Tag: Occupational Therapy

ICYMI: Let’s Talk Executive Functioning with Dr. Val!

On By justmymomsenseIn PodcastLeave a comment

I was a bit under the weather last week, but wanted to make sure to let you all know about last week’s Just My MomSense podcast episode, before a new one drops tomorrow!

In Episode 13 of Just My MomSense, Dr. Val returns for a deeper dive into executive functioning skills. We talk about tools that help us plan, focus, organize and get things done. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone looking to strengthen everyday productivity, this conversation offers practical strategies and insight into how to support both children and adults.

Click here to listen to the latest episode with Dr. Val!

Helpful Tools and Resources for Parents

On By justmymomsenseIn neurodiversity, Podcast, Sensory ResourcesLeave a comment

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but I’ve found tools and resources that make the tough days a little smoother. Whether you’re navigating sensory processing challenges, school struggles, or just need a moment to breathe, these resources have been a lifesaver for our family.

Below, you’ll find links to other sites I’ve found helpful, as well as my Favorite Things page, podcast episodes, and items from my Etsy shop, all curated to bring practical support, calm, and comfort to your parenting journey.

Explore these resources to help you manage parenting stress, neurodivergent needs, and everyday challenges with confidence.

Sensory Spectacle YouTube Channel

STAR Institute

These are a few of my Favorite Things

Embracing Neurodiversity with Dr. Matt Zakreski | Just My MomSense Podcast

Understanding How We Learn with Dr. Val | Just My MomSense Podcast

Just My MomSense Etsy Page

Understanding Different Types of Therapy for Kids and Families

On By justmymomsenseIn therapyLeave a comment

This household is very pro therapy! However, it’s so hard to know where to start, what the different types of therapies mean and what may be best for you or your child. With it being Sensory Processing Awareness Month, I thought I would explore the many types of therapy available for children and families; from occupational and speech therapy to CBT and talk therapy.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational Therapy helps kids build the skills they need for everyday life, from tying shoes and brushing teeth to regulating their emotions.

Common goals:

  • Improving fine and gross motor skills
  • Building independence with self-care
  • Supporting emotional and sensory regulation

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy goes beyond pronunciation. It can also help children who struggle with communication, social interaction, and feeding.
Speech therapists work on everything from articulation and expressive language to understanding nonverbal cues.

Common goals:

  • Improving clarity and confidence in speech
  • Strengthening language comprehension
  • Supporting social communication and pragmatic skills

Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapists help children build strength, balance, and coordination. This therapy is especially beneficial for kids with developmental delays, low muscle tone, or motor planning challenges.

Common goals:

  • Increasing strength and endurance
  • Improving posture and balance
  • Building coordination for daily tasks and play

Play Therapy

Play therapy uses play, a child’s natural form of expression, to help them process big feelings and experiences. It can be especially effective for children who have anxiety, trauma, or difficulty expressing emotions verbally.

Common goals:

  • Building emotional awareness
  • Developing coping and problem-solving skills
  • Strengthening trust and communication with caregivers

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of talk therapy that helps children (and adults) recognize negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive, realistic ones.
It’s a powerful tool for anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation. Therapists often use visual aids, role-play, and journaling to make CBT age-appropriate and engaging.

Common goals:

  • Managing anxious or negative thoughts
  • Building resilience and confidence
  • Developing coping strategies for real-life challenges

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy provides a safe, judgment-free space for both kids and parents to explore feelings, relationships, and stressors. For parents, it can also be an invaluable form of support when navigating a child’s diagnosis or behavioral challenges.

Common goals:

  • Reducing stress and overwhelm
  • Improving communication within families
  • Processing emotions in a healthy, supported way

Feeding Therapy

Feeding therapy helps children who struggle with eating, whether due to sensory sensitivities, oral motor challenges, or anxiety around food.
A therapist might use gradual exposure, play, and desensitization to help make mealtime more positive and successful.

Common goals:

  • Increasing comfort with new foods
  • Building safe swallowing and chewing skills
  • Reducing mealtime anxiety and power struggles

Parent and Family Therapy

Therapy isn’t just for kids, it’s for families, too. Parent coaching or family therapy can help improve communication, set boundaries, and strengthen relationships.

Common goals:

  • Building teamwork between caregivers
  • Creating consistent routines
  • Understanding and supporting each child’s needs

Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Every child and every family is unique. What matters most is finding the right combination of support that meets your child where they are.

Whether it’s OT for sensory needs, CBT for anxiety, or play therapy to help your child open up, each form of therapy is a step toward greater understanding, connection, and confidence.

Understanding a Sensory Diet

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing Awareness, Sensory ResourcesLeave a comment

Although we tend to think of food when we hear the word “diet,” a sensory diet isn’t about food at all. It’s about providing the right kind of sensory input throughout the day to help kids (and adults) regulate, focus, and feel their best.

For our family, learning about sensory diets was so helpful. My kids both experience the world in ways that can sometimes feel “too much” or “not enough.” One might crave constant movement, while the other gets overwhelmed by sound or touch. Once we started understanding sensory needs, things began to make a lot more sense. Sensory diets are something I go back to a lot when I feel we’ve gotten too caught up in the day-to-day.

A sensory diet is a personalized plan of activities and strategies designed to give the brain the input it needs to stay regulated. It might include things like:

  • Deep pressure (weighted blankets, tight hugs, compression vests)
  • Movement breaks (jumping, spinning, swinging, or even pushing a heavy laundry basket)
  • Oral input (chewing gum, crunchy snacks, or using a chew necklace)
  • Calming input (soft lighting, noise-canceling headphones, or fidget tools)

Occupational therapists often create sensory diets tailored to a child’s specific needs, but parents can also integrate small strategies at home once they understand what works best for their child. Think of it as feeding your child’s sensory system the “nutrients” it needs to thrive.

Sensory input directly impacts how we feel, think, and behave. When a child’s sensory system is out of balance, they might seem “hyper,” “zoned out,” or “meltdown-prone.” These aren’t bad behaviors, they’re signals.

A well-balanced sensory diet helps:

  • Improve focus and attention
  • Reduce meltdowns and anxiety
  • Support better transitions between activities
  • Promote self-regulation and independence

You don’t need fancy equipment or a sensory room (though those are fun if you have the space). Start with small, intentional moments throughout the day:

  • Morning: Use a weighted blanket, bear crawls, or a quick dance session to wake up the senses.
  • Midday: Add movement breaks such as wall pushes, jumping jacks, or animal walks.
  • Evening: Try calming input before bedtime, like soft music, dim lights, or a lavender bubble bath.

Pay attention to your child’s reactions. What helps them focus? What calms them? What overstimulates them? That’s your roadmap.

If you’re just starting to explore sensory diets, take a deep breath. It’s a learning process and may be a game of trial and error until you figure out what works best. Some strategies might work one week and not the next (trust me, I’ve been there).

You know your child best. You see the cues others might miss. By tuning into their sensory needs, you’re helping them build lifelong skills in self-awareness and regulation.

A sensory diet isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” plan. Some days it’s five minutes of jumping on the trampoline and other days it’s a long walk outside after school. What matters most is consistency and compassion for your child and yourself.

When we start viewing behavior through a sensory lens, everything starts to click.

Understanding Sensory Processing Symptoms

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

If you’ve ever wondered why your child covers their ears at the sound of a vacuum, avoids certain clothes, or seems to crave movement all the time, you’re not alone. For me, I felt like I had pieces of a puzzle and on their own, they didn’t mean much but when I started putting them together, a bigger picture was being formed.

Sensory processing is how the brain receives and responds to input from our senses (touch, sound, taste, smell, sight, movement, and body awareness). For most people, the brain organizes these signals automatically. But for those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory differences, the system can get a little tangled.

Some pieces of the puzzle we were collecting back when my 11 year old was 3:

  • Back in 2017, he wanted to be Woody for Halloween. The back of his costume closed with velcro. This was the first time we really noticed a piece of clothing bothering him. The sound, the feel of it, everything bothered him. To this day, he cuts all tags out of his clothing.
  • 2017 was also when his sister was born. If we were in the car and she started to cry, he would start to cry and beg us to help her and take him home. He had similar reactions to others crying, including friends.
  • He was visibly overwhelmed in crowds and even during a drive-thru Christmas light display.

I talked in an earlier blog on how I started collecting these pieces and googling, while also consulting with his speech therapist. The experience opened our eyes to what sensory processing really means and how it affects everyday life in ways most people don’t even notice.

At 11, he’s able to recognize when things are too much or too overwhelming for him. His sister has had her own sensory experiences. It’s been interesting to see the overlaps and the differences in what can affect them in their individual sensory processing.

Sensory processing symptoms can vary wildly, but they often fall into two main categories: sensory avoiding and sensory seeking.

Sensory Avoiding

Kids who are sensory avoiders might:

  • Cover their ears or run from loud noises (like hand dryers or fire alarms)
  • Refuse certain fabrics, tags, or seams in clothing
  • Dislike being touched or hugged unexpectedly
  • Avoid crowded or visually “busy” spaces
  • Prefer dim lights and quiet settings

They’re not being “difficult,” their brains are simply trying to protect them from sensory overload.

Sensory Seeking

On the flip side, sensory seekers might:

  • Constantly move, jump, spin, or crash into things
  • Touch everything within reach (including people!)
  • Make loud noises or seek vibration
  • Love messy play or crave strong tastes and textures
  • Find calm through deep pressure, like a weighted blanket or tight hug

Kids (and adults) can also be sensory seeking with certain things, but sensory avoiders with others.

Recognizing sensory processing symptoms isn’t about labeling a child, it’s about understanding them. When we start to see the “why” behind behaviors, everything changes. Instead of frustration, there’s compassion. Instead of punishment, there’s support.

Here are a few small ways to make a big difference:

  • Create a sensory-safe space or bucket at home. For example: a cozy corner with fidgets, soft lighting, and weighted items.
  • Build sensory breaks into the day: a swing in the yard, a walk after school, or quiet time with a favorite texture.
  • Work with an occupational therapist (OT) who specializes in sensory integration.
  • Follow your child’s lead. They’ll show you what they need, sometimes with words, sometimes with behavior.

Sensory processing isn’t about “fixing” our kids. It’s about understanding their world and helping them feel comfortable in it. Every sensory system is unique and that’s what makes our kids who they are.

If this topic speaks to you, you might also enjoy my post on my favorite sensory tools and items that have helped in our home.

You know yourself and your child best. Trust your gut, trust your “MomSense” because having the knowledge and the right tools can make all the difference.

Supporting Sensory Needs with Everyday Tools

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing Awareness, Sensory Resources1 Comment

With October being Sensory Processing Awareness Month, it’s a great time to talk about how our nervous systems process the world around us. Some children (and adults) seek more sensory input, while others avoid it and often, kids can show a mix of both depending on the situation.

Understanding the difference can make daily life feel smoother, and having the right tools on hand can transform overwhelm into comfort.

Sensory Seekers and Avoiders: Two Sides of the Same Coin

  • Sensory Seekers crave input. They might spin, jump, chew, or touch everything around them because their nervous system wants more.
  • Sensory Avoiders are easily overwhelmed by input. Tags in clothes, sudden noises, or bright lights can feel like “too much,” leading them to pull away, cover ears, or resist.

It’s important to remember that these aren’t opposites that cancel each other out. A child can be a seeker in one area (loving spinning and swinging) and an avoider in another (hating sticky or itchy textures).

Having the right resources at home, in the classroom, or even in the car can help kids feel grounded and safe. Some examples:

  • For sensory seekers: weighted balls, chewable jewelry, swings, trampolines, or fidget tools.
  • For sensory avoiders: soft tag-free clothing, noise-reducing headphones, blackout curtains, or cozy calming corners.
  • For both: books that explain sensory differences, flexible seating options, or tools that can be adapted depending on your child’s comfort level.

I’ve been keeping a list of items we have used (or similar). You can explore them all on my Favorite Things page. Whether you’re parenting a seeker, an avoider, or a little bit of both, this list is designed to help you find what works best for your family.

Sensory needs don’t disappear with age, they evolve. The more we learn, the better we can support our kids (and even ourselves) with patience, empathy, and the right resources. If you’re just beginning this journey, know you don’t have to figure it all out alone and simple tools can make a big difference.

Sensory Avoiders

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

Yesterday was all about Sensory Seekers but today will be all about Sensory Avoiders. While seekers crave more input, avoiders experience the opposite. Their nervous systems process input as overwhelming, and they often react by withdrawing, resisting, or shutting down.

Recognizing the different types of sensory avoiders can help parents, caregivers, and teachers provide the right environment and support.

Vestibular Avoiders

The vestibular system controls balance and movement. Vestibular avoiders often dislike swings, slides, or activities that make them feel off balance. They may resist climbing, running, or spinning. Supporting them means allowing slow, predictable movement at their own pace and never forcing participation.

Proprioceptive Avoiders

The proprioceptive system gives feedback from muscles and joints. While many children love deep pressure, proprioceptive avoiders may resist hugs, dislike tight clothing, or avoid heavy lifting. Respecting their boundaries and offering gentler forms of input can help them feel safe.

Tactile Avoiders

The tactile system processes touch. Tactile avoiders may dislike certain fabrics, resist messy play, or pull away from unexpected touch. Tags in shirts, scratchy clothing, or sticky textures can feel unbearable. Support strategies include soft clothing, gradual exposure, and allowing choice in textures.

Oral Avoiders

The oral sensory system processes input through the mouth. Oral avoiders may be picky eaters, avoiding foods with certain textures or strong flavors. They may gag easily or resist toothbrushing. Providing a variety of safe, preferred foods and slowly introducing new ones can reduce stress.

Auditory Avoiders

The auditory system interprets sound. Auditory avoiders may cover their ears at loud noises, dislike crowded environments, or struggle with sudden sounds like vacuums or alarms. Noise-canceling headphones, quiet spaces, and preparing them for upcoming sounds can make environments more manageable.

Visual Avoiders

The visual system processes light and movement. Visual avoiders may dislike bright lights, avoid crowded or cluttered spaces, or find fast-moving visuals overwhelming. Soft lighting, sunglasses, and calm visual environments are helpful supports.

Sensory avoiders aren’t being difficult or picky. Their nervous systems are sending danger signals in response to overwhelming input. By understanding their unique sensory needs, we can help them feel more comfortable and secure.

Awareness of sensory avoiders allows us to shift from frustration to compassion. Supporting them isn’t about pushing them into uncomfortable situations, it’s about respecting their boundaries and creating safe, supportive spaces where they can thrive.

Reminder: Sensory Processing Difficulties aren’t kid-specific. It’s not something that goes away with age. There are ways to learn how to manage and support the day-to-day challenges and there are many adults that need support as well.

Sensory Seekers

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

Let’s talk about sensory seekers. While some people are more sensitive and may avoid sensory input, sensory seekers are the opposite. Their nervous systems crave more input in order to feel calm and regulated. Understanding the different types of sensory seekers and the sensory systems involved can help us better support kids and adults who are wired this way.

Vestibular Seekers

The vestibular system is all about balance and movement. Vestibular seekers crave activities like spinning, swinging, jumping, or running. They’re often described as “on the go” and may have trouble sitting still. Safe outlets include trampolines, swings, or dance breaks throughout the day.

Proprioceptive Seekers

The proprioceptive system helps us sense our body position through muscles and joints. Proprioceptive seekers love heavy work and deep pressure. You might see them crashing into furniture, giving tight hugs, or lifting and carrying heavy objects. Support them with weighted blankets, obstacle courses, or tasks like pushing a laundry basket or carrying groceries.

Tactile Seekers

The tactile system processes touch through the skin. Tactile seekers are drawn to textures and physical contact. They might touch everything around them, love messy play, or constantly seek hugs. Activities like sensory bins, playdough, water play, and textured fabrics can help meet their needs.

Oral Seekers

The oral sensory system processes input through the mouth. Oral seekers may chew on pencils, bite clothing, or prefer crunchy and chewy snacks. Chewable jewelry, straws, gum, and snack options like pretzels or apples are safe ways to provide oral input.

Auditory Seekers

The auditory system interprets sound. Auditory seekers often hum, tap, or make noises. They may love music, loud environments, or playing with instruments. Consider drumming, rhythm games, or music breaks to meet their sensory needs.

Visual Seekers

The visual system processes light and movement. Visual seekers are drawn to bright lights, colors, and moving objects. They may love light-up toys, spinning fans, or repeated video clips. Glow sticks, bubble tubes, and lava lamps are great tools for visual input.

Recognizing which sensory systems a child or adult seeks can help redirect behaviors into safe and supportive outlets. Instead of labeling them as restless or disruptive, we can see their actions as communication.

Supporting sensory seekers isn’t about stopping the need for input, it’s about understanding and meeting it in a way that helps them thrive.

Reminder: Sensory Processing Difficulties aren’t kid-specific. It’s not something that goes away with age. There are ways to learn how to manage and support the day-to-day challenges and there are many adults that need support as well.

Navigating Autism, Motherhood, and Disney Magic with Joann Salas

On By justmymomsenseIn PodcastLeave a comment

ICYMI, On the most recent episode of the Just My MomSense Podcast, I was joined by Joann Salas. On her YouTube channel, Joann shares her journey as a wife and mom to twin boys, one of whom is autistic and nonverbal. She shares the ups and downs of their everyday life, offering a real look into parenting, autism, and managing a busy home.

In this episode, we chat about:

  • The emotional side of receiving an Autism diagnosis
  • Finding joy in everyday routines and family travel
  • Why Disney parks are a source of comfort and connection for her family

Listen to the full episode here.
📺 Watch Joann’s videos: Joann Salas on YouTube
📲 Follow Joann on Instagram: @lovealwaysjoann

Embracing Neurodiversity | A Conversation with Dr. Matt Zakreski

On By justmymomsenseIn neurodiversity, PodcastLeave a comment

On the most recent episode of the Just My MomSense Podcast, I had the absolute joy of speaking with Dr. Matt Zakreski. Dr. Matt is a clinical psychologist who specializes in neurodiversity, giftedness, and mental health for kids and teens.

As parents, especially those raising neurodivergent kids, we’re constantly seeking guidance, tools, and a little reassurance that we’re not alone. Dr. Matt brings all of that and more. Whether your child is diagnosed with ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, or is simply a big-feelings kid who processes the world differently, then this episode is for you.

What Is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences, like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and others are natural variations of the human brain, not deficits. Dr. Matt breaks it down beautifully in this episode, reminding us that being neurodivergent doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means your brain works differently and that difference brings value.

Strengths-Based Parenting for Neurodivergent Kids

Dr. Matt is passionate about focusing on what your child can do, rather than just what’s hard for them. Instead of seeing a meltdown as “bad behavior,” it’s about understanding what’s underneath, whether it’s sensory overload, anxiety, or an unmet need.

He shares strategies for:

  • Building emotional regulation skills
  • Creating safe, affirming environments at home and in school
  • Encouraging self-advocacy in neurodivergent children

Navigating School and Advocacy

A big part of our conversation centered on school and Dr. Matt offers practical advice for:

  • Talking to teachers and schools about your child’s needs
  • What to look for in an inclusive education environment
  • How to advocate

Listen Here!

Also available on your favorite podcasting platform.

Connect with Dr. Matt Zakreski

Visit his website: drmattzakreski.com
Follow on Instagram: @drmattzakreski