No two brains are wired the same — so why do we expect children to develop at the same speed? If you've ever found yourself worrying because another child "got there first," this episode is for you. We unpack why development isn't linear, why comparison steals perspective, and how to support your child, whether they need more time — or more challenge. With the right support, your child can keep moving forward in a way that works for their brain.

Comparison has a way of sneaking into parenting and stealing the joy — especially in mothers' groups, school yards, and scroll-heavy moments. In this episode of OT for Two, we unpack why "my way, my time" matters. Because children aren't spreadsheets, siblings aren't carbon copies, and development doesn't run on a group timeline. We talk confidence in your parenting choices, the spiral that comes from constant questioning, and why seeing your child as an individual (not a comparison point) changes everything. No race. No rankings. Just your child, in their own time and space.

From sleep to sensory meltdowns, teenage eye-rolls to parenting "aha!" moments – we've crammed all our favourite golden nuggets from Season One into one fun, bite-sized episode. Think of it as the highlight reel you can listen to in the car, on a walk, or hiding in the pantry with chocolate. Whether you're here for the laughs, the learning, or just the solidarity of knowing you're not alone in the chaos, this mash-up has you covered. Let's celebrate the wins, share the laughs, and wrap this season up with a pretty little bow.

Why is sleep such a big deal for kids (and adults!)? In this episode, we dive into what actually happens in our bodies while we snooze, why sleep is essential for growing brains and bodies, and the sneaky ways poor sleep can show up in behaviour.

We also share our favourite OT-approved tips and tricks to build a better bedtime routine—because sleep success doesn't start at bedtime, it starts before it. Whether your child fights sleep like it's their job or just struggles to stay settled, this episode is packed with practical ideas to help the whole household catch more ZZZs.

From boppy beats to calming tunes, Trish and Jayne dive into the magical ways music can help kids (and adults!) shift gears, settle down, or get moving. Whether it's hype-up songs before school or a soothing instrumental wind-down, this episode is packed with fun, real-life tips on using music to support regulation at home and in the classroom. Press play and feel the rhythm!

HELPFUL LINKS:

• OT For Two Spotify (Pink Noise Playlist) -https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2e3XrrSgM94VAHcQ1KpZMH
  
  
• OT For Two Spotify (Instrumental Covers Playlist) -
  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4cs8IcpK5OFGR6DiYSqqCQ?si=o2HdSStoTqGKGZbiWt1E_w&pi=9Af-DUzKThueE
• Endel App for Pink Noise -
  https://apps.apple.com/au/app/endel-focus-sleep-relax/id1346247457
  
  
• Anita Collins: Music Educator Website - https://www.anitacollinsmusic.com.au/
  
  
• Anita Collins IG: https://www.instagram.com/thelullabyeffect?igsh=MTFqN2kzNHU0MWJpOA==

Getting your kid to stop one thing and start another? Easier said than done.

In this episode, your two favourite OT For Two hosts chat about the daily drama of task transitions - why they're so tough, and how to make them (slightly) less painful. Trish and Jayne share practical tips that they use in their own homes, like countdown timers, pack-up songs, body doubling and more. No magic wand required, just a few tools and a bit of patience.

HELPFUL LINKS:

Squiddy Hoodie - https://squiddy.store/
Use code TRISH10 for 10% off

Trish's Rainbow Countdown timer - https://amzn.asia/d/6gDNI7M

Skylight Calendar - https://au.skylightframe.com/

Pack up songs Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/60blHdoFksF3dU2NfwXyTc

YouTube pack up song for the visual peeps - https://youtu.be/Xfy34fFqD5Y?si=db1oLwsU6NU62BbW

Being a teenager is hard. Hormones, identity, friendships, school, social media… it's a lot. And as parents or caregivers, it's tempting to jump in, take control, and steer the ship for them. But in this final episode of our teen series, paediatric OT Trish Lerk invites you to take a different approach — one of coaching, not captaining.

It's about stepping back (even when it's hard), showing up with kindness and compassion, and becoming the steady, encouraging presence on the sidelines while your teen takes the lead on their own life.

Because the goal isn't to make their life perfect. It's to cheer them on while they figure it out.

✨ A great wrap-up to a series full of real talk, gentle guidance, and the occasional eye roll.

Think boundaries are boring? Think again! In Part 2 of our Connecting with Your Teenager series, we're flipping the script on consequences and boundaries. This episode dives into how clear, kind frameworks and consistent boundaries aren't just about keeping teens in line—they're about setting them up for life.

We'll chat about the power of connection, the importance of letting kids bump into limits (with support), and how to turn everyday moments into lifelong skill-building. Less control, more collaboration. Fewer battles, more laughs. Tune in for practical tools, a few giggles, and a whole lot of heart.

This is old material repurposed for the sake of great podcast content. If I am referring to a He or a She or a They, it's not personal. Please just gender neutralise it or apply the pronouns that work for you and your family.

Happy Listening!