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  • Tackling Homeschool Guilt and Finding Your Own Path with Kelly Edwards

    Tackling Homeschool Guilt and Finding Your Own Path with Kelly Edwards
    2025/07/24
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Kelly Edwards, a homeschool parent and creator of the 90 Minute School Day framework shares how early in her own homeschooling journey, Kelly’s insights from podcasts and social media were a guiding light. We dive into Kelly’s unexpected beginnings with homeschooling, the challenges she faced as a foster and adoptive parent, and how her journey evolved from recreating a traditional classroom at home to gradually letting go of rigid expectations. Kelly opens up about navigating the unique needs of her neurodivergent children, the process of deschooling, and the internal work necessary to truly embrace homeschooling freedom. You’ll also hear practical strategies for self-care as a homeschool parent, balancing sibling relationships, and what a day in the life looks like using Kelly’s 90 Minute School Day approach. Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or looking for reassurance and inspiration, this is full of honesty, encouragement, and actionable advice. In this episode you'll hear about: The start of homeschooling: Not originally planned.Early exposure to homeschooling through a friend.Becoming foster and adoptive parents in West Virginia.Specific family needs leading to the decision to homeschool.Daughter’s academic, social, and emotional needs not fully met in traditional school.Desire to build stronger family bonds and attachment.Attempt to replicate traditional school at home (gradebooks, schedules, pledge, etc.).Realizing the Need for FlexibilityLetting go of unnecessary routines and structures.Dropping unneeded activities (e.g., spelling tests).Navigating self-doubt and seeking validation from others.Advice from Akilah Richards (“resistance is the roadmap”) and what that means in practice.Identifying and responding to resistance points in homeschooling.Transition Toward DeschoolingUnderstanding “behavior as communication.”Gradually dropping what didn’t work; picking up what did.Moving from strict frameworks to intuition and permission.The importance and discomfort of making individualized choices.Challenges of HomeschoolingNavigating neurodivergence within the family.Evolving as a parent and the grief of changed expectations.Managing Parental Needs and Self-CareThe 90 Minute School Day PhilosophyExplaining skill areas (reading, writing, math) and content areas (family time, activities, exploration).Emphasis on layering and reinforcing learning as children grow older. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Homeschool Daily Set Up: Parental Planning Guide Join Me At The BRAVE 2025 Conference Online Akilah Richards- Raising Free People: Unschooling as Liberation How To Integrate The Zones At Home Structure, Schedules, and Unschooling? Episode 30: Sensory Processing and Co-Regulation: Insights for Parents Episode 33: Dyslexia Demystified: Marianne Sunderland's Approach and Homeschooling Tips Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Rest Episode 61: Mindful Moments: Supporting Focus and Calm in ChildrenConnect With Sarah On Instagram90 Minute School DayConnect With Kelly On Instagram Connect With Our Guest, Kelly Edwards Kelly Edwards is the founder of The 90-Minute School Day™, a framework that helps parents transition from a school-based mindset to natural learning. She helps families create a thriving homeschool by prioritizing felt-safety, connection, self-awareness, while honoring biological rhythms and neurodivergence. Through her Day in the Life community, Guide Training™ program, and The 90-Minute School Day™ podcast, Kelly supports parents in unlearning school-based conditioning, trusting natural learning, and redefining success by focusing on strengths, not setbacks. A wife and long-time homeschooling parent of three girls, she is also a parent coach, educator, and trauma-informed foster care advocate. Learn more at 90minuteschoolday.com
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    35 分
  • Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It

    Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It
    2025/07/17
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I got the chance to sit down with Katie Cooper, a seasoned occupational therapist turned health coach, who shares her journey from burnout to wellness and how that fueled her passion for supporting other moms. Drawing from nearly two decades of OT experience and her own story of overcoming stress and overwhelm during the pandemic, Katie opens up about practical strategies for calming the nervous system—strategies that are especially useful for homeschool families and any parent juggling busy roles. From quick, restorative rituals to the science behind movement, breathing, and even the power of a 20-second hug, this conversation dives deep into why our modern lives leave us on constant high alert—and what to do about it. Whether you’re a homeschooler, a busy mom, or just looking for real-world tips to manage the pressures of daily life, this is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice. In this episode you'll hear about: Roles vs. IdentityHow changes in roles can impact one’s sense of selfThe importance of recognizing shifts in roles, especially for mothers and homeschool parentsModern Stress and Nervous System ActivationExplanation of why nervous systems are frequently activated in modern lifeChronic exposure to stressors and the body’s fight or flight responseThe impact of constant connectivity and information overloadComparison of past and present sources of stressThe Culture of BusynessSocietal expectations around busyness and parental pressure to provide experiencesHow removing traditional chores has led to filling time with structured activitiesThe challenge of saying “no” to opportunities for children and balancing self-careImportance of modeling healthy boundaries for childrenPractical Ways to Calm the Nervous SystemIntegrating quick, accessible calming techniques into daily lifeMovement as a tool for regulation (e.g., walking, stretching, dancing)Differentiating helpful movement from stressful exerciseIncorporating movement into family routinesBreathing exercises as a stress-management tool (e.g., 4-7-8 breathing)Implementation with children and familiesUse of props like bubbles or straws for younger kidsTools and Sensory Supports for RegulationIntroduction to calming strips and tactile supportsThe relevance and benefit for both kids and adults (including OTs themselves)The Impact of Digital ConnectivityIncreased difficulty in regulating due to the omnipresence of digital mediaBrief reflection on historical perspectives and ongoing challenges with chronic stressMore Calming StrategiesThe 20-second hug and its physiological effects (lowering stress hormones, heart rate)Using laughter as a tool to reduce stress and relax the bodyBuilding family rituals for regulation and connectionUnderstanding the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous SystemsExplanation of terms: fight or flight (sympathetic) vs. rest and digest (parasympathetic)How to recognize when the parasympathetic system is activated (e.g., yawning, sighing)Tips for increasing bodily awareness and noticing stress patternsKatie’s Coaching Work and ApproachOverview of Katie’s current work as a health coach for moms and parentsStructure of her coaching engagement (3–6 months, regular meetings, goal-setting)Emphasis on support, accountability, and gradual life changes Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Homeschool Daily Set Up: Parental Planning Guide Calming Strip StickersUnderstanding Sensory Self CareKatie Cooper WellnessConnect With Katie Cooper On InstagramKatie Cooper Wellness 10 Quick Ways To Calm Your Nervous System Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline Santangelo Episode 19: Understanding Screen Time Effects on Children's Development and Relationships Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child Development Episode 30: Sensory Processing and Co-Regulation: Insights for ParentsEpisode 32: Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self Care and Family Support Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional RestConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect With Our Guest, Katie Cooper Katie Cooper is a board-certified health coach with over 16 years of experience in the health care industry as an Occupational Therapist. After overcoming burnout, Katie started Katie Cooper Wellness to help fellow moms banish burnout and regain energy and passion for life. Katie is a mom of two and avid skier, quilter and baker. She is on a mission to help her clients overcome stress and find sustainable balance in their careers and lives.
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    31 分
  • Family, Finances, and Flexibility: OT Amirra Condelee on Real-Life Career Transitions

    Family, Finances, and Flexibility: OT Amirra Condelee on Real-Life Career Transitions
    2025/07/10
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I am joined by Amirra Condelee—an occupational therapist, stay-at-home mom, and finance advocate who’s passionate about empowering families to make intentional choices around work, family, and money. Amirra shares her fascinating journey from pursuing pediatric medicine to finding her calling in occupational therapy, and she opens up about the pivotal moment she decided to transition from full-time OT work to being at home with her young children. The conversation dives deep into the practical and emotional aspects of making that decision, including how Amirra and her husband navigated the big financial questions, worked as a team to pay down an extraordinary amount of student debt, and planned for future family goals. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, a therapist considering your next step, or just someone looking for actionable financial advice, this episode is packed with real talk, helpful strategies, and a lot of encouragement. In this episode you'll hear about: Amirra’s Occupational Therapy (OT) JourneyEarly aspirations: from wanting to be a pediatrician to discovering OT.Influence of attending a science/medical camp and exposure to neonatology/NICU.Transition after finding chemistry challenging; discovering OT through nannying for a hand therapist.Commitment to OT: switching majors and shadowing experiences, particularly in NICU settings. Shift from NICU aspirations to early intervention (EI) due to job opportunities.Experience practicing full-time in EI, then the personal choice to pause her career after pregnancy.Transition to being a full-time stay-at-home mom, podcast host, and content creator while retaining her OT influence.Decision-Making Process: Transitioning to Stay-at-Home MomThe decision-making involved in transitioning from full-time work.Emotional and logistical (especially financial) factors in the decision.The importance of open communication with her husband regarding finances.Financial Strategies and AdjustmentsBudgeting and Financial CompromisesTeaching Financial Responsibility to ChildrenPaying Off Significant Debt: The MilestoneEvaluating Higher Education and Debt ROI for ChildrenRecommended Resources for Financial LiteracyPractical Tips for Financial Organization and Communication Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Personal Finance ClubSave My Cents Wealth Is A MindsetEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-Regulation Episode 30: Sensory Processing and Co-Regulation: Insights for Parents Episode 31: Cultivating Calm: Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation in Children and Practical Solutions for ParentsEpisode 32: Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self Care and Family Support Episode 41: Building Your Support Network as a Homeschooling Parent Especially during the holiday season Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional RestHomeschool Daily Setup: Parental Planning GuideConnect With Amirra on InstagramAmirra's Facebook GroupCheck Out Amirra's Podcast HereFree Guide: Personal Finance Crash CourseConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect With Our Guest, Amirra Condelee Dr. Amirra Condelee, OTD, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist based in Phoenix, AZ, with a specialization in Early Intervention for infants and young children with sensory processing challenges, premature births, and substance exposure. A graduate of MGH Institute of Health Professions, she conducted doctoral research at Seattle Children’s Hospital on OT’s role in the NICU and Pediatric Intensive Feeding Program. In 2021, she was named Occupational Therapist of the Year by the Arizona OT Association for her leadership in clinical practice, advocacy, and public awareness. Amirra is currently on a career pause to stay home with her young children and is passionate about supporting fellow OTs navigating motherhood, money, and career pivots. She is the host of The Money Matters in OT Podcast and co-host of The Real OTs of Early Intervention podcast. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, traveling, and spending time outdoors with her family.
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    29 分
  • Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence

    Setting Up a Homeschool Day: Rhythm, Flexibility, and Presuming Competence
    2025/07/03
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We'll explore everything from setting the right mindset for both parents and kids, to adopting a belief in every child’s competence—no matter their age or learning style. You’ll learn how to foster a growth mindset, build routines that balance predictability with flexibility, and adapt activities for learners at all different stages. I'll also share my own daily rhythm, helpful tips for including toddlers and preschoolers, and strategies for sparking curiosity and connection in daily learning. If you’re looking for ways to create a more peaceful, productive, and connected homeschool environment—this conversation is for you. Get ready for actionable ideas, thoughtful reflections, and encouragement as you chart your own unique path in homeschooling. In this episode you'll hear about: Importance of mindset in homeschoolingCommon worries (e.g., “Am I doing enough?”, distributing attention among kids)Reassurance: homeschooling parents are not defined by perfect executionEssential values: curiosity, compassion, and connectionGrowth Mindset TheoryIntroduction to Dr. Carol Dweck’s work on Growth Mindset vs. Fixed MindsetPhrases to encourage growth mindset (e.g., “You might not understand it yet…”)Encouraging parents to shift self-talk toward growthModeling growth mindset for childrenHomeschool-specific context: lack of classroom comparison—importance of modeling struggle and correctionPresuming Competence in LearnersDefinition and importance of presuming competenceReference to “Presuming Competence” article by Douglas Biklen & Jamie BurkePotential harms of presuming incompetence (lowered expectations, limited opportunities)Examples of how to presume competence in a homeschool settingEstablishing Routine and RhythmDifference between strict schedules and flexible rhythmsValue of predictability to allow for flexibility (“predictability allows for flexibility”)Anecdotes about morning routines and handling unpredictabilitySample daily rhythm in Sarah’s homeschoolIncorporating Movement and ChoresChores as structured movement and sensory input for kidsPersonalization of chores to children’s sensory and developmental needsImportance of movement right after morning timeTransitioning Between SubjectsConnecting the Day to Family NeedsAdapting for Mixed Ages and AbilitiesManaging Homeschool with Babies and ToddlersEncouraging Curiosity in Older KidsThe COWLICKS Mnemonic for Field TripsBuilding Connection and Independence Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Carol Dwerk On Mindset- BookPresuming Competence Inclusive Schooling On Presuming Competence What To Do When Your Child Says "I Can't" WorkshopHomeschool Daily Setup: Parent Planning GuideEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 12: Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and PlanningEpisode 25: Understanding Hippotherapy: Therapeutic Equestrian Activities for Children's Development Episode 42: Executive Functioning Skills for Families: Holiday EditionExecutive Functioning SkillsIs My Child Ready To Handle Current Events?Executive Functioning And Field TripsConnect With Sarah On Instagram
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    34 分
  • Shifting From Compliance to Connection: The Power of Declarative Language in Supporting Kids

    Shifting From Compliance to Connection: The Power of Declarative Language in Supporting Kids
    2025/06/26

    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out!

    We’re exploring a simple yet transformative shift in how we communicate with children facing social-emotional challenges: using declarative language.

    I’ll break down exactly what declarative language is, how it differs from giving direct commands, and why this small change can make a big impact on fostering connection, self-reflection, and problem-solving skills in our kids. Drawing on resources like The Declarative Language Handbook by Linda Murphy and Communicating with Compassion by Bobbi Cook, we’ll share real-world examples, discuss both the benefits and the challenges of this approach, and bring in perspectives from autistic adults and parents.

    In this episode you'll hear about:

    • Understanding Declarative Language
    • The Importance of Declarative Language
    • Encouraging flexible thinking, problem solving, and social awareness
    • Practical Examples of Declarative Language
    • Sample statements from Linda Murphy’s work (The Declarative Language Handbook)
    • The Shift from Compliance to Connection
    • Personal Reflections and Related Experiences
    • Early exposure to these communication strategies
    • Tips for Starting with Declarative Language
    • Navigating Common Challenges
    • Considering Neurodivergent and Autistic Perspectives
    • Addressing Parental Concerns and Objections

    Links and Resources From Today's Show

    • Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?
    • When Declarative Language Doesn't Work
    • When Declarative Language Activates The Nervous System
    • Declarative Language Handbook
    • Communicating With Compassion: By Bobbi Cook
    • Episode 16: Navigating the Interoceptive Sense: Insights and Strategies for Parents
    • Episode 32: Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self Care and Family Support
    • Episode 50: Ask The OT, A Special 50th Episode
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    25 分
  • Using Music to Support Regulation, Learning, and Connection in Homeschooling and Therapy

    Using Music to Support Regulation, Learning, and Connection in Homeschooling and Therapy
    2025/06/19
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! We’re welcoming Anna Galloway, an occupational therapist and music therapist whose passion lies in blending the power of music with the practice of OT. With a background that stretches from working in mental health, hospice, and early intervention to championing collaboration across therapies, Anna dives into how music can regulate emotions, support sensory needs, and help families build connection. You’ll hear her expert insights on using music in everyday life, tips for navigating musical interests in large families, and practical advice for parents looking to make meaningful use of music at home. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, a therapist, or someone just curious about music’s impact on the brain and learning, this episode is filled with actionable ideas and heartfelt stories. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction and Background of Anna GallowayAnna’s professional journey:Started as a music therapist after graduating from the University of Alabama.Worked in diverse settings: with refugees’ families, older adults with dementia, inpatient psychiatric programs, hospice, home health, early intervention.Discovered occupational therapy (OT) while working in inpatient rehab, returned to school for OT.Now a faculty member with a research focus on integrating music and OT.Intersection of Music Therapy, Recreation Therapy, and Occupational TherapyDiscussion of collaborative, creative interdisciplinary teams (e.g., working with recreational therapists).Application of prior therapeutic experiences to homeschooling and daily family life.Exploring Auditory Processing and Music’s RoleTransition to a general discussion on music and the brain, separate from specific programs.How Music Affects the Brain and BodyExplanation of how music releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.Roles of these hormones: motivation, mood, attention, social bonding.Using music therapeutically:For relaxation and coping in hospice/end-of-life care.In the NICU to calm infants, regulate physiological responses, promote bonding.Broader uses for environmental and emotional support, regulation, and coping.Understanding Individual Responses to MusicImportance of individualized, person-centered music preferences for effective outcomes.Dangers of generic, prescriptive music interventions—what’s relaxing to one person might be arousing to another.Non-verbal cues in infants and medically fragile populations to gauge music’s effects:Watching for facial orientation, hand gestures, crying, physiological signs of overstimulation.Adjusting tempo and removing syncopation for NICU use.Using music to build tolerance or mask environmental noise as needed.Practical Strategies for Using Music with Children and FamiliesAdapting music use based on intent (regulation vs. education vs. leisure).Tips for group settings or families with mixed music preferences:Collaborative playlist-making, ensuring everyone’s input and adequate listening time.Observing engagement and adjusting duration to maintain participation.Using music for time management and transitions:“Three songs” as a non-ambiguous marker for children.Opportunities for social sharing and connection during music activities.Integrating Music into Occupational TherapyAnna’s doctoral research: Training OTs to use music more effectively.Barriers OTs may face: comfort with music, creativity, and ambiguity.Basic musical elements: rhythm, tempo, use of beats per minute (BPM).Using tempo to match and guide activity pace: Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?TAP BPM- Online Beats Per Minute CalculatorFind The BMP And Key For Any Song Music As An Occupational Therapy ToolMusic As Support To Occupational TherapyEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 15: From Morning to Night: Incorporating Social Emotional Learning in Homeschool Episode 45: Engaging Children Through Project-Based and Interest-Led Homeschooling Episode 63: Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions Episode 64: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families Connect with our Guest, Anna Galloway Anna is a Clinical Assistant Professor in Occupational Therapy at the University of Florida. She has been a music therapist for 13 years and occupational therapist for 7 years. Her current research explores uses of music within the occupational therapy scope of practice.
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    30 分
  • Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families

    Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families
    2025/06/12
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Dr. Jody Jedlicka and I explore the signs and symptoms of APD, delve into its close connections with reading, speech, and even other sensory systems, and break down the process of getting a diagnosis. Most importantly, we highlight the hope and progress possible through effective treatments like auditory training and phonics-based reading support. With practical advice for parents, insight into how speech-language pathologists and audiologists work together, and recommendations for finding resources—even when specialists are hard to come by—this episode is packed with valuable guidance for families navigating APD. In this episode you'll hear about: Introduction of guest, Dr. Jody Jedlicka, AuDJody started as an educational audiologist in Milwaukee Public Schools.Responsibilities included hearing screenings and classroom support for hearing-impaired students.Early realization about the impact of hearing on learning and reading.Moved on to clinical supervision at University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh.Led graduate students; gained experience in auditory processing testing, diagnosis, and treatment.Involvement with LearningRx for treatment options.Overview of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)Definition: Neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets sounds, especially speech.Individuals often have normal peripheral hearing but difficulties processing sound.Real-life example: Challenges understanding announcements in noisy environments (like airports).Behavioral manifestations: Appearing to have hearing loss despite passing hearing tests.Relationship Between Auditory Processing and Reading/SpeechAPD’s impact on interpreting speech sounds.Difficulty filling in missing speech sounds (auditory closure).Critical role of auditory processing in reading.Blind individuals can read Braille with good auditory processing, but hearing-challenged individuals struggle more.Connection between APD and speech issues.Can stem from genetics, auditory deprivation (e.g., frequent ear infections), or developmental factors.Difficulty hearing certain sounds can impact both speech and literacy (e.g., issues with the “R” sound and spelling).Diagnosis and Treatment of Auditory Processing DisorderChallenges in diagnosisIntersection of speech and audiology in treatment.Speech therapists as a starting point if audiologists aren’t available.Outcomes of APD overlap with things speech pathologists address (reading problems, following directions, listening in noise).Mention of alternative programs, such as LearningRx.Exploring the Link Between APD and the Vestibular SystemParent perspective: Children with a history of ear infections often seek vestibular (movement) input.Signs and Symptoms of APD Parents Might ObserveExpanded explanation of types of APD:Discrimination difficulties (hearing specific sounds).Prosody difficulties (interpreting tone/nuance).Integration: Putting all the information together. Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?LearningRX Auditory Processing Disorder (ADP) Symptoms Successful Treatment Techniques For Auditory Processing Disorders- Key TakeawaysThe Listening Program To Improve Auditory Processing DisordersEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 35: Connecting Speech, Phonemic Awareness, and Literacy: Sydney Bessard Explains it All Episode 48: Transforming Fashion for Sensory Needs: An Interview with Julia, Adaptive Apparel PioneerConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect with our Guest, Jody Jedlicka, AuD As Director of Support, Dr. Jody Jedlicka oversees the support of brain training programs and business processes for all LearningRx Centers and their owners. Jody and her husband, an educational psychologist, have owned 3 LearningRx centers in Wisconsin and Hawaii and know firsthand the day-to-day life of an owner/director. Dr. Jody is an audiologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of children with auditory processing disorders. It was her search for effective treatment options for her patients that led her to LearningRx in 2004. She is also a certified success coach and trainer. Originally from Wisconsin, Jody has been married for more than 36 years, is mom to 3 adult children, grandma to 5 grandchildren and dog-mom to her rescue, Mikey. She spends her free time with family – traveling, biking, exploring breweries and restaurants and cheering for Milwaukee Brewers baseball. She also co-hosts a podcast, The Sisterhood of Success, with her sister.
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    33 分
  • Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions

    Misophonia Explained: Causes, Triggers, and Real Life Solutions
    2025/06/05
    Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! Tom breaks down what misophonia really is, how it differs from simple sound sensitivity, and why it’s so crucial for families to recognize the signs early. They discuss current research, the lack of mainstream resources, and practical, real-world strategies families can use to support children struggling with these intense sound triggers. Tom also highlights the importance of creating supportive environments at home and the need for professional guidance when self-help strategies aren’t enough. In this episode you'll hear about: Tom’s background as a behaviorist and parenting coachHow Tom was introduced to misophonia through a personal family storyUnderstanding MisophoniaDefinition of misophonia as a reflex condition, not a hearing defectTypes of triggers: auditory, visual, and olfactoryTypical misophonia sounds (chewing, talking, birds, lawnmowers, repeating sounds)The inappropriately strong emotional reaction to common soundsReflex pathways and the concept of the “lizard brain”/brain stemThe process by which misophonia develops (pattern recognition, Pavlovian conditioning)Relationship between physical reflex and emotional responseThe lack of misophonia coverage in medical and psychology textbooksPractical Strategies and Supports for MisophoniaImportance of adding background noise (fans, noise machines) at homeBehavioral experiments and increasing body awareness in childrenCase of a young girl displaying unconscious physical reactions to triggersThe analogy to fingernails on a chalkboard as a common non-misophonia sound aversionHow physical reflexes can be more important than initially perceived emotional responsesTechniques to increase body and emotional awareness as a means of reducing triggersThe role of family dynamics and inherited patterns in misophoniaMisophonia’s prevalence in the general population (estimated 5-15%)Differentiating between normal sensitivity and a clinical level of misophoniaImpact on daily life and family relationshipsExamples where sound sensitivity expands to more triggers or worsens over timeWhen and How to Seek HelpIndicators that professional support is neededHow to test simple relaxation strategies and track changes over timeGuidance on working with children and adapting interventions to their developmental levelEncouraging early intervention to prevent escalationThe importance of family support and teamworkThe Role of Environment and Life StagesHow environment (school vs. home) changes trigger severity and coping responsesInfluence of life stress and transitions on misophonia intensityOccupational Therapy (OT) and MisophoniaOT perspective: modifying environment, activities, and body awarenessDiscussion on not altering foods, but instead targeting tolerance to normal soundsGradual reintroduction to triggering environments as part of therapyDifferent therapeutic philosophies and methods (core response vs. tolerance training)Audiologist role in providing ear-level sound generators and alleviating triggers Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? Misophonia InternationalMisophonia InstituteSo Quiet The International Misophonia FoundationEpisode 1: Unveiling the role of OT in HomeschoolingEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseverance Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara KosinskiEpisode 29: Parenting with Co-RegulationMisophonia TreatmentConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect with our Guest, Tom Dozier Tom Dozier, MS, BCBA, is a behaviorist who has researched and provided treatment for misophonia as a reflex behavior condition since 2012 and is a pioneer in misophonia research. He is author of Understanding and Overcoming Misophonia, A Conditioned Aversive Reflex Disorder and 10 journal articles. His research indicates misophonia includes both physical and emotional reflexes and explains how misophonia develops and often progresses with time. With this understanding of misophonia, Tom developed Relaxation and Counterconditioning Therapy as a behavioral treatment for misophonia. He has provided this treatment to hundreds of individuals in-person and by telehealth. Tom founded the non-profit Misophonia Institute in 2016 to promote misophonia awareness, research, and professional training, and he serves as president.
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    30 分