Does your child have sensory processing issues? If so, do you keep second-guessing what you're doing, and the way you're doing it? Today's conversation is with Cameron Kleimo, from Sensorymom.com. Cameron is a mom, and she's also an educator who works with children with sensory integration issues, and their parents.
Cameron lives in San Diego with her husband and two young sons, and she has a website called Sensorymoms, through which she educates and supports the parents of children with a sensory processing disorder. For the last four years, Cameron has also been teaching a mindful parenting class. In today's episode, she talks about what it's like to parent a child with sensory integration issues, and what it's like to work with the parents of these children. Even if you don't have kids, you might still enjoy listening to this authentic conversation, so be sure to tune in!
Show Highlights:
- Cameron talks about her background and explains why she was drawn to work with children with a sensory processing disorder.
- The red flags that showed Cameron that something was not right with her five-month-old son.
- Cameron shares her entry point into the world of sensory processing.
- Cameron had a hard time finding someone who could help her understand what was going on with her son, and explain what she could do to help him.
- There are very few resources available relating to sensory processing issues.
- Kids with sensory processing issues are usually having a nervous system problem. It's like their nervous system is over-responsive.
- Kids in flight or flight mode tend to appear as if they are having temper tantrums so parents often think they are doing something wrong, that's causing it.
- There appears to be a widespread lack of awareness around issues of sensory processing within the western medical system and within the education system.
- It's hard for families when their child doesn't fit into an acceptable diagnostic box.
- Cameron believes that all children's behavior is communication.
- Sometimes, a simple reframing can help parents to open up their perspective, and become more curious about their child's behavior.
- Mindfulness helps parents cope with their child's difficult behavior.
- Parents need to recognize that their kids are not throwing tantrums or having meltdowns on purpose.
- It helps if parents can keep their own nervous systems steady, and remain calm when their child becomes dysregulated.
- Mom-guilt is common, so as parents, you need to understand that what is going on with your child is not your fault. You should have compassion for yourself, and allow yourself the space to make mistakes. And cultivate empathy for others.
- Your children are your teachers, so become curious about what is going on with their dysregulated behavior and you will learn a lot about yourself.
- Take an intentional step back to see the whole picture.
- Self-reflection, and examining the impact of your childhood on your adult life, will allow you to show up for your child in a present and loving way. This is hard work, and painful, but it's worth it.
- There's a lot of strength in becoming vulnerable. It's okay to reach out and ask for help.
Links and resources:
Cristie's website - www.cristieritzking.com - Look under the "podcast" tab for more information about today's guest.
Cristie's email - cristie@cristieritzking.com
Cameron's website - https://www.sensorymom.com/
Cameron has a digital course on developmental red flags, and when and how to intervene, available on her website.
Cameron on Instagram - Cameron Sensorymom
Cameron on Facebook - Sensory Mom
Cameron loves Brene Brown's work on vulnerability.
