36: How to Help a Child with Developmental Delays with Casey Masalehdani

In episode 36 of the Myohacker Podcast, Karindy talks with Casey Masalehdani, Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and mother, about her journey into myofunctional therapy, pediatric speech therapy, and whole-child development. Together, they explore how engaging therapy strategies improve outcomes for children with speech delays, orofacial myofunctional disorders, and sensory processing differences. The conversation also addresses the emotional and practical realities of parenting a child with developmental delays, even as a trained clinician. Casey discusses how clinical intuition, parent coaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration help uncover root causes behind speech, feeding, airway, and behavioral challenges. Casey explains why making therapy fun and meaningful increases participation, home practice carryover, and long-term success. She shares how self-regulation, nervous system support, and sensory integration directly impact therapy progress and child behavior. This episode is especially valuable for parents and pediatric providers who want to better understand the connection between regulation, sensory needs, and functional development. Key Takeaways Making therapy engaging improves outcomes in pediatric speech therapy and myofunctional therapy Self-regulation and nervous system state directly affect therapy success Clinical intuition helps identify root causes behind speech, feeding, and behavioral concerns Parenting a child with developmental delays or sensory challenges requires layered support Understanding sensory processing differences helps reduce behavioral struggles Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The MyoHacker Podcast 01:08 Welcoming Casey Masalehdani, SLP and Myofunctional Therapist 07:09 Motivating Children and Incentivizing Home Practice 12:52 Why Regulation Matters in Pediatric Therapy 18:59 Looking Beyond Symptoms: Root Cause Thinking in Therapy 25:56 Parenting a Child with Developmental Delays: Real-Life Perspective 30:31 Parent Self-Regulation and Co-Regulation Strategies 35:53 Growth, Resilience, and Positive Parenting Mindset 42:50 Episode Wrap-Up and Key Reflections   How to Connect with Casey:   Instagram  |  @explorespeech https://www.explorespeech.com/    How to Connect with Karindy:    https://www.myohackerslp.com/ Instagram  |  @myohackerslp  Facebook  |  @myohackerslp  YouTube  |  @theMyohackerPodcast   Spotify  |  The Myohacker Podcast Apple Podcast  |  The Myohacker Podcast The Intuitive Myohacker 2026: https://forms.gle/z88kLuownA2q4jxw9    Credits:  The Myohacker Podcast is hosted by Karindy Ong, MA, CCC-SLP and edited by Allison Massengale. Song “Better Sweater” performed by Desert Dive, licensed via Soundstripe. Content ID: HK0VMWMW0DQCJDSE   Disclaimer:  The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast or its affiliates. This podcast does not provide medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with appropriate professionals regarding your individual circumstances. By listening, you agree that the host and podcast are not responsible for any actions you may take based on the information provided.