My Big Why Behind This Blog
Little did I know that when I decided to start teaching & presenting (see my 2022 workshops here), in my own Argentinian-Canadian style (lol), on everything sensory processing related that it would also involve a commitment to be always learning. There hasn’t been a week since I started this journey (almost two years ago now) that I haven’t read something, scoured the literature, listened to a podcast or watched a presentation to add to my own ever evolving understanding of both sensory processing differences and autism.
It’s been an amazing, humbling & transformative experience to connect with more than 500 occupational therapists at my courses so far & I’ve learned (& continue to learn) so much, that I’ve decided to share in the hopes that this material will also be helpful for you as occupational therapists (OTs) &/or occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) working with people on the autism spectrum. While my content is intended to speak to occupational therapy practitioners, I do think that it might also resonate with you in whatever role you are in- therapist, teacher or parent- or any combination of these.
What will I share on this blog that is of value to occupational therapists?
I will be sharing my own small & big victories, the stuff that’s moved me (including the research!) or given me new insights as well as provided me with ideas to share with the families I work with (as well as try with my own kids :), because, of course, as OTs many of the strategies that we recommend are often ones that we could all (neurodivergent & neurotypical) benefit from.
Today, I’m introducing you to one of my favourite researchers. For those of you who have attended my courses, you know that I have 6 OT Crushes (lol) & now, you’ll also get to hear about the researchers I’m fascinated with as well.
Listen to the amazing & articulate Francesca Happe, from the UK, in this Life Scientific podcast entitled Francesca Happe on Autism talking about our current understanding of autism. She covers so much but I particularly enjoyed the way in which she describes how autism presents in girls & women who are often not diagnosed until later on (mostly in adulthood) & who tend to be diagnosed with mental health conditions first. She describes how autistic girls’ interests are “unusual in how intense they are but not unusual in their focus” & gives some spot-on examples.
Enjoy!
Wishing you my very best,
Moira