sensory gyms and gestalt processors with ruby orwenyo
Guest: Ruby Orwenyo, PhD, MA, LMSWEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/sensory-gyms-and-glpIn this episode, host Corinne Zmoos, a CCC-SLP, discusses the importance of creating sensory-friendly environments for neurodivergent children with guest Dr. Ruby Orwenyo, a behavioral scientist with a PhD in social work. Dr. Orwenyo shares the inspiring story behind BeeZee Sensory Gym, which she co-founded with her sister to provide a safe and inclusive space for children with sensory processing differences. The discussion highlights the importance of incorporating music, movement, and rhythmic rehabilitation to enhance language and motor development in children with autism. The topic extends to cultural perspectives on music's role in learning and social cohesion. Tune in to gain valuable insights into creating spaces that allow neurodivergent children to thrive.Episode Timeline:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:26 Meet Dr. Ruby Orwenyo: Background and Expertise02:54 Journey into Linguistics and Social Work05:19 Creating BeeZee Sensory Gym: A Labor of Love13:04 Designing a Sensory-Friendly Environment31:57 The Importance of Visual and Auditory Simplicity36:12 The Impact of Tempo on Mood and Regulation36:38 Entrainment: Syncing Inner and Outer Rhythms37:45 Practical Applications of Music in Everyday Life38:59 Study Highlight: Rhythm, Movement, and Autism39:51 Proprioception and Movement in Autistic Children41:27 Using Rhythm to Aid Proprioception43:48 Gestalt Processing and Music48:37 Cultural Perspectives on Music and Language Development01:00:44 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout the Guest:Ruby Orwenyo, PhD, MA, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker, Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, and mother to an autistic child. Ruby has extensive experience in case and program management, working with diverse populations in the U.S. and internationally. She specializes in supporting minoritized individuals navigating workplace discrimination and microaggressions, helping them advocate for themselves and cope effectively. Ruby is also the co-founder of BeeZee Sensory Gym, which was developed in recognition that "inclusive" play environments often fall short in truly accommodating neurodivergent children.Mentioned in this episode:Beyond Words with Garrett OyamaSubscribe to Beyond Words with Garrett Oyama, a new podcast from Speech Therapy PD.