The Development Download

Remember when kids spent hours outside building forts, riding bikes, creating imaginary worlds, and figuring things out on their own? In this episode of Development Download , hosts Lisa and Erin explore why play has changed so dramatically over the years—and what that means for child development. From screen time and overscheduled calendars to safety concerns and changing family dynamics, they di...

Feeding is one of a baby’s first and most important occupations. In this episode of Development Download , Erin and Lisa welcome Julie Johnson, OTD, OTR/L to discuss the transition to solids through an occupational therapy lens. From postural stability and oral motor skills to sensory exploration and emotional regulation, Julie shares how all aspects of development come together during mealtimes....

Picky eating is about more than just preference. In this episode of Development Download , Erin and Lisa welcome Julie Johnson, OTD, OTR/L to explore toddler feeding through an occupational therapy lens. Learn how sensory processing, oral motor development, emotional regulation, and autonomy all influence how toddlers eat. Julie shares how to recognize red flags, support skill development, and cre...

In this episode of Development Download , Erin and Lisa sit down with Marie Bonner-Horon, counselor and owner of Ways of Play, to explore the transformative impact of play therapy for children. Marie shares how play serves as a child’s natural language—and how therapists can use it to support emotional regulation, processing, and connection. We dive into how play therapy complements occupational a...

In this episode, Erin and Lisa sit down with OT Erica Haarmann to explore the concept of the social battery —what it is, how it impacts both kids and adults, and why recognizing social burnout matters. We discuss signs that a child’s social battery is running low, how overstimulation and masking can contribute to burnout, and practical ways families can support regulation and recovery. Plus, we re...

Small swaps can lead to big growth. Swap The Playroom owners Emily Coke and Tiffany Boothe help us explore how intentional toy choices, purposeful play, and simple environmental changes can support sensory, motor, social, and emotional development in kids. They share practical, relatable, and easy to use for parents, caregivers, and professionals.

Did you know that making a simple sandwich involves dozens of language skills? In this episode of The Development Download, hosts Erin and Lisa sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist Carissa Speelman to explore how the kitchen can be one of the most powerful language-learning environments for young children. From vocabulary and sequencing to following directions and back-and-forth conversation,...

Summer is the perfect time for kids to build skills in a fun and supportive environment—and that’s exactly why we love therapy groups ! In this episode, we’re talking all about our summer group programming and the powerful benefits of group therapy for kids. We discuss how groups help children practice important skills like: ✨ Social interaction and communication ✨ Emotional regulation ✨ Flexib...

Why is anxiety rising—especially in kids and teens—and what can we actually do about it? In this episode, we break down the powerful concept of the Anxiety Equation —the idea that anxiety grows when perceived threat outweighs perceived ability to cope . When challenges feel big and coping skills feel small, anxiety spikes. But when we strengthen resilience and lower unnecessary threat signals, eve...

In this episode, hosts Lisa and Erin sit down with Kim Lorenz , pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Grow Well , to talk about infant feeding. Kim shares what parents should know about early feeding challenges, common misconceptions, when to seek help, and why she’s so passionate about supporting babies and families during this critical stage of development. https://www.instagram.com/grow...

In this episode, we sit down with Suzanne Recer to talk about her journey launching We Rock the Spectrum , a sensory-safe gym designed for children of all abilities. Suzanne shares what inspired her to open the space, the impact inclusive environments have on development and confidence, and what families can expect when they walk through the doors. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or community...

Meltdowns can feel overwhelming—for kids and the adults supporting them. In this episode, we dive into what’s really happening beneath the surface and how a sensory-based approach can help children move from dysregulation to calm, connected, and confident. We talk about how to recognize sensory needs, why traditional behavior strategies sometimes miss the mark, and practical, real-life tools famil...

The holidays are full of toys—but how do you choose gifts that truly support your child’s growth? In this episode, we break down the best developmentally supportive Christmas gift ideas by age , from babies to pre-teens. You’ll learn exactly what skills each toy supports, why those skills matter , and how to pick gifts that strengthen motor skills, language, sensory processing, executive function,...

In this episode, Lisa and Erin sit down with Jen Medsker , mom to her daughter Jessa, to share the real, everyday experience of raising a child who uses AAC. Jen opens up about their family’s journey—from the early signs that Jessa needed extra support, to the first steps into AAC, to the wins, setbacks, and breakthroughs along the way. You’ll hear honest reflections on what helped, what surprised...

In this episode, Lisa and Erin dig into one of the most common challenges families face this time of year—helping picky eaters navigate big holiday meals. We talk about why holiday environments can be overwhelming, how to lower the pressure around food, and simple strategies that make gatherings more enjoyable for everyone. You’ll hear practical tips for preparation, routines that support regulati...

In this episode of Development Download , we unpack one of the most important—but often overlooked—sensory systems: interoception. From hunger and thirst to emotions and self-regulation, interoception is the internal “compass” that helps kids (and adults!) understand what their bodies need. Join us as we break down what interoception is, why it matters for development, and how it impacts daily lif...

In this episode of The Development Download , Lisa and Erin sit down with Max, an adult on the autism spectrum, to explore what sensory processing feels like from their point of view. Together, they discuss real-life experiences — from the overwhelming to the empowering — and how sensory input shapes daily life, comfort, and connection. This candid conversation offers parents, therapists, and educ...

In this episode, Lisa and Erin dive into the sensory systems of taste and smell —and how they play a crucial role in a child’s development. From picky eating and food aversions to emotional connections and memories linked to scent, our hosts explore how these senses influence behavior, regulation, and daily participation. Listeners will learn how taste and smell are connected to the brain and body...

In this episode of The Development Download , Lisa and Erin explore two powerful systems that work hand-in-hand to help kids see clearly, move confidently, and stay balanced — the visual and vestibular systems. They’ll unpack how these systems impact everything from reading and handwriting to coordination and attention — and why challenges in these areas can sometimes look like clumsiness, inatten...

In this episode of The Development Download , Lisa and Erin dive into the fascinating world of auditory processing — how the brain makes sense of what we hear. They’ll break down what it really means when a child struggles to follow directions, tune out background noise, or respond to verbal information — and why it’s not always about hearing loss. You’ll learn how auditory processing impacts atte...

Ever wonder why your child loves big bear hugs, wiggles in their seat, or seems extra sensitive to clothing tags? In this episode of The Development Download, our occupational therapists chat about two "hidden" senses--tactile (touch) and proprioception (body awareness). We'll share what they are, why they matter for everyday life, and simple ways you can support your child's sensory needs at home...

In this episode of The Development Download, we're celebrating Sensory Awareness Month by diving into the world of sensory processing. Join our occupational therapists as we break down what sensory processing really means, why it plays such a big role in everyday life, and how differences in sensory processing can impact kids at home, school, and in the community. We'll share practical strategies,...

Helping kids work on their play skills.