What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Many of us are back into the swing of things at school, and with that comes so much more dysregulation! Listen in as I talk about where that dysregulation comes from and how you can try to get ahead of it (key word: try!). You’ll learn: What dysregulated behaviors are common to see after school How after school restraint collapse looks different for neurodivergent kidsSome immediate ways to regulate the nervous system right at school pick upWhat kinds of sensory strategies to try after school once you get homeFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Listen in to this episode to hear more context and insight behind some of the wording and passages I used in my book, A kids book about neurodiversity. You might be surprised to learn that this book’s intended audience is actually neurotypical kids, because I want to spread awareness and acceptance and celebration for our neurodivergent kids; it shouldn’t always be left up to us neurodivergent folks and families to constantly explain ourselves and our kids’ behaviors and needs to the world; what if we lived in a world where everyone just knew that there are variations among humans? Register for the free 60 minute masterclass here. Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" here. FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Listen in to this casual, story time episode where I catch you up to speed with my anxiety/ADHD journey and why I stopped medication. FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Do you ever feel like your patience runs out before your coffee does? In this episode, we focus on why it's essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to prioritize their own regulation. It's not just about being able to stay calm when your child spills cereal all over the floor—it's about being equipped to handle life's daily challenges with a sense of calm and control.Join me as I share some straightforward and practical strategies for self-regulation that you might already be doing without realizing their true potential. From chewing gum to changing your clothes, discover how these simple acts can actually help you maintain your cool. We’ll dive into the science behind why our bodies react the way they do and explore how we can proactively use these sensory strategies to reclaim our brain's resources and be the best versions of ourselves for our kids.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The importance of self-regulation for parents and caregivers.How to identify your own cues of dysregulation and what they might look like for you.The neuroscience behind why our bodies go into "protective mode" during stress and how it affects our ability to multi-task.Simple sensory strategies you can use throughout the dayMy most IMPORTANT tip for implementing these sensory strategiesFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Are you receiving constant feedback about your child's behavior or learning challenges in the classroom? In this episode, we explore why classroom accommodations are crucial for neurodivergent children and how they can transform your child's educational experience. I'll touch on sensory needs, emotional regulation, and executive functioning, offering general starting points to advocate for your child's unique needs. Join us for the upcoming school accommodations workshop on August 11th  https://theotbutterfly.com/schoolworkshop FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!The size of the problem is a common lesson therapists and teachers use to teach kids emotional regulation skills. As I have learned more about the neurodivergent community, I’ve started thinking about this lesson in a different late and want to share that with you in this episode. Don’t worry, it’s not all bad!FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!The transition to summer comes with so many emotions and behaviors, it can be really exhausting. There are ways to support your neurodivergent child through this transition.In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the transition from end of school to summer vacation is difficultHow to handle big feelings around the end of school How to optimize regulation at home How to structure your time at home FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Calling all millennial parents! Did you grow up hearing things like: "Because I said so!""You're too old to be acting like that!""Give your Grandma a hug, don't be rude!""If you don't clean up these toys, I'm throwing them away!""I told you that would happen! You never listen."Our parents were doing the best with the information they had-- not to mention, many of them also growing up with the same narrative. Well, in the age of gentle parenting and respectful parenting, our generation is now doing the work to unlearn all of those and go off script as we try to raise a more emotionally intelligent generation. In this episode, Stephanie and I share examples of what it sounds like to set healthy boundaries in a respectful way with your kids. Register for the Chaos 2 Connection Summit for free HERE. Stephanie lives in Sydney, Australia with her family and is a certified Emotional Intelligence coach, paediatric anxiety therapist, and ex-speech pathologist. She is the founder of Let's Raise Emotionally Intelligent Kids, an online community of over 90,000 parents.Her ground-breaking book, From Chaos to Connection, was published in March 2023 and was an immediate Amazon Best Seller.Stephanie was appointed as the Emotional Intelligence Mentor for Australia’s Nurture Parenting Magazine in 2021. She has also been featured in numerous international parenting summits and conferences and has now hosted 2 virtual parenting conferences with speakers from across the globe. Her platform focuses on supporting parents in learning how to manage their emotions, frustrations and stress so that they are happier, calmer and connect more deeply with their kids. She also helps parents to raise emotionally intelligent kids, who are self-aware and positively manage their emotions and behaviour.FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!If you have a sensory seeker and you're in need of easy, indoor ideas to keep them both entertained AND regulated... this is the episode for you. Listen to this episode (sponsored in part, by Figgy) to hear 7 sensory based movement activities to do inside with your sensory seeker. Here's a link to grab your own Figgy couch with a $20 discount FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!If you have a child who’s been sick recently, you’ve probably found yourself wondering “Why are they so moody?” “why do they seem more sensitive than before?” You’re not imagining it. The nervous system is in a state of stress when it’s fighting viruses, ailments and bugs. Sensory systems are more impacted and so is behavior. Listen to this episode to feel validated for an experience you might have had recently or a reminder for what to expect next time. Stay till the end to hear my practical tips that I think every neurodivergent parent needs to know when helping their child transition back to “normal life” after an illness. PS- If you’re listening to this episode before June 30th, there’s time to register for my FREE masterclass, “4 steps to less stressful daily routines with your sensory sensitive child (without using punishments or sticker charts)” Register at THEOTBUTTERFLY.COM/4StepsCan’t wait to see you there!FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Are you a late diagnosed adult with childhood trauma relating to their missed/ignored neurodivergent needs who is NOW trying to provide better support for their own neurodivergent child? *Sigh* us too. Join Marcela Collier, certified parenting coach and neurodivergent mom to discuss our journey to accepting our neurodivergent brains and advocating for our own needs so we can better show up for our kids. Marcela Collier is a certified Parenting coach and former Therapeutic Care Provider-TFC, who specializes in helping parents break free from angry reactions, become secure parents, and raise emotionally healthy children. She is the founder of HIC Parenting Education Agency who has supported 14,151 parents to date in becoming secure parents through courses and coaching programs. She is a neurodivergent mom of twins with sensory processing needs.Instagram @highimpactclub Marcela interviews me on her podcast: Spotify link apple linkWebsite: HICparenting.comFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!It’s 2024, self-pleasure, masturbation, orgasms…. It’s one of the most natural, fun, immediate ways to regulate our bodies, why should we be ashamed of it? Listen in to this unfiltered discussion about changes to intimacy after becoming parents and how burnt out, touched out moms can start getting bringing sexy back!Dr. Tracy Dalgleish helps empower women and couples to improve their communication and build strong and healthy connections with themselves and their partner through therapy, wellness seminars, and her work outside of the therapy room. She contributes to popular media sites, including Motherly, Huffington Post, and Bustle. In addition to hosting the podcast, “I’m not your shrink” where she dives deeper into clinical knowledge and research in a relatable and informal way, her book “I Didn’t Sign Up For This: Stories of Unlocking Old Patterns and Finding Joy in Your Relationship” is a fantastic resource, which I highly recommend. Dr. Tracy is a mom of two young children and owner of Ottawa’s mental health clinic, Integrated Wellness, she knows what it means to balance the full load.Learn more from Dr. Tracy: Dr. Tracy websiteDr. Tracy’s free guide to nurturing intimacy Dr. Tracy instagramDr. Tracy bookCome as you are bookFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Dr. Miyabe Shields, is a Ph.D. pharmaceutical scientist who specialized in the structural biochemistry of the endocannabinoid system for drug discovery. They have received national and international recognition for their pre-doctoral research in the endocannabinoid system and industrial accomplishments in the cannabis and emerging psychedelics industries.After co-founding a cannabis research startup post-PhD, they delved into rare extract and formulation research, exploring heat-transformed cannabinoids and developed a novel form of cannabis extraction. Miyabe transitioned to community education and science advocacy through social media and podcasts, reaching over 6 million people.Shifting away from production-focused roles, they now advocate for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and psychedelics for neurodivergent brains. They co-founded the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), a new research non-profit, to disseminate real-world applications of the synergies of nature by analyzing data and communicating research and educational information to the public.In this episode, we’ll talk all about the difference between ways to take in cannabis, the different ingredients, and how this can be helpful (or harmful) to various neurotypes. Again, please keep in mind- this is not medical advice. This is just a discussion between 2 neurodivergent adults who happen to use cannabis as a tool in our regulation toolbox, sharing our lived experience and clinical research. Miyabe's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miyabeshields Miyabe's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miyabephd/Miyaboe's Research: https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Restaurants are a multi-sensory experience, and if you've got a neurodivergent child, you know that multi-sensory doesn't always necessarily mean a good thing. Between the sensory overload, confined space and social expectations of "behaving" in a restaurant, it makes sense why eating out as a family feels stressful for some families. Today I'll peel back the layers and talk about the specific triggers that are contributing to dysregulation, and give strategies to best support your children.  Plus hacks for keeping busy at the table. Related episodes: Social storiesPostural Endurance and wiggly kidsInteroception episode with Kelly MahlerInteroception episode (Laura only) FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Whether attending other celebrations or hosting your own, birthday parties can often be overwhelming due to sensory and emotional regulation challenges. However, with proper preparation and accommodations, we can minimize distress and help our neurodivergent kids fully participate and enjoy the experience. In this episode, I'll share my go-to strategies for birthday party guest OR host preparation. FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Tune in to hear us discuss the benefits of nature-based occupational therapy with Dr. Laura Park Figueroa. We explore how incorporating natural elements into therapy can help children build skills while regulating their nervous systems. I share some of my own experiences as an "indoor cat" to highlight how nature-based approaches aren’t always inherently sought out, but still incredibly important. Dr. Laura Park Figueroa, PhD, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. She is the founder of Outdoor Kids OT, Inc., a nature-based pediatric practice, and Therapy in the Great Outdoors, LLC, an online hub for nature-based pediatric therapists of all kinds. Her PhD research examined the mechanisms of change at work in nature-based pediatric occupational therapy. You can connect with her on Instagram @lauraparkfig and follow Outdoor Kids OT @outdoorkidsotResource she mentioned: “Last child in the woods” book “Balanced and Barefoot” by Angela Hanscom FREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live as an undiagnosed Autistic person living in a neurotypical world? Maybe you’re a parent to a nonspeaking child or a child who’s too young to be able to properly express their experience. Learning from actually Autistic adults is one of the most valuable things you can do for your Autistic child and other Autistic individuals in the world, and today, we’re lucky enough to be hearing from one of my favorite Autistic adult creators, Paige Layle. She just released her memoir, “But Everyone Feels this Way: How an Autism Diagnosis Saved My Life” and we’re diving into it today. You can buy her book at Target, amazon, or Hachette’s website and I highly recommend it!Trigger warning: Paige discusses her experience with thoughts of suicide. Please listen at your own discretion, and do not listen with your children around. Listen to this story to learn more about: Paige’s internal experience with sensory overload in the classroomHer experience of an adult autistic meltdown vs. child autistic meltdownHow she made the difficult decision to leave universityHow she would have benefitted from school accommodations if she were offered themLink to Paige's book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/paige-layle/but-everyone-feels-this-way/9780306831256/Link to Paige's social: @paigelayleFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!This week I'm diving into some sneaky reasons why some sensory kids might be wigglers that have nothing to do with needing more movement. Prepare to get your mind blown as I break down the connection between core strength, posture, and focus. I'll also give you tons of do's and don'ts for supporting these kiddos in the classroom. By the end you'll be armed with all the deets to help your little learner shine without extra distractions. You’ll learn:- The hidden connection between core strength, posture, and attention abilities - Common signs that weak core muscles may be to blame for fidgety behavior- Why approaches like weighted vests or inflated seating options can backfire- Practical seating solutions and positioning tips to support learningFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!As an OT, I often get asked how parents should explain why their child has to go to Occupational Therapy visits. In this episode,  parents will have some guidance on preparing children for evaluations, answering their questions about therapy, and explaining OT to siblings. You'll learn simple scripts tailored to different child ages that will help demystify the process and make OT a more positive experience. Whether you're new to OT or a seasoned pro, I'll share my tips for communicating effectively with kids about sensory processing and how an occupational therapist can help them feel more comfortable at home and school.In this episode, you'll learn:- What questions to ask of the OT clinic to prepare your child best - Age-appropriate ways to explain the evaluation process to kids- Sample scripts for talking to children about why they attend OT sessions- Sample scripts for helping neurotypical siblings understand why their sibling attends OTFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book

What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note!Get ready for an info-packed episode on Occupational Therapy to celebrate this wonderful field in OT month (for U.S.). I shared how OT can help with all different kinds of challenges like motor skills, focusing, anxiety and sensory issues. Whether assessing needs, modifying environments or teaching regulating strategies, OTs have creative solutions to support kids' skills and behaviors. From building body awareness to providing customized interventions, we get to play all day while helping kids learn. I hope this gave you a taste of what OT is all about - it was so fun sharing all the insights!- Episode 30: How to Get Started with OT and how it can change your life- Episode 93: How to identify neurodiverse affirming therapists and some green flags to look for- Episode 70: An interview with Dr. Krupa Playforth on advocating for OT with your pediatrician - Episode 24: Making the most out of OT services- Episode 69: Understanding IEPs and 504 plans in a school-based OT settingFREE masterclass: 5 Steps to Sensory RegulationSensory Detectives BootCamp Episode transcript: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/podcast The OT Butterfly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theotbutterfly Work with Laura: https://www.theotbutterfly.com/parentconsult Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" : www.theotbutterfly.com/book