The Early Intervention Podcast

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Sensory challenges are often misunderstood as “bad behavior,” but the real answer is usually much deeper. Occupational therapist and certified lactation counselor Katie Hoelting shares practical, research-based strategies for helping children regulate through everyday routines, including mealtimes, dressing, diaper changes, bath time, sleep, transitions, and play.

Resources:

• Kelly Mahler-interoception
• Zero to Three
• OT tool box
• Naeyce-research birth to 8

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Join us for a parent-friendly conversation about sensory processing in young children, with occupational therapist, Katie Hoelting. Katie explains how sensory behaviors can reveal what a child needs rather than just “bad behavior.” It covers the extra sensory systems beyond the five senses, how sensory differences affect routines, feeding, play, and regulation, and when families should consider getting help.

Resources:

• Kelly Mahler-interoception
• Zero to Three
• OT tool box
• Naeyce-research birth to 8

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In this podcast, Kelly and Lezli talk with SLP experts about what AAC is, who it helps, how evaluations work, how families can support it, and how it can give toddlers and children more ways to express themselves.

Helpful links:

Feature matching on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCkBP2csbOsuYJHV9jjzOgf5ShC_rEyYL

Kate Ahern AAC prompting hierarchy: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Adapted-Prompt-Hierarchy-for-AAC-by-Kate-Ahern-10491559

Find your local AAC rep (US):

Tobii Dynavox: https://us.tobiidynavox.com/pages/find-a-solutions-consultant

PRC/Saltillo: https://prc-saltillo.com/consultants

Forbes AAC: https://www.forbesaac.com/find-a-sales-rep

Smartbox: https://thinksmartbox.com/how-to-try-usa/

ASHA Practice portal in AAC: https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/professional-issues/augmentative-and-alternative-communication/?srsltid=AfmBOor1KkDOb3YPy1Dn7Oa1lXbtpVywYzWOHap_0Oz9TsCxDn6sbvCA#collapse_2

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In this episode of the Early Intervention Podcast, hosts Kelly Mason and Lezli Carson explore the transformative power of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) with guest Skylar Bellinger, a licensed psychologist. Skylar shares insights into how PCIT differs from traditional therapies by actively involving parents in the therapeutic process, using real-time coaching to improve parent-child relationships and address behavioral challenges.

pcit.org

https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/care/treatments/parent-child-interaction-therapy-pcit

Ensokc.com

kcpcit.com

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Infant mental health and caregiver well-being are the foundation of lifelong development—yet, they’re often overlooked.

Hannah Sohl, a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade in early intervention, talks with Kelly and Lezli and reveals how nurturing early attachment, addressing maternal and paternal mental health, and understanding childhood trauma are the keys to giving our little ones the best start in life.

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Join Kelly and Lezli for Part 2 of their interview with Angie Neal, a speech-language pathologist and education policy advisor, about practical strategies in a screen-filled world.

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The podcast features hosts Kelly & Lezli interviewing Angie Neal, a speech-language pathologist and education policy advisor, about the impact of screen time on early development (birth to three years).

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Unlock the secrets of early vision development and learn how vision shapes a child’s world from birth to age three. Molly Conn and Dee, teachers of children with visual impairments, share practical strategies to help parents, caregivers, and early interventionists support visual growth and independence.

This episode explains key differences between ocular health, eyesight, and vision development, highlights critical early milestones, and explores how conditions like CVI, autism, epilepsy, and other neurological differences often overlap with visual challenges. You’ll gain simple, actionable tools—such as using descriptive language, high-contrast materials, and consistent routines—to better support children’s learning and safety.

Perfect for families and professionals alike, this episode shows why early detection and targeted intervention matter, helping prevent long-term barriers and empowering children to thrive.

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In this episode, Kelly Mason and Lezli Carson dive into the fascinating world of vision and how it impacts development. You'll learn surprising facts like the speed of Broadway's fastest raps in Hamilton—but more importantly, how vision deficits can quietly derail a child's milestones if left undetected. Molly Conn and Dee, experienced teachers of children with visual impairments, share practical strategies for supporting kids with visual challenges, from understanding common myths to teaching environmental awareness and spatial concepts.

Perfect for parents, childcare providers, and early intervention practitioners, this episode emphasizes the vital role that visual development plays in every aspect of a child's life.

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In this episode, hosts Kelly Mason and Lezli Carson speak with Dr. Catherine Burns, a developmental pediatrician, about the role of developmental pediatrics in supporting children’s growth and well-being. Dr. Burns covers the essentials of autism spectrum disorder, the evaluation and diagnostic process, and current autism research. The conversation is packed with valuable insights, including a discussion of the neurodivergent movement and its impact on understanding and supporting diverse developmental needs.