Send us Fan Mail In Episode 2 of Beyond the Stories, we explore the sensory world of children, especially those who experience the world differently — with more intensity, more sensitivity, or simply from a neurodivergent perspective. This conversation picks up where our story episode “Big Orange Sky” left off — a story inspired by the Eden Fires and how the trauma of an emergency evacuation impacted one child in unexpected ways. While the fire was the external event, it was the internal storm — the meltdowns, overwhelm, and misinterpretations — that lingered. In this conversation, we unpack the meanings beneath those behaviors. Joining us is Kira Bender, MS OTR/L — pediatric occupational therapist, accessibility consultant, and founder of Here We Grow. Kira’s compassionate approach helps us understand how the sensory and nervous systems work, how neurodivergent kids experience stress, and the powerful shift that happens when we stop labeling behaviors and start listening to them. What we explore in this episode: 🔥 The hidden trauma of events like evacuations or loud disruptions 🧠 What “sensory overload” actually feels like to a child 🌪 What happens when the nervous system doesn’t feel safe — and how to gently restore regulation 🌈 Why neurodivergent children are often misunderstood, even when their needs are valid 🧘🏽♀️ Tools that help build co-regulation, emotional safety, and stronger parent-child connection 🎒 How families and educators can create more inclusive, accessible spaces 💛 The mindset Kira recommends parents adopt when working through behavior challenges Whether your child is neurodivergent or not, this episode offers powerful insight into what it means to be truly seen — especially when words are hard to find. 🟠 If you haven’t yet, start by listening to “Big Orange Sky” from Once Upon a Feeling — a story about fear, fire, and the emotions we carry after the flames are gone: 🎧 Listen here → https://linktr.ee/gooshi_world 🔄 Then come back to this episode of Beyond the Stories for helpful reflection and support for the real-life emotions behind the fiction. 🎧 Listen here → https://linktr.ee/gooshi_world About Our Guest: Kira Bender, MS OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist, parenting expert, speaker, and the founder of Here We Grow. Based in Los Angeles, she supports families, educators, and organizations through a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming lens. Her work includes direct support for families, professional development for teachers, and accessibility consulting for institutions like the LA Public Library, Southern California Children’s Museum, and the Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Contact Info: https://www.instagram.com/herewegrow.co herewegrowkira@gmail.com https://herewegrow.co/ New episodes of Beyond the Stories release weekly. Each one pairs with a Once Upon a Feeling story — giving grownups space to unpack big feelings, ask deeper questions, and find little moments of clarity in the messy beauty of parenting. Powered by Gooshi 🧸 "We are dedicated to helping families become the biggest advocates in their children’s health experiences, with stories, toys, and carefully curated resources."
