Shows
Reflex Integration Through Play3 Essential Areas to Consider in Pediatric Screening | Ep27Kokeb McDonald builds on a recent Q&A session from inside the RITP Certification Program to offer a deeper, more holistic approach to pediatric screening. Beyond simply identifying retained reflexes, Kokeb highlights three essential areas that every therapist should be considering during evaluations: reflex patterns, functional movement, and developmental/social connection. You’ll learn how to spot compensation patterns, why observing children in natural play environments is so crucial, and how movement, milestones, and communication all work together for effective treatment planning. Whether you're a therapist, clinic owner, educator, or parent, this episode is packed with insight you can st...2025-07-2712 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayWhen You're Triggered – Mindfulness Strategies for Teachers, Therapists, and Parents | Ep 26In this powerful episode, Kokeb McDonald is joined once again by Fran Rubio-Katz to tackle a universal challenge: how to handle ourselves when we feel emotionally triggered—whether as therapists, educators, or parents. Drawing from the Conscious Discipline brain state model and their real-life experiences in classrooms and clinics, Fran and Kokeb explore how to shift from reactive to responsive, how to teach emotional regulation through modeling, and why self-awareness is the foundation of mindful service. Fran shares practical steps like breathing, affirmations, and self-talk that re-center you during difficult moments, while also modeling emotional safety for the children in...2025-07-2029 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayNo Therapist Nearby? How One Parent Used RITP for At-Home Reflex Integration | Ep25In this heartfelt and informative episode, Kokeb shares a special archived interview with homeschool mom Holly Anderson, whose daughter struggled with unintegrated primitive reflexes affecting her eye tracking and reading. Holly opens up about their family’s discovery process, the challenges they faced, and the creative, affordable ways they’ve implemented reflex integration at home. She also shares how RITP books provided the guidance and variety she needed to support her daughter’s neurological development. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a therapist, or just someone curious about how reflex integration can fit into daily life, this conversation is packed with e...2025-07-1327 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayQuit Taking It Personally – Part 2 with Fran Rubio-Katz | Ep 24In this follow-up to their impactful conversation, Kokeb and Fran Rubio-Katz (aka Coach Franny) dive deeper into the transformative idea of “Quit Taking It Personally” (QTIP), a tool rooted in Conscious Discipline. Fran shares personal stories and professional strategies to help therapists, teachers, and parents shift away from behavior-based expectations and lean into co-regulation, connection, and collaboration. They explore how taking things personally can impact your energy, your sessions, and your relationships—with children, students, and clients—and what to do instead. From embracing a mindset of curiosity to letting go of control, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone s...2025-07-0626 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayIs It the Water or the Fish? Reframing Behavior Through a Nervous System Lens | ep 23In this enlightening conversation, Kokeb is joined by Fran Rubio-Katz—also known as Coach Franny—for a deep dive into the emotional and physiological layers of supporting children through behavioral challenges. Fran, a seasoned educator and coach, shares her powerful "Is it the water or the fish?" metaphor that helps reframe how we interpret children’s behavior. Together, they explore the vital connection between co-regulation, nervous system awareness, and therapeutic success. You’ll hear how Fran and Kokeb’s partnership is bringing together top-down and bottom-up strategies for a holistic approach—and why breathwork, nervous system literacy, and mindful(ish) parenti...2025-06-2938 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook #6 The Palmar Grasp, Hands Pulling, and Babkin Reflexes | 22In this episode, Kokeb explains three closely linked reflexes that play a pivotal role in early development: the Palmar Grasp, Hands Pulling, and Babkin Reflexes. These hand-based reflexes aren’t just about grip strength—they are deeply connected to core development, coordination, feeding, speech, and even emotional regulation.She discuess how stimulation of the palm can trigger reflexive responses in both the hands and the mouth—shedding light on why you might see children move their mouths when cutting with scissors or grasping objects. You'll learn how these reflexes form the foundation for fine motor skills and how th...2025-06-2234 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook 5: The Spinal Galant – Focus, Fidgeting & Bedwetting Connections| Ep 21In this episode of our reflex integration series, we explore the Spinal Galant Reflex, a vital early movement pattern that plays a surprising role in posture, attention, tactile sensitivity, and even bedwetting. Often overlooked, this reflex is triggered by gentle touch along the lower back and can have major implications when retained beyond infancy.You’ll learn how the Spinal Galant Reflex contributes to fidgeting, poor concentration, and nighttime accidents—and how retained reflexes may show up as tactile defensiveness, posture imbalance, or scoliosis. We’ll also discuss how to screen for this reflex, tailor your treatment approa...2025-06-1515 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook 4: The TLR - Core Strength, Upright Posture, and Balance | Ep 20In this episode of the reflex integration series, we focus on the Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR)—a foundational reflex that sets the stage for balance, spatial awareness, muscle tone, and posture. The TLR influences how a child experiences gravity and movement, and when retained, it can interfere with everything from coordination and attention to emotional regulation and core strength.Sometimes described as the “Anti-Gravity Reflex,” the TLR helps infants learn the difference between flexion and extension—essential for rolling, standing, and even handwriting later on. But when it lingers past its developmental window, it can result in clumsine...2025-06-0815 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook 3: The STNR – Bridging Posture, Crawling & Learning | Ep 19In this episode of our reflex integration series, we turn our attention to the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR)—a crucial building block for early development that plays a major role in posture, crawling, visual tracking, and classroom learning. Often called the “Learning Reflex,” the STNR helps children develop the coordination needed to move from lying on their tummy to crawling on all fours and eventually sitting upright. But when this reflex is retained beyond infancy, it can cause a variety of challenges, including poor posture at a desk, difficulty copying from the board, limited body awareness, and visual tracki...2025-06-0111 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook 2: The ATNR – Unlocking Movement, Reading, and Coordination | Ep 18In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) — one of the foundational primitive reflexes that plays a crucial role in early childhood development. Our discussion centers on how this reflex, if retained beyond infancy, can significantly influence a child’s motor coordination, sensory processing, and overall developmental progress, especially in children with ADHD, hyperactivity, or learning differences.We begin by unpacking what messy or disorganized behavior can signal in young children, shedding light on the underlying neurological patterns that drive such behaviors. From there, we introduce the ATNR, explaining its orig...2025-05-2612 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayBook 1 The Moro Reflex – Understanding Fight or Flight in KidsIn this episode of the Reflex Integration Through Play podcast, we launch our in-depth review of the RITP book series by beginning with one of the most foundational early reflexes: the Moro Reflex.The episode offers a comprehensive exploration of this primitive startle reflex, including its neurological and developmental significance, common signs of retention, and the cascading effects it can have on emotional regulation, sensory processing, and motor development when not integrated properly. The host breaks down how to assess for Moro retention and highlights the importance of recognizing subtle presentations in both clinical and non-clinical settings.2025-05-2121 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayUnderstanding SMART Goals in Pediatric OT | Ep 16🎙️ In this episode of the Reflex Integration through Play Podcast, host Kokeb delves into the importance of setting SMART goals in pediatric occupational therapy. She breaks down the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—and explains how each component supports the creation of effective and clear treatment plans. Real-life examples help illustrate how to set realistic and trackable goals, ensuring that therapy sessions are productive and outcome-driven. Kokeb also emphasizes the importance of knowing a child’s current abilities and aligning goals with functional, day-to-day activities.📌 Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction and Setting Realistic Goals00:14 – Welc...2025-05-1111 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayEstablishing Functional Outcomes and Goals Setting | Ep 15In this episode of the Reflex Integration through Play podcast, host Kokeb McDonald explores the importance of setting clear, functional goals in pediatric therapy. Focusing on treatment planning, Kokeb emphasizes the need for goals that directly impact a child's daily life, whether at home, in school, or in the community. She outlines actionable steps including starting with screening findings, establishing a baseline, and translating clinical observations into functional outcomes. Listeners will learn how to create SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and the significance of involving teachers, caregivers, and other professionals in the goal-setting process. Kokeb also highlights...2025-05-0517 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayEssential Steps for Successful Evaluations: Defining Clear Intake and Screening | Ep 14Join host Kokeb McDonald as we delve into the crucial initial steps of treatment planning for pediatric occupational therapy within the Reflex Integration through Play (RITP) Framework. This episode highlights the significance of thorough intake, screening, and evaluation processes, emphasizing the need for understanding the root causes of behaviors and developmental milestones. Learn how to become a 'behavior detective' to craft detailed, measurable, and effective treatment plans. Stay tuned for more insights on setting targeted and functional goals in the next episode.00:00 Introduction to Effective Treatment Planning00:56 Understanding the Importance of Clear Goals01:23 The...2025-04-2816 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayReal Kids, Real Progress: Reflex Integration Case Studies with Occupational Therapist, Babita Patnaik | Ep 13The Power of Reflex Integration: Success Stories with Babita Patnaik | RITP PodcastJoin RITP founder Kokeb McDonald and pediatric OT Babita Patnaik as they dive into real-world case studies and the powerful results Babita is seeing using the RITP method. From bedwetting and meltdowns to improved emotional regulation, speech, and school success—this episode is packed with practical insights, clinical wisdom, and inspiration for every therapist.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:37 Meet Babita Patnaik: Background and Experience01:53 Success Stories and Case Studies03:50 Reflex Integration Techniques and Their Impact08:54 Case Study 1: Addressing Bedwetting and Emotional Dysregulation16:37 Case Study 2: No...2025-04-1431 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayImplementing Social-Emotional and Behavioral Strategies in the Classroom | Ep 12In this episode, we’re sharing a special behind-the-scenes training and Q&A session from inside the RITP at School certification program. Join Kokeb, founder of Reflex Integration Through Play, and Fran, an experienced educator and social-emotional behavioral specialist, as they dive into what’s really working in today’s classrooms.You’ll walk away with insights on:✔️ Why Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) matters✔️ Behavioral management strategies that actually work✔️ The difference between top-down and bottom-up approaches✔️ And so much more!Whether you’re a school-based therapist, teacher, administrator, or parent—t...2025-04-071h 08
Reflex Integration Through PlayThe Impact of Reflex Integration on Child Development with Moira DempseyIn this episode of the Reflex Integration Through Play podcast, we are honored to have Moira Dempsey, founder of Rhythmic Movement Training International (RMTI), as our guest. Moira shares her extensive experience in education, movement therapy, and neurodevelopment, discussing the profound impact of reflex integration in learning, behavior, and overall development. She talks about her journey with RMTI, the importance of rhythmic movements in supporting a child’s natural developmental progression, and the significance of play and therapy. Moira also shares insights on working with children who are not ready for school, the misconceptions of quick fixes in reflex in...2025-03-3154 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayMistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a School-Based Sensory & Reflex Integration Program | Ep 10Let’s be honest—sensory tools and movement breaks are great, but they’re not a magic fix. If you’re only treating surface-level symptoms, you’re missing the bigger picture!In this episode, we’re diving into eight common mistakes that can make or break a school-based sensory and reflex integration program. From skipping teacher training to over-relying on equipment, we’re breaking down what NOT to do—and how to set kids up for real success.Key Takeaways:✔ Train teachers and staff—they need to understand reflex integration to support students effectively.✔ Avoid a one-size-fits-all ap...2025-03-2418 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayA SIMPLE Approch to a School Based Reflex Integration Program | Ep 9Struggling to fit reflex integration into your school or home routine? The SIMPLE approach makes it effortless. ✅🔹 S – Structure & Schedule: Integrate movements seamlessly into daily activities.🔹 I – Independence: Foster self-initiation so kids take the lead.🔹 M – Measurable: Track progress with observable changes.🔹 P – Play-Based: Keep it fun, engaging, and functional.🔹 L – Learn: Build skills with a clear developmental goal.🔹 E – Ease: If it’s stressful, it won’t last—simplicity is key!📢 Big News! Our RITP Pro training launches March 29th—a step-by-step guide to implementing school-based reflex & sensory...2025-03-1724 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayFive Key Traits for Growing Your Therapy Skills | Ep 8In this episode, I share my experiences from coaching and training therapists within the RITP certification program. I discuss why solely taking online courses isn't enough to build strong clinical skills, especially when working with children. Although online courses provide essential theoretical knowledge, real skills come from practice, making mistakes, and obtaining feedback from mentors. Throughout the episode, I highlight five traits that contribute to a therapist's growth: curiosity and love for learning, implementation of ideas, reaching out for support, creativity, and reflection. I emphasize the value of real-time experience and mentorship, encouraging therapists to seek guidance and practice...2025-03-0921 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayFrom Helping Her Son to Helping Others: A Mother’s Journey into Reflex Integration | Ep 7In today's episode, I welcome Gaynor Ralls, a dedicated parent and Rhythmic Movement Training practitioner and instructor, to discuss her journey into primitive reflex integration and supporting children's development.Gaynor shares her personal experience with her son who faced developmental challenges and her seven-year pursuit for answers, including discovering the significance of retained primitive reflexes. Through training in Rhythmic Movement Training and other modalities, Gaynor transformed her son's live and her own career to support children more effectively.We explore the importance of ensuring children feel safe in their bodies, the challenges parents face in maintaining routines and also...2025-03-0249 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayThe Connection Between Hand Strength, Precision, and Speech Articulation | Ep 6This week we discuss the fascinating connection between hand movements and speech articulation. Emerging research shows that utilizing hand exercises can significantly enhance speech production.I recently co-treated with a speech therapist and observed promising results when integrating hand activities. During the discussion, I emphasize the importance of collaboration between occupational and speech therapists, especially incorporating hand strength and fine motor activities to support speech development.My latest book, focused on Palmar Grasp, Hands Pulling, and Babkin reflexes is available now!https://ritp.info/book-6Also...2025-02-2314 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayWhat are primitive reflexes? | Ep 5Today, we’re introducing the world of primitive reflexes. These innate reflex patterns, present from in utero and sometimes after birth, are crucial for an infant's survival and operate at the brainstem level.Examples include the Moro Reflex and Palmar Grasp Reflex, which are essential for feeding, comfort, and other survival needs.These reflexes respond to various sensory triggers like touch, sound, and movement. As infants grow, these reflexes become integrated into more controlled movement patterns.However, if these reflexes remain active, it can affect a child’s motor skills, emotional regulation, and over...2025-02-1615 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayWhy This Book Is Taking So Long to Publish: Behind the Scenes | Ep 4Today, I'm thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the sixth book in my series on Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise, specifically focusing on hand reflexes like the Palmar Grasp, Hands Pulling, and Babkin reflexes.I'll share why this book took longer to publish than previous ones and explain the comprehensive approach I've taken.I've also created an in-depth online training course to complement the book, ensuring therapists and parents gain a deeper understanding of hand movements, anatomy, reflex patterns, and movement efficiency. This course will help you effectively screen, assess, and create...2025-02-0910 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayMy Child Has Retained Reflexes - What Next? | Ep 3Discovering that your child has retained primitive reflexes can initially bring a mix of relief and concern.
In this episode, I provide essential insights into understanding these reflexes and their impact on a child's development, including foundational knowledge of primitive reflexes, discussing the importance of assembling a knowledgeable support team, and offering strategies for setting realistic goals and integrating effective home programs.
Join us to learn more about supporting your child's unique developmental needs and how consistent at-home activities can significantly enhance progress.
Learn more about supporting your child through their primitive reflexes...2025-02-0218 min
Reflex Integration Through PlaySimplifying Reflex Integration Exercises for Busy Parents | Ep 2Welcome back!
This week I discuss how pediatric therapists can empower busy parents to implement reflex integration exercises at home.
Emphasizing the importance of these exercises for child development, we discuss offers strategies such as providing clear, straightforward, 'done for you' programs, embedding exercises into existing daily routines, and stressing the purpose behind each exercise to ensure parents understand its significance.
I also highlight the use of reminders and visual cues to enhance consistency and discusses leveraging technology, like apps, to create accessible and effective home programs.2025-01-2611 min
Reflex Integration Through PlayIntroduction to Our New Podcast | Ep 1Hello there! Welcome to our Reflex Integration Through Play Podcast, with me, Kokeb McDonald, OTR/L, founder of RITP.
In this episode, I introduce our podcast and share my journey and experiences in pediatric occupational therapy. From my initial discovery of reflex integration work to the development of the RITP program, I discuss our motivation to create accessible therapy tools for parents after facing personal challenges, including my own children's needs.
Finally, I emphasize the importance of making therapy and treatment planning accessible and effective, especially for underserved communities.2025-01-2011 min
The OT Schoolhouse Podcast for School-Based OT PractitionersReflex Integration Challenges and Solutions in School-based OTHave you ever wondered how integrating reflex patterns could enhance your approach to therapy?Join us as we discuss the world of reflex integration with Kokeb McDonald. She shares her journey and discusses the importance of understanding the root causes of developmental delays. You will learn about the MNRI program and how Kokeb has adapted its principles to create effective treatment plans within occupational therapy practice. This episode offers valuable insights into how addressing reflexes can lead to significant improvements in motor skills, attention, and overall functioning. Tune in to l...2024-12-161h 05
All Things Sensory by Harkla#323 - Reflex Integration Through Play with Kokeb McDonaldSpecial gift from Kokeb: “Harkla25” for 25% off of RITP at Home Family Bundle - https://www.integratingreflexes.com/family-bundle/
Kokeb Girma McDonald is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ (RITP) program. She is the mother of two wonderful children, and has extensive professional experience working with young people of all ages and backgrounds since 2004. Recognizing the need for practical and universally accessible primary motor reflex integration programs, Kokeb created the Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise book series and the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ method to empower and reassure frustrated p...2024-08-2848 minAll Things Sensory by Harkla#323 - Reflex Integration Through Play with Kokeb McDonaldSpecial gift from Kokeb: “Harkla25” for 25% off of RITP at Home Family Bundle - https://www.integratingreflexes.com/family-bundle/
Kokeb Girma McDonald is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ (RITP) program. She is the mother of two wonderful children, and has extensive professional experience working with young people of all ages and backgrounds since 2004. Recognizing the need for practical and universally accessible primary motor reflex integration programs, Kokeb created the Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise book series and the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ method to empower and reassure frustrated p...2024-08-2848 min
The OT is IN with Sarah Collins the Homeschool OTSupporting Children Through Play-Based Reflex IntegrationCurious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! -- In this episode, we'll explore the power of play-based and low-stress techniques in fostering children's growth and preventing frustration and fatigue. Kokeb, an occupational therapist and mom, shares her expertise on primitive reflexes and the significance of creating a safe, connected environment for our kids. We'll discuss her comprehensive program for parents that includes online training, workshops, and an app with targeted exercises—all designed to make supporting your child's development easier and more e...2024-07-1134 min
You Can Homeschool!YCH091 - Great Homeschool ElectivesDon't neglect electives in your teen's high school program! Listen in as Pat and Tracey talk about the rich opportunities and future possibilities engaging and rigorous elective courses provide.Links mentioned in this episode:YCH078 - Incorporating Fine Arts Into Your High School program - Interview with Gena Mayo of Music In Our HomeschoolYCH034 - The Link Between Primitive Reflexes and a Child's Ability to Learn - Interview with Kokeb Girma McDonaldarticle: Creative Electives for Your High School Student - https://breakthroughhomeschooling.com/creative-electives-for-your-high-school-student/~~2022-04-1231 min
You Can Homeschool!The link between primitive reflexes and a child's ability to learn - YCH034In this interview with guest and occupational therapist Kokeb Girma McDonald, Tracey and Kokeb discuss some questions that will help homeschool moms understand: what Primitive Reflexes are why it's important to be aware of them how retained reflexes can affect a child's ability to learn what parents should look for in their own children if they are struggling in certain areas, and how parents can get more information on this topic.Links mentioned in this episode:Kokeb's Facebook group - Primitive Reflex Integration ExercisesAmazon link for Kokeb's book (aff*) - "Reflex Integration T...2021-03-0933 min
Ecoutes au vertMusic for Indoors 12 - MITMITTA (Ethiopia/Norway)12th mix in our series is a very special treat feat. a feast of 80's Ethiopian music! 💕
An exciting trip filled with synths, organs, wah wahs, pop, electronic, instrumental & traditional sounds from the 80’s & early 90’s! 🎹
Plenty of female & male vocal explosions and a few stars like Asnakech Worku and Aster Aweke. 🔥
Please make a little donation, we have to renew the yearly 99 euro subscription to keep the mixes up on Soundcloud... Thanks 🙌 www.paypal.me/ecoutesauvert
If you like the mix please: Share > Like > Comment > Repost > Follow us 💜
It triggers the algorithms and gets it heard by more people. 🙏
A fascinating & comple...2021-02-252h 04
Deep SpiritualityHow To Manage Your Home During The Pandemic | How To Deal With Pandemic Problems, pt 2Proverbs 17:1 VoiceBetter to gnaw on a bit of dry crust in peace than to feast in a house full of stress.In the midst of dealing with the ongoing stress of 2020 and the pandemic, it can be easy to just want to run away and hope all of our problems will be magically solved. But no matter where we run, our stress doesn’t leave us. Rather than focus on reducing or ignoring stress, each of us needs to focus on where God is taking us, using our passions to do good for ot...2020-09-1520 min
On The airPrimitive Reflex Integration (Episode 81)Kokeb Girma McDonald, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist, the founder of Polaris Therapy, an online parent and service provider coach, and a best-seller author to Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise: An Interactive Guide to the Moro Reflex for Parents, Teachers, and Service Providers. She has 15+ years hands-on experience working with children from diverse background and with various diagnoses. Kokeb recently created an online course and wrote a book to teach parents and service providers a step-by-step home and classroom playful exercises, which can be implemented in less than 10 minutes a day to help improve a child's...2020-03-0230 min
Arkeologi på rappenArkeologi på rappen 1-1: Marianne Vedeler om middelalderoppskrifter (pilot)"Arkeologi på rappen", sesong 1, episode 1 (pilot): Professor og arkeolog Marianne Vedeler forteller om bevarte oppskrifter fra middelalderen, relevante arkeologiske funn i norske middelalderbyer og nye metoder som kan avsløre en mer variert matkultur i denne perioden enn det man vanligvis forestiller seg. Intervjuer: Marte Spangen. Produsert for Primitive tider mars 2018. Les Mariannes artikkel i PT nr. 19 her: https://www.academia.edu/36018163/Fra_kokeb%C3%B8ker_til_matrester_i_middelalderbyen_Cookbooks_and_food_remains_in_the_medieval_towns_of_Norway_._In_Primitive_Tider_2017_19_%C3%A5rg2018-04-1110 min