Belle’s OT Corner

Toileting can feel like it should be straightforward, until you’re the one supporting a child thought it. When they are unsteady on the seat,  overwhelmed by the bathroom, or unsure what their body is even telling them. In this episode take a clear OT approach to toilet training and building toileting independence. We talk through the hidden skills behind toileting, including balance and postural control for sitting safely, motor planning for climbing up and managing clothes, interoception for noticing “I need to go”. You’ll hear practical ideas for setting up the bathroom,  ways to reduce sensory overload from bright lights, echo, smells, flushing, to noisy hand dryers. We also share language you can use to give kids more choice and control, so the bathroom feels less surprising and more manageable.We dive into the  full toileting sequence and discuss why visuals, social stories, and consistent routines can unlock independence for older kids as well as toddlers. We cover wiping practice games, creative problem solving with toilet paper, and clothing choices that make early toilet training easier, then finish with tips for keeping strategies consistent across home, preschool, school, and community toilets.If you found these OT toileting tips helpful, don't forget to leave a review and share the podcast around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. If you would like to donate and support the podcast - https://studio.buymeacoffee.com/dashboard DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

In this episode we dive into some of the reasons bath and shower time can be a tricky dynamic and go through practical strategies to support bath and shower time to not only be fun, but opportunities for independence. We go through what can be happening from a sensory perspective, how to use predictability and routines to your benefit was to set up the bathroom environment for success and practical strategies for independence in washing their body, their hair and drying off at the end of the day. Including playful techniques to keep the bath/shower time a fun experience for all. If your child needs more support, we also outline when to consider equipment like grab rails, shower seats, long-handled scrubbers, or transfer solutions—always with guidance from your occupational therapist to get the right fit. Share this episode with a friend who dreads bath time, try one change tonight, and tell us what worked. If you’re finding value in these practical OT tools, subscribe, leave a quick review, and consider supporting the show—your encouragement keeps these resources flowing. What’s the one bath time tweak you’ll test first?If you would like to donate and support the podcast - https://studio.buymeacoffee.com/dashboard DISCLAIMER: Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

The fastest way to make mealtimes calmer isn’t a new gadget; it’s seeing what’s really happening beneath the spills. In this week's episode We unpack how posture, coordination, attention, and sensory processing shape every bite, and why small, smart changes can turn chaos into progress without power struggles or pressure.We start with setup and posture, how this can impact on our ability to access feeding. We chat through the importance of mess and simple strategies to bring into mealtimes. We also chat through restricted diets through a sensory lens, showing how unpredictable textures and smells can shrink a child’s “safe foods,” and how low-demand exploring—an extra plate, silly food art, cooking together—opens the door to variety.You’ll learn practical, OT-backed steps for self-feeding. For spoons and forks, we use backwards chaining and tiny prompts to fade support. We share simple cues that can help kids to organise their movements. For knives, we build bilateral coordination with the knife in the dominant hand, soft foods first, and a clear rhythm—fork in, saw forwards-back, press down then back. We round out with some quick strategies to support drinking from open cups. Along the way, we keep meals playful and social so learning sticks.If these ideas help, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s in the thick of mealtime challenges, and leave a review to tell us what worked and what you want next. Your stories shape the topics we dig into next.Support the show

Dressing skills are about so much more than just putting on clothes—they're a daily opportunity to build problem-solving abilities that last a lifetime. In this  second episode of our self-care season, we dive deep into strategies for later dressing skills (zips, buttons, shoes) and also really discuss the thinking that goes on behind the scenes for dressing. What exactly makes buttons and zips so tricky for little fingers? We break down these complex motor skills into manageable steps, sharing practical strategies to build confidence and independence. Beyond the physical skills, we explore the hidden cognitive load of dressing—the thinking processes that make these seemingly simple tasks surprisingly complex. Learn why honouring children's choices in dressing sequence, even when you know they won't work, creates powerful "naturally occurring problems" that build problem-solving confidence. We share playful approaches to make dressing fun rather than frustrating, including dress-up games and modelling how to work through mistakes.The episode concludes with an enlightening look at adaptive clothing options that work within a child's abilities to maximise independence. From magnetic closures that look like buttons to side-opening designs to many more. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, these practical, playful strategies will transform dressing time from a daily struggle into a valuable learning opportunity. Share your own dressing tips or questions with us on Instagram @bellsotcorner or email [email protected]!DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Dressing seems straightforward to us as adults, but for children, it's a complex developmental challenge requiring numerous hidden skills. This episode dives into the foundations of early dressing independence, revealing why undressing naturally comes before dressing and how seemingly simple tasks like putting on a t-shirt involve intricate motor planning, body awareness, and cognitive sequencing.We dive into the underlying skills needed to engage in dressing tasks and some of the many reason it can be frustrating for both children and parents! Throughout this conversation, I share practical strategies you can implement immediately, including how to choose the right time to practice, why loose-fitting clothes make learning easier, the power of backwards and forwards chaining techniques,  the role of problem solving within dressing! The most powerful takeaway? Independence doesn't mean doing everything alone. It means supporting children to do as much as they can with the least amount of help, recognising their unique capabilities, and celebrating each step toward self-care mastery. Whether you're a parent frustrated with morning routines or a teacher supporting classroom independence, these foundational principles will transform how you approach dressing skills with the children in your life.Support the show

This final episode of our play season explores how playful moments build the persistence skills children need throughout life. When children engage in play, they're not just having fun; they're developing the ability to notice problems, try different solutions, and maintain emotional regulation through challenges.Join me as we dive into the intricacies of how we can support the children in our lives to develop their persistence within play. From noticing the problem, trialling some solutions, seeking help from adults to maintaining their regulation and using adults for co-regulation throughout! Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, this episode offers practical strategies for fostering persistence through everyday play. By embracing these approaches, you'll help the children in your life develop confidence, resilience, and a lifelong belief that they can overcome challenges.What persistence skills have you noticed developing through play? Share your experiences and join the conversation!Don't forget to share the podcast around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Cooperative play marks a change within play where children begin working together to achieve shared goals. Whether building a tower, creating a fort, or solving an imaginary problem, this collaborative play helps children build so many skills within a fun, playful environment!When you watch children negotiate who gets which role in their pretend restaurant or see them problem-solve together to build the perfect blanket fort, you're witnessing the emergence of teamwork, communication, and  regulation in real-time. When children step into different roles within dramatic pretend play, they're building so many skills from perspective taking to problem solving, and sequencing skills. Being playful allows children to build these critical thinking skills in a low pressure environment where their creativity can be set free! As always, please do share it around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Symbolic play marks a fun milestone where children begin using objects to represent something entirely different. That wooden block becomes a phone, a spoon transforms into a microphone, and suddenly teddy bears need proper bedtime routines. This isn't just adorable behaviour – it's your child building new play skills, problem-solving, and creativity!We also dive into associative play - as children begin engaging with peers around common activities without formal organisation. Children at the playground following each other, sharing equipment, or dancing together with shared joy. While they're not yet cooperatively working toward shared goals, they're developing the social awareness and skills that will support more complex interactions as they continue to grow and develop. We discuss strategies to support these play stages you can begin to practice at home. Most importantly focusing on how we can follow your child's lead and gently extend their play interactions and scenarios. These seemingly simple play interactions lay the groundwork for abstract thinking, problem-solving, and social skills that will benefit your child throughout their lifetime. Next week, we'll explore the next developmental stage: cooperative play and socio-dramatic play, where pretend play becomes even more complex and socially interconnected. Join us as we continue unraveling the fascinating world of children's play development!As always, please do share it around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Functional play is the gateway into our children exploring toys, objects for their intended purpose. This developmental milestone opens doors to deeper learning, independence, and confidence as children figure out that spoons are for eating, blocks are for building, and crayons can create beautiful marks on paper.In this episode we dive into how to find playful moments throughout your entire day. From morning routines to bath time, cooking to cleaning up, every interaction becomes an opportunity to build these skills. The beauty lies in seeing how naturally children learn when we model without demanding, when we create environments that support their unique needs, and when we celebrate their discoveries.The episode explores practical strategies like using your affect and body language to engage attention, modelling without expectation, and giving children space to problem-solve. These approaches honour the child's natural learning process while supporting their development. Listen to discover how small moments of playfulness can transform your child's development journey while bringing more joy and connection to your daily interactions.As always, please do share it around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

The journey from solitary to social play isn't a single leap but rather a fascinating progression through various stages. In this  episode, we explore the often misunderstood phases of onlooker and parallel play.When your child seems to be "just watching" other kids at the park or following you around the house observing your activities, they're engaged in powerful learning. Far from passive, this observation phase is when children collect ideas they'll later reproduce in their own play.As development progresses, children move into parallel play—that magical stage where they play alongside others without direct interaction. This seemingly simple arrangement helps develop early boundary understanding, regulation skills, and social awareness.For parents and caregivers, supporting these developmental stages doesn't require elaborate interventions but rather thoughtful presence. We discuss practical approaches like using open-ended toys (blocks, cars, balls), creating opportunities for observation, and following your child's lead rather than forcing predetermined activities. Whether you're a parent seeking to understand your child's development or a professional supporting children's growth, this episode provides both theoretical understanding and practical strategies to nurture these essential play stages, creating a strong foundation for more complex social interactions to comeAs always, please do share it around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

This episode explores the building blocks of play our solitary and sensorimotor for children. We discuss the importance of these play types in fostering skills, encourage active engagement, and present practical strategies for parents to support their child's playful learning journey. We promise you'll walk away with practical tips to enrich playtime and foster those crucial early skills. Our episode gives you an insight into the incredible journey of how infants learn about their bodies and surroundings through play!From tummy time to using nursery rhymes as interactive tools, we offer creative ways to turn daily routines into enjoyable learning moments. Our goal is to empower parents and educators to nurture early development through purposeful play, establishing a strong foundation for future growth.We share the magic of playful interaction with simple games that unleash joy for everyone. Discover the art of being an engaging presence and how spontaneous play can lead to rich, memorable experiences. Join us and learn how to make playtime an enriching and rewarding journey for everyone involved.If you have any questions or want more ideas for play, just send me a message over Instagram or Facebook!Support the show

This episode explores the vital role of play for children and adults, unpacking its significance in learning and emotional well-being. We discuss the different stages of play, types of interaction, and the importance of fostering a playful environment for growth and development.Join me to learn more about:• Understanding the value of play for both children and adults • Unearthing personal experiences with play and its impact • Defining play and its implications for learning and growth • Stages of social play - solitary, parallel, associative, and cooperative • The difference between joint attention and shared attention • Strategies for encouraging playful interaction with children • The importance of following a child's lead in play • Encouraging trust in one's playful instincts As always, please, please, do share it around with anyone that you think could benefit from it.Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Discover how to use regulation to support a child's persistence to tricky activities! In this week's episode you'll gain insights into maintaining calm and teaching resilience to young children, turning challenges into growth opportunities. Wed discuss how to recognize and support stressors that affect task execution, and how assuming competence and breaking down tasks can lead to successful learning experiences. Proactive regulation strategies, such as validating and anticipating challenges, are highlighted to help develop resilience and independence in children.As the holiday season approaches, stay tuned for tips and strategies tailored for children with additional needs, ensuring an enjoyable and minimal stress experience for everyone. Join us for this essential conversation and prepare for a joyful holiday season!Support the show

In this weeks episode we discover strategies for develop self-regulation skills in children  We dive into activities to create an emotional toolkit tailored for kids, guiding them to acknowledge and manage their feelings. You'll gain insights into personal regulation strategies that empower you to model emotional resilience, and in turn, teach these vital skills to your children, nurturing confidence and self-awareness.Journey with us through the captivating world of shared problem-solving experiences, where children learn to tackle challenges creatively and collaboratively. Delve into the concept of "playful obstruction," a technique that encourages adaptability and problem-solving through deliberate, fun challenges. Whether it's a game with building blocks or guiding kids through daily tasks like getting dressed, we emphasize the power of celebrating successes and using playful elements to foster resilience and build essential neural pathways for self-regulation.Get ready for an episode filled with valuable strategies to help your children navigate their emotional worlds with increasing confidence. Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! Don't forget to rate and review! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Unlock the strategies to support young children through their emotional highs and lows as we explore the essential techniques for regulation.  We’ll share how to play detective with body language and environment to better understand what a child is experiencing. Just like adults, children can struggle to articulate their emotions, and we’re here to guide you in becoming an effective co-regulator who can help them navigate these overwhelming feelings.This episode equips you with practical strategies to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express themselves. From the calming power of deep breaths and gentle massages to the strategic use of minimal language, we provide you with actionable steps to address heightened emotional states. With insights on observing physical cues and employing activities for emotional regulation, this episode is your guide to helping children navigate their emotional experiences with confidence and care.Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! Don't forget to rate and review! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Ever wondered what your child's challenging behavior is truly communicating? Join me in Belle's OT Corner as we unpack the secrets behind the actions of young children through the unique perspective of occupational therapy. By understanding the intricacies of the tasks children face, the environments they navigate, and the social dynamics around them, you'll be equipped with insights to better support their emotional development.We delve into the importance of autonomy and resilience, contrasting the experiences of a year three child and a determined kindergartner. We emphasize the power of therapeutic play sessions, where children learn to manage emotions and frustrations, building confidence through the art of persistence. Discover how modeling problem-solving and emotional regulation in everyday tasks can foster independence and cultivate a sense of achievement in young learners.Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we'll delve deeper into these themes, and until then, we hope you have a great week! Support the show

Join us in this episode, where we promise you'll gain the tools to support your child through their regulation challenges. We'll start by examining our personal self-regulation strategies—because understanding ourselves is the first step in guiding our children through their own emotional landscapes. Ever noticed how your mood can influence your child's behavior? That's no coincidence! This episode explores the fascinating interplay between our emotional states and those of our children, highlighting the pivotal role of co-regulation. We offer a deep dive into practical strategies to help calm and support your child during their most challenging moments. From sensory strategies to understanding when a child has "flipped their lid," we emphasize the importance of empathy and timing in effective co-regulation. You'll also learn why self-regulation isn't just for kids—as adults, our ability to manage stress directly impacts our children.We wrap up with actionable co-regulation techniques that you can start using immediately. Discover the top ten strategies, such as using a calm voice, modeling deep breathing, and the power of physical touch. These methods are designed to make you a soothing presence in your child's life, helping them feel understood and supported. Real-life examples will illustrate how these approaches can transform daily challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience. Don't forget to rate, review, and share the show, and follow Belle's OT Corner on Instagram for more insights and updates.Support the show

In the next season of Belle's OT Corner we work to equip you with indispensable knowledge and practical strategies to foster regulation skills in early childhood. Through an exploration of self-regulation and co-regulation, you'll gain insights into the development of these crucial skills from a nuanced occupational therapy perspective. Join us as we break down the complexities of regulation, all the components and building blocks we need to work towards self-regulation. We'll emphasize the importance of co-regulation, demonstrating how adults can be effective guides in helping children manage big emotions and arousal states. This season is designed to be a comprehensive guide, offering you a treasure trove of strategies to support your child's journey towards effective self-regulation. Stay tuned for a wealth of enlightening discussions and actionable advice that will empower you and your little one!Support the show

Have you ever wondered how small tweaks to everyday activities can support  your child's motor skills? Discover the secrets to seamlessly integrating motor skill development into daily routines and making it fun in this finale of our motor skills season at Belle's OT Corner! We review all previous episodes and put it all together to offer practical tips to build them into your home and school setting. Learn to either add motor challenges to familiar tasks or adjust activities to make them more manageable, all with the goal of supporting your child's development without overwhelming them.Join us as we share creative ideas to make children's activities purposeful and challenging, helping them build strength and resilience. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help your child succeed, fostering independence and boosting their confidence along the way.Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. Don't forget to rate and review! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Join me for the final episode of our motor skills season, where we uncover the secrets of effectively supporting kids motor skills development through modelling and language. We explore  how to make a significant impact on their understanding and performance, through the adults use of modelling, language and embracing mistakes for meaningful learning.We place a spotlight on the importance of modelling both gross and fine motor skills, using simple language and exaggerated actions to support complex motor movements. Discover how to break down body movements into large muscle groups, making it easier for children to replicate these actions. As we wrap up this enriching season, we reflect on the practical strategies and valuable insights we've shared to support children's motor skill development. Stay tuned for more engaging content in our upcoming episodes!Support the show

Today we unravel the fine motor progression children go through to move from banging toys to expertly tying shoelaces. We break down key concepts  such as dexterity, in-hand manipulation, and motor planning elements. This episode is all about appreciating and understanding how these skills enable children to engage in their daily lives.Recognizing and addressing fine motor skill challenges early on can make a world of difference. We look at practical strategies for supporting children in tasks like buttoning shirts, tying shoelaces, and handling lunchtime packets. Our aim is to help build children’s confidence and skills, ensuring they feel capable and ready to take on everyday activities. Tune in for a wealth of tips and resources that parents and teachers won’t want to miss!Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. Don't forget to rate and review! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Can understanding motor planning transform the way you help children navigate their daily activities? This episode of Belle's OT Corner uncovers the  world of motor planning and praxis, shedding light on the cognitive processes that enable us to execute everyday tasks effortlessly. Imagine the complexity of simple actions like carrying items upstairs or learning to walk. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of motor planning and praxis, providing a foundation for supporting children in their daily activities. Tune in for tips, tricks and games to play to support motor planing skill development! Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! Don't forget to rate and review! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

How do the brain's hemispheres work together to help you perform everyday tasks like dressing or writing? Discover practical strategies to support your child's bilateral coordination through engaging. We'll talk through the three stages of bilateral coordination—symmetrical, reciprocal, and asymmetrical. Whether it's catching a ball, peddling a bike, or writing, the tips and examples will help you understand these crucial developmental milestones. We also delve into recognizing and addressing challenges in motor skill development, such as hand swapping and avoiding midline crossing. From tummy time for babies to arts and crafts for toddlers, and more complex tasks for school-aged children, we've got a range of engaging activities to support growth. Explore how integrating children into household chores and routine tasks can further develop their coordination skills. With fun games like the Hokey Pokey and Simon Says, we highlight the benefits of gross motor activities tailored to different ability levels, creating a supportive and confidence-boosting environment for your child both at home and in the classroom.Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Join me as we discuss postural stability and tone and hoe they can impact upon a child's ability to engage in occupation! This episode is a treasure trove of practical strategies and playful activities that parents and educators can incorporate to support core strength and postural control in kids. I'll guide you through the nuances of muscle tone, a crucial yet often misunderstood aspect of postural control. If you've noticed a child who appears clumsy or in need of extra support during activities, this conversation is an essential listen. I'm here to support you with insights and advice drawn from my professional experience, ensuring that every child can rise to their unique challenges with confidence and resilience.Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! DISCLAIMER:Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Let's jump into season 2 - all the components of Motor Development. Embark on a journey of discovery as we unwrap the layers of motor development in children, ensuring every parent and educator is equipped with the knowledge to foster growth. This episode is a quick taster into what is to come, where we don't just focus on the end result but intent consider everything your child's body and brain needs to coordinate and complete to achieve their goals! Stay tuned for a season filled with growth, learning, and the empowerment of our children's motor development journey.Support the show

Have you ever considered the complexity of a simple touch, or the challenges that a child might face when their tactile system is out of sync? In today’s episode we delve into the tactile system.  Everything from tactile discrimination, tactile defensiveness to hypo responsive to touch.  And as always we end with the practical strategies to support children who struggle with tactile processing, ensuring they can comfortably navigate their sensory world and engage in all occupations they want to. Follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights! DISCLAIMER:While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child’s needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child’s paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.Support the show

Are the sights and sounds of everyday life overwhelming for some children, or do they crave more stimulation? This episode of Belle's OT Corner dives into the sensory experiences that shape our children’s world, unraveling the impact of visual and auditory inputs on their development and engagement. As an occupational therapist, I share my insight into the journey of light from eye to brain, and the symphony of sounds that can either harmonize or disrupt a child's environment. Sensory overload is no small matter for our little ones, and recognising the signs is key to helping them adapt and succeed. This episode walks you through practical strategies to minimise visual overstimulation, from simplifying living spaces to classroom modifications, or looking for opportunities to infuse additional visual input into your daily life. The discussion extends to those kiddos who experience auditory sensitivities, offering you a toolkit of techniques to transform potential chaos into a soothing symphony, including creating predictable soundscapes and employing proprioceptive activities.As we wrap up, I encourage you to share the knowledge gained from today's conversation with others in your community. Whether it's parents seeking to understand their child's sensory needs, teachers aiming to create inclusive classrooms, or friends who love to learn, spreading the word can have a profound impact. Be sure to join us in two weeks for another episode filled with valuable insights that empower children to navigate their sensory worlds with confidence.Support the show

This week we talk all things taste and smell! How they work, how they can influence and impact upon our days and as always what can you do to help support the children in your life! Follow me on Instagram and Facebook @bellesotcorner for more content and to be the first to know when the next episode is out! Disclaimer: While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more every day. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Join me as we start to dive into interoception! We cover the nitty gritty of what it is, how it can impact upon our occupations and independence and most importantly what you can do to help support the children in your life or that you work with to begin to develop some of these skills. For More information check out:Kelly Mahler - https://www.kelly-mahler.comSouth Australia Department of Education - https://www.education.sa.gov.au/schools-and-educators/curriculum-and-teaching/curriculum-programs/applying-interoception-skills-classroom  Follow me on Instagram and Facebook @bellesotcorner for more content and to be the first to know when the next episode is out! Disclaimer: While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more every day. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Join me for episode 3 where we discuss all things related to our vestibular system. Just like in our last episode we break down what it is, how it works, and the "So What?" for our day to day lives. Especially how this can impact upon the children in our lives and how they engage in their daily occupations. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook @bellesotcorner for more content and to be the first to know when the next episode is out! Disclaimer: While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more every day. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Join me for episode 2 of our sensory processing season! In this weeks episode we dive deep into all things proprioception! What it is, how it works, and what does that all mean for your day to day life? And most importantly how can this sense help our child engage and participate in all their daily activities/occupations. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook @bellesotcorner for more content and be the first to know when the next episode is out! Disclaimer: While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more every day. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Join me as we dig into all things sensory processing, In this first episode we dig deep into what sensory processing is, how it works, what do all those OT words mean so we can build those basic building blocks before we start focusing on each individual sense. Follow me on Instagram @bellesotcorner for more content! Disclaimer:While I will always make every effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more every day. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child. Support the show

Join me for the first episode of Belle's OT Corner!This episode is a brief introduction where I introduce who I am, what my motivations were for creating the podcast and what to expect throughout this podcast journey! Follow me on Instagram @bellesotcorner for more content! Support the show