Episodes

  • How Working Memory Shapes Literacy: Practical Tips to support the missing link between executive functioning and reading

    How Working Memory Shapes Literacy: Practical Tips to support the missing link between executive functioning and reading
    Nov 6 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We unravel what executive functioning really means (hint: it's all about self-cueing from the inside out), explore how it underpins our ability to learn and accomplish everyday tasks, and examine its powerful connection to literacy. Tera shares her unique journey across disciplines—spanning neuroscience, psychology, occupational therapy, and more—which led her to develop innovative frameworks and a cognitive processing model now making waves in the field. You'll also hear practical strategies for parents and educators, including how to foster working memory at home, support literacy beyond just curriculum, and make use of game-changing tools like reflexive questioning. Whether you're supporting a struggling learner, homeschooling, or just curious about how our brains organize information to drive success, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable takeaways. In this episode you'll hear about: Tera's career journey: Starting in French and math, transitioning to speech language pathology.Tera's quest for holistic approaches: Education in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, occupational therapy, and cognitive linguistics.Development of Tera's personal cognitive processing model through interdisciplinary study.What is Executive Functioning?Tera's definition: "Self cueing from the inside out."Importance of internal versus external cues.The role of executive function interventions and how many are overly external.External Tools vs. Internal SkillsExamples of external tools (planners, schedules, timers).Explanation that tools only work if internal executive function is present.The myth of tools being the ultimate solution (e.g., planners not solving disorganization).The need to support internal development rather than focusing solely on external aids.Executive Function and LiteracyHow executive functioning underpins literacy acquisition.Critical executive function skills involved in literacyImpact of impairments: Student disengagement, inability to absorb instruction."Attention flashlight" metaphor: Directing mental energy during learning.Working Memory: The Literacy BottleneckTypes of working memory: Verbal and nonverbal.Verbal working memory as an initial step in phonics and reading.The developmental trajectory of working memory (not fully developed until mid-teens).Curriculum misalignments: Demanding more from working memory than a child might currently manage (e.g., CVC words).Identifying Executive Function Challenges in LiteracySigns of processing issues: Relearning phonics, stalled progress, rapid forgetting.Recommendations to seek professional assessment for accurate diagnosis.Importance of individualized approaches rather than rigidly sticking to curriculum tools.Practical Executive Function ActivitiesAdjusting starting points to match the child's capacity (one or two sounds, not just three-letter words).Mention of specific programs (e.g., LiPS program, Phoneme Sequencing Program) and their techniques.Supporting Working Memory Throughout the DayThe link between working memory, planning, and life skills.Importance for children with anxiety: Using mental rehearsal to reduce uncertainty.Role of Sensory Experience in Nonverbal Working MemoryHow the brain creates internal maps through sensory experiences.Play as critical for wiring nonverbal working memory—why screen-based learning can be limiting.Discussion of the brain's eight sensory systems (including proprioception, vestibular, and interoception).Integrating Multi-disciplinary InsightsTera's expertise combines OT, SLP, neuroscience, psychology, and linguistics.Bringing together disparate concepts for parents to understand executive function holistically. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Gratitude Builds Flexibility For Executive FunctionTera's WebsiteTera's Book & ResourcesTera's Online CommunityConnect With Tera On InstagramConnect With Tera On Facebook Connect With Our Guest, Tera Sumpter Tera Sumpter, M.A., CCC-SLP, is the author of the internationally best-selling book, The Seeds of Learning and founder of Seeds of Learning, LLC, a private practice in Cleveland, Ohio specializing in executive function, reading, speech, language, writing, and other pediatric learning challenges. She leads a global online community for professionals and families focused on executive function, presents her cognitive processing model nationally and internationally, and creates practical EF resources for professionals and parents. Tera is an adjunct instructor We unravel what executive functioning really means (hint: it's all about self-cueing from the inside out), explore how it underpins our ability to learn and accomplish everyday tasks, and examine its powerful connection to literacy. Tera ...
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    39 mins
  • Beyond Small Talk: Weather's Role in Learning, Connection, and Executive Function

    Beyond Small Talk: Weather's Role in Learning, Connection, and Executive Function
    Oct 23 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! t down with Ross Forsyth, Executive Director of the National Weather Museum and Science Center in Norman, Oklahoma. Together, we explore an unexpected but universally relatable topic: the weather. From its role as a classic conversation starter to its powerful ability to spark curiosity and connection, we dive into how weather can serve as a gateway for building social skills, executive functioning, and even fostering shared experiences within families and homeschool communities. Ross shares his personal journey and the story behind the National Weather Museum, revealing how weather brings together people with different interests—whether it's science, photography, music, or even aviation. He explains how their Weather Kids program helps students find excitement and learning opportunities in the weather all around them, and why understanding and discussing the weather can be such a valuable tool for growing curiosity and meaningful relationships. In this episode you'll hear about: Ross Forsyth shares his personal and professional backgroundExecutive Director of the National Weather Museum and Science Center.How the museum was founded by his father, a retired meteorologist.Evolution from a mobile museum to a permanent facility.The museum's unique artifacts, like the thunderstorm-research plane.Weather as a Shared Social Experience and Tool for ConnectionImportance of weather as a conversation starter and social glue.Weather as a "common denominator" and part of daily lived experience.How discussing weather fosters relationships and teaches social skills.Children sharing personal weather-related stories at the museum.Building rapport through shared, relatable experiences (e.g., bad weather, event cancelations).Piquing Curiosity and Fostering Interests Through WeatherWeather as a gateway to multiple interests and disciplinesWeather's Role in Building Deeper Social and Academic SkillsDeeper connections formed as kids engage with weather topicsUse of personal experiences to express themselves.Facilitating early conversations and "ping pong" exchanges around weather.Weather in Diverse Areas of Life and LearningHow weather connects to various academic and creative fieldsMusic (e.g., "The Thunder Rolls" by Garth Brooks).Storytelling and entertainment (e.g., Wizard of Oz tornado scenes).Food supply, gardening, and farming.Careers: aviation, emergency management, entrepreneurship (e.g., weather-related products). The possibilities for integrating weather into nearly any domain of learning or professional path.Weather as a Real-World Lens for STEM EducationWeather's application in teaching advanced mathematics and science:Real-life examples of thermodynamics and calculus via weather phenomena.Making abstract concepts tangible and relevant for students.Sensory Experience and Self-Reflection Through WeatherOccupational therapy perspective: Weather as a tool for teaching sensory awareness (interoception) in children.Developing self-reflection and communication about bodily sensations and emotional states. "What to wear" as an entry point for young children to connect with weather.The Weather Kids App and Interactive LearningDashboard adapts to age level (basic choices for young kids, more data for older).Incorporating self-reflection and shared parent-child activities.Executive Functioning and Forward Planning SkillsWeather as a tool to teach flexibility, problem-solving, and emotional control.Reacting and adapting to uncontrollable events (like weather changes).Building planning and forecasting skillsThe Weather Kids Program, Curriculum, and Parent Involvement Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Social Skills & Executive FunctioningConnect With Ross On InstagramConnect With Ross On FacebookEpisode 26: Sensory Safe Evacuation: Preparing for Emergencies with Kids' Sensory Needs in Mind Connect With Our Guest, Ross Forsyth Ross Forsyth is a seasoned startup founder with experience managing multi-million dollar projects. He is an engineering graduate from the University of Oklahoma who began his career working in oil/gas field operations, later transitioning to reservoir engineering where he was responsible for over $100 million in reserves estimates. Finding his passion in building digital and technology experiences, he transitioned to software development and led teams to design and build digital experiences. He's worked with clients such as Pepsi, Balance Athletica, Punch Bowl Social, Climate Reality Project, US Air Force and many others. He is an entrepreneurial engineer with experience in the space of Virtual/Augmented Reality and product development. He most recently followed in his father's love for weather in helping to create the National Weather Museum and Science...
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    29 mins
  • Understanding Social Pressures and Masking in Kids

    Understanding Social Pressures and Masking in Kids
    Oct 16 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I sat down with Liz Downing, a pediatric occupational therapist from Wilmington, Delaware, whose passion for nature-based therapy and supporting children's emotional and sensory needs shines through her practice, In the Woods OT. We first connected at the American Occupational Therapy Association conference, where we bonded over our shared interest in helping children navigate social and environmental pressures. In this episode, we dig deep into the realities kids face both in traditional school settings and beyond. Including overwhelming schedules, academic demands, and the increasing lack of unstructured play. Liz explains how children—especially those who are neurodivergent, often feel compelled to "mask" their true selves to meet external expectations, and how this can take a real toll on their nervous systems and emotional well-being. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction of Liz DowningHow Sarah and Liz met (AOTA conference)Liz's professional background: pediatric occupational therapy, hospital-based experience, transition to nature-based OTLiz's family background and experiences traveling during COVIDFounding of "In the Woods OT" (nature-based practice in Wilmington, DE)Focus on emotional regulation and supporting both kids and parentsDefining Social and Environmental PressuresExplanation of "social pressures" and "environmental pressures" from Liz's perspectivePrimary struggles observed in children, especially in school environmentsGrowing expectations placed on children (school duration, structured activities, reduced unstructured play)The adult perspective: cultivating compassion and re-evaluating expectations for childrenThe Concept of Masking in ChildrenDefinition of masking, particularly among neurodivergent childrenAttempts by children to "fit in" or meet external expectations at the expense of authenticityEmotional and psychological impacts of masking: shame, energy drain, and exhaustionThe daily versus occasional need to "wear a different persona"Comparison to adult experiences of situational maskingThe Neuroscience of Masking and the Nervous SystemThe nervous system's "safe/connected" versus "protected" (fight/flight/freeze) modesHow masking keeps kids in a protected, energy-draining statePhysical and emotional consequences: fatigue and aftermath (e.g., after-school meltdowns)The parent's role: understanding, empathy, and recognizing dysregulationParental Strategies for Supporting Dysregulated KidsManaging after-school meltdowns: recognizing the need for reconnection and restorationPractical strategies: providing snacks, space, co-regulation, and minimizing choices when overwhelmedImportance of parental regulation to support the childBalancing support with age-appropriate expectationsAvoiding perpetually low expectations; instead, nurturing growth and capacityPracticing body/sensory awareness in regulated momentsBuilding emotional language and self-awareness in children for proactive regulation Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Social Skills & Executive FunctioningConnect With Liz On FacebookConnect With Liz On InstagramIn The Woods OT Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline SantangeloEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in HomeschoolEpisode 16: Navigating the Interoceptive Sense: Insights and Strategies for Parents Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child DevelopmentEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 30: Sensory Processing and Co-Regulation: Insights for Parents Episode 49: Connection Over Curriculum: Building Strong Bonds in Homeschooling Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children Connect With Our Guest, Liz Downing Liz Downing is a pediatric occupational therapist with 17 years of experience supporting kids and families across hospitals, early intervention, schools, and private practice. She now runs In the Woods OT, a nature-based solo practice in Wilmington, DE, with a focus on emotional regulation and whole-family support. Outside of work, she's a wife, mom to three awesome kids, and a new dog mom to a rescue mini poodle.
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    29 mins
  • Raising Resilient Kids: Coping Skills and Emotional Regulation in the Digital Age

    Raising Resilient Kids: Coping Skills and Emotional Regulation in the Digital Age
    Oct 9 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! m joined by the incredible Janine Halloran—a licensed counselor with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families as they build their coping toolkits. Janine has dedicated her career to developing accessible, effective resources for families, from workbooks and activity cards to evidence-based strategies you can use at home. In our conversation, she shares her personal journey into counseling, why healthy coping skills are so essential, and how every child's way of managing emotions is unique. We dig into what parents can expect at different developmental stages, how the digital age is changing the way kids regulate emotions, and why having a variety of coping options is so important. Whether you're a parent, educator, or therapist, you'll walk away with practical insights on helping kids handle life's stresses in healthy, safe ways—and maybe even a few new ideas for yourself! Stay tuned as we explore the colorful world of coping skills with Janine Halloran. In this episode you'll hear about: Janine's journey to becoming a counselorExperience as a school counselor and focus on coping skillsDevelopment of resources (checklists, workbooks, card decks)Core mission: teaching coping skills to kids, teens, and adultsDefining Coping SkillsJanine's definition: strategies for dealing with big feelings, thoughts, and stressful situationsHealthy vs. unhealthy coping skillsExample for children: handling frustration during play without harming othersThe Individual Nature of CopingEmphasis on the need for personalized coping strategiesImportance of finding what's helpful for each individualDevelopmental and Cultural Norms in Emotional RegulationChildren's first experiences with emotionsEmotional intensity in young children and its developmental trajectoryBrain development periods: toddlers and teensVariability in emotional regulation based on age and development stageVariability in Coping from Day to DayReasons for inconsistent coping ability (e.g., sleep, stress, environment)Parental expectations vs. daily realityHelping Kids Identify and Label EmotionsThe importance of naming and talking about emotions from a young ageUsing books and media (e.g., Bluey, Mo Willems books) as conversation startersThe Digital Age and Changing Coping SkillsImpact of growing up in a digital era (in-person vs. online interactions)Learning and managing social skills in virtual environmentsEmotional regulation during digital activities (e.g., video games, social media)Recognizing when digital engagement becomes unhealthyFamily Communication and Screen TimeImportance of open communication about screen habitsUnderstanding each child's unique interaction with screensAligning digital habits with family valuesPractical Example: Screen FastingHost's experience with family "screen fasts"Observations and outcomes from time off screensChildren's awareness of their own emotions and self-regulation post-fastDeveloping and Choosing Coping Skills StrategiesJanine's process for developing resourcesIterative development based on real-world resultsChallenges of implementing coping skills in the heat of the momentImportance of practice and early interventionUsing visuals and making concrete plans for expected stressorsPost-challenge reflection: what worked, what didn't Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Social Skills & Executive FunctioningCoping Skills For Kids WebsiteJanine's WebsiteConnect with Janine on InstagramConnect with Janine on FacebookFollow Janine on YoutubeEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in Homeschool Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha Berry Episode 19: Understanding Screen Time Effects on Children's Development and Relationships Episode 31: Cultivating Calm: Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation in Children and Practical Solutions for Parents Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Rest Episode 59: Translating OT Concepts: Creating a Children's Book for Sensory Processing Awareness Episode 60: Tackling Childhood Anxiety: How Occupational Therapy Can Help Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in Children Connect With Our Guest, Janine Halloran Janine Halloran is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been working with children, teens, and their families for over 20 years. She has been helping children and teens build their coping skills throughout her career in a variety of settings, including schools, mental health clinics and in her private practice. She founded Coping Skills for Kids to help children and teens learn healthy and safe...
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    36 mins
  • How to Spot and Support Social and Executive Functioning Skills in Your Child

    How to Spot and Support Social and Executive Functioning Skills in Your Child
    Oct 2 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! This week I'm joined by Dr. Isabella "Bella" Tate, a pediatric occupational therapist and recent doctoral graduate, who shares her journey from New Jersey to Sacramento as a traveling OT. I first met Bella at the AOTA Conference in Philadelphia, where Bella was presenting her doctoral capstone research on the STASI Protocol—a new screening tool designed to assess social skills and developmental needs in youth, especially in group therapy and community settings. We'll dive into the essential social, executive functioning, and communication skills that children need to thrive, with a particular focus on the homeschool community. Bella discusses the gaps she observed in existing screening tools, how her protocol helps parents and therapists identify strengths and challenges, and why building a supportive team and meeting children where they are is crucial for growth and participation—wherever learning happens. Whether you're a fellow OT, homeschool parent, or just curious about child development, this episode is full of practical insights, encouragement, and real-life experiences to support your child's unique journey. In this episode you'll hear about: Dr. Tate's occupational therapy (OT) journeyRecent graduation with a doctorate from Duquesne University.Her first travel OT contract in Sacramento, California.Passion for pediatric OT but desire to travel and explore different settings.Personal background: originally from New Jersey, journeying cross-country.The STASI Protocol DevelopmentPresentation at AOTA conference: Capstone project titled "STASI Protocol."Initial working title "Sassy," later changed for appropriateness.Rationale for the protocol:Bridging the gap between parent-reported intake issues and observational presentation in therapeutic groups.Need for a quick, cohesive screening tool (not a full evaluation).Key Social Skills for Children (Developmental Focus)Social skill requirements for group settings (relevant to homeschoolers)Executive functioning as a core social skill componentProblem-solving, attention to task, and "theory of mind."Reading nonverbal cues and adapting behavior to environment.Communication's pivotal roleExpressing feelings, needs, and navigating behaviors.Overlap and collaboration between OT and speech pathology.Executive Functioning and Social DevelopmentComponents of executive functioning discussedTask initiation, persistence, flexible thinking, impulsivity/safety.Challenges of observing executive function in homeschool settings:Parental accommodations mask struggles outside the home.Socialization in Homeschooling ContextsDifferences in socialization between standard schools and homeschoolsMixed-age interactions, multi-generational influence in co-ops.Opportunities to build communication skills across various ages.Homeschooling strengths: flexibility, diverse groupings, natural mentorship.The Assessment Process & Tools for ParentsDirect, quick, activity-based screening by the therapist (STASI activities) Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens Course Social Skills & Executive Functioning Dare To Lead By Brené BrownAmplify OT Child And Adolescent Scale Of ParticipationDevelopmental Milestones For ProductivityThe Relationship Between Children's Executive Functioning, Theory Of Mind, And Verbal Skills Social And Emotional LearningHomeschooled Children's Social SkillsEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in Homeschool Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha Berry Episode 49: Connection Over Curriculum: Building Strong Bonds in Homeschooling Connect With Our Guest, Isabella Tate Dr. Isabella Tate is an occupational therapist. She completed her occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) this past December from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She has had a lot of experience working in pediatrics throughout her education and life. Her doctoral capstone addressed screening children for therapeutic groups at an outpatient pediatric site and the way she fell in love with the profession was by growing up watching her mom, who is also a pediatric OT. She feels not only do children have a lot to learn from us, but us from them as well, and looks forward to one day having a permanent job with the bright, young minds. She is working as a travel OT, currently on her first contract in Sacramento, CA at a skilled nursing facility.
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    30 mins
  • How Movement Influences Learning: OT Insights for Parents

    How Movement Influences Learning: OT Insights for Parents
    Sep 25 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! This week I sat down with Tiffany Parsons, a pediatric occupational therapist and homeschooling mom with a deep passion for supporting families outside of traditional school settings. Tiffany shares her unique journey from clinic-based therapy to homeschooling her twin boys, and how that experience inspired her to bridge the gap for homeschool, micro school, and private school communities seeking occupational therapy resources. We break down what occupational therapy really is, how parents can identify if their child might benefit from OT support, and why movement and developmental milestones—like crawling and rolling are so crucial to a child's learning and emotional wellbeing. We discuss practical ways parents can observe their child's movement to spot potential challenges, creative activities to support development (hint: it's not just about handwriting worksheets!), and friendly, hands-on advice for making therapeutic activities a natural part of everyday life at home. In this episode you'll hear about: Tiffany's background as a pediatric occupational therapistExperience in outpatient clinics and decision to homeschool her twin boysRecognition of limited OT resources for homeschool, micro school, and private Christian school familiesInitial challenges in offering therapy services to families unaware of OT benefitsShift toward educating parents and educators through in-servicesDefining Occupational Therapy and Identifying NeedsTiffany's broad definition of "occupation" for childrenExplanation of how OT addresses all areas affecting a child's quality of life: play, academics, self-help skillsObserving and Understanding Movement in ChildrenTiffany's perspective on observing children's movement as an indicator of nervous system and brain functionDevelopmental Milestones and the Link to Functional ChallengesImportance of achieving developmental milestones in orderExample symptoms: emotional regulation difficulties, picky eating, sleep issuesThe connection between early movement and later strugglesThe neurological connection between spinal rotation, brain processing, and self-regulationSimple assessments (e.g., ask a child to turn while standing, observe ability to cross midline)The Critical Role of CrawlingRelevance of crawling, despite changes in pediatric milestone recommendationsDevelopmental foundation offered by crawling: proprioception, bilateral integration, ocular motor skillsThe impact of crawling on hand-eye coordination, depth perception, and learning readinessWhat to do if a child didn't crawl or only crawled brieflyCreative and functional ways to encourage crawling behaviors at any agePractical difficulties: shifting focus between near/far tasks, copying from board to paperHow underdeveloped crawling or movement can impact visual and physical skills needed for reading and writingTips for parents to frame OT-based activities as playful and family-wide, not "fixes" for deficitsThe importance of making adaptations natural, fun, and group-orientedHandwriting Without HandwritingWhy direct handwriting practice is often less effective than movement and play-based activitiesVertical surface activities, Play-Doh, and other proximal (core/shoulder) to distal (hand/finger) strengtheningHow developmental readiness and explicit instruction should be balanced Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersConnect With Tiffany Parsons On FacebookExecutive Functioning For Teens CourseHandwriting Motor AssessmentPrimitive Reflexes Resource GuideEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting SuccessEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better Handwriting Episode 38: Practical Learning Tools from a Homeschool Graduate: Sensory Kits for Homeschool Success Episode 56: Unlocking Writing Confidence in Children: The Role of Personal Expression Connect With Our Guest, Tiffany Parsons Tiffany is a pastors wife, bonus mom, twin mom, homeschool mom and pediatric occupational therapist. She is a 2014 graduate from West Virginia University. She is passionate about educating others on what occupational therapy is and how it can benefit
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    29 mins
  • Turning Letters Into Play: How Doodling Builds Handwriting Skills with Sarah Muldoon

    Turning Letters Into Play: How Doodling Builds Handwriting Skills with Sarah Muldoon
    Sep 18 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Sarah Muldoon shares her journey from working in school systems, where she noticed traditional methods weren't engaging kids—to self-publishing a series of imaginative, doodle-driven books that help children build core handwriting skills through play and storytelling. They dive deep into the foundational skills behind handwriting, from core strength and visual-motor integration to the magic that happens when kids are having fun and using their imagination. Whether you're an OT, a parent, an educator, or part of the growing homeschool world, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips for making learning both functional and fun. Plus, hear about the importance of the "pre-writing" stage, the power of art in literacy, and how Muldoon's journey led her to national recognition. In this episode you'll hear about: The motivation for bringing Sarah Muldoon onto the podcast: sharing her products and story with educators and the homeschool communitySarah Muldoon's Occupational Therapy JourneySarah Muldoon's background as a school-based occupational therapist (OT)Challenges with existing handwriting materials: lack of engagement for kidsThe significance of handwriting as a referral point ("canary in the mine") for OT-related problemsThe OT perspective: the importance of imagination and play in children's occupationsDevelopment of Play-Based Handwriting MaterialsThe spark for creating imaginative, play-based handwriting booksRealization of a gap in the market for handwriting materials that link letter formation to creativity and storySarah Muldoon's process: self-publishing, using graphic design and illustration skillsRapid success: from publishing the first book to creating 15 titles, role of social media in her growthUnderstanding Underlying Skills in HandwritingDiscussion of foundational skills involved in handwriting:Core strength, wrist/hand strength, and their importanceVisual motor integration and oculomotor skillsThe complex interplay of visual scanning, board-to-paper copying, and neurological processesOT interventions: warming up muscles, adapting equipment, building visual-motor skillsImportance of Play in Learning and Skill AcquisitionRole of play in accelerating skill learning ("400 repetitions vs. 20-30 when play-based")Ways to incorporate play into handwriting practiceHow Sarah Muldoon's books embed playful, imaginative activities aligned with OT strategiesModifying Activities to Support Individual NeedsHow to adapt doodling and handwriting exercises for different children or needsExample: breaking down drawing steps, allowing for tracing, providing multiple attemptsEmphasizing creativity and engagement over perfectionDefining Play and Its Role in HandwritingOT's definition of play: flow state, imagination, creation, intrinsic enjoymentLinking letter formation to storytelling and meaning-makingHow her books foster both skill development and personal expressionStandardized Assessment in Occupational TherapyIntroduction to standardized tests like the BOT (Bruininks-Oseretsky Test)What OTs are assessing and why: focus on function and "occupation"Using tests for pre/post measurements rather than just "teaching to the test"Translating test scores into meaningful activitiesBridging Functional Skills and Playful PracticeThe rationale behind combining assessment-driven skill-building and playful activitiesExamples of how handwriting and drawing practice support broader life skillsEncouraging continued skill reinforcement throughout daily activitiesExpanding the Reach: Products for Different Ages and NeedsOverview of Sarah Muldoon's product line Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens CourseHandwriting Motor AssessmentHandwriting CourseDoodles Help Handwriting Website Connect With Sarah Muldoon On IGFree DoodlesImproving Handwriting Without Actually WritingSkills Nature Builds Building Fine Motor skills Using HandicraftsEpisode 6: Harnessing the Great Outdoors for Visual Development and Learning Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline SantangeloEpisode 22: Supporting Children Through Play-Based Reflex Integration Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child DevelopmentEpisode 39: Outdoor Adventures: Developing Fine Motor Skills Through Nature-Based Therapy with Carmela Trejo Episode 40: Crafting Holiday Memories while Building Handwriting Skills Episode 56: Unlocking Writing Confidence in Children: The Role of Personal Expression Connect With Our Guest, Sarah Muldoon Sarah is an occupational therapist who has worked with kids as an OT and beyond. She has always been interested in drawing and loved handwriting.
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    27 mins
  • Body Awareness- Indoor Activities

    Body Awareness- Indoor Activities
    Sep 11 2025
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We're joined by Renee Mathews, an occupational therapist known for her innovative activity ideas geared toward kids both indoors and out. This lively conversation dives into Renee's journey from working in inpatient rehab to becoming a leader in the world of school-based teletherapy, where she helps students and families access vital OT services no matter where they are. We'll chat about the ins and outs of teletherapy, exploring what it looks like for families in remote areas or those who choose virtual schooling, and how occupational therapy can be adapted creatively for the online space. Renee shares her process for developing fun, accessible activities that support kids' body awareness, motor skills, and overall development—using everyday household items and a spark of creativity! Plus, you'll hear practical tips for parents considering teletherapy, advice for building an at-home OT toolkit, and resources to help keep kids moving and engaged throughout the year. Whether you're new to occupational therapy or looking for inspiration to shake up your daily routine, this episode is packed with fresh ideas, expert wisdom, and plenty of encouragement for both parents and professionals. In this episode you'll hear about: Renee Mathews' professional journeyEducation: Master's in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall UniversityInitial work in inpatient rehabilitation and transition to school-based OTExperience coaching a Special Olympics unified track and field teamMove to teletherapy in 2019, especially with COVID-19's onsetCreation of digital resources (YouTube, Instagram, Teachers Pay Teachers)Current role as a teletherapy clinical managerTeletherapy: What It Looks Like and Who It ServesTeletherapy as an option for families far from OT services or choosing virtual educationRoles of caregivers, schools, and support staff in teletherapyDispelling myths about teletherapyFlexibility: Activities can be hands-on, in different environments (even outdoors)Creativity and adaptability required for effective teletherapy sessionsConsiderations for Choosing TeletherapyHow to find a teletherapistThrough school assignments, private providers, or online searchesAssessing whether teletherapy is the right fitActivities for Body Awareness and MovementRenee's approach to designing activitiesEngaging her audience for feedback on needed activitiesTheming activities (e.g., summer-themed surfboard video)Making activities accessible using common household itemsTips to adapt video pace for varying child needsImportance of movement for children Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersExecutive Functioning For Teens CourseHandwriting Motor AssessmentConnect With Renee On IGConnect With Renee On YoutubeMiss Renee's Teachers Pay TeachersEpisode 5: Beyond 20/20 vision: understanding crucial aspects of visual assessment in childrenEpisode 6: Harnessing the Great Outdoors for Visual Development and LearningEpisode 7: How Form Drawing Supports Vision, Handwriting, and AcademicsEpisode 8: Beyond the Pencil: Exploring Vision's Impact on Homeschool Handwriting SuccessEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 21: Exploring Primitive Reflexes: From Birth to IntegrationEpisode 22: Supporting Children Through Play-Based Reflex IntegrationEpisode 23: Blending Sensory Integration and Fitness for Better HandwritingEpisode 24: Understanding the Handwriting Journey: Tools and Techniques for HomeschoolersEpisode 37: Reading, Writing, and Growing: The Bigger Picture of Developing Fine Motor Skills in Children Episode 55: Understanding Dysgraphia: Tools and Strategies for Homeschoolers Connect With Our Guest, Renee Mathews Renee is a licensed occupational therapist with a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University. She brings extensive experience across diverse settings, including inpatient rehabilitation, private and public schools, and teletherapy. Throughout her career, she has supported a wide range of populations and collaborated closely with families navigating both asynchronous and synchronous virtual learning environments. Renee is highly skilled in the use of teletherapy tools/resources and has developed original educational content to support therapists, educators, and families. Under the brand "Miss Renee OT," she shares resources through platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Teachers Pay Teachers. Currently, she serves as a clinical manager, providing guidance to therapists and school districts to ensure student needs are met with evidence-based, individualized support.
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    27 mins