A Sensory Emotional Lens

Have you ever watched a parent try to comfort a child who is completely overwhelmed — maybe during bath time, getting dressed, or when a shirt tag suddenly feels unbearable — and you can see the parent trying everything they can think of to help, but nothing seems to work?   Mom or dad might feel rejected, confused, or even a little helpless. But what if what looks like behavior is actually the child’s nervous system responding to sensory input in ways that are deeply connected to emotion and relationship?   What looks like “behavior” is often something much deeper.   In this episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, host AnnMarie is joined by licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist Laura Baldwin for a powerful conversation on how sensory processing and attachment are deeply intertwined.   Together, they explore how children’s sensory experiences shape emotional regulation, parent-child connection, and everyday routines—and how therapists and caregivers can better understand what’s really happening beneath the surface.   Through a sensory emotional lens, this episode reframes common challenges like meltdowns, avoidance, and sensory seeking as meaningful communication from the nervous system. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of attunement, practical ways to support regulation through play, and a renewed appreciation for the role of relationship in development. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why sensory processing challenges impact the entire family system How sensory experiences and emotional regulation are neurologically connected The role of attunement in building secure parent-child attachment How “behavior” can reflect a child’s overwhelmed or under-responsive nervous system Why play is a powerful tool for both regulation and relationship-building How to support parents in becoming a “secure base” for their child The importance of understanding both the child’s and the parent’s sensory profiles Why repair—not perfection—is the foundation of secure attachment   Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent AnnMarie is an OT and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins.   Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT™, NCC, ADHD-CCSPLicensed Professional Counselor, Great Kids Place Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 20 years of experience supporting children with sensory, emotional, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric mental health, play therapy, and relationship-based interventions that improve the physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being of children and their families.   A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this special Valentine’s Day episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, we explore the real first love the brain ever knows: the bond between parent and child.   Before hearts, flowers, and romance, the brain learns love through the senses. This episode dives into how touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste shape attachment, regulate the nervous system, and wire the brain for connection—long before we have words for any of it.    In this episode, you’ll discover:  Why the brain doesn’t develop in isolation—it develops in relationship  How touch and oxytocin support co-regulation and emotional safety  How a caregiver’s voice and tone shape a child’s stress and reward systems  Why being seen (eye contact and attunement) fuels motivation and connection  How smell anchors emotional memory and a sense of belonging  How feeding and taste build trust in both caregivers and the body  What happens when sensory processing or early experiences are unpredictable  Why these patterns are not failures of love, but survival strategies  The hopeful truth: the brain remains plastic—and healing connection is possible at any age   Love isn’t about what you buy—it’s about presence, attunement, and showing up. The small, everyday sensory moments of connection are what shape the brain and build secure attachment over time.   Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, we’re continuing the Neurological Foundations series with a deep dive into how actions and behaviors are shaped by brain development.   AnnMarie is joined by Laura Baldwin, licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist, for a powerful conversation about how behavior is not “misbehavior,” but communication from a developing nervous system.   Together, they explore how the brain builds itself from the bottom up and inside out—and how sensory experiences, relationships, and emotional safety literally wire the brain for regulation, learning, and connection.   From toddlers to teens, this episode reframes challenging behaviors as skills under construction, not character flaws—and offers practical, compassionate ways adults can support children at every stage.   In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why the brain develops in layers—and how early sensory and emotional experiences shape behavior How repetition in play helps children process emotions and build neural pathways Why “challenging” behaviors in young children are often signs of healthy development The real meaning behind boundary-pushing, big feelings, and the powerful toddler “no” What “afterschool restraint collapse” is—and why school-aged kids often unravel at home How sensory input supports regulation, attention, and emotional control What’s really happening in the adolescent brain (hello, another limbic leap!) Why regulation comes before reasoning at every age The difference between fear-based behavior control and connection-based skill-building How to respond with co-regulation, validation, and supportive boundaries instead of punishment   When we understand brain development, we stop seeing behavior as something to eliminate—and start seeing it as communication from a growing nervous system. With connection, play, sensory support, and co-regulation, we help children build the neural pathways they need for lifelong emotional regulation, learning, and resilience. About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.   Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT™, NCC, ADHD-CCSP Licensed Professional Counselor, Great Kids Place Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 20 years of experience supporting children with sensory, emotional, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric mental health, play therapy, and relationship-based interventions that improve the physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being of children and their families.   A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®  Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In today’s episode, occupational therapist AnnMarie Murphy is joined by Laura Baldwin, licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, and beloved member of the Great Kids Place team. Together, they explore the neuroscience behind behavior—specifically how the brain’s structure, stress responses, and sensory processing shape the everyday emotional and behavioral reactions of our sensory kids.   This episode offers a rich blend of brain science, practical examples, and compassionate guidance for parents, caregivers, and educators seeking to better understand what drives challenging behavior—and how to support kids through it with connection, regulation, and empathy.   In this episode, you’ll discover: The “Flipped Lid” Theory What Dysregulation Looks Like in Real Life The Window of Tolerance as a “Staircase” What Adults Can Do: Co-Regulation Strategies How Kids Can Learn to Self-Regulate Practical Tools to Use at Home   Emotional regulation is a developmental process—one shaped by brain maturation, sensory systems, relational support, and repeated co-regulation. Neuroplasticity allows these pathways to grow stronger over time, but it requires consistency, patience, and grace for both kids and caregivers. Teaching kids to understand and support their emotions is not just a gift for today—it shapes their future relationships, resilience, and well-being. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.   Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT™, NCC, ADHD-CCSPLicensed Professional Counselor, Great Kids Place Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 20 years of experience supporting children with sensory, emotional, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric mental health, play therapy, and relationship-based interventions that improve the physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being of children and their families.   A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

We’re kicking off our new Neuroscience Foundations series—a deep dive into how the brain develops, processes sensory information, manages emotions, and shapes behavior. This foundational conversation explores why children don’t simply “know better,” how sensory systems guide development, and why understanding the nervous system transforms the way we support, teach, and connect with kids.   Drawing from the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent (SEEM) Frame of Reference and the pioneering work of Dr. A. Jean Ayres, we examine how sensory integration builds the groundwork for regulation, learning, postural control, motor planning, and emotional resilience. We also unpack neuroplasticity—how the brain changes through repeated, meaningful, emotionally safe experiences—and how play accelerates learning.   Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or therapist, this episode lays the groundwork for understanding behavior through a brain-based, compassionate lens.   In this episode, you’ll discover how: Children’s behavior is the language of their nervous system. Sensory processing forms the foundation for attention, regulation, learning, motor skills, and social connection. The brain changes through relationship, repetition, meaning, and multisensory play. Stress creates maladaptive wiring; safety creates adaptive wiring. Progress isn’t linear—because development isn’t linear. Both children and adults can rewire their brains.   Join Us Next Week! We’ll be joined by a special guest who will unpack the neuroscience of behavior—including what’s actually happening in the brain during big emotions, stress responses, and challenging moments, and how adults can respond in ways that build regulation, resilience, and connection. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent   AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.     A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®   Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

Winter sports often feel different for sensory kids—and parents notice it right away. Children who struggle with overheating, overwhelm, or emotional shutdown during other seasons may suddenly seem calmer, more regulated, and able to engage longer in cold-weather activities.   In this episode, we explore why winter can be so regulating, how different winter sports impact the nervous system, and how parents can use a Sensory Emotional Lens to support connection, confidence, and joy—without pressure or pushing.   In this episode, you’ll discover: Why cold weather, fresh air, and movement can have a powerful organizing effect on the nervous system How different Sensory Emotional Personalities experience winter sports—and why the same activity can feel regulating for one child and overwhelming for another The hidden sensory demands of common winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, skating, sledding, and snowshoeing How sensory sensitivity, sensory seeking, motor planning, and postural challenges shape a child’s response to winter sports Practical, OT-informed strategies to help you find the just-right challenge for your child How shifting from “pushing participation” to understanding experience can transform winter into a season of connection and growth The goal isn’t to push children to “get used to” winter sports—it’s to understand them. When we approach winter activities with curiosity instead of pressure, we gain insight into our children’s nervous systems. That understanding allows us to support regulation, confidence, connection, and joy, not just participation. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent   AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and pediatrics. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.     A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this special episode, AnnMarie Murphy, occupational therapist at Great Kids Place, invites our community to join a meaningful mission: Take Time to Play. This episode honors the life, work, and enduring legacy of Michele Parkins—visionary founder of Great Kids Place, devoted mother and wife, mentor, and passionate clinician whose life’s work was rooted in sensory-emotional engagement, relationships, and the transformative power of play. Through reflection and remembrance, AnnMarie shares how Michele’s joy, connection, and belief in play shaped thousands of children, families, and therapists over the last decade. From laughter echoing through the gym to the deep relationships formed within the walls of GKP, this episode celebrates the heart and soul of what Michele built—and how her legacy continues to guide us forward. Listeners are invited to participate in Take Time to Play Day, officially proclaimed by the mayor of Michele’s hometown and celebrated annually on December 22nd, Michele’s birthday. This day is a reminder to pause, connect, and intentionally engage in play—whether through something familiar you love or by bravely trying something new.   Take Time to Play Day – December 22   Take Time to Play Day honors Michele’s extraordinary life, her profound impact on our community, and her enduring legacy of using play and human connection as powerful, healing forces.   We invite you to carry Michele’s legacy forward by intentionally making time to play—alone or with others—and by seeing the world through the sensory-emotional lens she so beautifully shared with us all. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and interprofessional education. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.     A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

November is a month of gratitude at Great Kids Place, and in this episode, AnnMarie honors the memory of Michele—our founder and mentor—who taught us to slow down, hold space, and see the world through a Sensory Emotional Lens. As we gather this month for her annual Thankful for You dinner, we reflect not only on the families we serve but also on the unique sensory emotional personalities (SEPs) that shape how our children sense, feel, move through, and experience the world.   This episode explores gratitude for the “yets” in each child’s journey and for the roles we get to play as their supporters, protectors, and encouragers. We break down each of the five Sensory Emotional Personalities, highlighting their challenges, their gifts, and the special role caregivers play in helping children navigate the world with confidence and wonder.   In this episode, we’ll explore the five Sensory Emotional Personalities (SEPs) and the strengths and “yets” within each.  We also share one of Michele’s most treasured reminders: We don’t have to—we get to. We get to support our children. We get to slow down. We get to notice the glimmers. We get to watch them become them. By shifting our lens, we deepen our relationships, honor each child’s unique way of sensing and feeling, and step forward with gratitude. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent   AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and interprofessional education. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.     A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

As we head into the holiday season, many families look forward to connection, tradition, and togetherness — but for sensory-emotional kids (and the adults who love them), this time can also bring overwhelm, unpredictability, and big feelings.   In today’s episode, we’re sharing practical tools to help your family enjoy Thanksgiving rather than simply get through it. We’ll explore perspective shifts, whole-family strategies, and support tailored to each Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) within the Sensory Emotional Engagement Frame of Reference developed by Michele Parkins.   Whether you’re hosting, traveling, navigating big feelings, or supporting a child who experiences the world differently, this episode offers grounding, compassionate guidance for a more regulated and connected holiday.   In this episode, you’ll discover:   How a simple daily practice of sharing hopes, worries, and anticipated events builds safety, alignment, and emotional connection — especially during unpredictable holiday routines. Why modeling apologies, practicing accountability, and using AnnMarie’s family “reset button” can reduce shame and support co-regulation when miscommunications or big feelings happen. The importance of bringing safe foods, protecting sleep routines when possible, and preserving what supports your child’s (and your!) regulation. Practical tips for supporting each Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) throughout the Thanksgiving experience.   Holidays don’t have to feel chaotic — connection grows from regulation, predictability, and teamwork. Preparing together as a family strengthens emotional resilience and builds lasting positive memories. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, PNAP Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent   AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and interprofessional education. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E.   Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.     A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®   Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding.   Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

Transitions aren’t just tricky for kids — they challenge us as adults too! In this week’s episode, we explore how our own sensory and emotional profiles influence how we handle morning routines, unexpected changes, and the many moving parts of daily life.   When we, as caregivers, teachers, or therapists, start our day dysregulated, our stress can ripple outward — leading to co-escalation instead of co-regulation. We’ll offer practical strategies for tuning into your own sensory needs so that you can model calm, confidence, and connection during transitions with your kids.   In this episode, you’ll discover sensory-based insights and gentle morning strategies tailored for five different adult sensory-emotional play (SEP) profiles: Anxious yet Deeply Feeling Why predictability is your best friend How to use nighttime planning to reduce morning anxiety The power of sensory comfort (like pre-setting the room temperature or using a sleep pod) Playful “low and slow” movement ideas to start the day grounded   Unaware yet Deep Thinker Why movement and sensory input are essential for waking up How a morning shower or quick walk can boost regulation Simple ways to weave “heavy work” and connection into your morning routine   Scattered yet Intentional and Passionate How to channel your big ideas and energy into intentional planning Tools for making your morning flow (even when everything changes last minute!) The importance of rehearsing your plan aloud to anchor your focus   Confused yet Full of Wonder Understanding sensory-motor mismatches in everyday interactions How to use self-talk (“gentle,” “puuuush”) to guide motor control Strategies to improve coordination and connection through mindful cues   Needy yet Compassionate Navigating mornings with postural weakness or chronic fatigue Introducing the “spoon theory” for energy conservation Adaptive tools and posture-saving tips to support regulation and endurance Not sure what your SEP is? Take the quiz Your sensory-emotional profile doesn’t just shape how you feel—it shapes how you connect. When adults are regulated, kids feel it — and transitions flow more smoothly. Grace, predictability, and self-awareness can turn chaotic mornings into moments of connection. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Want more resources? Visit: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU, where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and interprofessional education. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins. Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

Transitions are a part of every moment — from waking up to heading out the door, from one activity to the next, and from one emotion to another. But while some transitions happen smoothly and almost unnoticed, others can feel like navigating a minefield.   In this episode we invite listeners to explore playing through transitions through a sensory-emotional lens. We’ll shed light on what makes transitions so challenging for some children (and adults!) and how sensory processing and emotional regulation come together to shape these experiences.   Learn how play can become a powerful bridge — helping children move through change with more connection, confidence, and calm.   You’ll discover: What “transitions” really mean in daily life, and why they can feel so hard How sensory and emotional systems interact during moments of change Play-based ideas and strategies to support smoother transitions  How to reframe daily routines as opportunities for growth and regulation Tune in if you’ve ever felt like you’re walking on eggshells during daily routines — this episode will help you breathe a little easier and find playfulness in the in-between moments. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Co-Director, Sensory Emotional Engagement Model AnnMarie is an Occupational Therapist and Assistant Professor at FDU where she teaches mental health, neuroscience, and interprofessional education. She holds a doctoral degree in occupational therapy, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder, and is a fellow of Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E. Her background also includes a degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this final episode of our Screens with Purpose series, AnnMarie is joined once again by OT doctoral student Alexis Faria, and Geena Gaver, an OT at Great Kids Place, to explore one of the toughest challenges families face around screen time — helping kids transition off of screens.   Over the past three episodes, we’ve talked about why screen time matters, what it looks like in our homes, and how to find balance between digital engagement and meaningful off-screen play. Today, we’re diving into what happens in those big emotional moments when the tablet turns off — and how to support kids through them with empathy, structure, and connection. We’ll also explore how transitions off screen time can look different depending on each child’s SEP. In this episode, you'll learn real-world strategies to help you: Build predictable routines that guide your child’s expectations Use sensory experiences to ease the shift from screen time to playtime Foster connection and emotional safety in those tricky transition moments Resources & More: Alexis has been developing additional resources to help families and therapists put these ideas into practice. Follow @GreatKidsPlace on⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ &⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠⁠ for updates, visuals, and downloadable tools. About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy has advanced training and certification from the STAR Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds an MS in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Alexis Faria, OTD Candidate Alexis Faria is a doctoral student in Occupational Therapy at Kean University. She first joined the GKP community during her fieldwork in the spring, where she had the privilege of working closely with Michele and the team while learning the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model. Alexis is now thrilled to return for her doctoral residency project, Screens with Purpose: Fostering Intentional Tech Use to Support Child Development, where she is leading a series on guiding families toward balanced and purposeful screen time. Geena Gaver, OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place Geena Gaver is a specialist in Sensory Processing and Integration Disorder with advanced training from the Sensory Therapies and Research Institute on the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a doctorate in occupational therapy from Kean University.   Her background includes supporting children with sensory motor differences, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and anxiety. Geena is also a 200-hour certified yoga instructor and uses her knowledge and experience with movement, mindfulness, & breathwork in her practice. AboutA Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this week’s episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, AnnMarie Murphy and OT doctoral student Alexis continue the “Screen with Purpose” series — turning the focus from screens themselves to the children behind them.   Every child experiences screens differently. Some turn to them for comfort, some for excitement, and others for connection or escape. Through a sensory emotional lens, we can uncover why screens hold such appeal and learn how to guide our kids toward balance — with playful, meaningful off-screen alternatives that meet their individual sensory and emotional needs.   Alexis and AnnMarie walk through five Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) profiles — from the anxious yet deeply feeling to the scattered yet intentional and passionate — and share practical, connection-based ideas to help parents and caregivers nurture regulation, independence, and creativity in everyday life. Whether it’s creating safe forts, superhero rescue missions, or cooking as activation, these strategies help you connect before you disconnect — strengthening relationships while supporting growth, regulation, and confidence.     In this episode, you’ll discover: How to view screen time through a Sensory Emotional Lens The five Sensory Emotional Personalities (SEPs) — and how screens show up differently for each Simple, low-prep activities that balance screen and off-screen engagement How to replace “easy” screen time with intentional, regulating alternatives Why connection, curiosity, and co-regulation are key to balanced routines The importance of the “connect before you disconnect” mindset for both parents and kids Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Alexis Faria, OTD Candidate Alexis Faria is a doctoral student in Occupational Therapy at Kean University. She first joined the Great Kids Place community during her fieldwork in the spring, where she had the privilege of working closely with Michele and the team while learning the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model. Alexis is now thrilled to return for her doctoral residency project, Screens with Purpose: Fostering Intentional Tech Use to Support Child Development, where she is leading a series on guiding families toward balanced and purposeful screen time. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

In this week’s episode of A Sensory Emotional Lens, AnnMarie welcomes back OT doctoral student Alexis to continue the conversation on screen time — but this time, through the lens of what kinds of screens kids are using and where they’re using them.   Building on last week’s discussion about why kids are drawn to screens, this episode explores how the type and context of screen use can deeply influence a child’s sensory, emotional, and social development. Together, AnnMarie and Alexis unpack how screens can both support and challenge regulation, connection, and play — depending on how intentionally they’re used.   You’ll learn: Why what kids watch and where they watch it matters just as much as the amount How children use screens to explore themes of safety, control, bravery, curiosity, and connection — just like in traditional play Sensory-emotional profiles and screen habits How shifting screens from bedrooms to shared spaces can transform isolation into connection Practical swaps and ideas By noticing what kids are watching, where it’s happening, and why they’re drawn to it, we can guide screen use in ways that nurture regulation, connection, and real-world growth through a Sensory Emotional Lens. Turning your child’s screen to grayscale can help reduce visual stimulation and make screens feel calmer and less “rewarding.” Here’s how to do it:  On an iPhone or iPad Open Settings Tap Accessibility Tap Display & Text Size Scroll down and tap Color Filters Toggle Color Filters ON Select Grayscale from the options   That’s it! Your child’s screen will now appear in black and white. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Alexis Faria, OTD Candidate Alexis Faria is a doctoral student in Occupational Therapy at Kean University. She first joined the Great Kids Place community during her fieldwork in the spring, where she had the privilege of working closely with Michele and the team while learning the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model. Alexis is now thrilled to return for her doctoral residency project, Screens with Purpose: Fostering Intentional Tech Use to Support Child Development, where she is leading a series on guiding families toward balanced and purposeful screen time. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

Screens are everywhere—classrooms, living rooms, even in our pockets. But what makes them so appealing to our kids? And how can we, as caregivers, better understand the way children experience screen time through their unique sensory and emotional lenses?   In this episode, host AnnMarie Murphy is joined by Alexis Faria, doctoral OT student at Kean University, who has spent months researching screen time and its impact on kids. Together, they kick off our 4-part “Screens with Purpose” series by exploring why children are drawn to screens in the first place.   You’ll learn: How different Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) styles influence the way kids experience screens Why anxious yet deeply feeling kids may seek predictability and comfort in screen time How unaware yet deep thinkers might find screens captivating but still need real-world movement to stay regulated Why confused yet full of wonder kids are drawn to the clarity and predictability screens provide How needy yet compassionate kids may find screens less physically demanding—and what caregivers can do to balance that Why scattered yet intentional kids may gravitate toward the built-in structure of screen-based activities Most importantly, you’ll discover practical strategies for helping your child balance their screen time in ways that support growth, regulation, and connection—while still honoring what they enjoy most   This episode will shift your perspective on screens from “good vs. bad” to intentional and purposeful. By understanding what draws your child to screens, you can become their playful protector, connector, encourager, or organizer—helping them use technology in ways that support their whole self. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on Instagram @GreatKidsPlace on Instagram & Facebook About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a MS in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Alexis Faria, OTD Candidate Alexis Faria is a doctoral student in Occupational Therapy at Kean University. She first joined the Great Kids Place community during her fieldwork in the spring, where she had the privilege of working closely with Michele and the team while learning the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model. Alexis is now thrilled to return for her doctoral residency project, Screens with Purpose: Fostering Intentional Tech Use to Support Child Development, where she is leading a series on guiding families toward balanced and purposeful screen time. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

Screens are everywhere—classrooms, living rooms, even in our pockets. But what makes them so appealing to our kids? And how can we, as caregivers, better understand the way children experience screen time through their unique sensory and emotional lenses?   In this episode, host AnnMarie Murphy is joined by Alexis Faria, doctoral OT student at Kean University, who has spent months researching screen time and its impact on kids. Together, they kick off our 4-part “Screens with Purpose” series by exploring why children are drawn to screens in the first place.   You’ll learn: How different Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) styles influence the way kids experience screens Why anxious yet deeply feeling kids may seek predictability and comfort in screen time How unaware yet deep thinkers might find screens captivating but still need real-world movement to stay regulated Why confused yet full of wonder kids are drawn to the clarity and predictability screens provide How needy yet compassionate kids may find screens less physically demanding—and what caregivers can do to balance that Why scattered yet intentional kids may gravitate toward the built-in structure of screen-based activities Most importantly, you’ll discover practical strategies for helping your child balance their screen time in ways that support growth, regulation, and connection—while still honoring what they enjoy most   This episode will shift your perspective on screens from “good vs. bad” to intentional and purposeful. By understanding what draws your child to screens, you can become their playful protector, connector, encourager, or organizer—helping them use technology in ways that support their whole self. Join our community! @TheSensoryEmotional_OT on ⁠Instagram⁠ @GreatKidsPlace on ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠Facebook⁠ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a MS in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. Alexis Faria, OTD Candidate Alexis Faria is a doctoral student in Occupational Therapy at Kean University. She first joined the Great Kids Place community during her fieldwork in the spring, where she had the privilege of working closely with Michele and the team while learning the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model. Alexis is now thrilled to return for her doctoral residency project, Screens with Purpose: Fostering Intentional Tech Use to Support Child Development, where she is leading a series on guiding families toward balanced and purposeful screen time. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

With the start of a new school year comes new routines, transitions, and a whole lot of change—for kids and adults. In this episode, we explore the incredible power you hold—whether you’re a parent, therapist, teacher, or grandparent—in supporting children’s developing brains and bodies through a sensory emotional lens.   We’ll unpack how the brain develops, why kids can’t always do what we expect, and how understanding their sensory emotional personality (SEP) can transform daily routines from chaos to connection.   In this episode, you’ll discover: Why children’s brains aren’t wired for full planning, decision-making, and impulse control until around age 25 How to spot different sensory emotional personalities (SEPs) and the role you can play in supporting each one Simple strategies to reduce morning meltdowns, strengthen independence, and foster persistence How your presence, tone, and creativity—not fancy equipment—are your greatest tools for connection   The 5 Sensory Emotional Personalities (and Your Role): Anxious yet Deeply Feeling → Playful Protector Create predictability, calm, and safety through a gentle tone and playful structure Unaware yet Deep Thinker → Connector Use exaggerated expressions, movement, and humor to motivate and engage Confused yet Full of Wonder → Wondering Experimenter Encourage trial and error, use “Plan A / Plan B,” and guide with “I wonder…” language Needy yet Compassionate → Helpful Supporter Provide physical and emotional support, filling in the gaps to prevent overwhelm Scattered yet Intentional and Passionate → Organizer Offer structure, sequencing, and playful problem-solving to turn chaos into clarity   No matter your role in a child’s life, you have the power to shape their experience with compassion, connection, and creativity. By stepping into these supportive roles, you help bridge gaps in their development while nurturing independence and resilience.   Try one of the strategies shared today in your morning routine and send us your experiences—we’d love to share them with our community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesensoryemotional_ot/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatkidsplace/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreatKidsPlace/ Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/ About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2, Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics.   A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder, Great Kids Place and the Sensory-motor Emotional EngageMent Frame of Reference Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them.   Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

This episode is tender and deeply personal for all of us at Great Kids Place. Just over a month has passed since the loss of our beloved founder, host, mentor, and friend, Michele Parkins. Michele was the heart of this podcast and the soul behind so much of what we do. Her vision for play, connection, and sensory-emotional work continues to guide us, and today we honor her by exploring grief through the very lens she taught us to use: the sensory-emotional lens. Grief doesn’t only live in our minds or hearts—it lives in our bodies. It shapes how we breathe, move, feel, and connect. In this conversation, AnnMarie Murphy, Occupational Therapist at Great Kids Place, is joined by members of our therapy team as they share their lived experiences of grief through their own Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) styles. Together, we reflect on: How grief shows up differently for each Sensory Emotional Personality style The ways grief impacts our sensory systems, body responses, and daily rhythms Personal stories from our therapists that show how grief can look and feel in real life Practical strategies for supporting ourselves and our children through loss using sensory-emotional awareness This episode is an invitation to pause, to feel, and to recognize that while grief is universal, the way we experience it is deeply individual. By honoring those differences, we can better support ourselves and those we love. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Anxious yet Deeply Feeling: why grief can feel overwhelming and lead to control-seeking behaviors Unaware yet Deep Thinkers: how deep thought and disconnection can coexist in grief Confused yet Full of Wonder: the challenge of navigating grief in a black-and-white, all-or-nothing world Needy yet Compassionate: why grief can drain energy and heighten the need for support Scattered yet Intentional and Passionate: how grief disrupts organization and planning, and how leaning into play and connection can ground us As we continue this podcast in Michele’s memory, we hold tight to her belief that connection and play are powerful healing forces. We hope this conversation helps you feel seen, understood, and less alone. For more resources on how to talk with children about the death of a loved one, visit: UNICEF: How to Talk to Your Children About the Death of a Loved One About AnnMarie Murphy, OTD, OT/L, CIMI-2 Occupational Therapist, Great Kids Place AnnMarie Murphy is an Occupational Therapist with advanced training and certification from the Sensory Treatment and Research (STAR) Institute, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from American International College and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Temple University. Her background also includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, supporting her focus on the neurobiology of sensory processing and the impacts SPD can have on social-emotional development, parent stress, and family dynamics. A Tribute to Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E® Founder of Great Kids Place and the Sensory-Motor Emotional Engagement Model Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, IMH-E®, dedicated her life to supporting children and families with sensory processing and social-emotional challenges. As both a professional and a parent of two sensory children, she combined expertise with deep personal understanding. Passionate about empowering families and mentoring therapists, Michele taught internationally, consulted with schools, and co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the leading textbook in the field. At the time of her passing, she was writing books to help families recognize their Sensory Emotional Personality styles and discover strength and joy within them. Though gone too soon, Michele’s legacy endures in the lives she touched, the community she built, and the vision she entrusted us to carry forward.

It is with the deepest sadness and heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved founder, host, and guiding light, Michele Parkins.   Michele was the heart of A Sensory Emotional Lens, Great Kids Place, and a guiding light to so many families, therapists, and professionals. Her legacy of compassion, connection, and play will continue through the voices she inspired and the mission she passionately led.   Jenna Hammond, Program Manager, and Laura Baldwin, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist™ at Great Kids Place, host today’s heartfelt and reflective episode. Laura walks us through the complex and deeply personal journey of grief—how it shows up, how it affects children and adults, and how we can support one another through it, all through the Sensory Emotional Lens that Michele helped us see the world through.   In this episode, you’ll hear: How grief impacts children, families, and professionals Why the stages of grief aren't linear or universal How grief is expressed through behavior, play, and sensory-emotional rhythms Practical tools and language for supporting both kids and adults through loss How different developmental stages influence a child’s experience of grief The connection between grief and love—and how honoring grief is part of healing   A Legacy of Play: Honoring Michele Parkins In Michele’s memory, we invite you to take a moment today to pause and play. Whether it’s 15 minutes of laughter, a sensory activity, or imaginative play, let’s honor her belief in the healing power of connection, creativity, and joy.   For more resources on how to talk to your children about the death of a loved one, visit:  https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-care/how-talk-your-children-about-death-loved-one About Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, RPT™, NCC, ADHD-CCSP Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist™ , Great Kids Place Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist™, and a Social-Emotional Development Coach at Great Kids Place. She is a steadfast advocate for developmentally appropriate interventions that improve the physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being of another person. Laura holds a master’s degree in Clinical and School Counseling. With Great Kids Place’s Sensory-Emotional Engagement Model™ as her foundation, she demonstrates advanced knowledge in the areas of pediatric mental health, child development, neurodivergent populations (ADHD, Autism, gifted, highly sensitive, etc.), sensory processing differences, visual-spatial capacities, parent coaching, family support, attachment theories, developmental and behavioral assessments, social skills, DIR® Floortime™, and Crisis Prevention and Safety Care Interventions. Michele Parkins MS, OTR/L IMH-E® Founder & Director, Great Kids Place  Founder, Sensory Emotional Engagement Model™ Michele is an Occupational Therapist endorsed as an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist. She specializes in working with children and families with Sensory Processing and Integration Disorders and challenges in social-emotional development. She is also a parent of two sensory kids. Michele is passionate about working with families and other therapists and continues to do so as a clinician and educator. She educates therapists from all over the country and world and continues to provide consultation to schools on treatment for sensory processing disorder. Michele has co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the textbook for sensory evaluation and treatment, alongside world-renowned pioneers in the field, and is currently writing a parenting book and children’s books.  She hopes to help everyone - children and adults- understand their Sensory Emotional Personality™ style and ways to find strength and joy within them. 

With summer often comes vacations, and it’s important to remember that Sensory Emotional Kids tend to express their SEPs more vividly during vacations. Why? Because vacations often involve a break from routine and a flood of novel sensory-motor, social and emotional experiences. These changes can bring out new or more intense social-emotional responses—some that may not usually show up in day-to-day life.   When we use a Sensory Emotional Lens, we recognize that the way we take in sensation and move our bodies affects how we feel, act, and interact with the world. At the same time, how we feel, act, and interact influences how we experience sensation and movement. Tune in as we dive into each Sensory Emotional Personality (SEP) and explore strategies tailored to each one, as well as some general strategies worth keeping in mind when going on your next vacation. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why taking a Sensory Emotional Lens matters so much on vacation  How the novelty in sensory, motor, emotional, and social demands of vacations can amplify SEPs General strategies to consider when planning trips with Sensory Emotional kids Specific strategies when planning for and while on vacation for each SEP: Anxious yet Deeply Feeling: How to offer control, protection, and predictability Needy yet Compassionate: Building in rest, emotional support, and bravery boosts Scattered yet Intentional and Passionate: Planning, preparing, and empowering leadership Unaware yet Deep Thinking: Using input, movement, and connection to encourage engagement Confused yet Full of Wonder: Fostering curiosity, offering space to experiment, and navigating social nuance Join our community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesensoryemotional_ot/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatkidsplace/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreatKidsPlace/ Visit our Learning Center  We know that sensory-motor experiences play a significant role in a child’s daily life and emotional well-being. Using playful interactions, The Sensory Emotional Center of Learning is designed to bring our therapeutic model, the Sensory Emotional Engagement Model™, into your home or work. https://www.sensoryemotionalcenteroflearning.com Want more resources? Please visit our blog: https://greatkidsplace.com/category/blog/ and https://sensoryemotional.org/   About Michele Parkins MS, OTR/L IMH-E® Founder & Director, Great Kids Place  Founder, Sensory Emotional Engagement Model™ Michele is an Occupational Therapist endorsed as an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist. She specializes in working with children and families with Sensory Processing and Integration Disorders and challenges in social-emotional development. She is also a parent of two sensory kids. Michele is passionate about working with families and other therapists and continues to do so as a clinician and educator. She educates therapists from all over the country and world and continues to provide consultation to schools on treatment for sensory processing disorder. Michele has co-authored a chapter in the 3rd edition of Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, the textbook for sensory evaluation and treatment, alongside world-renowned pioneers in the field, and is currently writing a parenting book and children’s books.  She hopes to help everyone - children and adults- understand their Sensory Emotional Personality™ style and ways to find strength and joy within them.