Unpacking the Occupation

Episode 10: Unpacking the Occupation: Reflections Behind the Microphone

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me for today's solo episode as we wrap up the Unpacking the Occupation series with a heartfelt reflection on the conversations, lessons, and unforgettable moments that shaped this journey. Together, we'll revisit the biggest themes from the series, celebrate the incredible caregivers who generously shared their stories, and reflect on how occupational therapy can empower families through everyday moments.

In this final episode, I share caregiver feedback, revisit some of the practical strategies discussed throughout the series, and reflect on how these conversations have shaped me—not only as an occupational therapy doctoral student, but as a future pediatric occupational therapist and a mom. Whether you've been with us since Episode 1 or are just discovering the podcast, I hope you leave this episode feeling encouraged, supported, and reminded that progress is built one meaningful occupation at a time.

✨ In This Episode

Reflecting on the biggest lessons from the series
What caregivers taught me about parenting and occupational therapy
Caregiver feedback and favorite takeaways
Why understanding the "why" behind behavior matters
The power of play, co-regulation, and meaningful occupations
Supporting children through everyday routines
Celebrating progress over perfection
OT Tip of the Day: You Don't Have to Be Perfect

📚 Episode Resource Guide

Want to dive deeper into all the topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond our conversation.

🔗 Episode 10 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DcBgTbwK3hYJg057qGCQ6tL86l8_XjINwzcogbHJ7zs/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:15 Introduction to Our Final Episode

02:44 Lessons Learned from Caregivers

05:11 Understanding Child Development and Play

06:57 The Voices Behind the Podcast

09:17 Strategies for Supporting Child Development

11:56 Understanding Child Behavior and Co-Regulation

14:47 Building Connections Through Play

16:09 Practical Tools for Everyday Life

16:30 Final Thoughts and OT Tip of the Day

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or licensed occupational therapist regarding concerns specific to your child.

Episode 9: Unpacking the Occupation of Caregiving: Supporting a Child Without Losing Yourself

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Christina as we unpack what it's really like to raise a child with sensory differences. Together, we explore the challenges of navigating feeding therapy, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and advocacy while discovering how occupational therapy can support not only children—but the entire family.

From building obstacle courses and incorporating purposeful heavy work into daily routines to balancing the demands of parenting and graduate school, Christina shares an honest and inspiring perspective on finding joy in the middle of life's challenges. Whether you're navigating sensory differences, wondering how to better support your child, or simply needing the reminder that caregivers deserve care too, this episode is filled with encouragement, practical strategies, and hope.

✨ In This Episode

Understanding sensory seeking and low registration
Navigating feeding challenges and feeding therapy
Supporting emotional regulation through co-regulation
Heavy work and purposeful play at home
Family-centered care through an occupational therapy lens
Advocating for your child and trusting your instincts
The importance of caregiver support and occupational balance
OT Tip of the Day: You Matter Too

📚 Episode Resource Guide

Want to dive deeper into today's topics? Explore this episode's evidence-based Resource Guide, featuring trusted research, caregiver-friendly explanations, and additional resources to help you continue learning beyond today's conversation.

🔗 Episode 9 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ggOydh6bAl___mezo_m4sGrXJ20pe2paITtzFsjSroE/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:15 Introduction to Sensory Differences and Parenting

08:05 Understanding Sensory Challenges in Early Development

13:35 Emotional Journey of Parenting a Child with Sensory Needs

16:43 Advocacy and Support for Sensory Processing

19:36 Identifying Sensory Seeking Behaviors

21:59 Strategies for Regulation and Heavy Work Activities

25:01 Understanding Low Registration and Sensory Needs

28:25 Emotional Regulation Challenges in Parenting

32:20 The Dual Perspective of a Caregiver and Therapist

37:12 Finding Balance: Self-Care in Caregiving

46:12 OT Tip of the Day: Prioritizing Self-Care

Episode 8: Unpacking Progress Over Perfection: Speech Delays, Play, and Growth

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Isabel as we unpack her son's journey from having a speech delay to becoming a confident little chatterbox. Together, we explore the importance of meeting children where they are developmentally, supporting communication through meaningful play, and embracing the idea that every child grows at their own pace.

We'll also discuss how occupational therapy has shaped Isabel's approach to parenting, the impact of early childhood education through Head Start, and why rough-and-tumble play can be a powerful tool for learning, regulation, and connection. Whether you're concerned about your child's speech, wondering how to encourage development through play, or simply looking for reassurance along your parenting journey, this episode is filled with practical strategies, encouragement, and hope.

✨ In This Episode

Supporting children with speech delays through everyday interactions
Raising a bilingual child and language development
Helping children communicate through play
How occupational therapy changed the way Isabel parents
The benefits of Head Start and early childhood education
Supporting rough-and-tumble play with safe boundaries
Understanding proprioception and sensory needs
OT Tip of the Day: Channel Rough-and-Tumble Play Safely

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 8 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1B342iGO77dT8KiRzNKTYkC-6GzJPeOFY93Zdd8HuHfc/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:15 Introduction to Our Guest's Gentle Giant

04:29 The Speech Journey

14:54 Play as an Occupation

16:22 The OT Lens at Home

21:19 Sensory Game Changers

27:18 The Head Start Impact

33:11 Boundaries in Play

40:26 Teaching Our Kids to Lose Gracefully

42:40 OT Tip of the Day and Closing

Episode 7: Unpacking Tiny Hands & Big Curiosity: From Bathroom Battles to Boss Battles

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and my husband, Javi, as we unpack the everyday adventures of raising our energetic four-year-old son! Together, we share our experiences navigating endless curiosity, rough-and-tumble play, hygiene routines, and screen time while exploring the occupational therapy principles that help us better understand the "why" behind his behaviors.

From touching everything in sight and loving movement-based play to developing independence with daily routines and building a healthy relationship with video games, this episode is filled with honest parenting moments, practical strategies, and plenty of laughter. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply curious about child development, we hope this conversation encourages you to embrace your child's unique strengths while supporting their growth through meaningful everyday experiences.

✨ In This Episode

Understanding curiosity through an occupational therapy lens
Why some children seek movement and hands-on exploration
The benefits of rough-and-tumble play
Teaching safe boundaries while encouraging exploration
Building independence during hygiene routines
Supporting executive functioning through everyday tasks
Finding a healthy balance with screen time and video games
OT Tip of the Day: Movement Is Meaningful

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 7 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CNYSzJ9EdCkGNAOXWYOAH65WzZO7Wf4g3CW05bPrafo/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:32 Introduction and Dad's Perspective

04:09 "Look With Your Eyes, Not Your Hands"

09:35 Understanding Sensory Seeking and Proprioception

11:46 Curiosity, Excitement, and Learning Boundaries

14:05 Roughhousing, Connection, and Active Play

18:15 Movement, Regulation, and Better Sleep

21:34 Bathroom Battles and Building Independence

26:49 Executive Functioning and First-Then Strategies

30:13 Unpacking Video Games & Child Development

37:08 Screen Time, Transitions, and Healthy Boundaries

43:15 OT Tip Of The Day

45:11 Closing

Episode 6: Unpacking Big Sounds, Busy Brains, and the Power of Play

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Sammy as we unpack sensory sensitivities, unexpected sounds, and the everyday challenges they can create for children and their families. Together, we explore why automatic toilets, loud hand dryers, and other unexpected noises can feel overwhelming, while discussing practical occupational therapy strategies to help children feel more confident navigating these experiences.

We'll also dive into what may be happening when children don't respond the first time they're called, how transitions can become easier with simple supports, and why sensory-rich play is one of the most meaningful occupations of childhood. Through real-life experiences and evidence-based strategies, this episode reminds caregivers that understanding the "why" behind a child's behavior is often the first step toward meaningful support.

✨ In This Episode

Understanding fears of automatic toilets and loud noises
The Person–Environment–Occupation (PEO) Model
Supporting sensory-sensitive children through environmental modifications
Co-regulation during challenging moments
Why children don't always respond the first time
Making transitions smoother with simple strategies
The importance of sensory-rich play
OT Tip of the Day: Curiosity Before Assumptions

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 6 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w2f7QszOI0FhcDzKC97i31kNBqJYZ5_MpAL96Fl0plE/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Caregiver Guest & Her Curious Six-Year-Old

03:13 Navigating Fear of Automatic Toilets

05:44 Exploring Sensory Sensitivities in Children

08:41 Co-Regulation and Its Importance

11:00 The Person-Environment-Occupation Model

12:57 Strategies for Managing Fear and Anxiety

15:43 Building Confidence Through Play

17:32 The Importance of Play in Child Development

18:56 Challenges in Getting Children's Attention & Strategies for Effective Communication

26:10 The Power of Sensory Play

31:49 OT Tip of the Day: Choose Curiosity Over Assumptions

32:51 Closing and Final Thoughts

Episode 5: Unpacking Bedtime Fears and Playground Playdates

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Klaire as we unpack two common challenges many families experience during the preschool years: bedtime fears and navigating new social situations. Together, we explore why fears of the dark, monsters, and unfamiliar people are a normal part of development, while discussing practical occupational therapy strategies to help children feel safe, confident, and supported.

From creating calming bedtime routines and understanding the role of co-regulation to encouraging social participation at the playground, this episode is filled with evidence-based strategies that caregivers can begin using at home. If your child struggles with bedtime, worries about monsters, or takes time to warm up around new friends, this conversation will remind you that these experiences are often a typical part of childhood development—and that small moments of connection can make a big difference.

✨ In This Episode

Understanding bedtime fears and the power of imagination
Creating calming bedtime routines
Using heavy work and sensory strategies before sleep
Monster spray and other playful bedtime supports
Supporting children through co-regulation
Building confidence in social situations
Understanding social referencing
OT Tip of the Day: Connection Before Correction

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 5 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D57mxwaaGJ7haajafm0j60CGBqAxQv6Yw8CJ9lDn_S4/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to a Four-Year-Old Firecracker

02:28 Bedtime Fears, Monsters, and Night Wakings

03:50 Navigating Bedtime Fears

07:33 Why Fear of the Dark is So Common

13:42 Understanding Social Participation

14:09 OT Strategies for Calmer Bedtimes

19:07 Comforting Items, Bedroom Setups, and Sleep Routines

23:37 Building Social Confidence at the Playground

24:01 Building Confidence in Children

29:49 OT Tip of the Day: Connection Before Correction

Episode 4: Unpacking the Solar System of Emotions: A 3-Year-Old Deep Dive

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Angela as we unpack the exciting world of three-year-olds! Together, we explore how big emotions, growing independence, and strong interests shape a child's development. From emotional outbursts and difficult transitions to an incredible fascination with the solar system, this episode highlights how occupational therapy helps us understand the "why" behind everyday behaviors.

We'll discuss practical strategies to support smoother transitions, encourage emotional regulation, and nurture a child's unique interests through meaningful play. Whether your child loves dinosaurs, planets, trains, or something entirely different, you'll learn how following their passions can build confidence, independence, and lifelong learning.

✨ In This Episode

Understanding emotional outbursts through the Behavior Iceberg
Supporting transitions between preferred and non-preferred activities
Following your child's interests to promote development
The power of imaginative and symbolic play
Encouraging independence through routines and choices
Practical strategies for emotional regulation
When behaviors may be sensory versus behavioral
OT Tip of the Day: First, Then & Narrating the Positive

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 4 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16mRCoWW-jW0Hhki5STS9Y7vjDgCJAiKBfq0iQKkgasQ/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the 3-Year-Old Years

02:46 Understanding Big Emotions and Emotional Outbursts

06:06 The Role of Co-Regulation

08:36 The Power of Creative & Imaginative Play

11:06 Why Transitions Feel So Difficult

15:08 Following Your Child's Interests and Strengths

17:36 Emotional Regulation, Time-Outs, and Calm-Down Corners

21:39 OT Tips Of The Day

23:38 Overstimulated or Understimulated?

27:56 The Earlobe Question

29:48 Closing

Episode 3: Unpacking the 18-Month Milestone: Bilingualism, Big Emotions, and the Toddler Transition

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Monse as we unpack one of the biggest developmental milestones of early childhood—the transition from baby to toddler. Together, we explore what typically happens around 18 months, including language development, emotional regulation, growing independence, and what it means to raise a child in a bilingual household.

Whether you're wondering if your toddler's speech is on track, navigating big emotions, or encouraging independence through everyday routines, this episode offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you feel more confident supporting your child's development. Through real-life experiences and occupational therapy perspectives, we'll unpack the "why" behind many of the changes that make this stage both exciting and challenging.

✨ In This Episode

The developmental milestones of the 18-month stage
Raising a bilingual child and supporting language development
Understanding speech delays versus bilingual language learning
Social referencing and building confidence
Supporting emotional regulation through co-regulation
Encouraging independence through play and daily routines
Everyday strategies to promote communication and learning
OT Tip of the Day: Narrating the Day

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 3 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iXaexb9lfjPSk3sA4XHuoLRYV2jroLszVMHdoyGHdgQ/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating the 18-Month Milestone

03:22 Bilingualism in the Household

07:01 The Power of Neuroplasticity

11:04 Speech Development Supported by Social Participation

14:12 Emotional Regulation and Co-Regulation

21:32 Imitative Play and Developmental Wins

23:44 Self-Care Milestones and Independence

25:22 Managing Meltdowns and Parental Patience

28:26 OT Tips for Parents: Narrating the Day

29:24 Closing

Episode 2: Unpacking the Terrific Two's, Transitions, and Navigating “Mom Guilt”

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me and caregiver Angelica as we unpack the toddler years through the lens of occupational therapy. Together, we explore why the "terrible twos" might be better described as the terrific twos, what big emotions really mean for your child's development, and how caregivers can confidently support their little ones through everyday challenges.

From navigating difficult transitions and potty training readiness to balancing motherhood with graduate school, this conversation highlights the importance of meeting children where they are developmentally while also giving ourselves grace as caregivers. Whether you're parenting a toddler or simply looking for practical strategies to make daily routines a little smoother, this episode is full of encouragement, evidence-based insights, and relatable moments.

✨ In This Episode

Why the "terrible twos" are really the "terrific twos"
Understanding big emotions through child development
Practical strategies to support smoother transitions
Potty training readiness signs
Encouraging independence in everyday routines
Navigating mom guilt while balancing multiple roles
The importance of quality time over quantity
OT Tip of the Day: Identity Affirmations

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Episode 2 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SQABG6_1F_KXHLzkrYKxj2PPHabXHapba5Jxj_psH5M/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Terrific Twos

01:09 Navigating Motherhood and Grad School

03:39 Understanding Big Emotions in Toddlers

06:48 Transitioning Away From Proffered Activities

10:27 Co-Regulation

13:57 Potty Training: Timing and Techniques

18:41 Fostering Independence in Daily Activities

21:40 Preparing for Baby Number Two

24:22 Navigating Mom Guilt, Work-Life Balance, and Quality Time

28:58 Modeling Resilience for Children

31:22 Closing

Episode 1: Welcome to Unpacking the Occupation!

Trina Esperante — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join me for today's solo episode as I introduce Unpacking the Occupation and share the journey that inspired this podcast. As an occupational therapy doctoral student and mom, I'm passionate about helping caregivers better understand the "why" behind their child's everyday challenges through the lens of occupational therapy.

In this episode, we'll explore what occupational therapy is, why the early years of development matter, and what you can expect throughout this series. Each episode is designed to provide evidence-based strategies, practical tools, and real caregiver conversations that empower families to support their child's participation in everyday life.

✨ In this episode, we discuss:

My journey into occupational therapy
The purpose behind Unpacking the Occupation
Why the first six years of development are so important
What to expect throughout this podcast series
OT Tip of the Day: The Power of the Pause

📚 Episode Resource Guide

🔗 Access the Episode 1 Resource Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TIv353KrukdmdSsvywWKinjf11GH2_Mxv34nHixoJEA/edit?usp=sharing

📱 Let's Connect

I'd love to continue this journey with you! Follow along for podcast updates, occupational therapy education, caregiver tips, and behind-the-scenes content.

Instagram: @OTwithTrina

Chapters:

00:00 Opening & Podcast Introduction

01:14 Disclaimer & Scope

01:50 My Journey to Occupational Therapy

04:13 Understanding the Capstone Project & Podcast's Purpose

05:54 What to Expect: Unpacking Future Episodes

06:45 OT tip of the Day

07:41 Closing