executive Functioning Focus Group Picture Books to teach Executive Functioning Victory Organizing's website Like Victory Organizing on Facebook Follow Victory Organizing on Instagram Decorative Vintage Book Shaped Storage Box Small Drawer dividers (12.5-17.5”) Large Drawer dividers (18-22”) Cheaper by the Dozen (explains their motion study stuff early on, more about Dad) Belles on Their Toes  (continues after Dad’s death, and tells the story of Mom’s continuation.)
Connect with our Guest, Lauri Newell
Where you see chaos, Lauri Newell sees opportunity. As a mother of three, Lauri understands that life happens, and there’s no shame in needing help. A trusted, Nashville-based organizer for over a decade, Lauri is passionate about transforming cluttered rooms into beautiful and functional living spaces.

In this episode of the OT is IN, I am joined by Mandy Doman from Advanced Brain Technologies to explore the transformative power of the listening program and how it can fit with homeschooling. Mandy provides insights into the program's origins, impact, and practical application. From the science behind neuroplasticity to heartwarming success stories, our conversation sheds light on the program's potential to enhance executive functioning, auditory processing, and overall well-being.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Discussion of homeschooling and the role of the listening program in Mandy Doman's family The role of music as structured, organized sound in influencing brain and body response The historical background of the listening program and its focus on holistic improvement The impact of music on executive functioning, calmness, and relaxation Different approaches to integrating the program into daily routines Specific examples of how the program is implemented for individual children Overview of the neuroscience-based music listening therapy Overview of the different programs available in the listening program Insight into addressing challenges such as children's resistance to wearing headphones Importance of consistency in using the program and adapting to individual needs The role of therapists and providers in supporting families through challenges Discussion of research studies supporting the effectiveness of the listening program Definition of neuroplasticity and the creation of new brain connections Examples of how the listening program stimulates neuroplasticity for development Factors to consider in evaluating the potential impact of the listening program
Links and Resources From Today's Show
Happy Classical Music to Boost Mood, Motivation, and Independence Advanced Brain Research Advanced Brain Website Advanced Brain Linktree Like Advanced Brain on Facebook Follow Advanced Brain on Instagram Enroll in Homeschool OT's Executive Functioning Focus Group Talk to your child about Executive Functioning with Picture Books Schedule a complimentary Discover Call for The Listening Program
Connect with our Guest, Mandy Doman
Mandy Doman is the president of Advanced Brain Technologies and is a leading expert in music listening therapy with over twenty years of experience. She is passionate about helping children and adults live their best lives by finding brain-based solutions to support their therapeutic or educational interventions and overall health and wellness.

Mandy specializes in developing resources, training, and coaching for an international network of providers who use The Listening Program in hospitals, schools, clinics, private practices, and homes.

Mandy spends her free time with her husband, three sons, family, and friends. Before the sun rises, you will find her reading, meditating, writing, and practicing yoga.
Connect with Sarah Collins
Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website