In this episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, we’re continuing the Neurological Foundations series with a deep dive into how actions and behaviors are shaped by brain development. AnnMarie is joined by Laura Baldwin, licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist, for a powerful conversation about how behavior is not “misbehavior,” but communication from a developing nervous system. Together, they explore how the brain builds itself from the bottom up and inside out—and how sensory experiences, relationships, and emotional safety literally wire the brain for regulation, learning, and connection. From toddlers to teens, this episode reframes challenging behaviors as skills under construction, not character flaws—and offers practical, compassionate ways adults can support children at every stage. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why the brain develops in layers—and how early sensory and emotional experiences shape behavior How repetition in play helps children process emotions and build neural pathways Why “challenging” behaviors in young children are often signs of healthy development The real meaning behind boundary-pushing, big feelings, and the powerful toddler “no” What “afterschool restraint collapse” is—and why school-aged kids often unravel at home How sensory input supports regulation, attention, and emotional control What’s really happening in the adolescent brain (hello, another limbic leap!) Why regulation comes before reasoning at every age The difference between fear-based behavior control and connection-based skill-building How to respond with co-regulation, validation, and supportive boundaries instead of punishment When we understand brain development, we stop seeing behavior as something to eliminate—and start seeing it as communication from a growing nervous system. With connection, play, sensory support, and co-regulation, we help children build the neural pathways they need for lifelong emotional regulation, learning, and resilience. About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins. Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT™, NCC, ADHD-CCSP Licensed Professional Counselor, Great Kids Place Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 20 years of experience supporting children with sensory, emotional, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric mental health, play therapy, and relationship-based interventions that improve the physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being of children and their families. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.
