Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support

Hi everyone,

In this episode of Wine with Wita, we’re joined by paediatric occupational therapist and founder of Move Play Grow, Maria Perco.

Maria has helped hundreds of children build the motor, sensory and self-care skills they need to thrive at school and beyond.

In our chat, Maria shares her practical insights on what school readiness really means from an OT perspective.

Spoiler alert - it is about more than handwriting, numbersand knowing the alphabet.

We talk about:

✔️ Why independence in self-care matters

✔️ The link between sensory regulation and attention

✔️ What crossing the midline actually is and how play helps

✔️ How to support your child’s confidence and self-advocacy at school

Whether you’re a parent, carer or educator, this episodewill help you better understand what to look for, what to support at home, and when to seek help.

Maria also shares her personal experience as a mum of three,plus how she co-founded an app designed to streamline therapist-family communication in allied health.

📲 Connect with Maria on Instagram @moveplaygrowot

🌐 Visit the website: www.moveplaygrowot.com.au

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcastfor more tips, insights and updates.This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too.

When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey.

Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, we’re continuing our School Readiness Series with someone very special to me, my former clinical educator, mentor, and dear friend, Carl Sokkar.

Carl is a highly experienced speech pathologist and theDirector of the Speech Language Learning Centre in Westmead, the very first clinic I worked at after university.

It’s still one of the most supportive, client-focused clinics I’ve known.

In this conversation, Carl and I talk about what school readiness really looks like from a communication perspective.

We explore:

🎒 What skills actually help children succeed in the classroom

🎒 Why emotional readiness can be just as important as academic knowledge

🎒 How to spot red flags and support your child early

🎒 Why “holding back” might not be the right term at all

🎒 What a speech pathologist looks at when assessing school readiness

We also break down the core communication milestones andshare simple strategies parents can use at home to support their child’s confidence and learning.

📍 Carl Sokkar is the Director of Speech Language Learning Centre, based in Westmead, Sydney. You can also find the clinic on Instagram

@speechlanguagelearningcentre

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ⁠ConfidenceClub.com.au⁠.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, we’re kicking off our specialSchool Readiness Series with someone who’s seen it from all angles, both in the classroom and at home.

Jess Labban is back!! She is a primary school teacher with11 years of experience and a mum to two young kids.

In this conversation, Jess shares:

✅ What school readiness really means (hint: it’s not about writing their name)

✅ Why emotional regulation, attention and independence matter more than academics

✅ What happens when children start school before they’re truly ready

✅ The long-term impacts teachers see when kids are pushed too early

✅ Why repeating a grade can do more harm than good

✅ The power of connection, curiosity and play in the early years

✅ Why being honest with your child’s future school is always the best move

Jess speaks with the calm wisdom of a teacher and the fiercelove of a mother, and whether your child is starting school soon or you’re planning ahead, this episode will leave you feeling more prepared and empowered.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.

📲 Got questions for Jess?You can reach out to her via

her socials.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too.

When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey.

Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week’s Wine with Wita is one of the most important conversations I’ve ever had on the podcast.

I had the absolute honour of speaking with Dr. Robert Melillo, world-renowned expert in childhood neurological disorders, founder of the Brain Balance Centers, creator of the Melillo Method, and author of the groundbreaking book Disconnected Kids.

With over 1 million followers online and 30+ years of experience, Dr. Melillo has helped change the lives of thousands of families across the world, and now, he’s sharing his wisdom with us.

In this powerful episode, we explore: 

✅ What’s really going on in your child’s brain

✅ Why early signs and milestones matter more than you’re told 

✅How imbalances in brain development contribute to autism, ADHD, and speech delays 

✅And the hope that comes from understanding the root cause, not just managing symptomsWe also talk about the importance of asking why, the need for a true multidisciplinary approach, and what it means to help a child become the optimal version of themselves, whatever that looks like.

This is a conversation for every parent, educator, and health professional who wants more than a label, and believes that real change is possible. 

 Explore his books and training:drrobertmelillo.com 

Follow Dr. Melillo on Instagram:@drrobertmelillo

I’m so proud to bring this episode to the Wine with Wita community.

Let me know what you think, I’d love to hear how it lands for you.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me onInstagram for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ⁠⁠ConfidenceClub.com.au⁠⁠.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I’m joined by Anna, mother to3-year-old Hugo, who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy.

Anna shares how her world shifted in an instant when shereceived an email saying her son likely had a disability.

Her pregnancy was smooth, her delivery uneventful, and yethere she was, trying to process a diagnosis while still recovering from birth.

In this episode, we talk about:

✔️ The shock and grief that come with a CP diagnosis

✔️ The mental load of managing intense therapy schedules

✔️ How NDIS left her feeling unsupported

✔️ Why putting yourself first is not selfish, it’s survival

✔️ And how little Hugo has taught her the true meaning of resilience

Anna speaks with honesty, strength and grace, and I know her words will help other families feel seen.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.

And if you’d like to follow Hugo’s journey, you can findAnna at @hugos.journey

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I’m joined by theincredible Porscia Lam, Melbourne-based mum, lawyer, and author of The Unlocking: An Autism Story.

Porscia’s son Harry was diagnosed with autism during Melbourne’s gruelling lockdowns. What followed was a journey filled with confusion, heartbreak, and profound learning , not just about autism, but about herself, her culture, and what it really means to advocate for your child.

In this heartfelt conversation, Porscia shares:

💗 How her son’s anxiety and demand avoidance shaped every part of their day

💗 The moment she gave up her corporate career to become his full-time carer

💗 Why she chose to try ABA therapy, despite the controversy

💗 What society often gets wrong about therapy, autism, and ‘normal’ development

💗 How her cultural upbringing complicated the process of seeking a diagnosis

💗 Why she wrote her book to help other parents feel less alone

And yes, we talk about the Happy Hulk, Harry’s alter ego that made everything from nappies to therapy possible.

You’ll laugh, cry, and come away with a deeper appreciation for the emotional labour that often sits behind early intervention.

Porscia’s story is one of love, resilience, and redefining success, and it’s one every parent, carer, and clinician needs to hear.

🔗 Buy her book:

The Unlocking: A Memoir ofPathological Demand Avoidance

📚 More about Porscia:

www.porscialam.com

📸 Follow her on Instagram:

@porscia.lam

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on

Instagram

for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ⁠ConfidenceClub.com.au⁠.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr Carlo Rinaudo, a chiropractor and clinical neuroscientist whose work in paediatric neurodevelopment is expanding how we think about brain and body connection in children.

Dr Carlo brings a unique perspective to developmental care,  blending clinical neuroscience with hands-on support for children and families.

 In this episode, we dive into:

💭 What chiropractic looks like in a paediatric, neurodevelopmental setting

💭 The fascinating role of the vagus nerve in gut, brain, and emotional health.
💭 How neuroplasticity supports developmental change and growth.
💭 What the Melillo Method is - and why so many families are exploring it.

Whether you’re a parent looking for new ways to support your child, or a professional open to learning beyond your usual scope, this episode is a beautiful invitation into curiosity, connection, and collaboration.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, This week on Wine with Wita, I’m bringing you a solo episode straight from my speech therapy room, and it all started with a toy house and a little girl who thought Miss Rachel had walked into the room. It’s funny how often parent say to me: “I wish I was like Miss Rachel.” But the truth is… you already can be. Singing with your child doesn’t require a perfect voice or a polished routine. It’s about connection, joy, and creating moments of learning, whether you’re packing lunchboxes, brushing teeth, or cleaning up toys.In this episode, I’m sharing:✨ Why singing works (and why I use it so often in therapy and at home) ✨ How you can build connection and boost communication with everyday routines ✨ A little encouragement to embrace your inner Miss Rachel - even if you think you “can’t sing”For anyone curious about how everyday moments can spark connection and communication, this story is a reminder of the magic in the small things.PS: Would you love to hear me interview the real Miss Rachel on Wine with Wita? Let me know!Lots of love, RitaP.S. Don’t forget to follow the new Instagram page: ⁠@winewithwitapodcast⁠. I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories! 🥂 Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I sat down with Nick Canella,father of three, die-hard AC Milan fan, and the heart behind Football4All at Moorebank Sports Soccer Club.

We talked about a father navigating the complexities ofraising a child with one of the rarest neuromuscular disorders in Australia: a condition so rare his son was the first recorded case in the country.

In this conversation, Nick shares:

⚽️ The heartbreak of hearing his son’s diagnosis and the weight of “we just don’t know what the future holds”

⚽️ The ripple effect on family, including how chronic stress impacted their health and relationships

⚽️The story of flying his son to Perth to meet his football hero, Olivier Giroud, and why it meant so much more than a photo opportunity

⚽️ How he realised there were so few opportunities for kids with disabilities to play sport, and what he did next

⚽️ The creation and incredible growth of Football4All, giving kids with additional needs a safe, inclusive space to play and belong

Despite the challenges, Nick’s story is a reminder of howcommunity, hope, and a shared love of football can create lasting change.

Lots of love,

Rita

Football4All at Moorebank Sports Soccer Club

is looking for volunteers to support kids with special needson and off the field. ⚽️ Get in touch today!

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be fordelayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ConfidenceClub.com.au.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I sit down with Youssef Dib, one of Australia’s most recognised boxers, part of a legendary fighting family, and a father of three.

But this episode isn’t about titles or trophies. It’s about what happens outside the ring: in hospital corridors, therapy rooms, and quiet moments of doubt and faith.

Youssef’s middle child, Jibreel, was born at just 25 weeks, weighing around 830 grams.

After spending four months in NICU and receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis at 8 months, doctors suggested it might be time to let go. But Youssef and his wife held on, to hope, to faith, and to their son.

In this conversation, Youssef shares:

⚡️ The emotional toll of watching his newborn fight for life in NICU

⚡️ How he initially struggled with denial, leaving most of the early intervention to his wife

⚡️ The turning point that led him to fully embrace fatherhood, and advocacy

⚡️ How Jibreel, now thriving in mainstream school, continues to defy every “he’ll never…” they were told

Despite being a fighter in the ring, Youssef says it’s his son who taught him what true strength looks like. Now, Youssef is not only a proud dad but a passionate advocate for kids with special needs, using his voice to share what he wishes more dads knew.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too.

When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey.

Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development