Sensory tools are a staple in pediatric OT—but not all of them are doing what we think they are. In this episode, we take a clear-eyed look at the evidence behind sensory-based interventions, from weighted vests and fidgets to caregiver coaching and environmental modifications. Drawing from a recent systematic review, we discuss what actually supports participation, what shows mixed results, and how to make data-driven decisions without losing sight of day-to-day practice realities.

We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the original article too.

Piller, A., McHugh Conlin, J., Glennon, T. J., Andelin, L., Teng, K., & Tarver, T. (2025). Systematic review of sensory-based interventions for children and youth (2015–2024). Frontiers in Pediatrics, 13, 1720179. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2025.1720179

Get the OT Evidence Checklist mentioned in the episode here

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Episode 50 is all about YOU! Michele and Lacy tackle the questions that keep pediatric occupational therapists thinking, problem-solving, and sometimes scratching their heads. We dive into recommending OT service minutes with evidence (not guesswork) explore how AI can make your OT life easier while keeping therapy person-centered, and share prep hacks that save time without skimping on quality. Plus, we get real about finding mentorship and continuing education to fit you. It’s practical, honest, and full of those “aha!” moments that keep ideas—and your OT sessions—fresh and fun.

Articles/Resources mentioned:

Listen to episode 20 with Dr. Iona Novak and learn more about the READ Model in this article. Novak, I., Te Velde, A., Hines, A., Stanton, E., McNamara, M., Paton, M. C. B., Finch-Edmondson, M., & Morgan, C. (2021). Rehabilitation evidence-based decision-making: The READ model. Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2, 726410. https://doi.org/10.3389/fresc.2021.726410

Listen to episode 40 with Dr. Heather Kuhaneck and read about the development of the Classroom Sensory Environment Assessment (C-SEA) at https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2015.019430

Thank you to our sponsor OccupationalTherapy.com! Use the code PLAY25 to support the show and get a free month of continuing education access when you sign up today at our podcast link https://fas.st/t/Fe79v8vU

💡Want to hear more about Ideas at Work? Send us an email to IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.com

Stay informed, stay curious, and stay playful!

✏️ Sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.

📧 Email us a question or comment at IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.com

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Folinic acid has been showing up everywhere in conversations about autism—but what does the research actually tell us, and why should occupational therapists pay attention? In this episode of Ideas at Play, we break down a high-quality randomized controlled trial on folinic acid and translate the findings into practical, OT-relevant insights. We unpack the brain-based “why,” highlight what the study found (including changes related to autism characteristics and language), and talk about how this information fits into real-world practice. As always, we center participation, functional outcomes, and collaboration with families and medical teams. This episode is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Families should always consult their physician before starting or changing supplements or medications.

We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the original article too.

Panda, P. K., Sharawat, I. K., Saha, S., Gupta, D., Palayullakandi, A., & Meena, K. (2024). Efficacy of oral folinic acid supplementation in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. European Journal of Pediatrics, 183(11), 4827–4835. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-024-05762-6

Additional Citations:

Sener, E. F., Oztop, D. B., & Ozkul, Y. (2014). MTHFR gene C677T polymorphism in autism spectrum disorders. Genetics Research International, 2014, Article 698574. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/698574

Bobrowski-Khoury, N., Ramaekers, V. T., Sequeira, J. M., & Quadros, E. V. (2021). Folate receptor alpha autoantibodies in autism spectrum disorders: Diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 11(8), Article 710. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11080710

💡Want to hear more about Ideas at Work? Send us an email to IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.com

Stay informed, stay curious, and stay playful!

✏️ Sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.

📧 Email us a question or comment at IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.com

👉 Find us on Instagram @ideas.at.play