Shows
Little Brains Big StepsEpisode 10 - Exploring the Auditory System in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory SystemsThis podcast episode of Little Brains Big Steps features hosts Franchesca Cox, an occupational therapist, and Megan Williams, a speech-language pathologist, exploring the auditory system and its role in childhood development. They break down how the auditory system works, its connection to other sensory systems, and how challenges in auditory processing can impact focus, learning, and communication. The hosts share common signs of auditory processing difficulties and offer practical strategies for support in everyday settings.2025-05-0143 min
Little Brains Big StepsEpisode 9 - Diving into the Visual System in Developing Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory SystemsJoin Franchesca and Megan as they dive into the real meaning of vision—and spoiler alert, it’s way more than just seeing clearly.In this episode, we're chatting all about visual processing—how the brain makes sense of what the eyes see—and why it matters for everything from learning to moving, talking, and even eating. We’ll break down the brainy stuff in a super relatable way and share red flags to look out for, plus simple strategies you can try at home.💡 You’ll hear about:How vision works in the brain (not just t...2025-04-1246 minLittle Brains Big StepsEpisode 8 - All About the Vestibular System in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory SystemsOccupational therapist Franchesca Cox and speech-language pathologist Megan Williams, both based in Houston, Texas, discuss pediatric therapy on their podcast Little Brain's Big Steps. They explore topics like the vestibular system, its role in balance, spatial awareness, and movement coordination, and its connection to other sensory systems. They highlight research showing vestibular dysfunction is common in children with conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, and traumatic brain injuries. They emphasize the importance of early intervention, therapy techniques, and educating families on how sensory processing affects daily life.2025-04-0246 minLittle Brains Big StepsEpisode 7- Exploring Proprioception in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory SystemsIn this episode, Megan Williams and Franchesca Cox delve into the two main categories of proprioceptive processing in children. They discuss children with hypersensitive proprioceptive systems, who avoid movement and struggle with postural control, and those with under-responsive systems, who seek out intense physical activity and have difficulty with body awareness. The conversation highlights how these sensory differences impact play, behavior, and social-emotional development.2025-03-2751 minLittle Brains Big StepsEpisode 6 - Seating and Positioning for Children with Special Needs: An Interview with Testa SeatThis podcast episode of Little Brains Big Steps features hosts Franchesca Cox, an occupational therapist, and Megan Williams, a speech-language pathologist, discussing the importance of seating and positioning for children with developmental delays. They welcome industrial designer Alex Geht, the creator of the Testa Seat, a customizable and versatile seating solution for children with special needs. Geht shares his journey into adaptive seating design, identifying gaps in existing solutions, and how Testa Seat enhances accessibility, comfort, and family participation. The conversation highlights real-life success stories, the role of seating in communication and feeding, and advice for parents seeking the...2025-03-2220 min
Little Brains Big StepsExploring DMI Therapy, TheraSuit program, TASES and more with Franchesca CoxIn this episode of "Little Brains Big Steps," host Megan Williams interviews Franchesca Cox, an expert in pediatric motor development, to explore various therapeutic approaches for children. Franchesca shares her journey into pediatric therapy, highlighting her passion for movement-based interventions that promote independence and mobility.The discussion delves into several key therapies:Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI): An evolution of Cuevas Medek Exercises, DMI focuses on supporting and provoking motor responses in children to enhance their motor skills.TheraSuit Program: Designed for children with neuromuscular conditions, the TheraSuit offers an intensive model to continue motor development.Therapeutic El...2025-03-1242 minLittle Brains Big StepsEpisode 4 - All About MNRI Therapy, and Unique Feeding Approaches with Megan WilliamsIn this episode, host Franchesca interviews her co-host, Megan Williams, about her expertise in MNRI (Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration), reflex integration, and feeding therapy. Megan shares her journey into pediatric therapy, how she became an MNRI core specialist, and her passion for the brain-body connection in feeding.Listeners will gain insight into how reflexes impact motor control, communication, and eating, as well as Megan’s unique approach to sensory-motor feeding therapy. She provides valuable advice for parents navigating feeding challenges, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive experience.Megan also shares success stories of childr...2025-03-0552 minLittle Brains Big StepsThe Power of Neuroplasticity in Children Part 2In this conversation, Megan Williams, a speech language pathologist, discusses the concept of neuroplasticity and its significance in therapy for children facing various challenges. She emphasizes the importance of tailored therapy techniques, real-life success stories, and the role of families in supporting neuroplasticity at home. The discussion also addresses common myths surrounding neuroplasticity and the understanding of progress in therapy, highlighting that change may not always be immediately visible but is nonetheless occurring beneath the surface.See Show NotesKeywordsneuroplasticity, therapy, children, speech language pathology, feeding...2025-02-1228 minLittle Brains Big StepsThe Power of Neuroplasticity in Children Part 1In this conversation, Franchesca Cox and Megan Williams delve into the concept of neuroplasticity and its significance in therapy for children facing various challenges. They discuss how neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize itself and adapt after injuries, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and intensive therapy. The conversation highlights different therapeutic modalities, including DMI and MNRI, and their effectiveness in promoting neuroplasticity. Real-life success stories illustrate the profound impact of these therapies on children's development and recovery.See Show NotesKeywordsneuroplasticity, therapy, children, early intervention...2025-02-1232 min
Little Brains Big StepsWelcome to Little Brains Big Steps Podcast - A Space to Break Down Neurodevelopmental Approaches and Child Development in the Pediatric Therapy WorldIn this conversation, Megan Williams and Franchesca Cox discuss their experiences and insights in the field of therapy, particularly focusing on feeding therapy, intensive therapy, and the importance of community support. They explore the challenges faced by therapists and families, the significance of reflexes in child development, and the need for effective home programs. The conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of therapy and the necessity of understanding insurance dynamics to ensure families receive the best care possible.See Show Notes00:00 Welcome to Little Brain's Big Steps Podcast02:31 Fran...2025-02-0735 min