Unpacking the Occupation

Trina Esperante
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Education

Parenting doesn't come with a manual, and sometimes the smallest everyday moments can feel like the biggest challenges. My goal is simple: to help caregivers better understand their children, feel more confident in supporting their needs, and discover meaningful ways to make everyday life a little easier. Whether you're navigating a new challenge or simply looking for fresh ideas, this podcast is here to provide support, encouragement, and occupational therapy-informed strategies you can use in your daily routines.

Episodes

  1. Jul 6

    Episode 10: Unpacking the Occupation: Reflections Behind the Microphone

    Join me for today's solo episode as we wrap up the Unpacking the Occupation series with a heartfelt reflection on the conversations, lessons, and unforgettable moments that shaped this journey. Together, we'll revisit the biggest themes from the series, celebrate the incredible caregivers who generously shared their stories, and reflect on how occupational therapy can empower families through everyday moments. In this final episode, I share caregiver feedback, revisit some of the practical strategies discussed throughout the series, and reflect on how these conversations have shaped me—not only as an occupational therapy doctoral student, but as a future pediatric occupational therapist and a mom. Whether you've been with us since Episode 1 or are just discovering the podcast, I hope you leave this episode feeling encouraged, supported, and reminded that progress is built one meaningful occupation at a time. ✨ In This Episode Reflecting on the biggest lessons from the seriesWhat caregivers taught me about parenting and occupational therapyCaregiver feedback and favorite takeawaysWhy understanding the "why" behind behavior mattersThe power of play, co-regulation, and meaningful occupationsSupporting children through everyday routinesCelebrating progress over perfectionOT Tip of the Day: You Don't Have to Be Perfect 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into all the topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond our conversation. 🔗 Episode 10 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DcBgTbwK3hYJg057qGCQ6tL86l8_XjINwzcogbHJ7zs/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:15 Introduction to Our Final Episode 02:44 Lessons Learned from Caregivers 05:11 Understanding Child Development and Play 06:57 The Voices Behind the Podcast 09:17 Strategies for Supporting Child Development 11:56 Understanding Child Behavior and Co-Regulation 14:47 Building Connections Through Play 16:09 Practical Tools for Everyday Life 16:30 Final Thoughts and OT Tip of the Day Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  2. Jul 6

    Episode 9: Unpacking the Occupation of Caregiving: Supporting a Child Without Losing Yourself

    Join me and caregiver Christina as we unpack what it's really like to raise a child with sensory differences. Together, we explore the challenges of navigating feeding therapy, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and advocacy while discovering how occupational therapy can support not only children—but the entire family. From building obstacle courses and incorporating purposeful heavy work into daily routines to balancing the demands of parenting and graduate school, Christina shares an honest and inspiring perspective on finding joy in the middle of life's challenges. Whether you're navigating sensory differences, wondering how to better support your child, or simply needing the reminder that caregivers deserve care too, this episode is filled with encouragement, practical strategies, and hope. ✨ In This Episode Understanding sensory seeking and low registrationNavigating feeding challenges and feeding therapySupporting emotional regulation through co-regulationHeavy work and purposeful play at homeFamily-centered care through an occupational therapy lensAdvocating for your child and trusting your instinctsThe importance of caregiver support and occupational balanceOT Tip of the Day: You Matter Too 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 9 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ggOydh6bAl___mezo_m4sGrXJ20pe2paITtzFsjSroE/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:15 Introduction to Sensory Differences and Parenting 08:05 Understanding Sensory Challenges in Early Development 13:35 Emotional Journey of Parenting a Child with Sensory Needs 16:43 Advocacy and Support for Sensory Processing 19:36 Identifying Sensory Seeking Behaviors 21:59 Strategies for Regulation and Heavy Work Activities 25:01 Understanding Low Registration and Sensory Needs 28:25 Emotional Regulation Challenges in Parenting 32:20 The Dual Perspective of a Caregiver and Therapist 37:12 Finding Balance: Self-Care in Caregiving 46:12 OT Tip of the Day: Prioritizing Self-Care Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  3. Jul 6

    Episode 8: Unpacking Progress Over Perfection: Speech Delays, Play, and Growth

    Join me and caregiver Isabel as we unpack her son's journey from having a speech delay to becoming a confident little chatterbox. Together, we explore the importance of meeting children where they are developmentally, supporting communication through meaningful play, and embracing the idea that every child grows at their own pace. We'll also discuss how occupational therapy has shaped Isabel's approach to parenting, the impact of early childhood education through Head Start, and why rough-and-tumble play can be a powerful tool for learning, regulation, and connection. Whether you're concerned about your child's speech, wondering how to encourage development through play, or simply looking for reassurance along your parenting journey, this episode is filled with practical strategies, encouragement, and hope. ✨ In This Episode Supporting children with speech delays through everyday interactionsRaising a bilingual child and language developmentHelping children communicate through playHow occupational therapy changed the way Isabel parentsThe benefits of Head Start and early childhood educationSupporting rough-and-tumble play with safe boundariesUnderstanding proprioception and sensory needsOT Tip of the Day: Channel Rough-and-Tumble Play Safely 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 8 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1B342iGO77dT8KiRzNKTYkC-6GzJPeOFY93Zdd8HuHfc/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:15 Introduction to Our Guest's Gentle Giant 04:29 The Speech Journey 14:54 Play as an Occupation 16:22 The OT Lens at Home 21:19 Sensory Game Changers 27:18 The Head Start Impact 33:11 Boundaries in Play 40:26 Teaching Our Kids to Lose Gracefully 42:40 OT Tip of the Day and Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  4. Jul 6

    Episode 7: Unpacking Tiny Hands & Big Curiosity: From Bathroom Battles to Boss Battles

    Join me and my husband, Javi, as we unpack the everyday adventures of raising our energetic four-year-old son! Together, we share our experiences navigating endless curiosity, rough-and-tumble play, hygiene routines, and screen time while exploring the occupational therapy principles that help us better understand the "why" behind his behaviors. From touching everything in sight and loving movement-based play to developing independence with daily routines and building a healthy relationship with video games, this episode is filled with honest parenting moments, practical strategies, and plenty of laughter. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply curious about child development, we hope this conversation encourages you to embrace your child's unique strengths while supporting their growth through meaningful everyday experiences. ✨ In This Episode Understanding curiosity through an occupational therapy lensWhy some children seek movement and hands-on explorationThe benefits of rough-and-tumble playTeaching safe boundaries while encouraging explorationBuilding independence during hygiene routinesSupporting executive functioning through everyday tasksFinding a healthy balance with screen time and video gamesOT Tip of the Day: Movement Is Meaningful 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 7 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CNYSzJ9EdCkGNAOXWYOAH65WzZO7Wf4g3CW05bPrafo/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:32 Introduction and Dad's Perspective 04:09 "Look With Your Eyes, Not Your Hands" 09:35 Understanding Sensory Seeking and Proprioception 11:46 Curiosity, Excitement, and Learning Boundaries 14:05 Roughhousing, Connection, and Active Play 18:15 Movement, Regulation, and Better Sleep 21:34 Bathroom Battles and Building Independence 26:49 Executive Functioning and First-Then Strategies 30:13 Unpacking Video Games & Child Development 37:08 Screen Time, Transitions, and Healthy Boundaries 43:15 OT Tip Of The Day 45:11 Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  5. Jul 6

    Episode 6: Unpacking Big Sounds, Busy Brains, and the Power of Play

    Join me and caregiver Sammy as we unpack sensory sensitivities, unexpected sounds, and the everyday challenges they can create for children and their families. Together, we explore why automatic toilets, loud hand dryers, and other unexpected noises can feel overwhelming, while discussing practical occupational therapy strategies to help children feel more confident navigating these experiences. We'll also dive into what may be happening when children don't respond the first time they're called, how transitions can become easier with simple supports, and why sensory-rich play is one of the most meaningful occupations of childhood. Through real-life experiences and evidence-based strategies, this episode reminds caregivers that understanding the "why" behind a child's behavior is often the first step toward meaningful support. ✨ In This Episode Understanding fears of automatic toilets and loud noisesThe Person–Environment–Occupation (PEO) ModelSupporting sensory-sensitive children through environmental modificationsCo-regulation during challenging momentsWhy children don't always respond the first timeMaking transitions smoother with simple strategiesThe importance of sensory-rich playOT Tip of the Day: Curiosity Before Assumptions 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 6 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w2f7QszOI0FhcDzKC97i31kNBqJYZ5_MpAL96Fl0plE/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Caregiver Guest & Her Curious Six-Year-Old 03:13 Navigating Fear of Automatic Toilets 05:44 Exploring Sensory Sensitivities in Children 08:41 Co-Regulation and Its Importance 11:00 The Person-Environment-Occupation Model 12:57 Strategies for Managing Fear and Anxiety 15:43 Building Confidence Through Play 17:32 The Importance of Play in Child Development 18:56 Challenges in Getting Children's Attention & Strategies for Effective Communication 26:10 The Power of Sensory Play 31:49 OT Tip of the Day: Choose Curiosity Over Assumptions 32:51 Closing and Final Thoughts  Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  6. Jul 6

    Episode 5: Unpacking Bedtime Fears and Playground Playdates

    Join me and caregiver Klaire as we unpack two common challenges many families experience during the preschool years: bedtime fears and navigating new social situations. Together, we explore why fears of the dark, monsters, and unfamiliar people are a normal part of development, while discussing practical occupational therapy strategies to help children feel safe, confident, and supported. From creating calming bedtime routines and understanding the role of co-regulation to encouraging social participation at the playground, this episode is filled with evidence-based strategies that caregivers can begin using at home. If your child struggles with bedtime, worries about monsters, or takes time to warm up around new friends, this conversation will remind you that these experiences are often a typical part of childhood development—and that small moments of connection can make a big difference. ✨ In This Episode Understanding bedtime fears and the power of imaginationCreating calming bedtime routinesUsing heavy work and sensory strategies before sleepMonster spray and other playful bedtime supportsSupporting children through co-regulationBuilding confidence in social situationsUnderstanding social referencingOT Tip of the Day: Connection Before Correction 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 5 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D57mxwaaGJ7haajafm0j60CGBqAxQv6Yw8CJ9lDn_S4/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to a Four-Year-Old Firecracker 02:28 Bedtime Fears, Monsters, and Night Wakings 03:50 Navigating Bedtime Fears 07:33 Why Fear of the Dark is So Common 13:42 Understanding Social Participation 14:09 OT Strategies for Calmer Bedtimes 19:07 Comforting Items, Bedroom Setups, and Sleep Routines 23:37 Building Social Confidence at the Playground 24:01 Building Confidence in Children 29:49 OT Tip of the Day: Connection Before Correction Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  7. Jul 6

    Episode 4: Unpacking the Solar System of Emotions: A 3-Year-Old Deep Dive

    Join me and caregiver Angela as we unpack the exciting world of three-year-olds! Together, we explore how big emotions, growing independence, and strong interests shape a child's development. From emotional outbursts and difficult transitions to an incredible fascination with the solar system, this episode highlights how occupational therapy helps us understand the "why" behind everyday behaviors. We'll discuss practical strategies to support smoother transitions, encourage emotional regulation, and nurture a child's unique interests through meaningful play. Whether your child loves dinosaurs, planets, trains, or something entirely different, you'll learn how following their passions can build confidence, independence, and lifelong learning. ✨ In This Episode Understanding emotional outbursts through the Behavior IcebergSupporting transitions between preferred and non-preferred activitiesFollowing your child's interests to promote developmentThe power of imaginative and symbolic playEncouraging independence through routines and choicesPractical strategies for emotional regulationWhen behaviors may be sensory versus behavioralOT Tip of the Day: First, Then & Narrating the Positive 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 4 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16mRCoWW-jW0Hhki5STS9Y7vjDgCJAiKBfq0iQKkgasQ/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the 3-Year-Old Years 02:46 Understanding Big Emotions and Emotional Outbursts 06:06 The Role of Co-Regulation 08:36 The Power of Creative & Imaginative Play 11:06 Why Transitions Feel So Difficult 15:08 Following Your Child's Interests and Strengths  17:36 Emotional Regulation, Time-Outs, and Calm-Down Corners 21:39 OT Tips Of The Day 23:38 Overstimulated or Understimulated? 27:56 The Earlobe Question 29:48 Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  8. Jul 6

    Episode 3: Unpacking the 18-Month Milestone: Bilingualism, Big Emotions, and the Toddler Transition

    Join me and caregiver Monse as we unpack one of the biggest developmental milestones of early childhood—the transition from baby to toddler. Together, we explore what typically happens around 18 months, including language development, emotional regulation, growing independence, and what it means to raise a child in a bilingual household. Whether you're wondering if your toddler's speech is on track, navigating big emotions, or encouraging independence through everyday routines, this episode offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you feel more confident supporting your child's development. Through real-life experiences and occupational therapy perspectives, we'll unpack the "why" behind many of the changes that make this stage both exciting and challenging. ✨ In This Episode The developmental milestones of the 18-month stageRaising a bilingual child and supporting language developmentUnderstanding speech delays versus bilingual language learningSocial referencing and building confidenceSupporting emotional regulation through co-regulationEncouraging independence through play and daily routinesEveryday strategies to promote communication and learningOT Tip of the Day: Narrating the Day 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 3 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iXaexb9lfjPSk3sA4XHuoLRYV2jroLszVMHdoyGHdgQ/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Navigating the 18-Month Milestone 03:22 Bilingualism in the Household   07:01 The Power of Neuroplasticity  11:04 Speech Development Supported by Social Participation 14:12 Emotional Regulation and Co-Regulation 21:32 Imitative Play and Developmental Wins 23:44 Self-Care Milestones and Independence 25:22 Managing Meltdowns and Parental Patience 28:26 OT Tips for Parents: Narrating the Day 29:24 Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  9. Jul 6

    Episode 2: Unpacking the Terrific Two's, Transitions, and Navigating “Mom Guilt”

    Join me and caregiver Angelica as we unpack the toddler years through the lens of occupational therapy. Together, we explore why the "terrible twos" might be better described as the terrific twos, what big emotions really mean for your child's development, and how caregivers can confidently support their little ones through everyday challenges. From navigating difficult transitions and potty training readiness to balancing motherhood with graduate school, this conversation highlights the importance of meeting children where they are developmentally while also giving ourselves grace as caregivers. Whether you're parenting a toddler or simply looking for practical strategies to make daily routines a little smoother, this episode is full of encouragement, evidence-based insights, and relatable moments. ✨ In This Episode Why the "terrible twos" are really the "terrific twos"Understanding big emotions through child developmentPractical strategies to support smoother transitionsPotty training readiness signsEncouraging independence in everyday routinesNavigating mom guilt while balancing multiple rolesThe importance of quality time over quantityOT Tip of the Day: Identity Affirmations 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Episode 2 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SQABG6_1F_KXHLzkrYKxj2PPHabXHapba5Jxj_psH5M/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Terrific Twos 01:09 Navigating Motherhood and Grad School 03:39 Understanding Big Emotions in Toddlers 06:48 Transitioning Away From Proffered Activities  10:27 Co-Regulation 13:57 Potty Training: Timing and Techniques 18:41 Fostering Independence in Daily Activities 21:40 Preparing for Baby Number Two 24:22 Navigating Mom Guilt, Work-Life Balance, and Quality Time 28:58 Modeling Resilience for Children 31:22 Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

  10. Jul 6

    Episode 1: Welcome to Unpacking the Occupation!

    Join me for today's solo episode as I introduce Unpacking the Occupation and share the journey that inspired this podcast. As an occupational therapy doctoral student and mom, I'm passionate about helping caregivers better understand the "why" behind their child's everyday challenges through the lens of occupational therapy. In this episode, we'll explore what occupational therapy is, why the early years of development matter, and what you can expect throughout this series. Each episode is designed to provide evidence-based strategies, practical tools, and real caregiver conversations that empower families to support their child's participation in everyday life. ✨ In this episode, we discuss: My journey into occupational therapyThe purpose behind Unpacking the OccupationWhy the first six years of development are so importantWhat to expect throughout this podcast seriesOT Tip of the Day: The Power of the Pause 📚 Episode Resource Guide Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation. 🔗 Access the Episode 1 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TIv353KrukdmdSsvywWKinjf11GH2_Mxv34nHixoJEA/edit?usp=sharing  📱 Let's Connect I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: @OTwithTrina Chapters: 00:00 Opening & Podcast Introduction 01:14 Disclaimer & Scope 01:50 My Journey to Occupational Therapy 04:13 Understanding the Capstone Project & Podcast's Purpose 05:54 What to Expect: Unpacking Future Episodes 06:45 OT tip of the Day 07:41 Closing Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerts specific to your child.

  • 10 Episodes

About

Parenting doesn't come with a manual, and sometimes the smallest everyday moments can feel like the biggest challenges. My goal is simple: to help caregivers better understand their children, feel more confident in supporting their needs, and discover meaningful ways to make everyday life a little easier. Whether you're navigating a new challenge or simply looking for fresh ideas, this podcast is here to provide support, encouragement, and occupational therapy-informed strategies you can use in your daily routines.

Information

  • Creator
    Trina Esperante
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Trina Esperante
  • Show Website
    Unpacking the Occupation