Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast for Parents Laura Petix, The OT Butterfly

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.&...

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. SDBC WaitlistEpisode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly I...

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 year...

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.&nbsp...

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. You’ll learn:- The hidden connection between core st...

As an OT, I often get asked how parents should explain why their child has to go to Occupational Therapy visits. In this episode, parents will have some guidance on preparing children for evaluations, answering their questions about therapy, and explaining OT to siblings. You'll learn simple scripts tailored to different child ages that will help demystify the process and make OT a more positive experience. Whether you're new to OT or a seasoned pro, I'll share my tips for communicating...