In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative role of play and playfulness in paediatric occupational therapy from multiple perspectives. From real-life case studies to theoretical discussions on the STEPPSI model and polyvagal theory, we uncover how play enhances child development and therapy. Learn about the challenges and triumphs therapists face in incorporating fun into clinical practice, and discover strategies for balancing playful engagement with therapeutic goals. Through stories, research, and practical tips, we highlight the profound impact of playful interactions and social dynamics in fostering growth and emotional regulation in children.

00:00 Exploring Play in Child Development

01:16 The Origins and Evolution of STEP SI

05:24 Personal Journeys into Pediatric Occupational Therapy

08:05 The Vulnerability and Joy of Play

10:03 Balancing Playfulness and Professionalism

20:55 Clinical Reasoning in Play-Based Therapy

25:18 Playfulness vs. Play: Definitions and Applications

28:45 Case Study: Attuned Play in Therapy

33:19 Struggles with Play and Skill Development

34:28 Letting Go of the Agenda

35:30 A Breakthrough in Play

38:22 The Importance of Play in Therapy

39:28 Navigating Play and Regulation

41:31 Personal Reflections on Play

45:20 Autonomic Nervous System in Play

47:15 Grandchildren and Play Dynamics

53:06 Therapeutic Strategies in Play

59:14 Concluding Thoughts on Play

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In this episode, we dive into the principles of adaptive responses and just right challenges as laid out by Jean Ayres in sensory integration therapy. We share our experiences and discuss the application of these principles in clinical practice. You’ll hear us talk about the developmental nature of this approach, the role of neuroplasticity, and the importance of individualized treatment. Through our conversation we highlight the significant impact of understanding and using these principles can have on children's functional abilities and overall quality of life.

00:00 Introduction and Excitement About the Sensory Integration and Learning Disorders

00:43 A Funny Story About a Lost Book

05:32 Discussing Adaptive Response and Just Right Challenge

06:55 Reading and Analysing Jean Ayres' Work

14:31 The Importance of Developmental Sequences in Therapy

23:48 Understanding Executive Functions and Developmental Insights

25:00 The Profound Concept of Developmental Approach

25:31 Adaptive Responses and Internal Motivation

27:15 The Just Right Challenge in Therapy

28:43 The Importance of the Spirit Tool

29:58 Tailoring Therapy to Individual Needs

31:44 Trusting the Developmental Process

32:44 Real-Life Success Stories

37:42 Applying Developmental Principles Across Domains

43:03 The Role of Neuroplasticity in Therapy

50:10 Quirky Stories and Insights

53:58 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

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In this episode, we delve into the often cited but widely misunderstood concept of 'Follow the Child's Lead'. Through our personal anecdotes, theoretical explorations, and practical insights, we wonder about the origins of this principle, its application across different disciplines and its pivotal role in treatment and intervention strategies. We unpack the nuances of following a child’s lead versus following a child’s need, and the profound impact of tuning into a child’s developmental trajectory for effective treatment. Join us as we dive deep into how this principle shapes our approaches to therapy and beyond, providing actionable takeaways for professionals and parents alike. 

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Introduction: Exploring Treatment Principles 

00:54 Deep Dive into 'Follow the Child's Lead' 

02:16 Clinical Perspectives and Personal Stories 

03:30 Understanding and Misunderstandings of Following the Child 

05:57 Expanding on 'Follow the Child's Lead' with Clinical Insights 

32:27 Exploring the Concept of Affordances in Treatment 

53:29 Concluding Thoughts on Following the Child's Lead 

Both DFX and SEED are growing! Please message us if you are interested in joining either of our teams! <3 

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/ 

For information about Regulation 101 contact [email protected]  

Full transcription of our episode is available on our website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/ 

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This episode is a detailed conversation about sensory modulation and its application in the field of occupational therapy. It examines various types of behaviours connected to sensory modulation and provides a thorough explanation of how to support individuals dealing with these behaviours. We discuss the intricacies of sensory modulation, particularly sensory over-responsiveness and under-responsiveness, sensory diets, and the impact of arousal and autonomic functions on sensory modulation. Key ideas include distinguishing between positive and negative valence responses, strategies for regulation and recovery, and the role of safety in sensory modulation. 

00:00 Introduction and Updates on Training Programs

01:14 Addressing Listener Questions: Sensory Modulation and Language

02:12 Understanding Sensory Modulation and Behavioural Outcomes

04:43 The Complexity of Sensory Modulation and Its Impact on Treatment

08:48 The Importance of Differentiating Sensory Modulation Issues

09:29 The Role of Neurological Structures in Sensory Modulation

10:17 The Influence of Autonomic Functions on Sensory Modulation

11:04 Understanding the Behavioural Outcomes of Sensory Modulation

11:34 The Importance of Precise Differentiation in Sensory Concepts

13:57 The Role of Sensory Modulation in Adaptive Function

16:05 The Impact of Sensory Modulation on Treatment

18:07 The Role of Safety in Sensory Modulation

20:12 The Importance of Understanding Sensory Modulation in Treatment

38:10 The Role of Sensory Diets in Treatment

43:50 Conclusion: The Future of Sensory Modulation Treatment

Full Transcript Available on our website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/

Don’t forget you can take the Spirit and STEPPSI Course through DFX's learning journeys: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

For other courses on offer through Seed, email us for more information:

[email protected]

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This is our first ever Guest Episode, and who better to talk to than Kim Barthel!!

In this episode we continue to discuss interoception and making sense of this in treatment. We had a glitch with our video feed this episode so it’s audio only, but we so very excited to finally share this. Our conversation covers many levels, from trying to understand and discern interoception vs neuroception, to understanding interoceptive processing with clinical practice examples and hopefully offers everyone new insights into how we can support individuals with different interoceptive needs.

Kim is currently touring the world and we’re very excited to say is headed to Australia to offer a number of unmissable live, in-person events. You can check out the full list of possible workshops here: https://www.kimbarthel.ca/event-calendar

 You can catch and connect with Kim online in a number of places:

https://www.facebook.com/KimBarthelOTR/

https://www.instagram.com/kimbarthel.ca/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK8PsNYNlakx1qx0BCqTg5w?view_as=subscriber

Don’t forget you can take the Spirit and STEPPSI Course through DFX's learning journeys: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

For other courses on offer through Seed, follow our link or email us for more information:

https://seedot.thinkific.com/courses/regulation-101

[email protected]

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In this episode we discuss the relationship between interoceptive processing, conscious and subconscious as well as how that relates to the polyvagal theory. We explore how interoception changes in the different states of the nervous system, such as ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal states. We also discuss the role of interoception in emotions and feelings, and how it can impact social interactions. Our conversation begins our discussion around the importance of understanding interoceptive processing in clinical practice and hopefully offers insights into how we can support individuals with different interoceptive needs.

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy: https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

Curious about Regulation 101, follow our link or email us for more information:

https://seedot.thinkific.com/courses/regulation-101

Timestamps

00:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and announcement of available training

00:03:23 - Discussion on the relationship between interoception and polyvagal theory

00:06:19 - Importance of understanding the receptors in interoceptive processing

00:08:13 - Interception extends beyond visceral organs to include other receptors

00:09:19 - Interception involves both physical sensations and emotional feelings

00:12:01 - Context of sensation and social touch

00:14:27 - Receptors becoming bristly when not open to receive touch

00:21:13 - Neuroceptive function of comfort and safety

00:23:26 - Tuning into social cues and internal/external focus

00:26:42 - Relationship between state and receptor activation

00:28:20 - Stretch receptors and their role in processing interoceptive information

00:30:07 - Electrical and chemical changes in interoceptive processing

00:31:44 - The role of mismatch and posterior insula in emotion

00:33:59 - Shift from subconscious to awareness-based processing

00:38:44 - Impact of interoception on mobilization

00:41:53 - Tracy discusses the interaction between polyvagal system and interoception

00:43:08 - Tracy explains how states impact interoceptive cues and choices

00:48:42 - Discussion on the role of attention in interoceptive awareness

00:49:52 - The anterior insula's role in drawing attention to interoceptive signals

00:50:59 - Individual differences in valence tipping and interoceptive awareness

00:54:40 - Treatment considerations for interoceptive cues and shame triggers

Key Takeaways:

• Interoception involves the processing of internal bodily sensations and emotions.
• Interoceptive processing is influenced by the state of the nervous system, such as the ventral vagal state, sympathetic state, and dorsal vagal state.
• The quality and function of interoceptive receptors can change depending on the state of the nervous system.
• Interoceptive cues can signal safety or threat, leading to different physiological and emotional responses.
• Attentional processes play a role in interoceptive processing, with the ability to shift attention between internal and external cues.

Our Favourite Quote from this episode:

"The valence-based function of interoception tells us if something is good or bad, and if we want more or less of it." – Tracy M Stackhouse.

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This episode we discuss the importance of the somatosensory system in forming our sense of self through our relationships and how it shapes neurodevelopment. We explore how individuals who have not experienced secure attachment early in life may struggle with somatosensory amplification and somatization later on. We chat about the role of touch in creating a sense of safety and connection, and how sensory integrative processing can impact overall wellness. If you’re curious about the need to balance and respect boundaries while providing positive somatosensory experiences for individuals with neurodiversity this episode is for you. Hopefully, like we did, you get a deeper appreciation of the power of touch in building empathy, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

Timestamps

00:00

Importance of somatosensory system in attachment relationships and development

02:40

Impact of insecure attachment on somatosensory amplification and somatization

07:00

Neurodevelopment as a window into wellness and decline

10:00

Phantom limb experiences from missing relational experiences

12:30

Importance of sensory integrative processing and Dr. Ayres' work

16:00

Importance of touch in building empathy and connections

19:00

Enhancing somatosensory experiences in therapy

23:00

Balancing respect for individual boundaries and supporting adaptive function

26:00

Challenges of touch in vulnerable populations and the need for boundaries

30:00

Importance of psychoeducation and consent in touch interactions

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Join us as we explore the interplay between feed forward and feedback in the somatosensory system. Learn how this impacts our ability to perform skilled movements and how our brain prepares for the next action. Find out how inhibition plays a crucial role in allowing us to venture forward in novel experiences.

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical

reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

Full transcription of our episode is available on our

website. 

Timestamps:

0:00:00 Introduction and revisiting the topic of praxis

0:01:28 Difficulty of replicating human praxis in robots

0:02:48 Somatosensory basis of dyspraxia

0:05:01 Importance of enhancing somatosensation, movement, and vision

0:05:41 The dynamic and solidified body map of the homunculus

0:06:25 Purpose of somatosensory processing and sensory integrative processing

0:07:49 Treating the whole, not just practicing the end products

0:08:12 Understanding the homunculus and its dynamic nature

0:10:04 Feed forward and feedback happening simultaneously

0:11:35 Interplay between feed forward and feedback happening simultaneously in the brain

0:12:22 Peripheral receptors learning in the neural network

0:13:03 Neurodevelopmental changes in the peripheral and central nervous system

0:13:45 Preparing the body for the next activity

0:14:44 Sensitization of peripheral receptors in response to unexpected events

0:16:12 Pre-emptive preparation of the brain in eye movement control

0:17:19 Interplay between somatosensory, vestibular, and visual systems in response to uneven surfaces

0:17:50 Importance of somatosensation as a perceptual layer that supports skilfulness

0:18:58 The interplay between modulation and discrimination processing in novel experiences

0:20:40 Treating the modulation issue to clear the slate for discrimination to become relevant

0:21:57 Co-regulation through touch in discrimination processing

0:22:25 The spreading activation of the homunculus enriching the body map

0:23:10 The nervous system drawing somatosensory information to create inhibition and engagement

0:23:41 The somatosensory system as the primary inhibitory system

0:24:26 The whole process being somatosensory dependent

0:24:42 The valence and tipping in the somatosensory system

0:25:21 The role of the social engagement secretary in somatosensory modulation

0:27:01 Co-regulation and the importance of a partner in somatosensory experiences

0:29:20 The impact of not meeting a child's somatosensory needs on adaptation and efficiency

0:29:54 The power of OT observations in shifting perceptions and supporting children's sensory needs

0:34:20 The importance of separating modulation from discrimination in clinical reasoning for effective intervention

0:34:54 The interplay between modulation, discrimination, cognition, and executive function in treatment.

Connect with us: 

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If you've ever wondered what somatosensory processing and breaking down what that really is and how we can observe it in our sessions then this episode is certainly for you!

-

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

Full transcription of our episode is available on our website. 

Timestamps:

00:03:21 - Exploring Modulation Challenges in Somatosensory Processing

00:05:27 - Discussion of Somatosensory Receptors and Interoception

00:07:26 - Discussion on the Vestibular Labyrinth as a Proprioceptor

00:10:08 - Conversation on Somatosensation and Perception-Action Processing

00:11:46 - Exploring the Role of Somatosensory Modulation in Skill-Based Actions

00:14:41 - Discussion of Vestibular Processing in Relation to proprioceptive modulation

00:19:45 - Exploring the Effects of Phasic and Tonic Movement on Proprioceptive Input

00:21:59 - Exploring the Perception-Action Cycle: How Proprioception and Phasic Receptors Impact Motor Action

00:24:00 - Modulation of Tactile, Proprioceptive, and Vestibular Inputs

00:25:41- Discussion on Tactile and Proprioceptive Processing in Clinical Observations

00:31:07 - Exploring the Role of Tactile and Proprioceptive Systems in Motor Functioning

00:32:58 - Exploring the Role of Proprioception and Affordances in Tactile Development

00:36:28 - Discussion on Motor Skill Development in Infants

00:40:57 - Discussion on Sensory Motor Development in Toddlers

00:42:04 - Discussion of Praxis Categories for Treatment Planning

00:47:44 - Discussion of Praxis Difficulties and Bilateral Motor Coordination

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

4. Sensory Discrimination for Skilfulness

https://youtu.be/X3xMJbZkbyM

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This episode is our first attempt to discuss some of the vestibular based contributions to why some children just never. stop. moving. In comparison to others, who seem to fear movement. We attempt to explore how both of scenarios are related to weakened vestibular processing. This is a part one episode, as we've only just scratched the surface of this topic.

-

In this episode, Tracy, Cory and Michelle cover the following:

1. The importance and power of the vestibular system and its role in neurological functions, sensory integration and higher cognitive capacities.

2. Some ways to identify and assess vestibular processing issues in a child and the challenges of testing for this.

3. The importance of understanding the purpose of vestibular activation and how to effectively treat it in children.

Resources:

Check out DFX's learning journeys to build your clinical reasoning skills with Tracy --> https://dfxlearningjourneys.thinkific.com/

Full transcription of our episode is available on our website. 

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

17. Vestibular Based Treatment

https://youtu.be/jFHatI5lmyU

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Website: https://www.spiritedconversationspodcast.com/

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Chapter Summaries:

[00:00:36]

We are going to talk about vestibular integration. When a child seems to be not registering the information from movement, how do we describe it? How do we talk about it?

[00:06:17]

Tracy: If you can help the sensory systems integrate with the vestibular system in a better way then that's likely to have improved impact on their function and development. The thing that changes all the time is the individual presentation of the behaviors that reflect the challenges with those underlying systems.

[00:16:55]

Tracy: If the person gets super activated by movement and then they might have a little bit of sympathetic activation. In the vestibular apparatus, as you move through space, you should have the fluidity and freedom of movement. But if you're not able to integrate and take in the details of space movement, that is more discrimination.

[00:21:36]

Cory: What's the difference between kids that have a hard time processing vestibular information and those that move all the time? Tracy: Focusing the conversation on that adaptive response is always a pivot point. And those kids are easier to treat because the treatment goes faster.

[00:31:04]

When things really come together for little developing kids, all of this circuitry just is sort of almost automatic. Sometimes we have to go a little bit slow to go fast. But if we remember to follow their lead, we can stick with them.

[00:37:50]

There is an indication that with prolonged Nystagmus that some of this treatment may have less efficacy. Most of the time, it's about discerning the relationship between the integrative partners. And the vestibular processing can change pretty drastically as the processing overall changes.

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