Tuning In to Development

• Episode 6: Exploring the Magic of Play, from Development to Dinosaurs, with Rachel Ottley, OTR/L and Rebecca Berg, OTR/L, IMH-E

  In this episode of 'Tuning into Development,' host Kassie Allison explores the significance of play in children's development with guests Rachel Ottley and Rebecca Berg. Rachel and Kassie discuss how play encompasses various developmental aspects such as motor skills, sensory processing, and social interaction. The episode also highlights different play types, addressing misconceptions and offering strategies for therapists and parents to foster playful interactions. Additionally, Rebecca Berg shares her family's unique tradition of 'Dino-vember,' showcasing how whimsical practices can nurture creativity and family bonding. The conversation underscores the fundamental role of play in fostering joy, safety, developmental progress, and meaningful connection between children and caregivers.

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• Episode 5: Aggressive Behaviors and Building Safety with Gilbert Foley, EdD, IMH-E and Linda Cervenka, MA, CCC-SLP

  In this episode of Tuning In to Development, host and pediatric occupational therapist Kassie Allison teams up with developmental experts Gilbert Foley, EdD, IMH-E and Linda Cervenka, MA, CCC-SLP to explore what aggression really is, what it reveals about a child’s internal state, and how caregivers and professionals can respond effectively. We discuss prevention strategies, how to support children in the heat of the moment, and ways to help repair and recover afterward. Emphasizing that aggression is often a response to sensory overload, dysregulation, and misperceived threat, we highlight the importance of creating felt safety, practicing empathy, and using co-regulation. This episode offers practical guidance to support children through challenging behaviors by focusing on connection, self-regulation, and safety.

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• Episode 4: Hope-Filled Evaluations and the Hidden Roots of Behavior with Dr. Ricki Robinson - Part 2

  In this episode of Tuning In to Development, host Kassie Allison continues her rich conversation with Dr. Ricki Robinson about the powerful role of hope in supporting children with developmental differences. Together, they explore how medical issues can sometimes present as behavioral challenges and the importance of clinicians acting as detectives when a child’s behavior shifts unexpectedly. Kassie and Dr. Robinson share their thoughtful, relationship-centered approaches to intake and assessment. Both clinicians highlight how their processes were developed over years of experience, with a shared foundation: deeply understanding the child and giving the family hope. Filled with real-world examples and grounded insights, this episode is a must-listen for parents, professionals, and anyone supporting children. At its core is a shared message: when we slow down, listen deeply, and build strong relationships, we lay the foundation for clarity, hope, and lasting impact.

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• Episode 3: Holding Onto Hope with Dr. Ricki Robinson - Part 1

  In this episode of Tuning In to Development, host Kassie Allison has a conversation with Dr. Ricki Robinson, a pediatrician with over 51 years of experience. Dr. Robinson shares her inspiring journey in developmental medicine, emphasizing the crucial role of hope in autism treatment. She reflects on discovering the DIR model through Drs. Stanley Greenspan and Serena Wieder in the 1990s, a time when autism was considered untreatable. Drawing from her background in medicine—where she witnessed groundbreaking advancements like the dramatic improvement in leukemia survival rates—Dr. Robinson discusses her comprehensive approach to autism diagnosis and care. She highlights the importance of building trust with families while fostering hope. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on the power of persistence, innovation, and compassion in developmental medicine.

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• Episode 2: Harmony of the Sensory Orchestra: Conducting Growth through Observation, Individual Profiles, and DIR with Rosemary White OTR/L

  In this inspiring episode of Tuning In to Development, host Kassie Allison welcomes a very special guest—Rosemary White, a renowned occupational therapist, senior faculty member at Profectum, and a leading expert in the DIR (Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based) model.  Kassie, an OT herself, shares her admiration for Rosemary’s work and how it has profoundly influenced her own practice. Together, they dive into Rosemary’s journey from her early days as an OT in Australia to becoming a key figure in developmental intervention. Rosemary shares powerful insights on the importance of observation, the integration of sensory processing with emotional development, and how DIR has shaped her approach to fostering meaningful connections with children and families. You’ll hear heartfelt stories about real-life therapy moments, including how play evolves over time, the role of affective interactions, and why videotaping sessions can be a game-changer for both therapists and parents. Kassie and Rosemary also reflect on the challenges and rewards of developmental work, the dynamic nature of growth, and the invaluable partnership between professionals and caregivers. Whether you’re an OT, a parent, or simply curious about human development, this episode is packed with wisdom, practical strategies, and heartfelt reflections that will leave you feeling inspired and more connected to the developmental journey. Tune in to discover how observation, connection, and curiosity can transform the way we support growth—one interaction at a time.

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