The Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast

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.

In this episode clinical nurse specialist Ann Costigan discusses the topic of toilet training and constipation in children. She shares her expertise and provides practical tips and advice for parents. Ann emphasises the importance of recognizing constipation in children, understanding the signs of readiness for toilet training, and addressing regression and bedwetting. She also debunks the myth of toilet training in two days and highlights the need for an individualised approach. Listeners are can reach out to Ann for further information and consultation at: https://www.instagram.com/pooandtheloo/ Key Takeaways: Recognising constipation in children is important, as it can present differently than in adults. Signs of readiness for toilet training include the ability to follow instructions, pull up and down clothes, and physically hold urine. Regression in toilet training is common and can be caused by changes in routine, urinary tract infections, or a lack of attention and rewards. Bedwetting at night can be addressed by establishing a good daytime routine, promoting a healthy bladder routine, and addressing any underlying issues. Toilet training should be approached with a relaxed and individualised mindset, focusing on small wins and providing support and reassurance to the child.

Gráinne McElvany, creator of Sonny's Dream, shares her journey as a parent of two autistic children and the challenges they face. She emphasises the importance of early intervention and the need for consistent therapy at home. Gráinne discusses the value of structured play and the individualised approach required for each child. She also highlights the need for a support system and the benefits of joining a parent support group. Gráinne shares her experiences with navigating the system and the importance of focusing on what can be controlled. She encourages parents to advocate for their children and seek fundraising opportunities to access therapy. Follow Gráinne here: https://www.instagram.com/sonnys_dream/ Key Take-aways: Early intervention is crucial for children with autism, and consistent therapy at home is essential for progress. Structured play can be more effective for some autistic children, and therapy should be tailored to their individual needs. Joining a parent support group can provide a valuable support system and a sense of community. Navigating the system can be challenging, and it's important to focus on what can be controlled and prioritize the needs of the child. Fundraising can be a helpful way to access therapy and support for children with autism.

In this conversation speech and language therapist, Sarah Kelly, discusses the importance of individualised communication strategies for children. She emphasises the need for parents to seek information and advice from reputable sources, such as registered health professionals. Sarah provides practical tips for parents to support their child's communication and language development through play and everyday routines. She highlights the significance of gestures, imitation, and turn-taking in communication. Sarah also discusses the use of Augmented Interactual Communication (AAC) devices and the importance of providing choices for children to express themselves. You can find Sarah at: https://speakeasyslt.ie/ https://wwhttps://speakeasyslt.ie/w.playeasy.ie/ Key Takeaways: Seek information and advice from registered health professionals for communication challenges in children. Support communication and language development through play and everyday routines. Focus on gestures, imitation, and turn-taking in communication. Consider the use of Augmented Interactual Communication (AAC) devices for children with communication difficulties. Provide choices for children to express themselves and foster autonomy.