Pediatric Pioneers Episode 6: How Can We Unlock the Potential for Self-Determination in Youth?

Dr. Amy Coopersmith, an esteemed expert in self-determination, joinsPediatric Pioneers to explore how occupational therapy practitioners like you can empower youth to take the lead in their own development. Together with host Nicole Quint, we unpack the critical concept of learned helplessness as well as its impact, offering practical strategies to foster autonomy, motivation, and meaningful goal-setting in therapy and beyond. Tune in for actionable insights on translating self-determination research into practice and transforming therapy sessions into opportunities for true independence. You’ll walk away with tools to inspire children—and their support networks—to unlock their full potential.Learning ObjectivesCritique the effectiveness of three evidence-based strategies for improving students’ motivation and engagement in school, as presented in the case studyDesign a plan incorporating three preventative strategies and accommodations to reduce learned helplessness and foster independence in learners’ chosen occupationsDevise appropriate accommodations and modifications to address at least three implications of learned helplessness in order to promote student engagement in chosen occupationsTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:05) Introduction to guest and self-determination in pediatric therapy(00:03:00) The impact of learned helplessness(00:06:52) Special education reform and autonomy(00:09:11) Parental influence on child development(00:12:36) Strategies for empowering children(00:16:34) Research insights on self-determination(00:18:20) Parenting styles and their effects(00:20:45) Practical tools for practitioners(00:22:52) Creating child-led environments(00:26:35) Implementing calming corners'(00:30:08) Empowering decision-making in children(00:36:38) The evolution of special education reform(00:39:50) Transitioning to self-determination(00:48:01) Building buy-in among stakeholders(00:53:15) Understanding self-determination vs. self-advocacy(00:56:28) Actionable strategies for practitionersResources Mentioned in EpisodeCaptain Me (Self-Determined Kids)I Raise My Eyes to Say YesPediatric Pioneers is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Pediatric Pioneers, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pediatric-pioneersIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/