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October 21, 2019

Sensory Integration and the Transformation From Clinic to Home with Laura Petix

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Episode Summary

People are sensory beings and all day everyday our bodies are hard at work processing the sensory stimuli that exists in our world. Some of us are sensitive to sensory input and may shy away from certain types of stimuli, while others might crave input and go out of their way to seek it out. Problems within the sensory systems occur when people have difficulty processing and integrating the information which leads to negative effects on how people function within their daily lives.

Laura Petix, MS, OTR/L joins the show today to talk about all things sensory. She shares her role as an occupational therapist working within a sensory gym and the importance of educating parents to explain what sensory integration is and how it affects development. We dive deep into how to bridge the gap between providing therapy in a sensory clinic and how best to facilitate carry over for the clients at home, school and in the community.

In addition to her work as an occupational therapist working in pediatrics, Laura also shares her personal journey as a mom with a child who has sensory needs and how this has impacted her practice. To hear more from Laura, you can follow her @TheOTButterfly.

Show Notes

Sarah and Laura discuss:

Her favorite weekend occupation
The lack of lunch breaks as a pediatric OT
My secret to hot lunches on the go: https://amzn.to/3212ums
Laura’s favorite food
Our sensory quirks
How she explains sensory processing to parents
Facilitating parents to be validated with their feelings
The importance of education for the caregivers in order to carry-over techniques at home
Bridging the gap between working in the clinic environment and home or school
Using the just right challenge for the kids and when providing strategies for the parents
How she structures her sensory treatments
Following the child’s lead
Celebrating the small wins
Her path into OT
Her journey with sensory difficulties with her daughter
How she navigates being an OT and a mom
The impact of being a parent of a child with sensory needs on her practice as an OT
Advice for therapists
What is the meaning behind the name The OT Butterfly?
Teachers Pay Teachers- The OT Butterfly: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Ot-Butterfly
Classroom Sensory Strategies Guidebook: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Sensory-Strategies-Editable-Guidebook-for-Teachers-4704627