Messy Play Co. with Natalie Marie

Natalie Bianco
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Struggling with picky eating, speech delays, or ADHD behaviors? Pediatric therapist Natalie shares evidence-based strategies for feeding difficulties, sensory challenges, and emotional regulation—all through the power of play. Learn why feeding is the gateway to whole-child development, how to support neurodivergent kids (or yourself), and why messy play isn't just fun—it's essential brain work. Real science, practical tips, and permission to trust yourself. Regulation as the foundation. Play as the medicine.

  1. 12/22/2024

    Holidays for the Highly Sensitive, ADHD, CPTSD

    Holidays were not easy for me. I remember being little and having to excuse myself to sit in the bathroom just to avoid the chaos! Coping during the holiday season 00:00: Introduction 2:04: Disrupted Routines 4:32: Oversensitivity 6:30: Trauma During the Holidays 10:46: Unrealistic Expectations

  2. 12/11/2024

    Life in the Waiting Room: Letting Go When Your Brain Won’t

    I am no stranger when it comes to impatience. Add overwhelm and uncertainty on top of that, and my need to control takes over. Join me as I share my personal journey of letting go, finding peace, and embracing faith (or whatever brings you comfort). I hope to bring a bit of light and joy to your day, no matter where you are in life.

  3. 10/30/2024

    Why AAC Matters: Debunking Myths and Supporting Speech Development in Kids

    This episode is more on the educational side! It focuses on WHAT AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) is, WHO we use it with, and HOW to incorporate it into everyday routines. If you're new here, my name is Natalie, and I adore working with toddlers and children on their language skills. I use a parent-focused approach, incorporating trauma-informed care, recognizing health challenges, and using a neuroaffirming approach. Check out my website for more information! My Links: Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/natalie-marie-speech-pathology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliemarie.slp/ Blog: https://nataliemarieslp.com/ Amazon: https://amzn.to/3S8rWT9 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliemarie.slp?_t=8khXy7KlyNq&_r=1

  4. 09/25/2024

    Who is in Charge of Your Life? Chronicles of Masking + 5 Tips

    Masking is a learned behavior picked up as an adaptive measure. It's the act of hiding and suppressing your true thoughts, feelings, and actions in order to fit in or avoid negative experiences. Often, it becomes maladaptive in practice since we can lose track of how we truly feel. In this episode, we discuss some neuroscience behind masking, common symptoms, and neuroscience-backed measures to tackle it. This is heavy on the neuroscience background, so I hope you enjoy that perspective! Website: nataliemarieslp.com Instagram: nataliembianco Youtube: nataliembianco

  5. 09/18/2024

    Self Sabotage: How Your Fears Of Success Keep You Comfortable

    This podcast episode highlights my personal story with self-sabotage. Bringing awareness is the first way to combat your fear of success. This podcast highlights signs, the psychology behind it, my story, and FUNCTIONAL ways to go above your fear. Core Values: https://jamesclear.com/core-values Self Sabotage Pattern Tracker: https://exultant-grass-f41.notion.site/10571d73d4d280cb9c9ffccd7649fcf6?v=fff71d73d4d281d786a0000c8c6c0f7c00:00 Introduction 01:50: My story 09:09: Signs of and reasons behind self-sabotage 21:34: Where are you self-sabotaging 22:40: Things that have been helping #podcast #mindset #selfimprovement #adhd #autoimmunedisease #trauma #healing #psychology

  6. 08/07/2024

    Occupational Therapy: Executive Functioning to Sensory Processing with Samantha Holzschu M.S. OTR/L

    On this episode, I interviewed Samantha Holzschu M.S. OTR/L, founder and owner of Lakeside SPOT (Specialized Pediatric Occupational Therapy). Samantha is the Co-Chair of the Sensory Integration and Processing SIS for the Illinois Occupational Therapy Board. She is also working on receiving her Executive Functioning Micro-Credential to further her specialty in executive dysfunction (one of my interests!). Samantha shines a light on how occupational therapy can improve the lives of many. From those who experience ADHD and executive dysfunction to those experiencing sensory-seeking behaviors (early intervention and ASD kiddos!), you will have takeaways from this episode! 
 If you are interested in pursuing occupational therapy services, I recommend reaching out to Samantha! 
 Samantha's Links: Website: https://www.lakesidespot.com/ Email: samantha@lakesidespot.com
Instagram: ttps://www.instagram.com/lakesidespot/?hl=en 00:00 Samantha’s Background 05:22 Passion and Background in Pediatric Occupational Therapy 08:25 Parent Coaching 10:27 Occupational Therapy Caseload (possibly going further and then doing various settings) 14:33 Executive Functioning 20:30 Tools for the classroom 25:55 In-home considerations 31:00 Meltdowns & Self Regulation Techniques 37:00 Sensory System Basic Education My links: Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/natalie-marie-speech-pathology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliemarie.slp Blog: https://nataliemarieslp.com/ Amazon: https://amzn.to/3S8rWT9 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliemarie.slp?_t=8khXy7KlyNq&_r=1

  7. 07/17/2024

    Unmasking ADHD in Women: Understanding, Acceptance, and Strategies

    This episode covers the underdiagnosis of ADHD in women, the unique symptoms we experience, and the recent rise in diagnoses due to increased awareness and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. I'll also share practical strategies that have helped me manage ADHD symptoms, emphasizing the importance of a strength-based approach and self-compassion. Join me as I unravel the nuances of ADHD in women, offering valuable insights and encouragement for those navigating this condition. Don't forget to tune in every Wednesday for more discussions on self-development, parenting, speech therapy, and neurodevelopment Show notes: • Housekeeping & Updates • ADHD in women: historical context, symptoms, and diagnosis disparities • Practical strategies for managing ADHD symptoms • The importance of self-compassion and a strength-based approach Recommended book: "A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD" https://amzn.to/4bJQ5qb My Links: https://nataliemarieslp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nataliemarie.slp  https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliemarie.slp?_t=8khXy7KlyNq&_r=1 https://wow.boomlearning.com/author/saveyourspoon?collection=Decks&sort=publishDate&order=-1&folderId=37hHf4j3MqfNDgFjP https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/natalie-marie-speech-pathology https://calendly.com/myspeechclarity/consultation

  8. 05/13/2024

    Mindful Minutes: Seeing Challenges Through a Positive Lens

    In this mindful minute (or three), I explain how you can choose to see the positive in challenges. You can choose to see it as an opportunity for growth. I hope this quick dose of inspiration helps you see the silver lining in any cloud.

See All (43)

About

Struggling with picky eating, speech delays, or ADHD behaviors? Pediatric therapist Natalie shares evidence-based strategies for feeding difficulties, sensory challenges, and emotional regulation—all through the power of play. Learn why feeding is the gateway to whole-child development, how to support neurodivergent kids (or yourself), and why messy play isn't just fun—it's essential brain work. Real science, practical tips, and permission to trust yourself. Regulation as the foundation. Play as the medicine.

Information