Shows
Ideas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 54 Big Feelings, Big Strategies: Emotional Regulation Meta AnalysisEmotional regulation is often treated as a behavior problem — but what if we’re missing the bigger picture? In this episode, we unpack what emotional regulation really is, why it’s so complex, and how executive function, coping skills, co-regulation, and environmental supports all play a role. We’ll move beyond surface-level strategies and explore what the research actually says about improving regulation in meaningful, sustainable ways. This will shift how you think about “big feelings” — and how to support them with big, evidence-informed strategies.We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you...
2026-02-2539 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 53 Clothes on Backward? A Super Simple Visual Cue for DressingWhy can a child complete every step of dressing… but still put the shirt on backward? In this episode of Ideas at Play, we explore a simple, research-backed occupational therapy strategy that improved clothing orientation using one small visual cue (yes — it involves duct tape). We break down why dressing orientation can be so tricky, how this approach compares to other OT and ABA interventions, and how motor learning can support independence. If backward clothes are a sticking point in your OT sessions, this episode offers a practical, low-cost strategy you can try tomorrow.
2026-02-1831 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 52 Music for Social Skills and Mental Health in AutismDrumming might not be the first intervention that comes to mind—but the evidence suggests it deserves a closer look for regulation, connection, and mental health for autistic individuals. We unpack what therapeutic drumming actually looks like (spoiler: no musical talent required), why a simple structure matters, and how rhythm can bring motor, sensory, and social skills together in one joyful intervention. If you’re curious about evidence-based strategies that feel meaningful, energizing, and genuinely fun—for both you and your clients—this episode is worth a listen. 🥁We share our own thoughts in the Research Re...
2026-02-1131 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 51 Sensory-Based Interventions - Tools or Toys?Sensory tools are a staple in pediatric OT—but not all of them are doing what we think they are. In this episode, we take a clear-eyed look at the evidence behind sensory-based interventions, from weighted vests and fidgets to caregiver coaching and environmental modifications. Drawing from a recent systematic review, we discuss what actually supports participation, what shows mixed results, and how to make data-driven decisions without losing sight of day-to-day practice realities. We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the original article too. Piller, A., M...
2026-02-0436 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 50 Listener Questions: Pediatric OT in the Real WorldEpisode 50 is all about YOU! Michele and Lacy tackle the questions that keep pediatric occupational therapists thinking, problem-solving, and sometimes scratching their heads. We dive into recommending OT service minutes with evidence (not guesswork) explore how AI can make your OT life easier while keeping therapy person-centered, and share prep hacks that save time without skimping on quality. Plus, we get real about finding mentorship and continuing education to fit you. It’s practical, honest, and full of those “aha!” moments that keep ideas—and your OT sessions—fresh and fun.Articles/Resources...
2026-01-2841 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 49 Folinic Acid and Autism: Translating the Research for Occupational TherapyFolinic acid has been showing up everywhere in conversations about autism—but what does the research actually tell us, and why should occupational therapists pay attention? In this episode of Ideas at Play, we break down a high-quality randomized controlled trial on folinic acid and translate the findings into practical, OT-relevant insights. We unpack the brain-based “why,” highlight what the study found (including changes related to autism characteristics and language), and talk about how this information fits into real-world practice. As always, we center participation, functional outcomes, and collaboration with families and medical teams. T...
2026-01-2135 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 48 Effective Collaboration With Teachers Everyone agrees that collaboration with teachers matters in school-based OT practice, yet many occupational therapists struggle to make it work in real life. In this episode, we go beyond polite check-ins and quick info-sharing to unpack what effective interprofessional collaboration really looks like. We unpack a qualitative study and the key ingredients that make collaboration work: protected time and space, trust and power-sharing, and turning shared ideas into real classroom action. This conversation reframes collaboration as something you build together, not just talk about.We share our own thoughts in the R...
2026-01-1435 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 47 10-Minute Executive Function Interventions for ADHDStruggling to find practical interventions for kids with ADHD that actually improve executive function and/or mental health? This episode breaks down a Canadian study comparing two 10-minute interventions—exercise and mindfulness meditation—and their immediate effects on inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. We explain what worked best, why it works (hello, default mode network and prefrontal cortex activation), and how occupational therapists can implement these strategies in therapy sessions or as home programs. These interventions are easy to use as preparatory activities before challenging tasks, during transitions, or as part of a bottom-up OT approach to exec...
2026-01-0738 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 46 Zones of Regulation: the Good, the Bad, and the OT Way (Encore)What happens when one of occupational therapy's most beloved programs gets put under the research microscope? Turns out Zones of Regulation—despite being wildly popular—has a shaky evidence base. BUT don’t panic and throw out all your materials, we've got some promising news. A new study shows what happens when you take Zones and actually do it the occupational therapy way: with OT scaffolding techniques, play-based activities, positive reinforcement, and environmental modifications. We explore why some previous research falls short, what this new "OT Zones of Regulation" approach achieved (hello, goal attainment!), and how occupational therapists can br...
2025-12-3141 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 45 The Ultimate Evidence Guide: What 52 Pediatric OT Interventions & 90 Years of Research Reveal (Encore)Tired of Googling for interventions that actually work? We dive into the mother of all systematic reviews covering 129 studies and 52 occupational therapy interventions across nine decades of pediatric OT research. Discover which interventions landed in the green zone (do these!), which fell into the red (avoid!), and why parent collaboration and occupation-based approaches consistently outperform bottom-up methods. Michele and Lacy discuss this evidence-based, color-coded roadmap that you can apply in your therapy sessions tomorrow. Plus they answer a listener question about the differences between sensory integration, sensory processing, sensory stimulation, and sensory desensitization. ***In episode 20, Lacy and Michele i...
2025-12-2441 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 44 AOTA Children & Youth Conference RecapMichele and Lacy recap the AOTA Children & Youth Conference where they presented on sleep interventions, hard conversations with families, and community-based fieldwork. They share the hottest topics in pediatric OT—parent collaboration, mental health strategies, handwriting, and more—plus the conversations and products that made this conference memorable.💡Want to hear more about Ideas at Work or get on our waitlist? Send us an email to IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.comStay informed, stay curious, and stay playful! ✏️ Sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.
2025-12-1727 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 43 Reflex Integration: What the Evidence Shows Reflex integration is one of the hottest topics in pediatric OT right now—but is it evidence-based? In this episode, we examine the research on the Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI®) method and uncover critical gaps that every therapist needs to know about. From inconsistent intervention methods to assessment measures missing statistical verification, to a stunning finding about retained primitive reflexes in typical preschool and elementary children (present in 93-100%). We break down what the evidence actually shows. We'll also give you a practical framework for evaluating any controversial practice and help you make informed decisions that balance rese...
2025-12-1037 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 42 Sexual Education and OT's RoleSex is an occupation, but how do we (or should we) address this in pediatric OT practice? This episode discusses why avoiding this topic is an occupational injustice and what we can do about it. We talk about the research and cover everything from sensory considerations in relationships to teaching boundaries and safety. If you work with adolescents or young adults, this episode will give you the framework, practical tools, and confidence to start supporting clients and caregivers in this critical—and often overlooked—area of daily life.We share our own thoughts in the Rese...
2025-12-0336 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 41 The Thankful Therapist's Gift Guide (OT Style)Holiday shopping with purpose starts here! This week we're sharing our favorite gift ideas for therapists, kids, and everyone on your list. Discover directories of disabled-owned businesses for fun new ideas, then hear about our favorite therapy products like light-up pop tubes, bubble tongs, and the bow-and-arrow set. We're also highlighting self-care essentials every therapist needs—from anxiety-reducing playlists to washable clinic rugs. Whether you're filling stockings or treating yourself, these are genuine recommendations from two OTs who love using great products. Check the newsletter (sign-up below) for links to everything we mentioned!💡Want to he...
2025-11-2631 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 40 Let's Talk Ayres SI, Autism, & Play with Dr. Heather KuhaneckRunning in circles, flapping arms, spinning with ribbons—Heather Kuhaneck, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, explains why joining in play with kids creates the connection that makes therapy possible. As editor of Case-Smith’s Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents, co-creator of the Sensory Processing Measure, and program director at Southern Connecticut State University, Heather knows play and sensory integration inside out. She shares research-backed strategies for using imitation to spark connection, introduces her Classroom Sensory Environment Assessment (C-SEA) tool for collaborating with teachers, and how to make the most of boring playgrounds. You'll hear unfo...
2025-11-1938 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 39 What New OTs Really Want in a JobWhat do early career occupational therapists really prioritize when choosing their first OT job? Spoiler alert: salary ranks 9th out of 16 factors. In this episode, we break down a fascinating Canadian study that surveyed early career occupational therapists about what actually matters in their job search—and the findings might surprise you. We reveal the top intrinsic and extrinsic factors driving OT employment decisions, why 60% of new grad occupational therapists have jobs lined up before graduation, and how OT priorities shift between your first job and your second (or third!) job. Occupational therapy students will learn what to lo...
2025-11-1238 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 38 Building Motor Skills & Social Communication with Autistic KidsWant an OT intervention that tackles motor skills AND social communication? This week we're unpacking seated play intervention for autistic children—exactly what it looks like, why it works, and how occupational therapists can use these key ingredients in practice. We explore research revealing surprising BOT-2 results, the power of structured repetition, and whether telehealth matches face-to-face therapy effectiveness. Plus, Michele shares a vulnerable "Failed It" about balancing relationship-building with skill development. This episode delivers actionable, research-backed strategies for school-based and outpatient OTs—the research article even includes incredibly detailed supplemental materials that walk you through the intervention step...
2025-11-0536 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 37 Is Interoception Worth the Hype? A Deep Dive into the EvidenceInteroception is everywhere in pediatric occupational therapy—but does the evidence support what OTPs are doing? We dig into a 2025 scoping review revealing the surprising truth: most research is preliminary and thin. We break down 3 intervention curricula (Kelly Mahler is leading the charge), explain why your brain's insula is the "Inside Out" dashboard for body sensations and emotions, and get real about the assessment gap leaving occupational therapists flying blind. Michele shares her honest experience with interoception interventions and we tackle the burning question: should OTPs use approaches with this little evidence? Spoiler: maybe, but only if you're mea...
2025-10-2934 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 36 Home Programs That Actually WorkAn occupational therapist came into Michele's office complaining that parents weren't following through with home programs—sound familiar? The problem isn't the parents; it's how we're setting them up from day one. This episode flips that script with evidence from a 2024 scoping review on what actually drives caregiver home program adherence. You'll learn OT strategies to create programs that fit into real family life, train parents effectively (hint: it's not a five-page handout), and build the relationships that make collaboration actually work. Plus, Lacy shares a pediatric OT dentistry program, Nailed It!We share our ow...
2025-10-2237 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 35 CO-OP for Improving Motor SkillsWhat if you could peek inside a child's brain and actually SEE therapy working? That's exactly what researchers did with CO-OP (Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance)—and the results are amazing! Join Lacy and Michele as they break down the 12-week protocol and the 7 surprisingly simple cognitive strategies (you're probably already using some!) that help kids meet THEIR goals for play/leisure, academics, and daily self-care activities. From verbal cues to body positioning, learn how OTs teach children to problem-solve their own challenges. Plus, brain imaging reveals CO-OP literally rewiring neural connections.We share our ow...
2025-10-1536 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 34 Sensory Integration in SchoolsCan sensory integration really work in schools, or are we just wasting instructional time? This week we're reviewing a study that finally gives us answers. Three students, 17.5 hours of intervention, and results that impressed both teachers and researchers. Michele and Lacy break down this single-subject design study using Ayres SI and weekly teacher consultation with outcome measures sensitive enough to show real change. You'll learn the exact intervention protocol, hear what teachers actually said about pulling kids from class, and discover why this feasibility study matters for your practice.We share our own thoughts in...
2025-10-0835 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 33 Play as Occupation with guest Dr. Anita BundyWhat if the biggest barrier to children's play isn't the kids—it's us? We are thrilled to chat with our special guest, Dr. Anita Bundy—the world-renowned OT behind some of the most transformative play research out there. She explains why kids actually need to take risks in play, how she facilitates risk-reframing conversations, and why American kids have way less play than their Norwegian counterparts. You'll hear stories about autistic kids finding their people through tire forts and pool noodle creations, Anita’s “Failed It” story (yes, she keeps it real!), and discover the game-changing difference between using play...
2025-10-0148 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 32 Sydney Playground ProjectWhat do old tires, crates, pool noodles, and hay bales have in common? They're the secret ingredients that revolutionized recess for hundreds of kids in Dr. Anita Bundy's groundbreaking Sydney Playground Project. In this episode, we get into the occupational therapy research that proved when you add "junk" to a playground and let kids take risks, magic happens. Kids moved more, played harder, and got creative in ways that fancy equipment could never achieve. This study is changing how OTs and schools think about recess, shares why risky play isn't actually dangerous, and gives you everything you need...
2025-09-2434 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 31 Zones of Regulation: the Good, the Bad, and the OT WayWhat happens when one of occupational therapy's most beloved programs gets put under the research microscope? Turns out Zones of Regulation—despite being wildly popular—has a shaky evidence base. BUT don’t panic and throw out all your materials, we've got some promising news. A new study shows what happens when you take Zones and actually do it the occupational therapy way: with OT scaffolding techniques, play-based activities, positive reinforcement, and environmental modifications. We explore why some previous research falls short, what this new "OT Zones of Regulation" approach achieved (hello, goal attainment!), and how occupational therapists can br...
2025-09-1740 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 30 Making Hospitals Sensory-Friendly70% of autistic individuals have at least one mental health condition, but here's the kicker—the very hospitals meant to help them might be making everything worse. Picture this: you're already in crisis, then you're hit with buzzing fluorescent lights, scratchy bedsheets, and the smell of industrial cleaning solutions. For autistic teens, it's a recipe for prolonged stays and increased meltdowns. But what if we actually asked them what would help? That's exactly what UK researchers did, and their findings will change how OTPs think about every clinical space. From the surprising impact of curved wa...
2025-09-1035 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 29 A Sleep Intervention with Dreamy Outcomes95% of kids with neurodevelopmental disorders struggle with sleep—but there's an OT intervention that gives families an extra hour of sleep per night! In this episode, we discuss an occupational therapy study from Argentina that used telehealth and coaching to transform bedtime battles. This isn't the typical "try melatonin" approach—it's a comprehensive 5-step program addressing everything from parent self-care to zeitgeber (yes - that’s a real term and it’s amazing). Michele breaks down this intensive OT intervention, delivering significant improvements in bedtime resistance, sleep onset, and duration. We're sharing exactly how occupational therapists can implement these st...
2025-09-0336 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 28 Responsive Feeding (and how OTPs are using this approach)Many of our families know that sinking feeling when mealtime becomes a battlefield—tears, tantrums, and the stress of watching a child refuse meal after meal. But what is the best way to help? This week, we dive into a brand-new scoping review on responsive feeding for pediatric feeding disorders—an approach that's finally putting words to what many OTPs have been doing intuitively. We'll break down the two key pillars: environmental supports (consistent meal schedules, intentional positioning, and sensory-minded food preparation) and strengthening caregiver-child relationships through coaching and education. While this approach might sound familiar to OTs—focusi...
2025-08-2734 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 27 Group vs. Individual OT for Autistic ToddlersDrowning in long therapy wait lists? Researchers found that group DIR Floortime (4 kids, 2 therapists) produced the same outcomes as individual occupational therapy sessions for autistic toddlers—AND slashed wait times from 108 to 52 days! We break down what worked, the challenges (parent participation was tricky), and what the therapists thought about it. Plus Michele's epic "Failed It" moment with bleeding lips and Lacy's activity up & down-grading breakthrough. If you're looking to serve more kids faster without sacrificing quality, this episode delivers a solution that you could try tomorrow.We share our own thoughts in the Research Re...
2025-08-2033 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 26 Have Impostor Syndrome? (Here’s what to do)Ever feel like you are in over your head? You're not alone—new research shows 84% of occupational therapy practitioners and students secretly battle impostor syndrome. From OT students to seasoned therapists, despite being well qualified, we're all wondering if we actually know what we're doing! In this episode, we break down the study that puts numbers to what we feel and reveal who may be hit hardest by these "Am I good enough?" thoughts. Then, Michele & Lacy share their strategies to move past impostor syndrome. Whether you're an OTA doubting your skills, an occupational therapy student feeling overwhelmed, or...
2025-08-1331 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 25 Hand Strengthening for HandwritingMichele presents research that offers a completely different perspective on OT handwriting intervention. While previous episodes emphasized task-specific training (doing writing to improve writing), this study suggests that students receiving specialized resistance exercises—putty, rubber bands, clips—significantly outperformed control groups on handwriting legibility. We discuss the mechanisms behind these results and share practical strengthening activities OTPs can use in their sessions or use as home (or car) programs. We explore this alternative viewpoint, discuss the conflicting evidence, and let you decide how this fits into your OT practice. Plus, hear about Lacy's McDonald's shoe-tying success story and the...
2025-08-0624 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastSummer of Play Series: Play PersonalitiesEp 24 - In our final Summer of Play episode, we're uncovering the rich history and complex science that makes play genuinely unique in pediatric OT practice. Journey from Piaget and Vygotsky's foundational theories to Mary Reilly's revolutionary work for occupational therapy. We'll break down the National Institute of Play's eight distinct categories - from attunement and rough-and-tumble play to imaginative storytelling - revealing why recognizing these differences can shape your pediatric occupational therapy sessions. Plus, discover your own play personality through their quiz and learn whether you're an explorer, collector, competitor, or one of five other types to...
2025-07-3028 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastSummer of Play Series: Interventions for PlayEp 23 - Ready to turn your occupational therapy sessions into playgrounds of learning? In this episode of our Summer of Play Series, we explore using play as both the vehicle AND the destination in pediatric OT. We'll discuss 5 manualized occupational therapy interventions that facilitate play for kids (and OTPs!) and 6 other evidence-based strategies for many diagnoses and practice settings. Discover how LEGO bricks build friendships, why getting down on the floor is a powerful OT clinical tool, and learn the key ingredients that transform ordinary activities into genuine play experiences. Whether you're an occupational therapy practitioner justifying play...
2025-07-2331 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastSummer of Play Series: Assessing PlayEp 22 - Think you know how to assess play? We break down the surprising gap between how important play is for EVERY PART of child development and how this occupation is often overlooked in OT/OTA education programs and practice. You'll discover the 4-part definition of play, the top 3 play assessments every pediatric occupational therapy practitioner should know, and learn simple ways to incorporate play observation into your OT evaluations. Find the assessments discussed in this episode and more in the textbook Play in Occupational Therapy for Children, 2nd Ed. by Parham & Fazio. 💡W...
2025-07-1628 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastSummer of Play Series: 10 Fun Summer Therapy IdeasEp 21 - Summer just got a whole lot more fun! 🌞 Michele and Lacy kick off their Summer of Play series with 10 fun, evidence-based therapy activities. From DIY food trucks and table tennis for executive function to water balloons for social play to messy mud & shaving cream toy washes, these aren't just fun activities—they're strategic summertime interventions that your therapy kids will want to do again. Build your toolkit of seasonal strategies that work across all pediatric occupational therapy settings and ability levels. Time to trade your worn-out activities for some serious summer fun!
2025-07-0927 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 20 Do What Works! (with guest Dr. Iona Novak)Stop guessing and start knowing which occupational therapy interventions actually work. World-renowned OT researcher Professor Iona Novak discusses her revolutionary Traffic Light System that rates occupational therapy interventions with simple green, yellow, and red color coding. Learn why starting with client goals (not assessments) delivers faster outcomes, discover which interventions are moving from yellow to green (including stem cell research!), and discover her READ framework for evidence-based OT decision making. From her childhood friendship with Louisa, who had cerebral palsy, to her systematic review of ALL pediatric occupational therapy interventions (that we previously discussed on our podcast...
2025-07-0248 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 19 Pictures vs. Videos: Choosing the Right Visual Support for ADL GoalsYou've heard that a picture is worth a thousand words, but what about a thousand prompts? When it comes to helping autistic kids master daily living skills like brushing teeth, washing hands, and tying shoes, the visual support debate is real: static pictures or dynamic videos? Occupational therapists Michele and Lacy discuss research that puts these two visual strategies head-to-head, revealing insights about which kids thrive with which approach. Spoiler alert: it's not a simple winner! Plus, get the scoop on Boom Whackers (yes, that's a real thing), safety tips for teaching knife skills...
2025-06-2535 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 18 Aquatic Therapy: Using the Pool for More Than Swim LessonsWhen you think of therapy in the swimming pool, swim lessons probably come to mind. However, occupational therapy practitioners use water for so many life skills! This week, Michele dives into research from Spain that reveals how aquatic therapy can be beneficial for autistic children in OT settings. The results? Better school performance, improved social competence, and happier kids overall. Plus, Michele shares her own terrifying pool story of a little girl who loved staying under the water for a long time and the treatment strategy to ensure her safety.We share our own thoughts...
2025-06-1837 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 17 Time Management Treatment Ideas for ADHDReady for an ADHD intervention that tackles the root problem of time management? This Swedish research hands occupational therapy practitioners a comprehensive protocol that includes both remediation and compensation strategies for time processing difficulties. We unpack the three core components of time processing ability and explore a manualized program blending environmental modifications with daily skill-building sessions. Plus, Lacy shares a Failed It story about shoes that went missing, and Michele explains a fantastic Nailed It experience with her strategy for diffusing a power struggle during an OT evaluation. We share our own t...
2025-06-1138 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 16 From Student Projects to Group Therapy: How to Build Better TeamsAs occupational therapy practitioners, we spend our careers working in teams—yet most of us learned to hate group work in OT/OTA school. Sound familiar? We're breaking down brand-new research from the Journal of OT Education that studied how to build better teams to avoid group disasters. Whether you're an OT/OTA student dreading your next group project, an educator trying to build the best groups for an assignment, a new grad navigating clinic dynamics, or an experienced occupational therapy practitioner leading interdisciplinary teams, you'll discover evidence-based strategies to use tomorrow. Plus, get tips on how to pr...
2025-06-0445 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 15 Accept, Adapt & Advocate: Autistic Adults Share Insights for OTPsEver wonder what your pediatric OT clients will say about you when they grow up? In this episode, Lacy & Michele explore qualitative research where autistic adults share what they wish their childhood occupational therapists had known. Their insights challenge us to embrace neurodiversity by accepting (rather than “fixing”) autism, adapting environments instead of forcing compliance, and prioritizing client autonomy. These perspectives offer occupational therapy practitioners a roadmap to more effective, ethical, and empowering therapy approaches. Plus, Lacy shares a hilarious Failed It and Michele discovers a new pop-tube.We share our own thoughts in the Rese...
2025-05-2836 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 14 Role of OT and Co-Occupation in the NICU (and why it matters!)Step into the NICU where beeping monitors meet tiny fighters and discover how sensory connections are changing the game for premature infants. We unpack the SENSE program that's putting occupational therapists at the forefront of preemie care, revealing why those first touches, sounds, and movements matter more than you think. Join Lacy and Michele as they take a deep dive into co-occupation. Whether you're a clinician seeking evidence-based strategies or simply fascinated by early development, you'll discover why co-occupation isn't just a clinical term—it's the powerful connection that shapes developing brains and strengthens families during their most ch...
2025-05-2143 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 13 The Ultimate Evidence Guide: What 52 Pediatric OT Interventions & 90 Years of Research RevealTired of Googling for interventions that actually work? We dive into the mother of all systematic reviews covering 129 studies and 52 occupational therapy interventions across nine decades of pediatric OT research. Discover which interventions landed in the green zone (do these!), which fell into the red (avoid!), and why parent collaboration and occupation-based approaches consistently outperform bottom-up methods. Michele and Lacy discuss this evidence-based, color-coded roadmap that you can apply in your therapy sessions tomorrow. Plus they answer a listener question about the differences between sensory integration, sensory processing, sensory stimulation, and sensory desensitization. ***In episode 20, Lacy and Michele i...
2025-05-1439 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 12 Shooting for Better Sleep: How Playing Basketball Improves Sleep & Executive FunctionCould better sleep for autistic children be as simple as shooting some hoops? In this episode, occupational therapists, Michele Alaniz and Lacy Wright, dive into fascinating research showing how a structured basketball intervention significantly improves sleep quality and executive function in children with autism. Learn how this intervention increases melatonin and boosts BDNF, enhancing neuroplasticity while being incredibly fun. Perfect for OT practitioners looking for innovative, effective approaches that can be implemented in clinics, schools, or home settings. Game-changing therapy doesn't get more playful than this!We share our own thoughts in...
2025-05-0738 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 11 Handwriting & OT: Guiding Principles for Today and the Future (with AI)Up to 10% of children have difficulty with handwriting, yet only 12% of teachers feel adequately trained to teach it. This week, we break down the six evidence-based principles (plus one essential bonus) that should guide all handwriting instruction and occupational therapy intervention. We examine why focusing on the occupation of writing outperforms a sensory-motor approach, how immediate feedback accelerates progress, and why explicit instruction matters so much. Plus, get a glimpse into how AI technologies like Kaligo and Psymark are revolutionizing how OTs, teachers, and families can collaborate to support children's handwriting development in the digital age.
2025-04-3040 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 10 Tubes & Tables: Supporting Mealtime with Medically Fragile Kids (special guest episode)What happens when a child isn't able eat? In this milestone 10th episode, Michele and Lacy explore the complex world of pediatric occupational therapy and feeding with medically fragile children and our guest, Yovana Harris, BA, COTA/L. She shares both "Nailed It" and "Failed It" experiences, explains her “just give them the food” feeding philosophy, and gives a shout-out to her favorite OT feeding resources. Learn why building trust with parents becomes the foundation for effective OT intervention and how finding moments of joy at mealtime can be life-changing, even when full oral feeding isn't always possible. With...
2025-04-2354 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 9 VR and Pediatric Brain Injury (3 Takeaways to Apply Across OT Settings)Ever wonder how virtual reality could change your pediatric occupational therapy practice? Michele and Lacy dive into a randomized control trial where VR helped kids with brain injuries make progress in just four weeks of OT intervention! Hear about 3 game-changing elements occupational therapists can implement: instant feedback, kids actually wanting to do more repetitions in therapy, and automatic adjustments for that perfect "just right challenge" every OT strives for. No fancy equipment? No problem - these main ideas work in many OT settings. You'll also hear about a creative occupational therapy "Nailed It!" moment where a high schooler...
2025-04-1638 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 8 Ayres SI in Brazil: 3 Tools to Boost Your OT PracticeDid you know that up to 16% of children have sensory processing challenges that impact their daily lives? In this evidence-packed episode, pediatric occupational therapists Michele and Lacy break down a groundbreaking randomized control trial from Brazil on Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) that every peds OT needs to know about. Discover three practical tools that will transform your OT practice: data-driven decision making, the ASI fidelity measure, and goal attainment scaling. Plus, find out why golden retrievers and toddlers don't always mix in therapy sessions!We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage...
2025-04-0936 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 7 Parent-Powered Potty Training: The 4-Step Coaching Model in TelehealthForget everything you thought you knew about toilet training—this evidence-based pediatric occupational therapy approach is changing the game. In this episode, we dive into a hybrid telehealth intervention that transformed toilet training success rates through occupation-based coaching strategies that every peds OT should know. Learn the 4-step framework that empowers parents to become the experts in their child's potty training journey, showing significant improvement in just 12 weeks! We'll break down practical occupational therapy ideas that therapists are using to guide families through this challenging milestone and reveal which resources parents actually use (spoiler: it's not the handouts!). Whe...
2025-04-0234 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 6 The Surprising #1 Reason OT Students Fail Fieldwork (And How You Can Help)Struggling OT Fieldwork students? The shocking truth is that occupational therapy knowledge isn't what makes or breaks fieldwork success—it's professional behaviors! Join pediatric occupational therapists, Michele and Lacy, as they unpack evidence-based strategies for fieldwork in this must-listen episode. From communication skills to time management, discover the essential professional behaviors that make or break fieldwork experiences and learn practical tools that transform OT education. Whether you're a peds OT seeking fresh ideas, a fieldwork educator, or a student preparing for practice, this episode delivers actionable insights to ensure fieldwork success.We sh...
2025-03-2636 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 5 Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3: Top School-Based OT Interventions That WorkOverwhelmed by your school-based OT caseload? Join Drs. Michele Alaniz and Lacy Wright as they discuss three decades of research into actionable, tiered interventions that deliver measurable results. Learn why the most successful school-based OTs are shifting from traditional pull-out services to classroom-embedded support, dramatically reducing waitlists while expanding their influence. This episode unpacks game-changing approaches at every tier with concrete, research-supported strategies, specific intervention dosage guidelines, and methods to convert teachers into enthusiastic collaborators. We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the article too.
2025-03-1930 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 4 Beyond the Messy Desk: Assessing Executive Function in AdolescentsThink a messy backpack or desk is just carelessness? We don’t think so. This episode cracks open the complex world of executive function in school, showing therapists how the Weekly Calendar Planning Activity assessment can unlock insights into how adolescents may be struggling to think, plan, organize, and navigate their world. Plus - Lacy and Michele answer a listener's question, exposing a sensory-based myth found on Instagram.We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the article too.Tamm, L., Hamik, E. M., Zoromski, A. K., & Du...
2025-03-1231 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 3 Scoring Success: Quality Sports Participation for Kids with AutismHow can we make sports truly meaningful for children with autism? In this episode, pediatric OTs Dr. Michele Alaniz and Dr. Lacy Wright break down a comprehensive framework for quality participation in sports. Explore research-backed strategies for creating the perfect balance of challenge, autonomy, and social connection in sports programs. The hosts share their recent practice stories in "Nailed It or Failed It," introduce you to an inspiring autistic artist in Kansas, and reveal the story of their cross-country friendship and professional journey. We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you t...
2025-03-0535 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 2 Play that Works: Engaging & Effective OT Motor Interventions for Kids with CPWhat if you could help children with cerebral palsy make significant motor gains with half the therapy hours while keeping both parents and kids engaged? Pediatric occupational therapists Dr. Michele Alaniz and Dr. Lacy Wright dive into the OT research comparing constraint-induced movement therapy and bimanual intensive training, revealing which approach might have the long-term edge for your pediatric therapy practice. Along the way, you'll hear Michele's inspiring OT story about a former client who now rides mountain bikes after successfully using constraint-induced movement therapy, discover practical pediatric occupational therapy strategies to overcome initial child resistance and laugh...
2025-02-2629 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastEp. 1 Play With Purpose: An OT Motor Skill Intervention for AutismDid you know that over 80% of children with autism are at risk for motor impairment (Bhat, 2022)? Today, we're diving into new research that's changing how we approach motor development in autism. You'll learn five evidence-based steps you can implement immediately in your practice, including a surprising twist on video modeling that goes beyond just visual learning. Whether you're an OT or PT, this episode will transform how you think about motor-based intervention. Join Dr. Michele Alaniz and Dr. Lacy Wright as we explore ideas that will impact your therapy sessions.Bhat, A. (2022). M...
2025-02-1918 minIdeas at Play: An Occupational Therapy (OT) PodcastWelcome to Ideas at Play!Welcome to Ideas at Play, your go to podcast for practical and engaging insights into pediatric occupational therapy. We're your hosts, Michele Alaniz, OTD, OTR/L, BCP, and Lacy Wright OTD, OTR/L, BCP - two OTs with a passion for breaking down research and helping you apply it to your practice in meaningful ways.Every episode will take you through the latest pediatric OT research, share real world examples, and give you tools you can use right away.Plus, we've got our favorite segment, Nailed It or Failed It, where we share what's worked a...
2025-02-0801 min
The OT Schoolhouse Podcast for School-Based OT PractitionersOTSH 40: SBOT Journal Club - Autism, Hand Strength, & Handwriting Feat. Billy HatridgeIn this episode, Jayson hosts the OT Dad, Billy Hatridge, to review an article titled "Hand Strength, Handwriting, and Functional Skills in Children With Autism" by Michele Alaniz, Eleanor Galit, Corina Isabel Necesito & Emily Rosario. This is a 2015 article from the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. Show notes: otschoolhouse.com/episode40 Article Citation: Michele L. Alaniz, Eleanor Galit, Corina Isabel Necesito, Emily R. Rosario; Hand Strength, Handwriting, and Functional Skills in Children With Autism. Am J Occup Ther 2015;69(4):6904220030p1-6904220030p9. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2015.016022. (Link to AJOT)Thanks for tuning i...
2019-10-1519 min