The Sensory Code Podcast
Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast — now The Sensory Code Podcast. Every week, pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix helps you view behavior through a nervous system lens. When parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists understand how sensory processing differences affect learning and behavior, it changes the game forever.Laura brings a unique POV to the table: her clinical experience as a pediatric OT, her lived experience as a neurodivergent, ADHD, sensory-sensitive person, and her firsthand knowledge of parenting a neurodivergent child. However you're showing up — parent, provider, or both — you're in the right place. Just pull up a ch...
Can OT help with impulse control for my 5 year old with ADHD?
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Summary
In this episode, I explore how occupational therapy can support children with ADHD, especially in managing impulse control. I share insights on how OTs assess and tailor interventions to help kids participate fully in their daily occupations and develop lifelong self-regulation skills.
key topics
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Help! Both my kids have opposite sensory needs. How can I support both?
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Summary
Learn how to manage conflicting sensory needs among children, especially in limited spaces, and emphasize the importance of understanding neurodiversity. I’ll also share some practical strategies for creating supportive environments and fostering better communication about sensory needs.
Check these reels for examples of talking to kids about neurodiversity
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_08gSxS0_/?igsi=MWdtbXB1NW12dGg4dg==
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPt0xKuCYHJ/?ig...
To the haters who think I’m raising a snowflake
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I share my thoughts on supporting neurodivergent children through accommodations and how to handle critics who oppose this approach. With my new book, The Sensory Code, out now, I want to encourage parents to embrace a lifestyle that meets their child's needs without guilt.
key topics
Proactive Regulation: The Nervous System Budget
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I share insights from my upcoming book, The Sensory Code, and introduce the nervous system budget framework to help parents and educators understand and support children's sensory processing differences proactively.
Key Topics:
Takeaways
How much does diagnosis matter for OT intervention?
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I discuss whether a child's diagnosis influences occupational therapy treatment plans, emphasizing that while diagnoses can provide helpful context, they shouldn't define the intervention approach. I also highlight the importance of focusing on the child's current skills and needs, and when specific diagnoses like OCD require tailored strategies.
Points Discussed
Diagnosis's role in OT treatmentFocus on child's current skillsDifferences in clinic settingsImpact of specific diagnoses like OCDUsing diagnosis as a guide, not a boxSupporting children with sensory needs<...
Am I over-accommodating my child?
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In this episode of the Sensory Code Podcast, I reflect on a personal realization about my daughter's accommodations as she turned nine. I discuss the complacency that can arise in parenting, particularly in providing support for children with sensory processing differences. I emphasize the importance of encouraging independence in daily tasks and the need for continuous assessment of accommodations to foster self-advocacy and personal growth in children.
Takeaways
I was complacent with the routine accommodations for my daughter.I...Top 5 things I'd do if I just realized my child was neurodivergent
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Summary
Let me tell you about the top five actions I would take if I just discovered my child was neurodivergent. I emphasize the importance of pausing to process the information, embracing accommodations, documenting progress, taking proactive steps for occupational therapy, and communicating about neurodivergence in a positive and affirming light.
Takeaways
Pause and process before taking action.
Accommodations can make daily life easier.
Documenting progress helps recognize growth.
WELCOME TO THE SENSORY CODE PODCAST
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Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast — now The Sensory Code Podcast. Every week, pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix helps you view behavior through a nervous system lens. When parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists understand how sensory processing differences affect learning and behavior, it changes the game forever.
Laura brings a unique POV to the table: her clinical experience as a pediatric OT, her lived experience as a neurodivergent, ADHD, sensory-sensitive person, and her firsthand knowledge of...
The best app for kids that won’t leave them in tears… even when they need to turn it off
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I’m an Occupational Therapist, and I’m also a Mom with an invisible mental load that never ends. Screen time is a tool that I am NOT afraid to use. But not all screen time is created equal.
Some games or apps are more dysregulating than others, which is probably a HUGE reason for the meltdowns and behaviors that come up when it comes to turning off the device. Since the day I was introduced to Pok Pok (in 2021) until now, this...
“But everyone does that!” and other things people say about neurodiversity
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Listen to this short and sweet episode to help you understand the difference between kids who enjoy some sensory input, and kids who NEED some sensory input to function properly in their day.
I'm tired of hearing comments like "but all kids do that!" or "aren't we all a little on the spectrum?" and this episode is my attempt to address those conversations.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~
The Sensory C...
Recess is necessary for all kids- stop taking it away!
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Did you know some kids are getting their recess taken away as punishment for not focusing, being distracted, not getting their work done, and other behavioral issues in the classroom? Maybe you’re the parent to a child who has had this done to them. The American Academy of Pediatrics and The Center for Disease Control and Prevention have both made public statements emphasizing the necessity of at least 20 minutes of recess for elementary aged kids, and they both further state that recess should never be ta...
"Help! My child is so dysregulated after school"
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Many of us are back into the swing of things at school, and with that comes so much more dysregulation! Listen in as I talk about where that dysregulation comes from and how you can try to get ahead of it (key word: try!).
You’ll learn:
What dysregulated behaviors are common to see after school How after school restraint collapse looks different for neurodivergent kidsSome immediate ways to regulate the nervo...A kids book about neurodiversity (Author’s notes version)
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Listen in to this episode to hear more context and insight behind some of the wording and passages I used in my book, A kids book about neurodiversity. You might be surprised to learn that this book’s intended audience is actually neurotypical kids, because I want to spread awareness and acceptance and celebration for our neurodivergent kids; it shouldn’t always be left up to us neurodivergent folks and families to constantly explain ourselves and our kids’ behaviors and needs to the world; what if we lived...
story time: updates on my medication & diagnosis journey
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Listen in to this casual, story time episode where I catch you up to speed with my anxiety/ADHD journey and why I stopped medication.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~
The Sensory Code Book
Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist
The OT Butterfly Instagram
Work with Laura
The Sensory Code Newsletter
A Kids Book Ab...
9 stupid-simple self regulation tools for parents (that don’t include deep breaths)
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Do you ever feel like your patience runs out before your coffee does? In this episode, we focus on why it's essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to prioritize their own regulation. It's not just about being able to stay calm when your child spills cereal all over the floor—it's about being equipped to handle life's daily challenges with a sense of calm and control.
Join me as I share some straightforward and practical strategies for self-regulation that you might already be doing without re...
Does my child need classroom accommodations?
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Are you receiving constant feedback about your child's behavior or learning challenges in the classroom?
In this episode, we explore why classroom accommodations are crucial for neurodivergent children and how they can transform your child's educational experience. I'll touch on sensory needs, emotional regulation, and executive functioning, offering general starting points to advocate for your child's unique needs.
Join us for the upcoming school accommodations workshop on August 11th
https://theotbutterfly.com/schoolworkshop
~Formerly known as The Senso...
Re-AIR: The "size of the problem" lesson & why I don't use it anymore
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The size of the problem is a common lesson therapists and teachers use to teach kids emotional regulation skills. As I have learned more about the neurodivergent community, I’ve started thinking about this lesson in a different late and want to share that with you in this episode. Don’t worry, it’s not all bad!
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~
The Sensory Code Book
Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist
<...RE-AIR: How to support regulation around the summer break
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The transition to summer comes with so many emotions and behaviors, it can be really exhausting. There are ways to support your neurodivergent child through this transition.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast...
Re-writing the script: Unlearning childhood narratives with Stephanie Pinto
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Calling all millennial parents! Did you grow up hearing things like:
"Because I said so!"
"You're too old to be acting like that!"
"Give your Grandma a hug, don't be rude!"
"If you don't clean up these toys, I'm throwing them away!"
"I told you that would happen! You never listen."
Our parents were doing the best with the information they had-- not to mention, many of them also growing up with the same narrative. Well, in the age...
Keeping sensory seekers entertained AND regulated (easy solutions you can do at home!)
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If you have a sensory seeker and you're in need of easy, indoor ideas to keep them both entertained AND regulated... this is the episode for you.
Listen to this episode (sponsored in part, by Figgy) to hear 7 sensory based movement activities to do inside with your sensory seeker.
Here's a link to grab your own Figgy couch with a $20 discount
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~
The Sensory Code Book
Why Is My Child's Behavior Worse When They're Sick?
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If you have a child who’s been sick recently, you’ve probably found yourself wondering “Why are they so moody?” “why do they seem more sensitive than before?”
You’re not imagining it. The nervous system is in a state of stress when it’s fighting viruses, ailments and bugs. Sensory systems are more impacted and so is behavior.
Listen to this episode to feel validated for an experience you might have had recently...
Breaking generational & cultural cycles as a neurodivergent parent with Marcela Collier
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Are you a late diagnosed adult with childhood trauma relating to their missed/ignored neurodivergent needs who is NOW trying to provide better support for their own neurodivergent child? *Sigh* us too. Join Marcela Collier, certified parenting coach and neurodivergent mom to discuss our journey to accepting our neurodivergent brains and advocating for our own needs so we can better show up for our kids.
Marcela Collier is a certified Parenting coach and former Therapeutic Care Provider-TFC, who specializes in helping parents break free f...
Your Body, Your Rules: Masturbation, Orgasms & intimacy with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish
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It’s 2024, self-pleasure, masturbation, orgasms…. It’s one of the most natural, fun, immediate ways to regulate our bodies, why should we be ashamed of it? Listen in to this unfiltered discussion about changes to intimacy after becoming parents and how burnt out, touched out moms can start getting bringing sexy back!
Dr. Tracy Dalgleish helps empower women and couples to improve their communication and build strong and healthy connections with themselves and their partner through therapy, wellness seminars, and her work outsid...
THC, CBD and Neurodiversity, with Dr. Miyabe Shields Ph.D.
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Dr. Miyabe Shields, is a Ph.D. pharmaceutical scientist who specialized in the structural biochemistry of the endocannabinoid system for drug discovery. They have received national and international recognition for their pre-doctoral research in the endocannabinoid system and industrial accomplishments in the cannabis and emerging psychedelics industries.
After co-founding a cannabis research startup post-PhD, they delved into rare extract and formulation research, exploring heat-transformed cannabinoids and developed a novel form of cannabis extraction. Miyabe transitioned to community education and...
Why are restaurants so hard for my neurodivergent child and how can I help them?
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Restaurants are a multi-sensory experience, and if you've got a neurodivergent child, you know that multi-sensory doesn't always necessarily mean a good thing. Between the sensory overload, confined space and social expectations of "behaving" in a restaurant, it makes sense why eating out as a family feels stressful for some families. Today I'll peel back the layers and talk about the specific triggers that are contributing to dysregulation, and give strategies to best support your children. Plus hacks for keeping busy at the table.
Related e...
Neurodivergent kids & birthday parties: the struggle is real
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Whether attending other celebrations or hosting your own, birthday parties can often be overwhelming due to sensory and emotional regulation challenges. However, with proper preparation and accommodations, we can minimize distress and help our neurodivergent kids fully participate and enjoy the experience. In this episode, I'll share my go-to strategies for birthday party guest OR host preparation.
~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~
The Sensory Code Book
Sensory Detectives B...
Helping Kids Thrive Outdoors with Nature-Based OT featuring Dr. Laura Park Figueroa
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Tune in to hear us discuss the benefits of nature-based occupational therapy with Dr. Laura Park Figueroa. We explore how incorporating natural elements into therapy can help children build skills while regulating their nervous systems. I share some of my own experiences as an "indoor cat" to highlight how nature-based approaches aren’t always inherently sought out, but still incredibly important.
Dr. Laura Park Figueroa, PhD, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. She is the fou...
How an Autism Diagnosis Saved Paige Layle's Life: Interview
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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live as an undiagnosed Autistic person living in a neurotypical world? Maybe you’re a parent to a nonspeaking child or a child who’s too young to be able to properly express their experience. Learning from actually Autistic adults is one of the most valuable things you can do for your Autistic child and other Autistic individuals in the world, and today, we’re lucky enough to be hearing from one of my favorite Autistic adult creators, Paige La...
Why wiggle cushions AREN’T helping your child sit still
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This week I'm diving into some sneaky reasons why some sensory kids might be wigglers that have nothing to do with needing more movement. Prepare to get your mind blown as I break down the connection between core strength, posture, and focus. I'll also give you tons of do's and don'ts for supporting these kiddos in the classroom. By the end you'll be armed with all the deets to help your little learner shine without extra distractions.
You’ll learn:
- T...
Helping Kids Understand Occupational Therapy: A Guide for Parents
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As an OT, I often get asked how parents should explain why their child has to go to Occupational Therapy visits.
In this episode, parents will have some guidance on preparing children for evaluations, answering their questions about therapy, and explaining OT to siblings.
You'll learn simple scripts tailored to different child ages that will help demystify the process and make OT a more positive experience.
Whether you're new to OT or a seasoned pro, I'll share my tips for communicating e...
Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month 2024
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Get ready for an info-packed episode on Occupational Therapy to celebrate this wonderful field in OT month (for U.S.).
I shared how OT can help with all different kinds of challenges like motor skills, focusing, anxiety and sensory issues. Whether assessing needs, modifying environments or teaching regulating strategies, OTs have creative solutions to support kids' skills and behaviors. From building body awareness to providing customized interventions, we get to play all day while helping kids learn. I hope this gave you a taste of w...
Why does my child hate changes in routine?
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In this episode, I dive into why some kids – especially neurodivergent ones – thrive on routine and struggle when things change.
As a neurodivergent adult and occupational therapist, I'll share insights into the sensory and cognitive challenges that can make even small changes feel like big disruptions. I'll also dish out practical tips for parents to support their neurodivergent kiddos through these transitions. Join me as we uncover the secrets to smoother sailing in the unpredictable seas of routine changes.
Social story podcast:
http...
How to provide regulation in a home with conflicting sensory needs
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Do you feel pulled in multiple directions trying to meet the unique sensory needs of each child in your home? In this episode, I’ll dish my top strategies for balancing the often conflicting sensory profiles within families.
You'll learn practical ways to create separate sensory spaces, set clear boundaries with alternatives, and rely on sensory layering to make any environment work for everyone.
Whether you have an overstimulated child and a sensory avoider under the same roo...
Help! My child wakes up dysregulated. What do I do?
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Parents, are you dealing with a kid who just constantly wakes up on the wrong side of the bed? NO matter what you do or offer them, they're just dysregulated no matter what.
This episode is for you. I'll help you make sense of those non-sensical moods and give you an action plan to hopefully curb some of that dysregulation.
Listen into learn:
Brainstorming solutions WITH our kids, instead of for them.
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In this episode, I'm exploring an approach I've found really effective called collaborative problem-solving. I'll break down the steps so you can understand the process. And I'll share a real example from my own parenting journey - what happened when I tried validating my daughter's perspective and attacking the problem objectively (minimizing emotions) to find a creative solution that she could agree to? Collaborative problem solving has really shifted our dynamic from a battle of wills to a feeling of partnership.
Dr...
The Nervous System Budget: a new way to think about accommodations for neurodivergent individuals
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I wanted to share a new concept I've been thinking about called the "nervous system budget." Basically, it's a way to visualize how different tasks and environments affect our nervous systems. I'll explain how we all have a limited amount of "nervous system cash" each day, and how certain things can cost more than others.
I'll also give some ideas for how parents can help kids spend less and save more for the things that really matter. My hope is that framing it this way ca...
Journey from Referral to Recommendations: what to expect (Tips from a Clinical Psychologist)
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Dr. Alex Reed is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment and support of neurodevelopmental diagnoses across the lifespan
Alex and I are both contributors in Dr. Becky’s goodinside community- a movement and platform that we really enjoy supporting. Alex and I have so many sideline conversations about neurodiversity and are constantly sharing resources and posts that speak to our souls— they usually have to do with finding ND affirming care. So I invited Alex on today becau...
Advice from a 6 year old (Lliana Q&A)
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Liliana surprises me every single day. She’s intelligent, well spoken, mature, empathetic and so so caring. You can see all of those qualities through her in this episode, which was in part created by you who submitted questions for her to answer!
In this episode, you’ll hear Liliana give advice about
What to do when you’re worried about going to schoolWhat to do when you can’t fall asleepHer fa...How to use exercise to regulate your nervous system with Dr. Shannon Ritchey
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We cannot co-regulate our kids if we aren’t regulated ourselves. And most of us (I’m raising both of my hands here) need to make extra effort to activate our parasympathetic nervous system because our sympathetic nervous systems can go into overdrive so quickly as parents to neurodivergent kids. Chronic dysregulation and chronic sympathetic nervous system activation is definitely a THING, our kids can experience, and we can too. And when we’re chronically dysregulated, literally everything in our day just becomes harder, less efficient, and we...
Making screen time work for your family with Ash Brandin, EdS
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Let's normalize screen time use in whatever way works for your family. I know as parents we are CONSTANTLY bombarded by a list of shoulds and shouldn’ts and really big, click-baity headlines that really create a lot of fear and guilt among parents. You see this for almost every childhood concern, but I see it a lot around screens. And in 2024, we’re definitely not decreasing our kids’ exposure to screens so let’s lean into it a bit and really find out- do we really n...
