Little Brains Big Steps

Episode 11 - All About the Tactile System in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory Systems

In this episode, Megan and Franchesca explore the tactile system—our sense of touch—and its critical role in sensory development and MNRI work. They break down the three types of touch (discriminative, nociceptive, and proprioceptive), how touch relates to reflex integration, and the calming power of deep pressure. They also discuss how the brain interprets touch and its emotional impact, especially for children navigating trauma or sensory sensitivities.

Episode 10 - Exploring the Auditory System in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory Systems

This podcast episode of Little Brains Big Steps features hosts Franchesca Cox, an occupational therapist, and Megan Williams, a speech-language pathologist, exploring the auditory system and its role in childhood development. They break down how the auditory system works, its connection to other sensory systems, and how challenges in auditory processing can impact focus, learning, and communication. The hosts share common signs of auditory processing difficulties and offer practical strategies for support in everyday settings.

Episode 9 - Diving into the Visual System in Developing Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory Systems

Join Franchesca and Megan as they dive into the real meaning of vision—and spoiler alert, it’s way more than just seeing clearly. In this episode, we're chatting all about visual processing—how the brain makes sense of what the eyes see—and why it matters for everything from learning to moving, talking, and even eating. We’ll break down the brainy stuff in a super relatable way and share red flags to look out for, plus simple strategies you can try at home. 💡 You’ll hear about: * How vision works in the brain (not just the eyes!) * Common signs of visual processing challenges * The link between vision, learning, speech & motor skills * How the visual and vestibular systems are besties * Real-life tips + cool research insights Whether you're a parent, therapist, or just curious—this convo will help you “see” things in a whole new way. 👓 Hit play and come hang with us! And don’t forget to leave a review so more families can find us! Show notes [https://littlebrainsbigsteps.com/diving-into-the-visual-system-in-developing-children-a-series-on-the-eight-sensory/]

Episode 8 - All About the Vestibular System in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory Systems

Occupational therapist Franchesca Cox and speech-language pathologist Megan Williams, both based in Houston, Texas, discuss pediatric therapy on their podcast Little Brain's Big Steps. They explore topics like the vestibular system, its role in balance, spatial awareness, and movement coordination, and its connection to other sensory systems. They highlight research showing vestibular dysfunction is common in children with conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, and traumatic brain injuries. They emphasize the importance of early intervention, therapy techniques, and educating families on how sensory processing affects daily life.

Episode 7- Exploring Proprioception in Children: A Series on the Eight Sensory Systems

In this episode, Megan Williams and Franchesca Cox delve into the two main categories of proprioceptive processing in children. They discuss children with hypersensitive proprioceptive systems, who avoid movement and struggle with postural control, and those with under-responsive systems, who seek out intense physical activity and have difficulty with body awareness. The conversation highlights how these sensory differences impact play, behavior, and social-emotional development.