Securely Attached The science of interoception: How parents can help kids connect body signals to emotions with OT Kelly Mahler
Sep 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kelly Mahler, an occupational therapist and interoception expert, shares her insights from over 20 years of working with children. She explains interoception, the 'eighth sense,' and its crucial role in helping kids regulate their emotions and behaviors. Listeners learn how parents can use play to bolster children’s awareness of body signals and explore why some kids struggle with this connection. Kelly provides practical strategies for everyday interactions, advocating for a gentle approach that fosters understanding and emotional growth.
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Interoception Is The Eighth Sense
- Interoception is the internal sense that notifies us about body signals like a racing heart or full bladder.
- Kelly Mahler explains it underlies regulation, toileting, eating, and emotion awareness.
We Move Too Fast To Emotions
- Parents and professionals often leap ahead to emotion labeling before building foundational interoceptive skills.
- Mahler and Dr. Sarah Bren call this an overstep that makes regulation harder for kids.
Ask What OT Actually Evaluates
- Do ask therapists what they evaluate and whether they assess all eight senses, including interoception.
- Do shop around and choose an occupational therapist who works holistically on participation, not just handwriting.
