Sensory Made Simple

Why does your child behave perfectly at school — but fall apart the moment they get home? Or maybe it’s the opposite: they’re totally fine with you, but struggling every day at school. In this episode, we’re breaking down why your child’s sensory needs can look completely different depending on where they are — and what that really says about their nervous system.
Highlights from this episode:

🎙️ Why “good” behavior at school might be a sign they’re holding it in

🎙️ What makes home the place where kids often release sensory overload

🎙️ How school demands, structure, and expectations affect regulation

🎙️ What you can do to support your child across both environments

Links mentioned in this episode:

Sensory Survival Guide for Parents

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Some sensory challenges don’t look like sensory issues at all — they show up as little things most parents miss. In this episode, we unpack subtle red flags that might actually be signs your child’s sensory system is struggling.

Highlights from this episode:

🎙️ Why falling behind in gymnastics might be more than motor skills

🎙️ What constant leaning or clinginess could really mean

🎙️ The small signs that often get brushed off — and what to do next

Links mentioned in this episode:

Sensory Made Simple Waitlist
Sensory Survival Guide for Parents

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Parenting a child with sensory needs? Learn how simple systems can reduce daily overwhelm. If you're constantly putting out fires—mealtime battles, meltdowns, skipped therapies—and wondering how other parents manage it all, this episode is for you. I'm sharing how creating flexible systems helped me stop living in constant reaction mode, and how you can start building your own.

Episode Highlights:

Family outings with sensory-sensitive kids can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and anything but fun. In this episode, we’re digging into why outings like zoo trips, museums, and family events are so hard for kids with sensory processing challenges—and what might actually help.

Highlights from this episode: 

🎙️ Why family outings are a perfect storm for sensory overload

🎙️ A real-life example from our museum trip this week

🎙️ 3 simple tips that can help make outings feel easier and more manageable

Links Mentioned:

Sensory Made Simple Waitlist

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage®, shares his journey raising an autistic child—navigating the grief after diagnosis, handling tough transitions, and planning for the future. If you’re a parent trying to figure out how to support your child long-term, this episode has honest, real-life experiences you can relate to.

🎙️ Moving from the initial denial and grief of his son’s autism diagnosis to acceptance.

🎙️ How he navigates difficult transitions and situations—like the doctor or dentist.

🎙️ Common mistakes parents make when life planning from a financial perspective.

🎙️ How he supports his daughter (without a diagnosis) while raising an autistic child and keeps their family connected.

 Links Mentioned:

• Letter of Intent
• Michael's Website
• The Autism Voyage Newsletter
• Michael's LinkedIn

About Michael:

 Michael Pereira, Founder of The Autism Voyage®, helps parents of special needs children navigate financial and life-planning challenges. As a financial professional focusing on insurance planning, and autism dad himself, Michael knows firsthand how critical it is to have a proactive plan in place. His mission is to bridge the gap between insurance strategies and real-life challenges, empowering families to secure their future with confidence. No one understands the challenges, wins, and fears quite like another parent walking this path

Legal: The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Morning meltdowns? Discover why they happen in sensory kids—and what actually helps. This episode is perfect for parents looking for sensory parenting tips, morning routine help, and support for transitions.

Episode Highlights:

🎙️ The real reason your child struggles with morning transitions

🎙️ How sensory needs (and poor sleep) affect behavior from the moment they wake

🎙️ Simple ways to support your child and yourself before 8am

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Podcast #64 - Executive Functioning with Carrie Bonnet
Sensory Made Simple Waitlist
Sensory Survival Guide for Parents

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Why do birthday parties feel so hard for kids with sensory differences? In this episode, we break down what’s really going on and how to make parties feel less overwhelming—for both your child and you.

Highlights from this episode:

🎙️ Why birthday parties are a common trigger for sensory overload

🎙️ The difference between sensory avoiding and seeking behaviors at parties

🎙️ Tips to prepare before, during, and after the party
 

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

If your child eats the same foods every day, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m sharing the small but effective steps I take as an OT and feeding therapist to keep variety in my son’s diet—despite how limited it's been lately.

Highlights from this episode:

🎙️ Simple ways to rotate foods to prevent burnout

🎙️ The importance of always offering a safe foods at meals

🎙️ How continuing to offer a non-preferred food turned it back into a preferred one
 

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

If your child is hitting, screaming, or flat-out refusing to do anything, it can feel like a never-ending struggle. But what if it’s not “bad behavior”? It could be their sensory system trying to tell you something. Let’s break it down and figure out how to respond in a way that actually helps.

🎙️ Why sensory needs show up as “behaviors”  

🎙️ Common behaviors & what they mean from a sensory standpoint 

🎙️ Decoding what your child's body is asking for

🎙️ My favorite simple shift as a parent

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Sensory Survival Guide for Parents
Sensory Made Simple Waitlist
Pathological Demand Avoidance podcast episode with Dr. Taylor Day 

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.

Ever wonder if your child is a sensory seeker or avoider—but feel like the answer isn’t so clear-cut? One minute they’re bouncing off the walls, and the next, they refuse to touch something because the texture freaks them out. In this episode, we’re breaking down what sensory seeking and avoiding really mean, plus how to tell where your child fits and what to do with that info!

🎙️ What sensory seeking & avoiding actually mean (without the confusion)

🎙️ How to tell if your child is a seeker, avoider, or both

🎙️ How this relates to active vs. passive sensory responses

🎙️ Practical ways to support sensory seekers & avoiders

Links Mentioned:

• Sensory Survival Guide for Parents: https://www.drsamgoldman.com/sensorysurvivalguide
• Sensory Made Simple Waitlist: http://www.drsamgoldman.com/sensorymadesimple
• Podcast 75: Understanding Active & Passive Sensory Responses: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/75-understanding-your-childs-sensory-needs-active-vs/id1659053842?i=1000698453531

The opinions and content of this blog/podcast are unique to the writers/speakers unless otherwise stated.  All contents of this episode are based on our personal opinions and experiences. Disclaimers: The information provided by SAMANTHA N. GOLDMAN, LLC (“we,” “us” or “our”) on http://drsamgoldman.com , and http://samantha-goldman.mykajabi.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. The Site cannot and does not contain medical advice. Any medical information is provided as my/our personal experiences is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical advice.THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Although this blog/podcast contains external links WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALTHOUGH THIS SITE CONTAINS EXTERNAL LINKS WE DO NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION OFFERED BY THIRD-PARTY WEBSITES LINKED THROUGH THE SITE OR ANY WEBSITE OR FEATURE LINKED IN ANY BANNER OR OTHER ADVERTISING.