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Starting an activity or task should be simple, right? Brush teeth. Do the dishes. Begin homework. Record the podcast. Yet for so many kids, teens, and adults, task initiation feels impossible, and the harder we push, the more stuck everyone gets. In this episode we unpack why that happens and what strategies we can use to help.

We break initiation down into what’s really going on: the hidden steps before the task even begins, the cognitive load that stacks up fast, and the way procrastination and avoidance can be a sign of overwhelm and not laziness.

Then we move into strategies you can use straight away. We start with regulation and co-regulation, to practical strategies to support the cognitive load, use of movement to build momentum (including a good dance party) and the all important role of playfulness.

If this helps, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more families and educators can find these executive functioning strategies. If you would like to donate and support the podcast - https://buymeacoffee.com/bellesotcorner

DISCLAIMER:
Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.

What task does your household get stuck starting most often?

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Time for our next season! Where we dive into all things executive functioning! “Go get ready” sounds simple, until you watch a child pause, drift, or bounce between ten half-finished steps. That moment isn’t always defiance or laziness. Sometimes, it’s executive functioning difficulties, the hidden set of thinking skills that helps us plan, start, navigate distractions, adapt when things change, and finish what we began.

In this episode we break down what executive functioning actually is and why it can impact almost every functional activity across the day, from morning routines, time management to homework , and organising belongings. We look at the skills and building blocks for executive functioning are like attention, impulse control, working memory, problem solving, and cognitive flexibility.

Then we zoom in on ideation: the creative spark of “what could I do?” that underpins play, self-directed time and organising our bodies for activities. With some practical actives to try at home that build ideas and confidence without pressure.

If you want clearer language, better routines, and simple occupational therapy strategies that support independence over time, hit play. Subscribe, share with a parent or teacher who needs this, and leave a rating or review so more families can find the show. If you would like to donate and support the podcast - https://studio.buymeacoffee.com/dashboard

DISCLAIMER:
Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.

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Hair washing, toothbrushing, brushing knots out, nail cutting … these “everyday” hygiene tasks can turn into the most stressful part of the day, especially when a child is juggling sensory sensitivities, balance challenges, motor planning, and the mental load of sequencing. We’re finishing our self-care season by getting practical about personal hygiene and grooming, with simple OT strategies that help kids feel safer and more in control while they build real independence.

We talk hair from every angle: figuring out which step is the sticky one, and what strategies we can use to make it that bit easier! We also plan for problems before they happen, so “water in the eyes” becomes “pause, wipe, then continue” instead of frustrations for all. For brushing hair, we cover wet brushing, leave-in conditioner, starting from the ends, using mirrors for body awareness, and setting expectations so the experience stays positive.

Then we move into toothbrushing and nail cutting with a focus on visuals, consistent language scripts, and sensory-friendly options. We share ideas like electric toothbrushes, toothpaste flavour experiments (including mild or flavourless), plaque-disclosing tablets for feedback, trimming nails after a bath, adaptive clippers, and supportive seating. If you want a calmer hygiene routine that still moves the needle on self-care skills, hit play, subscribe, share the episode, and leave a review.

If you found these OT toileting tips helpful, don't forget to leave a review and share the podcast around with anyone that you think could benefit from it and follow me on @bellesotcorner on instagram and Facebook for more insights. If you would like to donate and support the podcast - https://studio.buymeacoffee.com/dashboard

DISCLAIMER:
Whilst I will always make evert effort to share correct information as at the date of the podcast, research is constantly happening and as a profession we learn more everyday. One therapist may have a different way of doing things to another, and every child's needs are unique. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others Consult your child's paediatrician or therapist for any recommendations for your child.

Support the show