PiP Cast: Perspectives in Paeds

In this episode, Jackie and Georgia are joined by Jacqui Ornellas Snider, paediatric Occupational Therapist and ICF PCC-level Coach, to explore what it really means to bring a Coach Approach into paediatric practice. Together they unpack the core principles of coaching - from believing the client is the expert in their own life, to resisting the urge to fix - and what genuinely separates a coachin...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Danni and Dayna to explore interoception - the often-overlooked sense that tells us what's happening inside our own bodies. From hunger and thirst to heartbeat and emotional states, the team discuss how interoception underpins so much of how children regulate, connect, and navigate their day - and when it works differently, the ripple effects can show up a...

In this episode, Jac sits down with Mik and Cowie to challenge the default "team leader is the only way up" pathway that is often promoted in allied health. They explore what career progression could look like if it was  less like a ladder and more like a rock wall? Sometimes up, sometimes sideways, sometimes back a step to leverage forward. They unpack why great clinicians don't alw...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Maddie and Emily to talk about one of those questions that many paediatric clinicians wrestle with but don't always say out loud: when do you stop chasing the handwriting goal, and what do you do instead? They dig into the clinical signals that it might be time to take a different approach, how to have that conversation with families, what alternatives lik...

In this episode, Jackie is joined by Caitlyn and Gabs to unpack what leadership really means, and why so many of us have worked under leaders who received the title without mastering the leading. They challenge "convenient leadership" and explore leadership as a behaviour, not a position. Anyone who takes responsibility for finding potential in people and processes is a leader and you do...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Gabs and Em to ask a question that doesn't get asked enough: is allied health too nice? Not too kind - too nice. Because there's a difference, and it might be quietly getting in the way of the work we're actually here to do. From softened reports and avoided conversations, to recommending what families want rather than what they need, this episode...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Josh and Keely to chat about what school-based OT observations actually look like in practice - how they help clinicians better understand a child's participation in their learning environment, and how they can shape meaningful therapy plans. Together they unpack the purpose behind a school observation, what the OT lens brings to understanding a child'...

In this episode, Caitlin, Alyssa and Danni extend their conversation on puberty, moving beyond the developmental landscape and into one of the most practical questions clinicians face: how do we actually support parents/caregivers to become confident puberty educators for their own child? Together they discuss what gets in the way of parents and caregivers having these conversations at home, what...

In this episode, Caitlin, Jackie and Caitlyn share their current thoughts on Thriving Kids - the Australian Government’s proposed early intervention model that has generated concern across the paediatric community. With details still emerging and a lot still to be finalised, they unpack what we know so far, what the transition period means for families and clinicians on the ground, and what isn’t...

In this episode, Jackie, Caity and Mikayla discuss the often overlooked occupation of sleep. They explore considerations across different ages and discussed the common misconceptions and pitfalls when it comes to addressing sleep difficulties. They share their thoughts on where to start when supporting families who are experiencing challenges related to their child’s sleep and how to build your co...

In this episode, Jackie, Caitlyn and Mikayla explore how clinicians can work collaboratively with families to unpack their priorities and define what meaningful progress looks like for them. They discuss the importance of having a clear therapy plan while maintaining flexibility to pivot when needed, the risks of therapy progressing without a clear direction, and how short-term goals can be struct...

In this episode, Caitlin, Danni and Jac reflect on the experience of returning to clinical practice after extended leave. Stepping away from work can bring a mix of emotions - from worries about client outcomes and staying relevant, to questions around professional identity and connection to your team. In this conversation, they share their personal reflections on what it felt like to step away fr...

In this episode, Jackie and Caity sit down with Haylee Parfett, experienced Speech Pathologist and passionate advocate of Augmentative and Alternative Communication, to unpack what every clinician needs to know about AAC. Haylee covers what AAC actually is, the different systems available, and the evidence behind one of the most common family concerns — will it stop or delay my child from speaking...

In this episode, Danni, Caitlin, and Caitlyn explore recent research in the area of sensory processing and discuss what it means for evidence-informed clinical practice. Reflecting on their recent presentation on this topic, they share key insights from current practice guidelines and systematic reviews, including the importance of recognising each child’s unique sensory profile and being cautious...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Georgia and Caity to share their experiences supporting children with executive functioning goals. Together, they explore how executive functioning shows up in everyday routines, how to distinguish typical development from functional impact, and when intervention may be helpful. The conversation also covers practical, evidence-informed approaches to setting me...

In this episode, Caitlin and Jackie are joined by guest speaker Shadia Hancock (they/them), owner and founder of Autism Actually. Shadia joins the PiP team to share their lived experience of sensory processing differences, reflecting on how their sensory preferences have shaped participation throughout their life. They discuss the supports and strategies that have been instrumental in enabling par...

In this episode, Gabs, Keely and Jackie talk about Kristin Neff’s work on self-compassion. They explore the 3 components of self-compassion and why it is important for clinicians. They also explore why it differs to self-esteem and how to start fostering more of it to support your sustainability as a clinician. Join them as they share some personal insights as clinicians and people.  Be sure to fo...

In this episode, Caity, Mikayla, and Jackie dive into clinical reasoning; what it is, why it matters, and how it evolves over time. They unpack the enablers and barriers to developing clinical reasoning and explore differences between reasoning, problem-solving, and knowledge acquisition. They share their tips for strengthening your own clinical reasoning skills and why AI will never replace us. ...

In this episode, Jackie, Gabs and Georgia unpack the complexities of setting neurodiversity-affirming play goals. They explore what play really is, why play-based therapy isn’t always truly play, and how to distinguish affirming goals from those that may unintentionally miss the mark. The episode wraps up with practical reflections and helpful resources for clinicians. Be sure to follow us on inst...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Em and Josh to chat about the complex nature of taking on students, and what makes a successful and sustainable student program. Join them as they chat about their perspectives on the challenges and benefits of taking on students, share practical tips for making a student placement successful, and share their thoughts on why student placements matter in the OT...

In this episode, Georgia, Gabs and Caity wrap up the year with a light-hearted reflection on things we as OT’s may recommend to our clients that we may not always do for ourselves. From executive functioning strategies and mindfulness to not completing stretches that their osteo prescribed, join them as they candidly explore the challenges of not always practicing what we preach.  Be sure to follo...

In this episode, Jackie is joined by Chelsea and Eliza from the Kid Link admin team to chat about their perspective providing front facing and behind the scenes support in a paediatric OT practice. Together they discuss the daily realities of managing a busy clinic, why quality admin support is essential for practice success, and practical tips for building a strong clinician-admin partnership. Be...

In this episode, Jackie is joined by Danni and Georgia to explore the transformative power of reflection when supporting caregivers on their parenting journey. They unpack why reflection is essential for meaningful change when working collaboratively with parents in a family-centred practice. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast  This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Thera...

In this episode, Caitlin and Jackie are joined by Dr Kim Drever, a developmental and behavioural paediatrician who has spent more than two decades working alongside families, educators, and allied health teams to support children with neurodevelopmental differences. Listen along as Kim shares valuable insights into the role of a developmental paediatrician, how she partners with families and allie...

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Georgia and Mikayla to unpack the role of screens in supporting occupational balance for children and young people. Together they explore how screens can both enhance and challenge participation - from the benefits screens can offer in connection and learning, to the need for support when screen use begins to replace engagement in other meaningful occupations....