Neurodiverse Conversations with Katie and Steph

Is it behavior or something else?

Understanding Our Senses and Their Impact on Behavior
 
In this episode of Neurodiverse Conversations, the hosts discuss the crucial role of sensory processing and its impacts on behavior and mood, especially in children. They delve into how the eight senses (visual, auditory, gustatory, olfactory, tactile, proprioceptive, vestibular, and interoceptive) affect our daily lives. Katie, a sensory-trained occupational therapist, explains the concepts of self-regulation and co-regulation, offering insights and strategies to help children navigate sensory experiences. They also touch on the importance of sensory diets in helping children stay regulated throughout the day. This episode aims to provide parents and caregivers with a better understanding of how sensory inputs influence behavior and stress management.
 
00:00 Welcome to Neurodiverse Conversations
00:35 Understanding the Connection Between Senses and Behavior
01:49 Introducing Katie and the Eight Senses
02:46 Self-Regulation vs. Co-Regulation
05:23 Breaking Down the Eight Senses
11:56 Sensory Input and Behavior
13:20 A Parent's Perspective on Regulation
15:15 Recap and Final Thoughts

Learning about Occupational Therapy with Katie

Understanding Occupational Therapy and Sensory Processing in Neurodiversity
 
In this episode of Neurodiverse Conversations, hosts Steph and Katie delve deeper into the world of occupational therapy (OT), exploring its importance and various applications. Katie explains the diverse roles OTs play in aiding both adults and children with daily living activities, sensory processing challenges, and developmental needs.
 
The conversation highlights the significance of neuro affirming therapy, which focuses on respecting and validating individuals' unique neurological wiring rather than trying to change them. The episode also addresses the critical role of mental health, the impact of insurance on therapy access, and provides a comprehensive list of recommended books for parents, teachers, and caregivers to better understand neurodiversity.
 
00:00 Introduction to Neurodiverse Conversations
00:37 Understanding Occupational Therapy (OT)
02:28 Sensory Processing Disorder and OT for Children vs. Adults
05:32 The Concept of Neuro Affirming Therapy
12:18 The Importance of Mental Health and Support
13:58 Recommended Books for Parents and Children
16:34 Conclusion and Call to Action

Interviewing Katie with Nourish Your Life Sensory

Learning From Neurodivergent Voices: The Importance of Lived Experience
 
This episode emphasizes the value of learning from actually autistic people and listening to neurodivergent voices. It highlights the significance of mental health and the importance of experiences and storytelling within the neurodivergent community to understand what truly works.

Welcome to Neurodiverse Conversations with Katie and Steph

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Neurodiverse Conversations with Katie and Steph. In this episode, Katie, a neuroaffirming pediatric occupational therapist, and Steph, a mother of two neurodivergent children, introduce themselves, share their backgrounds, and discuss their personal experiences with neurodivergence. They explore the motivations behind starting this podcast and the mission to support and connect with the neurodivergent community.
Katie and Steph delve into the realities of raising neurodivergent children, the importance of understanding sensory needs, and the societal perceptions that need to change. They also discuss the significance of mental health awareness in both children and adults and emphasize the need for spaces where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.
Join them as they navigate the world of neurodiversity, offering insights, resources, and support for families and individuals. This episode sets the stage for future discussions on sensory integration, parenting neurodivergent children, and creating a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone.