57. Adult Roles in Play through a Sensory Emotional Lens

With the start of a new school year comes new routines, transitions, and a whole lot of change—for kids and adults. In this episode, we explore the incredible power you hold—whether you’re a parent, therapist, teacher, or grandparent—in supporting children’s developing brains and bodies through a sensory emotional lens. We’ll unpack how the brain develops, why kids can’t always do what we expect, and how understanding their sensory emotional personality (SEP) can transform daily routines from chaos to connection. In this episode, you’ll discover:Why children’s brains aren’t wired for full planning, decision-making, and impulse control until around age 25How to spot different sensory emotional personalities (SEPs) and the role you can play in supporting each oneSimple strategies to reduce morning meltdowns, strengthen independence, and foster persistenceHow your presence, tone, and creativity—not fancy equipment—are your greatest tools for connection The 5 Sensory Emotional Personalities (and Your Role):Anxious yet Deeply Feeling → Playful ProtectorCreate predictability, calm, and safety through a gentle tone and playful structureUnaware yet Deep Thinker → ConnectorUse exaggerated expressions, movement, and humor to motivate and engageConfused yet Full of Wonder → Wondering ExperimenterEncourage trial and error, use “Plan A / Plan B,” and guide with “I wonder…” languageNeedy yet Compassionate → Helpful SupporterProvide physical and emotional support, filling in the gaps to prevent overwhelmScattered yet Intentional and Passionate → OrganizerOffer structure, sequencing, and playful problem-solving to turn chaos into clarity No matter your role in a child’s life, you have the power to shape their experience with compassion, connection, and creativity. By stepping into these supportive roles, you help bridge gaps in their development while nurturing independence and resilience. Try one of the strategies shared today in your morning routine and send us your experiences—we’d love to share them with our community!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesensoryemotional_ot/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatkidsplace/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreatKidsPlace/Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/and https://sensoryemotional.org/AboutAnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2, Occupational Therapist, Great Kids PlaceAnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of ReferenceMichele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.