From Tantrums to Tools: Practical Occupational Therapy Strategies for Parents with Stephanie Ford, EP 140

Send us Fan MailHave you ever stood at the door wondering why putting on shoes feels like the hardest part of your day?In this episode of That’s Good Parenting, Dori Durbin speaks with pediatric occupational therapist Stephanie Ford about why everyday tasks like getting dressed, riding the bus, going to school, or walking through a busy store can become overwhelming for children. Its all about how understanding the brain-body connection can completely shift how you respond.Stephanie helps parents understand that what looks like stubbornness, defiance, or child behavior problems is often sensory overload, anxiety, trauma response, or difficulty with executive functioning skills.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why behavior is often driven by sensory processing challenges, not disobedienceHow sensory processing disorder and overwhelm can trigger fight-or-flight responsesThe difference between “won’t” and “can’t” in child behaviorHow executive functioning difficulties impact routines and transitionsPractical tools to support emotional regulation in childrenSigns your child may benefit from occupational therapyHow noticing patterns can reduce daily parenting stressIf your child struggles with transitions, meltdowns in busy environments, inconsistent reactions, school avoidance, or daily power struggles, this conversation will give you clarity — and simple strategies you can start using right away.About Stephanie FordStephanie Ford is a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families. Her work focuses on helping children improve daily functioning by understanding how the brain, body, sensory systems, emotions, and environment all work together. Stephanie specializes in sensory processing, emotional regulation, trauma-informed care, and practical strategies that reduce family stress.Find and Follow Stephanie FordWebsite: https://actionforward.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actionforward Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actionforward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniefordAbout Dori DurbinDori Durbin is a children’s book illustrator, book coach, ghostwriter, and podcast host who helps therapists, educators, and family-focused experts “kid-size” their work into children’s books that truly support kids and parents.Her work centers on using stories as tools for emotional regulation, shared language, and connection — helping families navigate big feelings with clarity and care.Connect with DoriWebsite: https://www.doridurbin.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dori_durbin Email: [email protected] you considering getting a pet?Listen to this episode I recorded with Amy Castro about Child Readiness for Pets!https://www.petparenthotline.com/childreadyWant to help shape future children’s books created by experts?Join the That’s Good Parenting Club to get behind-the-scenes access to upcoming manuscripts, vote on book concepts, share feedback, and be part of the stories we’re putting into children’s hands:https://club.thatsgoodparenting.com/clubIntro for TDP (version 2)