Did you know that making a simple sandwich involves dozens of language skills? In this episode of The Development Download, hosts Erin and Lisa sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist Carissa Speelman to explore how the kitchen can be one of the most powerful language-learning environments for young children. From vocabulary and sequencing to following directions and back-and-forth conversation, Carissa breaks down how everyday cooking moments create rich, natural opportunities for language development — and why those early years matter so much. Whether you're a parent, educator, or therapist, you'll walk away with a fresh perspective on how to turn meal prep into meaningful language practice.

Summer is the perfect time for kids to build skills in a fun and supportive environment—and that’s exactly why we love therapy groups! In this episode, we’re talking all about our summer group programming and the powerful benefits of group therapy for kids.

We discuss how groups help children practice important skills like: ✨ Social interaction and communication ✨ Emotional regulation ✨ Flexible thinking and problem solving ✨ Cooperation and teamwork

Group therapy gives kids a chance to learn alongside peers, practice real-life social situations, and build confidence in a supportive setting—all while having fun.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a group might be a good fit for your child, this episode will give you a great look into why groups can be such an impactful part of therapy.

Why is anxiety rising—especially in kids and teens—and what can we actually do about it?

In this episode, we break down the powerful concept of the Anxiety Equation—the idea that anxiety grows when perceived threat outweighs perceived ability to cope. When challenges feel big and coping skills feel small, anxiety spikes. But when we strengthen resilience and lower unnecessary threat signals, everything changes.

We also explore the life-changing concept of “affordable mistakes.” These are low-stakes failures that help kids (and adults) build confidence, competence, and emotional muscle. When we prevent every mistake, we accidentally prevent growth.

And finally, we tackle a tough but important topic: parental overhelping. When does support become interference? How can loving, well-meaning parents unintentionally increase anxiety by stepping in too quickly? We’ll discuss practical ways to step back strategically—so kids can step up confidently.

In this episode, hosts Lisa and Erin sit down with Kim Lorenz, pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Grow Well, to talk about infant feeding. Kim shares what parents should know about early feeding challenges, common misconceptions, when to seek help, and why she’s so passionate about supporting babies and families during this critical stage of development.

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In this episode, we sit down with Suzanne Recer to talk about her journey launching We Rock the Spectrum, a sensory-safe gym designed for children of all abilities. Suzanne shares what inspired her to open the space, the impact inclusive environments have on development and confidence, and what families can expect when they walk through the doors. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or community member passionate about supporting kids, this conversation highlights the power of play, purpose, and possibility.

Meltdowns can feel overwhelming—for kids and the adults supporting them. In this episode, we dive into what’s really happening beneath the surface and how a sensory-based approach can help children move from dysregulation to calm, connected, and confident.

We talk about how to recognize sensory needs, why traditional behavior strategies sometimes miss the mark, and practical, real-life tools families and professionals can use to support emotional regulation. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, this conversation offers insight, empathy, and actionable strategies to help children feel safe, understood, and successful.

🎧 Tune in to learn how understanding the sensory system can change the way we support big emotions—and build regulation skills that last.

The holidays are full of toys—but how do you choose gifts that truly support your child’s growth? In this episode, we break down the best developmentally supportive Christmas gift ideas by age, from babies to pre-teens. You’ll learn exactly what skills each toy supports, why those skills matter, and how to pick gifts that strengthen motor skills, language, sensory processing, executive function, and social-emotional development. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you’ll walk away with practical gift ideas that help kids grow long after the wrapping paper is gone.

In this episode, Lisa and Erin sit down with Jen Medsker, mom to her daughter Jessa, to share the real, everyday experience of raising a child who uses AAC. Jen opens up about their family’s journey—from the early signs that Jessa needed extra support, to the first steps into AAC, to the wins, setbacks, and breakthroughs along the way.

You’ll hear honest reflections on what helped, what surprised her, and what she wishes every parent, therapist, and educator knew. We talk about partnership with therapists, navigating school and community settings, and how AAC has shaped Jessa’s confidence, connection, and independence.

Whether you’re a parent just starting to explore AAC or a professional working with emerging communicators, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and a grounded look at communication from a parent’s point of view.