occupational therapy for kids

If your child refuses to wear jeans, can’t sit still at dinner, or melts down over seemingly minor transitions, you’re not alone—and it might not be behavioral at all. In the latest episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, we explore how occupational therapy for kids can be a powerful (and often overlooked) tool to support emotional regulation, sensory processing, and everyday life skills.

Our guest is Samantha Hyali, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Children at Play in Annapolis. Sam breaks down what OT actually is (hint: it’s not just about handwriting!) and how it can support kids—especially those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or trauma histories—in building the body awareness, strength, and regulation skills they need to thrive.

👂 In This Episode, We Cover:

What occupational therapy for kids really means
Why poor core strength often masquerades as “bad behavior”
How sensory systems like proprioception and vestibular function impact a child’s ability to focus, sit still, or get dressed
The “can’t vs. won’t” dilemma and how to spot the difference
Why building confidence and competence through play-based therapy is essential
How OT adapts to work with preteens and teens, not just little kids
Real strategies for families navigating morning routines, clothing battles, and overstimulated nervous systems

Sam also shares the philosophy behind her practice—starting with a free consultation to help families figure out if OT is a good fit—and how OT isn’t just about addressing problems, but helping kids access the full range of their world. “We’re not here to make perfect kids,” Sam says. “We’re here to solve the problems that get in the way of their lives.”

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

📖 Looking to read more? Visit this blog article on teensavvycoaching.com : Raising Kids on the Autism Spectrum.

💡 Want More Support?

If this episode sparked some lightbulbs (or made you say “Ohhh… that’s my kid”), check out the Teen Savvy Parent Hub. It’s my coaching community for parents of teens and tweens where we dig into tools just like this—plus live Q&As, on-demand resources, and a community of people who truly get it.