Kids & FamilyParentingScienceSocial Sciences

The Sensory Code Podcast

Laura Petix, The OT Butterfly

Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast — now The Sensory Code Podcast. Every week, pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix helps you view behavior through a nervous system lens. When parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists understand how sensory processing differences affect learning and behavior, it changes the game forever.

Laura brings a unique POV to the table: her clinical experience as a pediatric OT, her lived experience as a neurodivergent, ADHD, sensory-sensitive person, and her firsthand knowledge of parenting a neurodivergent child. However you're showing up — parent, provider, or both — you're in the right place.

Just pull up a chair, grab your fidget, and lock in.

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S4 · E143
Wednesday · 12 min
My kid needs vestibular help, how can I help them at home?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Learn about vestibular processing differences in children and discover insights for parents on how to support their children at home. You’ll hear about the importance of occupational therapy and practical tips for both avoidant and thrill-seeking children. The conversation highlights the significance of vestibular input in childhood development and the need for careful observation of children's responses to various activities. Takeaways If your child has vestibular processing differences, consider occupational therapy. Look for opportunities for grounded movement at home. Avoidant children may need safe ways to explore movement. Thrill-seeking children require intense movement activities. Vestibular input is crucial for childhood development. Experiment with sensory strategies but watch for overstimulation signs. Engage children in activities like gymnastics or swimming for vestibular input. Recognize that a child's need to move is inherent to their nervous system. Consider community activities that provide movement opportunities. Pay attention to your child's behavior to avoid overstimulation. Extra links: Outdoor tree swing Lycra swing Door frame swing (renter friendly) ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E142
November 4 · 13 min
Morning Routine tips for executive functioning/adhd overwhelm and refusal
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Let’s talk about effective morning routine strategies for children with executive functioning challenges, particularly those with ADHD. I’ll talk about the importance of simplifying routines, setting realistic expectations, and using visual cues to help children navigate their mornings more smoothly. This conversation covers practical tips for parents to streamline tasks, encourage independence, and create a less chaotic start to the day. Takeaways Simplifying the morning routine is key. Realistic expectations are crucial for children with ADHD. Brain dumping tasks can help clarify responsibilities. Consolidating tasks can save time and reduce chaos. Visual cues can support executive functioning in kids. Using actual objects can prompt children to complete tasks. Encouraging independence takes time and scaffolding. Trial and error is essential in finding what works. Temporary supports can lead to long-term solutions. Taking one day at a time can ease the process. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E141
October 28 · 11 min
How do I manage fidget use in my classroom?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode, I discuss the nuances of using fidgets in the classroom, addressing common challenges teachers face and sharing practical rules to support neurodiverse students while maintaining a focused learning environment. key topics Fidget rules and boundaries in the classroom Differentiating students who need fidgets from those who don't Guidelines for safe and effective fidget use The importance of inclusive strategies for neurodiverse students Replacing and managing fidget misuse Fidgets as tools for emotional regulation and focus takeaways Fidgets should help students focus and regulate, not distract or harm. It's impossible to tell if a student needs a fidget just by outward behavior. Fidgets should be appropriately sized and used safely, with clear rules. When misused, fidgets should be replaced with appropriate alternatives. Fidget needs are universal, not limited to students with diagnoses. Teachers should model and normalize healthy fidget use. Having a plan for fidget removal and replacement is crucial. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E140
October 21 · 12 min
Can OT help with impulse control for my 5 year old with ADHD?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Summary In this episode, I explore how occupational therapy can support children with ADHD, especially in managing impulse control. I share insights on how OTs assess and tailor interventions to help kids participate fully in their daily occupations and develop lifelong self-regulation skills. key topics What occupational therapy is and isn't How OT helps with developmental milestones Occupations and barriers for children with ADHD Top-down and bottom-up OT strategies Environmental modifications and sensory needs Building impulse control through games and self-awareness takeaways OT can help children participate in daily activities by reducing barriers. Occupational therapy focuses on the things that occupy a child's time, not just jobs. OT strategies include environmental modifications, sensory regulation, and self-awareness. Games like red light, green light, and freeze dance help develop impulse control. Understanding sensory triggers and interoception is key to self-regulation. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E139
October 14 · 11 min
Help! Both my kids have opposite sensory needs. How can I support both?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Summary Learn how to manage conflicting sensory needs among children, especially in limited spaces, and emphasize the importance of understanding neurodiversity. I’ll also share some practical strategies for creating supportive environments and fostering better communication about sensory needs. Check these reels for examples of talking to kids about neurodiversity https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_08gSxS0_/?igsi=MWdtbXB1NW12dGg4dg== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPt0xKuCYHJ/?igsi=azh2bmF6eG1keGZp https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSQHxiZkaFK/?igsi=MWx3MGlrdGw0d2NodQ== https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCpuRjNzaCI/?igsi=MXJ4aTZ0NXNzajRjZg== The sensory cup lesson Key topics Understanding neurodiversity and sensory profiles The importance of conversations about neurodiversity Creative space management for conflicting sensory needs Using sensory tools and zones to support regulation Managing limited space with sensory sanctuaries Takeaways You can't meet every child's needs perfectly at all times, especially in shared spaces. Talking openly about neurodiversity helps children understand and manage their needs. Creating designated zones and using sensory tools can reduce dysregulation. Limited space requires creative solutions like pop-up tents and sensory sanctuaries. Recognizing your resource limitations is key to managing expectations. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E138
October 7 · 11 min
To the haters who think I’m raising a snowflake
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I share my thoughts on supporting neurodivergent children through accommodations and how to handle critics who oppose this approach. With my new book, The Sensory Code, out now, I want to encourage parents to embrace a lifestyle that meets their child's needs without guilt. key topics The importance of sensory accommodations for neurodivergent children Addressing criticism and misconceptions about supporting children Building skills and self-advocacy in children The role of parents in creating supportive environments My new book, The Sensory Code, and its message takeaways Supporting your child's needs does not make them 'soft' or incapable. Accommodations are similar to the strategies adults use to improve their daily lives. Haters often have unmet needs or unresolved childhood issues. Building skills alongside accommodations empowers children to advocate for themselves. Creating a supportive lifestyle benefits children at home and in school. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E137
September 30 · 14 min
Proactive Regulation: The Nervous System Budget
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I share insights from my upcoming book, The Sensory Code, and introduce the nervous system budget framework to help parents and educators understand and support children's sensory processing differences proactively. Key Topics: Nervous system budget framework Proactive sensory support strategies Sensory processing differences and behavior Application of the spoon theory to sensory regulation How to build a sensory-friendly daily schedule Takeaways The nervous system has a limited 'budget' that gets spent on daily demands. Sensory triggers can 'cost' more for sensitive children, depleting their nervous system budget. Proactively reducing sensory 'costs' and adding 'deposits' can help prevent dysregulation. Understanding the nervous system budget helps foster compassion and patience. Sleep alone does not replenish the nervous system budget; ongoing support is needed. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E136
September 23 · 13 min
How much does diagnosis matter for OT intervention?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I discuss whether a child's diagnosis influences occupational therapy treatment plans, emphasizing that while diagnoses can provide helpful context, they shouldn't define the intervention approach. I also highlight the importance of focusing on the child's current skills and needs, and when specific diagnoses like OCD require tailored strategies. Points Discussed Diagnosis's role in OT treatment Focus on child's current skills Differences in clinic settings Impact of specific diagnoses like OCD Using diagnosis as a guide, not a box Supporting children with sensory needs Takeaways Diagnosis shouldn't be the primary focus in intervention planning. Focus on the child's current skills and goals. Diagnosis can inform but shouldn't limit therapy. OCD requires specific considerations in therapy. Many children have misdiagnoses or no diagnosis. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E135
September 16 · 12 min
Am I over-accommodating my child?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! In this episode of the Sensory Code Podcast, I reflect on a personal realization about my daughter's accommodations as she turned nine. I discuss the complacency that can arise in parenting, particularly in providing support for children with sensory processing differences. I emphasize the importance of encouraging independence in daily tasks and the need for continuous assessment of accommodations to foster self-advocacy and personal growth in children. Takeaways I was complacent with the routine accommodations for my daughter. I realized I was holding her back by not reassessing her needs. Accommodations can become habitual and unexamined over time. It's important to encourage independence in daily living skills. Children should learn to ask for the accommodations they need. Development happens under the surface, and children can surprise us. We should continuously check in with our children's needs. Teaching children to advocate for themselves is crucial. Accommodations may be lifelong, and that's okay. The goal is to help children understand their sensory needs. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S4 · E134
September 9 · 13 min
Top 5 things I'd do if I just realized my child was neurodivergent
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Summary Let me tell you about the top five actions I would take if I just discovered my child was neurodivergent. I emphasize the importance of pausing to process the information, embracing accommodations, documenting progress, taking proactive steps for occupational therapy, and communicating about neurodivergence in a positive and affirming light. Takeaways Pause and process before taking action. Accommodations can make daily life easier. Documenting progress helps recognize growth. Don't wait for referrals; seek occupational therapy directly. Communicate about neurodivergence in a positive way. Links & Resources: Instagram video: how to ask your pediatrician for an OT referral Autistic/ Neurodivergent content creators: Livedexperienceeducator Neurodivergent_lou Itsthatparent Toren.wolf Neurodivergent_insights Blackspectrumscholar Fidgets.and.fries Neurotatical ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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August 25 · 2 min
WELCOME TO THE SENSORY CODE PODCAST
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast — now The Sensory Code Podcast. Every week, pediatric occupational therapist Laura Petix helps you view behavior through a nervous system lens. When parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists understand how sensory processing differences affect learning and behavior, it changes the game forever. Laura brings a unique POV to the table: her clinical experience as a pediatric OT, her lived experience as a neurodivergent, ADHD, sensory-sensitive person, and her firsthand knowledge of parenting a neurodivergent child. However you're showing up — parent, provider, or both — you're in the right place. Just pull up a chair, grab your fidget, and lock in. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
- Transcript
S3 · E133
Oct 21, 2024 · 49 min
The best app for kids that won’t leave them in tears… even when they need to turn it off
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! I’m an Occupational Therapist, and I’m also a Mom with an invisible mental load that never ends. Screen time is a tool that I am NOT afraid to use. But not all screen time is created equal. Some games or apps are more dysregulating than others, which is probably a HUGE reason for the meltdowns and behaviors that come up when it comes to turning off the device. Since the day I was introduced to Pok Pok (in 2021) until now, this has remained our ONE app that has never, and I mean NEVER caused behaviors or meltdowns. Melissa Cash is the Co-Founder and CEO at Pok Pok, the award-winning company reinventing healthy screen time for kids. One of Canada’s Top 100 Most Influential People of 2024, Melissa is also an advocate and start-up advisor for women and underrepresented founders. Previously, she was a Product Designer for the Walt Disney Company and worked at start-ups in Europe and Canada. Esther Huybreghts is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Pok Pok. With a Master's degree in Animation from the RITCS institute in Brussels, Belgium, she's the creative visionary behind the award-winning children's app Pok Pok, reimagining the way young children interact with technology from the ground up. Ready to try Pok Pok for yourself? Click [ here ] and use code 25OTBUTTERFLY for a 25% off annual subscription, and a 7 day free trial! ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E132
Sep 16, 2024 · 17 min
“But everyone does that!” and other things people say about neurodiversity
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen to this short and sweet episode to help you understand the difference between kids who enjoy some sensory input, and kids who NEED some sensory input to function properly in their day. I'm tired of hearing comments like "but all kids do that!" or "aren't we all a little on the spectrum?" and this episode is my attempt to address those conversations. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E131
Sep 9, 2024 · 27 min
Recess is necessary for all kids- stop taking it away!
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Did you know some kids are getting their recess taken away as punishment for not focusing, being distracted, not getting their work done, and other behavioral issues in the classroom? Maybe you’re the parent to a child who has had this done to them. The American Academy of Pediatrics and The Center for Disease Control and Prevention have both made public statements emphasizing the necessity of at least 20 minutes of recess for elementary aged kids, and they both further state that recess should never be taken away as a punitive measure. This episode breaks down those research briefs and gives you the tools to advocate so that your child never misses out on their right to recess again. Here are the links mentioned: AAP statement State Policies Database CDC + springboard brief Results from the School Health Policies and Practices Study 2014 Sign up for the Sensory Detectives BootCamp ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E130
Sep 2, 2024 · 26 min
"Help! My child is so dysregulated after school"
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Many of us are back into the swing of things at school, and with that comes so much more dysregulation! Listen in as I talk about where that dysregulation comes from and how you can try to get ahead of it (key word: try!). You’ll learn: What dysregulated behaviors are common to see after school How after school restraint collapse looks different for neurodivergent kids Some immediate ways to regulate the nervous system right at school pick up What kinds of sensory strategies to try after school once you get home ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E129
Aug 26, 2024 · 22 min
A kids book about neurodiversity (Author’s notes version)
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen in to this episode to hear more context and insight behind some of the wording and passages I used in my book, A kids book about neurodiversity. You might be surprised to learn that this book’s intended audience is actually neurotypical kids, because I want to spread awareness and acceptance and celebration for our neurodivergent kids; it shouldn’t always be left up to us neurodivergent folks and families to constantly explain ourselves and our kids’ behaviors and needs to the world; what if we lived in a world where everyone just knew that there are variations among humans? Register for the free 60 minute masterclass here. Buy "A kids book about neurodiversity" here. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E128
Aug 19, 2024 · 35 min
story time: updates on my medication & diagnosis journey
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Listen in to this casual, story time episode where I catch you up to speed with my anxiety/ADHD journey and why I stopped medication. ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E127
Aug 12, 2024 · 22 min
9 stupid-simple self regulation tools for parents (that don’t include deep breaths)
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Do you ever feel like your patience runs out before your coffee does? In this episode, we focus on why it's essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to prioritize their own regulation. It's not just about being able to stay calm when your child spills cereal all over the floor—it's about being equipped to handle life's daily challenges with a sense of calm and control. Join me as I share some straightforward and practical strategies for self-regulation that you might already be doing without realizing their true potential. From chewing gum to changing your clothes, discover how these simple acts can actually help you maintain your cool. We’ll dive into the science behind why our bodies react the way they do and explore how we can proactively use these sensory strategies to reclaim our brain's resources and be the best versions of ourselves for our kids. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The importance of self-regulation for parents and caregivers. How to identify your own cues of dysregulation and what they might look like for you. The neuroscience behind why our bodies go into "protective mode" during stress and how it affects our ability to multi-task. Simple sensory strategies you can use throughout the day My most IMPORTANT tip for implementing these sensory strategies ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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S3 · E126
Aug 5, 2024 · 27 min
Does my child need classroom accommodations?
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! Are you receiving constant feedback about your child's behavior or learning challenges in the classroom? In this episode, we explore why classroom accommodations are crucial for neurodivergent children and how they can transform your child's educational experience. I'll touch on sensory needs, emotional regulation, and executive functioning, offering general starting points to advocate for your child's unique needs. Join us for the upcoming school accommodations workshop on August 11th https://theotbutterfly.com/schoolworkshop ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
- Transcript
S3 · E125
Jul 29, 2024 · 28 min
Re-AIR: The "size of the problem" lesson & why I don't use it anymore
What'd you think of the episode? Send me a note! The size of the problem is a common lesson therapists and teachers use to teach kids emotional regulation skills. As I have learned more about the neurodivergent community, I’ve started thinking about this lesson in a different late and want to share that with you in this episode. Don’t worry, it’s not all bad! ~Formerly known as The Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Pocast~ The Sensory Code Book Sensory Detectives Boot camp Waitlist The OT Butterfly Instagram Work with Laura The Sensory Code Newsletter A Kids Book About Neurodiversity
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