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Emotional Regulation

Welcome to 2025: A Year of Community and Wellbeing!

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Girl Enjoying the outdoors - promoting community wellbeing

WELCOME TO 2025: A YEAR OF COMMUNITY AND WELLBEING!

Welcome to 2025: Explore and Soar is focused on community wellbeing!

Happy New Year, everyone!

Welcome to 2025! As we step into this new year, we’re thrilled to kick off our January School Holiday Group Programs and Intensives, starting January 13th. We can’t wait to see you all there!

Our Annual Theme: Community for Wellbeing

This year, Explore and Soar is focusing on community wellbeing by fostering strong connections within our local communities.

For us, being an active part of both the Explore and Soar and Occupational Therapy communities enriches our connections, support, and resilience, allowing us to provide the best practices for our clients and families. This highlights the importance of communities remaining connected to promote our collective wellbeing.

Every member of our Explore and Soar team is part of their own community outside of work—whether through hobbies, volunteering, or local activities. This community provides them with joy and support. When you think about “Community for Wellbeing,” what comes to mind for you?

What Does Community Mean to Us?

A community can be defined in many ways. While it’s more commonly known as a ‘geographical location or place of residence’, at its core, it’s about relationships that bind people together.

In occupational therapy, there are many definitions of community, but this one stands out for us:

“to do something that cannot be easily done in isolation

(Scaffa, 2001, Pg.8)”

It highlights that the basis of a community is in the relationships of people who come together. A community built around wellbeing thrives when its members come together to share values and cultures and support each other. For us, engaging in our community through jobs, schooling, sporting activities, volunteering, shopping locally, or advocating for community improvements (such as new parks or pathways) are just a few ways we can connect and support one another to achieve common goals.

When we contribute to something meaningful and can use our unique skills and talents within our community, we not only find joy but also enhance our contribution and connection within our community to help improve our health and, ultimately, our wellbeing. 

Understanding Wellbeing

Wellbeing is a personal and multifaceted journey. It is defined by what, how, and where each person is in a positive state. Wellbeing encompasses many aspects of our lives: Occupational/Work, Emotional, Financial, Social, Environmental, Intellectual, Spiritual, and Physical health. Each of these elements plays a vital role in our overall wellbeing, helping us find purpose, contribute, and find meaning in what we do.

When we actively work towards improving our wellbeing, we improve our health and enhance our everyday lives, by finding more motivation and meaning to keep going. 

Now, don’t get me wrong — improving our wellbeing isn’t always easy. It requires consistency, support, and adaptation. Some days, I find balance; other days, I need to focus on my social connections or my physical health. 

It is important to remember that everyone’s version of wellbeing and where they find meaning is unique, and that’s perfectly okay!

Building Connections for Your Wellbeing

Where can you start building connections to enhance your wellbeing? Consider your current relationships. Do they bring you joy, and are they conducive to my wellbeing? What areas could you improve? Reflect on the time you can dedicate to nurturing these connections.

These are all great starting points to direct yourself towards where you want to start building these relationships. 

Here are some great ways to enhance your wellbeing through connection:

  • Volunteer at your child’s school to meet other parents and teachers – This is both rewarding and helps build connections.
  • Say hello to someone who walks at the same time as you are taking a morning stroll – Connect over shared interests.
  • Join a group or activity that sparks your interest.
  • Sign up for a local team sport to enjoy camaraderie and physical activity.

Building relationships in your local community can significantly enhance your community wellbeing, helping you achieve a more balanced life.

Explore and Soar’s Commitment to Connection

At Explore and Soar, we are deeply committed to supporting our local communities and fostering meaningful connections. To learn more about our team, values, and the work we do to enhance community wellbeing, we invite you to visit our About page and discover how we’re making a difference in the lives of our clients and families.

Some ways we do this are:

  • We have continued to develop group programs to support our clients in socialising and engaging in fun activities with children of similar ages, consistently offering these opportunities within our local community in Branxton.
  • We have attended local community events and school expos. 
  • We have sponsored local sporting associations. 
  • Education has also been our way to connect. Volunteering our time to offer online and in-person educational talks to parents of children transitioning into Kindergarten and teacher education and training to further enhance their connection with our clients within the classroom and playground environments. 

Exciting New Initiatives!

We are continually creating opportunities for our clients and their families to connect, share their lived experiences, empathise, and feel supported in their communities.

This year, we’re excited to announce the launch of a Parent and Caregiver Support Group. Join us for coffee, conversation, and connection in a warm, welcoming environment. Keep an eye out for details in the coming weeks.

We cannot wait to see you there!!

Tracking Your Wellbeing Journey

Our own Jess Rodgers has been working behind the scenes to develop a Wellbeing Planner designed to help track goals and wellbeing progress. This planner originated during the rapid changes of 2020-2021 when Jess realised she needed a way to stay accountable and look after her health and wellbeing. 

Jess created a Wellbeing Planner to achieve this goal!

Our Explore and Soar team will utilise this Wellbeing Planner throughout the year to support our journeys and remain accountable for our health and wellbeing to ensure we are happy, healthy, and present to support you, our clients, and our families. And we’re thrilled to offer it to you as well.

If you’d like to join us on this journey, purchase your Wellbeing Planner today. With the new Wellbeing Planner, we hope this will help our clients track and improve their health through intentional goal-setting.

Wellbeing Planner for sale - https://www.jessrodgers.com.au/

We look forward to being part of our community this year, providing support, education, and engagement for all our clients and families.

By focusing on community wellbeing, we hope to inspire you to start building meaningful connections, too!

Stay tuned for exciting events and monthly blogs filled with valuable information just for you!

Until next time, 
Jess and the Explore and Soar Team

PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2024

References

  • Hyett, N., McKinstry, C. E., Kenny, A., & Dickson-Swift, V. (2015). Community-centred practice: Occupational therapists improving the health and wellbeing of populations. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 63(5-8).
  • Scaffa, M. (Ed.). (2001). Occupational Therapy in Community-Based Practice Settings. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis.

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Embracing Transitions and Growth: A Year of Learning and Achievement

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EMBRACING TRANSITIONS AND GROWTH:
A YEAR OF LEARNING AND ACHIEVEMENT

Embracing Transitions and Growth Fuels Our Success!

As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared. All I can say is, “What a year it has been!”

It was a year of exploring ways that we transition throughout our lives. From significant life changes such as transitioning into adulthood, moving homes, transitioning into a new school year (especially Kindergarten or year 7), starting new careers, trying a new sport, or managing health conditions to the everyday transitions we experience, like transitioning from home to school, catching the bus, transitioning from playtime to dinner, or switching off technology devices. The list is endless.

Every transition, big or small, contributes to our growth and learning.

By embracing transitions and growth, we develop new skills and gain valuable experiences at each stage of life.

Celebrating Success in Life Transitions

At Explore and Soar, we understand that embracing transitions is essential for both children and their families. Each step forward is a sign of progress.

What truly stands out this year is the unwavering support from parents and caregivers. Your dedication, love, and hard work in helping your children navigate these transitions have been truly inspiring. The effort, persistence, and love you pour into supporting your children as they reach their goals is a beautiful sight. We’ve witnessed the joy and pride on their faces as they master new skills – a testament to your hard work. We also recognise the challenges you face, and in those tough moments, please remember – we see you, we hear you, and we are here to help!

For more on managing life transitions, check out our previous blog to learn more about transitions in therapy.

Explore and Soar: Growing Together

This year, Explore and Soar has expanded its horizons! We introduced a fresh new look and broadened our age range to better support clients transitioning from school to university, work, or community life. We were also thrilled to open our new space in the Kurri Kurri clinic for therapy sessions when home or community settings aren’t ideal.

These transitions wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration and commitment of our families and, most importantly, the continuous work of our dedicated team, who tirelessly support these transitions and consistently assist our families in new and evolving ways.

End-of-Year Celebrations & Transition Ahead

As we wrap up the year, the Explore and Soar team celebrated with a joyful Christmas party, creating beautiful macrame pieces and enjoying a delicious dinner. We had so much fun!

We also held our Annual Reflections and Projections Day, where we identified our achievements and worked toward an actionable plan for the new year. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, share ideas, and commit to growing together as a team while continuing to support each other, our families, and our communities.

Important Dates: Holiday Closure & Upcoming January School Holiday Programs

At the end of each year, our team takes a well-deserved break to rest, recharge, and spend quality time with our families and friends!

This year, our Christmas closure will begin at the end of business on Friday, December 20th. We will return with our January School Holiday group programs starting Monday, January 13th, 2025!

If you’d like to join our January programs, be sure to secure your spot today! These fun and engaging programs will run from January 13th to 17th and again from January 20th to 24th, 2025. We cannot wait to see you there. Click here to see more about the programs and secure your spot!

Looking ahead to the new year, embracing transitions and growth will remain a central focus at Explore and Soar.

Until next time, we wish all of our Explore and Soar family a joyful Christmas break filled with quality time with loved ones, sunshine, and relaxation. Look after yourselves, and we can’t wait to reconnect in the New Year and continue this journey together!

Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Until next time, 
Jess and the Explore and Soar Team

PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2024

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Smooth Sailing Through Life’s Changes: Mastering Emotional Regulation During Transitions

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SMOOTH SAILING THROUGH LIFE’S CHANGES: MASTERING EMOTIONAL REGULATION DURING TRANSITIONS

As we delve deeper into 2024, emotional regulation is a prominent theme that goes hand in hand with supporting transitions.

Understanding Transitions

Transitions in life are inevitable. Whether it’s starting a new school year, moving to a new home, or experiencing changes within the family dynamic, transitions can be challenging for both parents and children alike. During these times of change, emotions can run high, leading to stress and uncertainty.

What is Emotional Regulation?

Emotional regulation refers to an individual’s ability to recognise, process and act upon the emotions that they feel within different situations on a regular day. It is one’s ability to adjust and control their energy level, emotions, behaviours, and attention to allow for success in connecting with our loved ones and engaging in our daily lives. We provide even more information on our “Tools to Support Emotions” blog.

Emotional regulation is a skill that is developed over time. Emotional regulation is essential for healthy emotional development and well-being throughout life. There are two stages to emotional regulation.

Co-regulation is the foundation for emotional development, allowing children to explore, learn and understand unfamiliar situations while parents support them by providing a safety net. 

Self-regulation involves the ability to notice and change/control one’s own feelings and adapt to surroundings. Emotional regulation is essential for healthy emotional development and well-being throughout life. To find out more information, refer to our “Emotional Regulation” blog.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Transitions can evoke a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and fear. Children who thrive on routine and stability may feel their sense of security disrupted, leading to vulnerability and insecurity. Similarly, parents may experience a mix of pride, worry, and doubt as they navigate unfamiliar territory. With the right tools and support, families can navigate transitions more smoothly, fostering emotional regulation and resilience along the way.

Strategies for Emotional Regulation

So, how can we help you support your child emotionally regulate during transitions? As Occupational Therapists, our role is to enable children and parents to recognise, understand and manage their emotions during times of change. Whether they are transitioning from breakfast to getting dressed or from home to school, navigating our emotions is a difficult task and can depend heavily on our sense of safety within ourselves and others and our connection to place, person, or thing. 

Here are some practical strategies and tools:

1. Transition Time: Allow ample time for transitions, providing a buffer for individuals to adjust mentally and emotionally.

2. Observation: Pay attention to the child’s body language, affect, tone of voice, and overall demeanour to gauge their emotional state.

  • Are we slouching our shoulders or dropping our head?
  • Are we smiling, and are our faces lit up? 
  • Is our tone of voice low, high-pitched, or fast-paced? 
  • Do we appear frazzled or disinterested?
  • Do we seem tired or overwhelmed from something that happened earlier?

3. Tools and Techniques we utilise, and you can too.

  • Visual schedules for predictability and routine. This also provides a point of orientation. 
  • Visual timers to set task timeframes and provide visual information of how long the task is.
  • Therapressure brushing is a technique for grounding and calming.
  • Therapeutic use of self for connection, following their lead and co-regulation.
  • Breathing exercises such as belly breathing or blowing bubbles.
  • Incorporating vestibular input through activities like wobble boards.
  • Providing oral input with stretches, cold drinks, or chewy foods.

Setting the Body Up

We call this process ‘Setting the Body Up’ as this prepares the body with sensory input and transition time to ease into daily activities.

Once our body is adequately ‘set up’ and we’ve allowed ‘transition time’. Transitions into daily activities won’t be as overwhelming. 

Emotional Continuum

We use cognitive-emotional strategies to support the emotional continuum. Strategies like sensory processing and cognitive strategies can help refine knowledge and apply skills in social situations. To learn more about how we use the above techniques as well as “Zones of Regulation,” “Size of Problem vs Reaction,” “The Alert Program,” “The Incredible Flexible You Series,” and “The Social Thinking Detectives” refer to our “The Emotional Continuum” blog. 

Embracing Change Together

Transitions are unpredictable, and allowing yourself grace in navigating them is essential. Understanding your own triggers and emotions is key to understanding how to emotionally regulate yourself. As parents, showing vulnerability can help model to our children that, YES, change can be scary, but you can do this as a TEAM.  Encourage open communication about challenges and solutions, empowering your child to take ownership and responsibility for the transition process.

Ask your child and yourself what is challenging about the transition to school/work or what makes it hard to go to soccer training or out for a catch-up with a friend in the afternoon, and what could we do to make it easier? This collaboration provides a sense of ownership and responsibility for our child and can result in increased adherence to routine, reducing the risk of emotional dysregulation.

Ready to embark on a smoother journey through life’s transitions? Start implementing these strategies today to foster emotional regulation and resilience in your family. Remember, every small step counts towards a smoother sail!

By implementing these strategies and fostering a supportive environment, families can navigate transitions more smoothly, fostering emotional regulation and resilience along the way. Contact us today if you would like to chat about transitions and how we can help.

If you’d like to chat more, please don’t hesitate to contact us today! Call us on 0477 708 217 or email admin@exploreandsoar.com.au

Until Next Time,
Molly

PUBLISHED MARCH 2024

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Navigating the Transition to High School: A Parent’s Guide

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NAVIGATING THE TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL: A PARENT’S GUIDE

Over the past few weeks, we have visited many of our local schools to talk to parents and families of children starting kindergarten in 2024. During these talks, we provide lots of information about how you can support your little person for a successful transition to big school. You can click here to read more about the transition to kindergarten.

We understand that your child’s journey through the educational system is filled with milestones and transitions from the very beginning; however, the preschool to kindergarten transition isn’t the only transition in our schooling lives. One of the next big milestones is transitioning from primary school to high school. 

This move can be filled with just as many emotions and feelings – excitement for finishing primary school, growing up and what lies ahead. It can also be anxiety-provoking at the thought of changing schools, changing routines and the challenge of friendship groups changing and needing to make new friendships. All of which are valid feelings and thoughts!

In this blog, we’ll explore the various challenges your child may encounter during this transition and provide practical strategies to support them as they step into high school life.

Some of the challenges your child may face could include:

  • New Friendships – Making new friends or friendship groups changing; having to be vulnerable in talking to other people we don’t know or feel comfortable around just yet.
  • New Routines – High school bell times may be slightly earlier or later; how will this impact upon the daily routines of your child?
  • New Environment – Navigating their way around a new school can be overwhelming, knowing where the toilets are, where to go for help, or where their next class is. Or even navigating their way to and from school.
  • New Rules and Expectations – Having multiple subjects with different teachers in a new school can be daunting, being unsure of what the expectations are in and out of the classroom.

So, how can we best support our children in this transition to high school?

  • Get to know the school: Talk about it; arrange additional transition days to allow your child to feel more comfortable in this new space if needed.
  • Practice any new routines:  Practice ways to get to and from high school; make sure your child knows which bus to catch or where they will be dropped off or picked up from.
  • Visual Aids: Create a visual schedule or simple checklist to determine what they must take each day. Timetables can be tricky to work out! Break it down into what they need each day and then for each subject.
  • Map out the school: Get a copy of the school map if possible and colour code important areas such as the library, toilets, canteen, office etc.
  • Prepare for Social Interaction: Create “cheat cards” for conversation starters and role-play how to introduce themself to others. Remind them that it is highly likely that other children in the group are just as nervous about making new friends as they are.
  • Time Management and Assignments: Help them schedule, plan and prioritise how to complete assignments. Keep in communication with their teachers to know when things are due and how you can support your child.
  • Advocacy: Advocate and encourage your child to advocate also for their needs! A new school means new teachers who don’t know your child’s cues or needs. Provide as much information as possible to support consistency for your child across their teachers.

As your child embarks on this exciting journey to high school, remember that you are not alone. We are here to support you. If you would like more information about our group program, click here to check out the flyer. You can also reach out to us on 0477 708 217  or admin@exploreandsoar.com.au. 

We would love to see you in our groups!

Until next time, 
Lori

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED OCTOBER 31, 2023

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Sensory Defensiveness: What is this Oversensitive and Overwhelming feeling?

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SENSORY DEFENSIVENESS: WHAT IS THIS OVERSENSITIVE AND OVERWHELMING FEELING?

Spring is upon us, but that also means we are now heading full steam ahead into some of the busiest months of the year. Term 3 is almost over; Term 4 is just around the corner, which means so is Christmas! Just the thought of that alone is overwhelming to me.

The feeling of overwhelm is sometimes linked to being a negative feeling – of being stressed or frustrated that we can not do all that we want to do. But really, we should reframe that feeling of overwhelm into a positive: What can we do to lessen our load? How can we slow down or ask for help? Maybe take a moment of mindfulness.

In our day-to-day lives, we encounter multiple sensory experiences each and every second of every minute. Sit for one minute and notice the world around you:

  • What can you hear? 
  • What can you feel?
  • What can you smell? 
  • What can you taste?
  • What can you see?

Our brain’s job is to take in all of this information and automatically sort, filter and organise that information to produce a meaningful and purposeful response in the way we move, feel or react. This is Sensory Integration. When we see difficulty in the processing of sensory information, we start to look at why this may be happening – is it difficulty with modulation or discrimination of the senses?

When we have difficulty with modulating sensory information, we may only need a small amount of information before our system becomes overwhelmed. Or we may need a large amount of information before our system even notices what is going on. Our own tolerance levels at that point in time will also impact upon our responses. We have expectations of what our response to certain sensory experiences will be – like a hug from a loved one; we expect it to feel good, not painful, or the smell of a BBQ cooking makes us hungry and excited to eat, not fearful.

But sometimes, our body links different sensations to negative experiences. And when these experiences occur, our brain goes into survival mode – fight, fright, flee or freeze. When we react to sensory input in such a way, it is called Sensory Defensiveness.

What is Sensory Defensiveness?

Sensory Defensiveness is an extreme response to sensory input from the world around you when the sensory stimuli are generally considered not threatening or harmful. This could be an aversion to touch, dislike of certain textures or foods, or poor tolerance of bright lights, loud noises or certain smells. Such defensiveness creates a roadblock to being able to do the things that you or your child want to do. It can lead to big emotions, stress and anxiety, as well as behaviour patterns such as avoiding situations or an increased need for control.

So how can OT help with Sensory Defensiveness?

OT can help by creating an individualised sensory diet to work on providing the right sensory information, in the right amount, at the right time, to allow your child to do the things they want and need to do.

Activities may include things such as:

  • DPPT – brushing protocol
  • Auditory interventions 
  • Heavy work ideas 
  • Roughhousing 
  • Oral motor strategies

Please get in touch with us if you want to know more or have any questions. We highly recommend talking with an OT about this, as everyone experiences their sensory world differently. We are here to help and work with you in supporting your child and family.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Contact us on 0477 708 217 or admin@exploreandsoar.com.au

Until next time,
Lori

Related Blog Posts –

Discover a treasure trove of valuable information in our diverse collection of blogs on our website. Take action now and explore the insights you’ve been seeking. Dive in!

  • Mindfulness for Parents and Carers – Discover practical tips and insights to enhance your well-being. Take a mindful journey with us – read the full article now!
  • Unpacking Sensory Processing Disorder – Unlock a deeper understanding of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Explore valuable insights and strategies to support individuals with SPD – start reading now for knowledge and empowerment!
  • Auditory intervention – Delve into the world of Auditory Intervention. Explore the significance of sound in sensory development and discover innovative strategies for positive outcomes. Start your auditory exploration today.
  • Roughhousing – Explore how playful physical interaction can nurture growth and connections. Join the fun and learn more here.

References

Ayres, A. J., Robbins, J. (2005). Sensory Integration and the Child: Understanding Hidden Sensory Challenges. United States: Western Psychological Services.

Bhopti, Anoo & Brown, Ted. (2013). Examining the Wilbargers’ Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique for Treating Children with Sensory Defensiveness Using a Multiple-Single- Case Study Approach. Journal of Occupational Therapy Schools & Early Intervention. 6. pg 108-130. 

Kinnealey, M., Oliver, B. & Wilbarger, P. (1995). A Phenomenological study of Sensory Defensiveness in adults. American Journal of Occupational Therapy. 49(5). pg 444-451

 Stagnitti, K., Raison, P. & Ryan, P. (1999). Sensory defensiveness syndrome: A paediatric perspective and case study. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal. 46. pg 175-187. 

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 8, 2023

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