Play Move Improve

Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Managing Transitions for Neurodivergent Children

Episode Summary

In this insightful episode, Robyn Packworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the challenges that neurodivergent children face with transitions and offers practical strategies to help.

• The cerebellum and prefrontal cortex play crucial roles in managing transitions
• Neurodivergent children may struggle with sensory processing and predicting what happens next
• Internal time management systems can be affected in neurodivergent individuals
• Transitions can be particularly stressful for children who have masked their behaviors all day

1. Provide warnings before transitions
2. Use transition objects (e.g., favorite toys, fidgets)
3. Implement visual schedules
4. Offer comforting routines (e.g., favorite snacks, songs)
5. Create a predictable after-school routine

• Visual schedules for transitions
• Comfort toy handout
• Vagus nerve drop-off handout

Robyn Packworth is a mother of three, an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and early learning speaker. She works with the Beautiful Parents Hub in Victoria, supporting children with developmental delays, autism, anxiety, ADHD, and dyspraxia.

Play Move Improve Podcast: Beyond Emotion Cards - The Foundations of Emotional Development

Episode Summary

In this insightful episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the importance of foundational emotional development in children, especially those born during the social pandemic of 2020-2021.

She explains why emotion cards might not be the best first approach and offers practical strategies for supporting children's emotional growth.

• The impact of the social pandemic on children's emotional development
• The importance of joint attention and social connection in early emotional development
• Why emotion cards may not be effective for young children without foundational skills
• The role of play in developing emotional regulation and brain function
• The significance of interoception in understanding and expressing emotions

1. Provide opportunities for eye contact and joint attention
2. Engage in shared activities (e.g., singing, playing games, household tasks)
3. Encourage community involvement and social interactions
4. Prioritize play with real 3D objects to stimulate brain development
5. Create experiences that develop interoception (awareness of internal bodily sensations)

Robyn Papworth is a mother of three, an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and early learning speaker. She is passionate about empowering parents and educators to set up engaging play activities that improve children's development, health, and learning outcomes.

Robyn mentions an upcoming program focused on foundational skills for emotional development. Stay tuned for more information!

Play Move Improve Podcast: A Special Q&A with Robyn and Hugh Papworth

Episode Summary

In this delightful episode, Robyn Papworth is joined by her son Hugh for a fun and insightful Q&A session. They take turns asking each other questions about Robyn's career, Hugh's love for basketball, and their shared interests in the brain and sports.

1. Favorite part of the brain: Amygdala, for its role in personal growth through anxiety and fear
2. Career aspirations: Originally wanted to be a biomechanist for tennis, switched to rehab after a personal experience
3. Top tip for a successful business: Be yourself and embrace your quirks
4. Estimated number of children helped: Thousands, with a focus on making a difference one child at a time
5. Discovery of exercise physiology: Through university studies in exercise science

Bonus Basketball Question: Robyn named five Melbourne United players, showcasing her growing knowledge of the sport thanks to Hugh's influence

1. Motivation for starting a podcast: To share knowledge about basketball and compete with mom's podcast
2. Love for basketball: 10 out of 10
3. When basketball passion began: After a pickup game at school
4. Favorite NBA team and player: Split between Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies; favorite player is GG Jackson
5. Preference between NBA and NBL: Appreciates both for different reasons

Bonus Brain Question: Hugh named three parts of the brain: hippocampus, amygdala, and cerebellum

• Hugh's own podcast: "Hugh's NBA Highlights"
• Robyn's journey from biomechanics to exercise physiology
• The family's shared interest in Melbourne United (NBL team)
• Hugh's passion for basketball and its positive impact on his life
• The blend of sports and brain science in their family discussions

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, and mother of three. Hugh is Robyn's son and an enthusiastic basketball fan with his own podcast.

Play Move Improve Podcast: Essential Sensory Skills for Children's Development

Episode Summary

In this informative episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the importance of sensory skills in children's development. She highlights eight essential sensations and provides practical activities to enhance these skills.

1. Many children today struggle with basic sensory skills that weren't a concern a decade ago.
2. Eight essential sensations: visual, auditory, taste, smell, touch, vestibular, proprioception, and interoception.
3. Modern lifestyle changes, including increased screen time and reduced outdoor play, are impacting children's sensory development.
4. Sensory integration is crucial for fine motor skills, self-regulation, and overall learning.

1. Visual: 3D objects, natural light, searching for hidden objects
2. Auditory: Various sounds, music, guessing games with different noises
3. Taste: Encourage trying different foods (consult professionals if concerned)
4. Smell: Use herbs, essential oils, and everyday scents to stimulate memory and calm
5. Touch: Provide various textures through sensory tubs, gardening, and cooking activities
6. Vestibular: Head movement activities like dancing, spinning, and looking up/down
7. Proprioception: Jumping, hopping, crawling, and other pressure-inducing movements
8. Interoception: Awareness of internal bodily sensations like hunger, thirst, and temperature

• Create sensory tubs with various materials (sand, water, corn flour, etc.)
• Use recycled shampoo bottles for smell activities
• Incorporate outdoor play to experience different temperatures and textures
• Discuss bodily sensations during meals and drinks
• Engage in gross motor activities to stimulate the vestibular system and proprioception

Proper sensory development is crucial for:

• Self-regulation and emotional control
• Focus and attention in class
• Fine motor skills development
• Overall learning and development

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She is passionate about empowering parents and educators to support children's development through engaging play activities.

Play Move Improve Podcast: Bridging the Gap in Children's Foundational Movement Skills

Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the current challenges in children's development and the critical importance of foundational movement skills. She emphasizes the need to focus on basic skills rather than rushing to meet academic expectations.

1. Many children are struggling with basic developmental skills that were once common.
2. Changes in lifestyle, including smaller living spaces and increased screen time, are impacting children's physical development.
3. Foundational movement skills are crucial for later academic success, including reading and writing.
4. Educators and parents need to focus on meeting children where they are developmentally rather than pushing them to meet arbitrary standards.

1. Crawling: Essential for brain development and reading skills
2. Rolling: Important for spatial awareness and body coordination
3. Basic ball skills: Develops hand-eye coordination and attention span
4. Visual tracking: Fundamental for reading and focusing

• They form the foundation for more complex academic skills like reading and writing
• They help develop spatial awareness, which is crucial for tasks like packing a bag or sitting properly
• They contribute to overall physical and cognitive development

• Curriculum expectations often don't match children's developmental readiness
• Reduced outdoor play and physical activity due to smaller living spaces
• The "YouTube attention span" phenomenon

• Incorporate hills and varied terrain in play areas
• Encourage repetitive play with balls (throwing, catching, rolling)
• Start with larger balls (e.g., beach balls) for younger children
• Focus on basic movements like crawling and rolling, even for older children who missed these milestones

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator passionate about helping children build strong foundational movement skills for better learning outcomes.

Understanding and Supporting Toileting Challenges in Children

Episode Summary

In this candid episode, Robyn Papworth shares her personal experience with her daughter Phoebe's toileting challenges. She discusses the role of interoception in toileting, offers practical strategies, and emphasizes the importance of a patient, individualized approach.

1. Interoception, the internal body awareness sense, plays a crucial role in toileting.
2. Children may struggle with recognizing wet or dry sensations, affecting toileting.
3. Occupational therapy can provide valuable insights and strategies for toileting challenges.
4. Every child's development is unique, and it's important not to rush or compare to arbitrary timelines.
5. Environmental factors in bathrooms can impact a child's comfort and willingness to use the toilet.

• Interoception is the sense of internal body awareness (e.g., feeling hot, cold, hungry, or needing the bathroom)
• Some children struggle to recognize these internal sensations
• This can affect their ability to know when they need to use the toilet or when they're wet

1. Use descriptive language to help children connect with bodily sensations
2. Practice identifying wet and dry sensations through play (e.g., wet and dry sponges)
3. Incorporate sensory activities into daily chores (e.g., laundry, dishes)
4. Use hand-on-tummy technique to encourage body awareness
5. Adjust bathroom environments for comfort and privacy (e.g., soft curtains, stickers on the ceiling)
6. Be mindful of sensory issues in public bathrooms (e.g., hand dryers, water taps)

• Every child develops at their own pace
• Night-time dryness often comes later and shouldn't be rushed
• Consult with an occupational therapist for personalized strategies
• Keep a positive attitude and avoid shaming or pressuring the child

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and mother who shares her professional expertise and personal experiences to help parents and educators support children's development.

• Try the suggested strategies and share which ones you found most helpful

Connect with Play Move Improve

Play Move Improve Podcast: Five Essential Movements in Gymnastics for Child Development

Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses five key movements in gymnastics that are crucial for child development. She shares personal experiences with her son Hugh and offers insights for gymnastics coaches and parents.

1. Gymnastics can play a vital role in developing fundamental movement skills and building confidence.
2. Five essential movements in gymnastics that support child development: a. Reflex integration b. Jumping c. Crawling and climbing d. Heel-to-toe balance e. Vestibular system development

1. Reflex Integration
2. Jumping
3. Crawling and Climbing
4. Heel-to-Toe Balance
5. Vestibular System Development

• Slow down movements to improve control and body awareness
• Use music or verbal cues to guide movement timing
• Incorporate visual tracking exercises during activities
• Start with ground-based activities before progressing to equipment

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, and mother who shares her professional expertise and personal experiences to help parents, educators, and gymnastics coaches support children's development.

• Try incorporating these movements into gymnastics programs or at-home activities

• Share experiences and feedback on the strategies discussed
• Join the upcoming webinar for more in-depth information

Motor Development and Balance Challenges in Children with Autism

Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth discusses the motor development and balance challenges often seen in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She explains the complexities of balance, the impact of sensory processing differences, and offers strategies to support motor skill development in children with ASD.

1. Motor functioning challenges are often present in children with ASD, alongside social interaction and communication difficulties.
2. Balance involves multiple systems: visual, vestibular, and somatosensory.
3. Children with ASD may struggle with proactive and reactive balance.
4. Tippy-toe walking is common in ASD and can further complicate balance.
5. Engaging children with ASD in motor activities requires understanding their interests and sensory needs.

• Low muscle tone, especially in facial muscles
• Difficulties with proactive balance (preparing for changes in terrain)
• Challenges with reactive balance (responding to unexpected obstacles)
• Sensory processing differences affecting balance and coordination
• Impact of tippy-toe walking on stability and balance

1. Identify 5 key interests of the child (e.g., insects, cars, dinosaurs)
2. Incorporate interests into balance and motor activities
3. Use visual aids (e.g., picture cards) in activities
4. Start with short, achievable activities (1-2 minutes)
5. Gradually increase difficulty and duration of activities
6. Focus on building confidence and trust in their body

• Print 5 different insect pictures (postcard size)
• Spread pictures on the ground
• Have child jump or hop onto each picture
• Variation: Put pictures on wall and throw a ball at them while standing on one foot

• Understand the frustration children may feel when their body doesn't cooperate
• Recognize that motor challenges may be visible before social and communication difficulties
• Early intervention in motor skills can be beneficial

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist and developmental educator specializing in supporting children with various developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder.

• Play Move Improve podcast episode on balance
• Upcoming episode on the cerebellum
• Autism webinar (check website for details)

• Share your child's top 5 interests in the comments for personalized activity suggestions

Reach out for more information or support

Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Managing Play Schemas in Early Childhood Settings

## Episode Summary

In this episode, Robyn Papworth discusses the importance of play schemas in early childhood development and offers strategies for educators and parents to manage and support these behaviors in various settings.

## Key Points

1. Play schemas are repetitive behaviors that help children explore and understand their world.

2. Common play schemas include trajectory (throwing) and transporting (moving objects).

3. These behaviors can be challenging for educators and parents but are crucial for development.

4. There's an increase in play schema behaviors in older age groups (3-6 years) than previously observed.

5. Strategies can be implemented to support play schemas while managing the learning environment.

## Understanding Play Schemas

- Play schemas are developmental phases children go through to explore their world

- Examples: transporting objects, throwing (trajectory), dumping

- These behaviors help children understand cause and effect, object permanence, and their impact on the environment

## Challenges in Educational Settings

- Increased occurrence of play schema behaviors in 3-6 year age group

- Difficulty in managing mixed developmental levels in one setting

- Potential disruption to structured activities or other children's play

## Strategies for Supporting Play Schemas

1. **Object Permanence Activities**

- Hide objects under cups for children to find

- Bury toys in sandpit for discovery

2. **Sensory Exploration**

- Provide opportunities for paint mixing and texture exploration

- Create designated areas for messy play

3. **Structured vs. Open-Ended Play Spaces**

- Set up separate areas for structured activities and free exploration

- Use outdoor spaces for messier, more physical play

4. **Extending Play Behaviors**

- Engage children in their current play level and gradually introduce new concepts

- Use children's interests to guide activities

5. **Environment Modification**

- Adjust play spaces to accommodate different developmental needs

- Create safe areas for more physical play schemas

## Tips for Educators and Parents

- Focus on improving one play skill at a time

- Understand that repetitive behaviors are part of learning

- Provide a variety of sensory experiences

- Be patient and remember that the brain will learn with repeated exposure

## About the Host

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She combines her professional expertise with personal experiences to provide valuable insights into child development and play.

## Call to Action

- Share your experiences or questions in the comments

- Reach out for more ideas and support

Play Move Improve Podcast: Understanding and Supporting Emotional Regulation

Episode Summary

In this in-depth episode, Robyn Papworth, an exercise physiologist and developmental educator, discusses the importance of emotional regulation in child development. She shares personal insights, scientific information, and practical strategies to help children and adults manage their emotions effectively.

1. Emotional regulation is a lifelong skill that starts developing in infancy.
2. Early life experiences and attachments significantly impact emotional regulation abilities.
3. There are three stages of emotional development from birth to 24 months.
4. Recent global events have affected emotional regulation in both children and adults.
5. Play and movement can help improve emotional regulation skills.

1. Stage 1 (1-6 months): Basic emotional responses and mirroring
2. Stage 2 (6-12 months): Development of defiance and shyness
3. Stage 3 (12-24 months): More complex emotions like jealousy and shame

1. Use descriptive language: "I can see that you're frustrated" or "I can hear that you're upset"
2. Modify situations to make them more pleasant or manageable
3. Practice shifting attention to more positive aspects
4. Create a list of coping strategies (e.g., "When I feel frustrated, I can...")
5. Use grounding techniques like barefoot standing or finger breathing
6. Implement escape plans for children who struggle with emotional regulation
7. Use countdown timers to provide predictability and control

1. Play-Doh emotion activity: Use Play-Doh to explore what different emotions look and feel like
2. Create a visual "When I feel frustrated, I can..." chart
3. Practice finger breathing or other calming techniques

Robyn shares her own experiences with emotional regulation challenges, providing a unique perspective on the importance of these skills and the impact of early life experiences.

Robyn Papworth is an exercise physiologist, developmental educator, speaker, author, and mother of three. She combines her professional expertise with personal experiences to provide valuable insights into child development and emotional regulation.

How to support children during snack time - early childhood kindergarten training

Join paediatric Exercise Physiologist Robyn as she shares her passion about motor skill development for reading.

Enjoy my chat with We Rise Networking where I chat about simple play activities that you can do at home to compliment increased screen time during lockdown.

All of our children, including mine, are spending hours on screens during lockdowns and remote learning. So in this episode I share some simple visual tracking knowledge and tips to help find a healthy balance between screen time and visual tracking skills.

We're all finding lockdown exhausting and overwhelming so in this podcast episode I share my top 3 sensory therapy tips that may bring comfort to you and your family, or the children that you care for in a classroom setting.

Tune in to our real mum chat with Ash from Rainbow Sky Creations.

Ash and I talk about how we're surviving as busy working mums during social isolation. Ash also shares her tips as a teacher, for ways to engage children during remote learning.

Enjoy listening to my Early learning during covid19 chat with Kristy from Early Childhood Expectations.

During this episode we chat about how educators can reduce the feeling over overwhelm and stress during this difficult time, and how early childhood educators can share their support with families who have young children during social isolation.

Follow Kristy on her social media channels:

In this podcast episode, I share my case study of a young boy who is 6, and in his first term of prep this year.

His mum reported his challenges with getting ready for school in the morning. His teacher is concerned about his distractability during transitioning from circle time to the table. After a conversation about this young boy's behaviour at school and at home, his mum mentioned that this young boy also finds it challenging thinking about consequences before acting in their yard at home.

Throughout this episode I share:

* What to look for when observing a child's distractability

* How our environment can impact our ability to pay attention and focus

* The relationship between a child's senses, arousal level, attention, and focus

* The information that we need to collect, to be able to help a child who is easily distracted in the classroom