A show that brings you the most up to date information, insights and chat from Occupational Therapy (OT) services across Ireland. This podcast has something for...
Empowering Conversations About Sex and Identity with Sarah Sproule
In this episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy podcast, Aideen Ruttledge and Jen Trzeciak welcome Sarah Sproule, an occupational therapist and sex educator. They discuss the importance of open conversations about sexuality, particularly with teens, and how occupational therapy can play a role in facilitating these discussions. Sarah shares her journey into sex education, the challenges of discussing sexuality in a cultural context filled with misconceptions, and the need for accurate, shame-free information. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for young people to explore their sexual orientation and the necessity for therapists to engage in self-regulation and personal growth to effectively support their clients.
--------
40:10
Navigating College and Career as a Neurodivergent OT with Hannah Daly
In this episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy podcast, Hannah Daly, a specialist occupational therapist and advocate for neurodiversity, shares her personal journey navigating education and professional life with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and autism. She discusses the importance of understanding individual sensory needs, the evolution of awareness in educational settings, and the challenges faced during her transition to university. Hannah emphasises the significance of advocacy, self-identification, and the use of assistive technologies to support neurodivergent individuals. The conversation culminates in key takeaways about inclusivity and the value of every individual's experience.
--------
37:38
Welcome to Season 4: Supporting Young Minds
Season 4 of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast focuses on some of the challenges faced by teenagers and young people. We hear from OTs and other health professionals about different approaches to support. This season will provide helpful insights for both parents and those working with young people.
--------
0:48
Creating Magical Mealtimes with The Feeding Therapist Teresa Foley
Teresa Foley, a children's occupational therapist and founder of Shooting Stars Private Clinic, discusses specialized feeding therapy for children with complex feeding challenges. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing the challenges of parenting and providing practical tips and advice. Teresa explains that feeding difficulties can range from neophobia (fear of certain foods) to picky eating to problem eating. She highlights the need for a neuroaffirmative approach, meeting children where they're at, and focusing on slow, safe, and consistent changes. Teresa also mentions the benefits of family meals and the importance of reducing guilt and judgment around feeding difficulties.Find Teresa at :https://www.thefeedingtherapist.co.uk/https://shootingstars.ie/or follow her on https://www.instagram.com/shooting_stars_ot/Key Takeaways:Feeding is a core occupation and encompasses sensory, developmental, and relationship aspects.Differentiate between picky eaters and problem eaters, and adopt a non-judgmental approach.Assessment for feeding difficulties should ideally be done as part of a multidisciplinary team.Consider a neuroaffirmative approach and focus on family meals, consistency, and slow, safe changes.Resources like the Magical Mealtimes online course can provide support for parents.
--------
34:39
Inspiring Playfulness at Home with Sensory Submarine Founder Grace Magennis
Grace Magennis, an occupational therapist and founder of Sensory Submarine, shares her journey of creating play experiences for children. She emphasises the importance of play in child development and highlights the benefits of sensory play. Grace provides tips for parents on incorporating play into their busy schedules and offers advice on supporting children with sensory processing challenges. She also shares a heartwarming success story of a child with complex medical needs who found joy and socialization through sensory play.
For more visit: https://www.thesensorysubmarine.com/
Key takeaways
Play is a child's main occupation and should be respected and embraced.
Sensory play stimulates the senses and promotes fine motor skills, cognitive skills, emotional regulation, and imaginative play.
Parents can incorporate play into their busy schedules by setting aside 15 minutes a day for uninterrupted playtime with their child.
Sensory play can be adapted for children with sensory processing challenges by following their preferences, providing alternative ways to interact with sensory materials, and creating a calm corner.
Parents can gather inspiration for sensory play from social media accounts and by observing their child's interests and preferences.
Sensory play doesn't have to be complicated or expensive; everyday items like cardboard boxes, kitchen roll tubes, and loose parts can be used.
Leaving sensory play materials out and involving the child in the setup can encourage independent play and exploration.
Play is regulating for both children and adults, and incorporating movement and visuals can enhance the sensory play experience.
Sensory play can have a profound impact on children with complex medical needs, providing opportunities for socialisation and joy.
A show that brings you the most up to date information, insights and chat from Occupational Therapy (OT) services across Ireland. This podcast has something for everyone interested in health and wellbeing.
Hosted by OTs Jen Trzeciak and Aideen Ruttledge, you will hear from professionals in range of areas of service provision, research and education. Get inspired, form connections and find out from experts in the field about how Occupational Therapy can support everyone's health and wellbeing.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for the purpose of education only and is not a replacement for therapy.