Little Bodies, Big Minds: Paediatric OT Uncovered

Tom Onions, Hannah Grominsky

Join Tom and Hannah, two playful and passionate pediatric occupational therapists, as they dive into the “why” behind what we do in OT. From breaking down big ideas to sharing real-life stories (the funny, the challenging, and the heartwarming), this podcast makes complex concepts accessible—without the jargon. Whether you're an OT, a parent, or just curious about child development, Little Bodies, Big Minds is here to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and rethink the way we see therapy. Grab a coffee, tune in, and let’s explore the world of OT together!

Episodes

  1. 07/08/2025

    Importance of Breathing

    In this episode of Little Bodies, Big Minds, we explore the powerful connection between breathing, the nervous system, and a child’s ability to function and thrive. We talk about how breath acts as a regulator for the nervous system—supporting calm, focus, and emotional balance—and why this matters so much in both everyday life and therapy. We dive into the role of the deep core and postural muscles, how they support functional movement and regulation, and why breath is the foundation for postural stability. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, this episode will give you valuable insights into how something as automatic as breathing can unlock big changes in little bodies. Follow us on Instagram @LittleBodies_BigMinds

    37 min

  2. 06/25/2025

    Window of Tolerance of our Autonomic Nervous System

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating role of the nervous system in children’s regulation, focusing on what happens in the body and brain during stress responses like fight, flight, freeze, and shutdown. We unpack how the nervous system shifts as children move between regulated and dysregulated states, what it means to flip your lid and how we can support kids through moments of overwhelm. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, this episode offers practical tools and a deeper understanding of the “why” behind big emotions! Follow us on Instagram @LittleBodies_BigMinds

    32 min

  3. 06/10/2025

    The Fundamentals of OT: Co-Regulation & Self-Regulation

    In this episode of Little Bodies, Big Minds, we dive into the essential concepts of coregulation and self-regulation—and why understanding the difference matters for anyone working with or caring for children. We explore how coregulation, the supportive emotional connection between a child and caregiver, lays the foundation for a child’s ability to self-regulate over time. Through real-life examples and clinical insights, we highlight why coregulation isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary for healthy emotional and behavioral development. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or parent, this episode will give you practical takeaways to support children in their journey toward self-regulation. Follow us on Instagram @LittleBodies_BigMinds

    33 min

  4. 05/27/2025

    The Fundamentals of OT: Just Right Challenge

    In this episode, we explore the concept of the Just Right Challenge in paediatric occupational therapy—finding that perfect balance between the comfort zone and the stretch zone to help children grow, learn, and thrive. We also unpack the important distinction between engagement and participation, and why understanding the difference is key to supporting meaningful progress in therapy. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode offers practical insights to help kids achieve their fullest potential through play and purposeful activity. Follow us on Instagram @LittleBodies_BigMinds

    32 min

  5. 05/13/2025

    The Fundamentals of OT: Function, Function, Function

    In our first full episode, we take a deep dive into what it means to be an OT and the main driving factor of our profession, FUNCTION! Join us as we redefine the term occupation and make sense of it in the context of occupational therapy. We aim to paint a picture of the theories, models and approaches that shape our practice as paediatric clinicians. This is an opportunity to explain why we do what we do; highlighting the significance of understanding the whole child, their environment, and what they need, have and want to do. It’s just a starting point for us, laying the groundwork for what’s to come! Follow us on Instagram @LittleBodies_BigMinds

    27 min

  6. 04/26/2025

    Where it all started

    Join us for our first episode of Little Bodies, Big Minds! We jump into the spark that lights us and we are excited to share with you the journey we have gone on to be here. Tune in as we outline our new journey as we create a podcast together. Follow us on Instagram @littlebodies_bigminds for more details and future episodes.

    11 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Join Tom and Hannah, two playful and passionate pediatric occupational therapists, as they dive into the “why” behind what we do in OT. From breaking down big ideas to sharing real-life stories (the funny, the challenging, and the heartwarming), this podcast makes complex concepts accessible—without the jargon. Whether you're an OT, a parent, or just curious about child development, Little Bodies, Big Minds is here to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and rethink the way we see therapy. Grab a coffee, tune in, and let’s explore the world of OT together!

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