Understanding Occupational Therapy for Neurodiverse Children

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In this episode, Kate Brownfield from The ADHD Kids Can Thrive interviews Julie Abrams, an occupational therapist (OT) specializing in neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach based in Colorado. Julie brings her expertise in sensory systems to shed light on how sensory challenges manifest in children with ADHD and autism, offering parents actionable strategies to support their kids' development.

Julie Abrams discusses the foundational role of a child's sensory system in everyday activities like being a student, a friend, and just being a child. She breaks down the tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems, explains how sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors present, and provides practical tips for creating sensory-friendly routines at home. Whether you're navigating a recent diagnosis or just curious about supporting your child's sensory needs, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Julie Abrams is an occupational therapist for neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach with over 20 years of experience. Based in Colorado, Julie specializes in helping families understand and manage sensory processing challenges in children with ADHD and autism. Her work focuses on improving fine and gross motor skills, attention, and social engagement, empowering both children and their parents to thrive.

✔ The role of occupational therapy (OT) in supporting children with ADHD and autism.

✔ How sensory systems—tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive—impact a child’s daily life.

✔ Signs that your child may have sensory processing challenges and when to seek professional help.

✔ Practical strategies for managing sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors at home.

✔ How to build a "sensory diet" to support your child's regulation and focus throughout the day.

⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳

📌[00:01:42] – Introduction to Julie Abrams                                                                        📌[00:02:24] – What is Occupational Therapy (OT) and how it helps ADHD kids            📌[00:05:22] – Understanding the sensory system                                                              📌[00:08:16] – sensory challenges with ADHD  kids and autism.                                         📌[00:09:26] – Teaching parents to understand and support their child’s sensory needs. 

 📌[00:9:50] – The impact of sensory misperceptions on learning and behavior.

📌[00:14:34] – Can sensory systems be strengthened over time?

📌[00:19:47] – Building a sensory diet

📌[00:24:34] – When to seek professional OT support and what to expect in therapy

📌[00:27:07] – The importance of seasonal adjustments in sensory routines

📌[00:29:43] – Advocating for movement and sensory breaks in school settings.

📌[00:31:30] – Final advice for parents raising neurodiverse children

Connect with our Guest Julie Abrams:
👉 Website:https://www.julieabramsot.com/

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