In this episode of the Parent Teacher Interview Podcast, I'm joined by Cheri from WonderGlow OT for a conversation about what occupational therapy can look like in everyday life.

We explore how OTs work alongside children and families, why parent coaching can be just as important as working directly with a child, and how the right support depends on the individual child, their family and the environments they spend time in.

We also discuss the importance of collaboration between families, teachers and allied health professionals — and some of the practical challenges that can get in the way.

In this episode, we explore:

• What occupational therapy is and some of the misconceptions surrounding it.

• Why therapy isn't about fixing a child, and why understanding the reasons behind a challenge matters.

• The role of parents and caregivers in supporting progress beyond the therapy session.

• Why goals need to reflect a child's priorities, capacity and circumstances.

• Common areas of support, including emotional regulation, transitions, handwriting and self-care.

• How OTs can work in homes, schools and clinics to understand a child's everyday environment.

• The challenges of communication between teachers and allied health professionals, and how whole-class strategies can help create more inclusive classrooms.

• Pathways families may explore when seeking occupational therapy, including private services, Medicare rebates, private health insurance and the NDIS.

• The uncertainty around changes to disability and early childhood support, including Thriving Kids, as discussed in the episode.

A key takeaway from this conversation is that meaningful support is rarely the responsibility of one person alone. When we understand what a child is finding difficult, listen to what matters to them, and work together across home and school, we can make everyday participation more achievable.

About Cheri

Cheri is an occupational therapist who supports children and families. Through WonderGlow OT, she provides client services and develops resources. She also created the Charge Your Mind regulation program and the Battery Boot Camp book, and co-hosts the podcast OTs Figuring It Out.

Find Cheri's work

• WonderGlow OT: https://www.wonderglowot.com.au/

• Charge Your Mind: https://chargeyourmindprogram.com/

• OTs Figuring It Out: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2556273

A note on funding: This episode includes a discussion of Australian Medicare, private health insurance, the NDIS and Thriving Kids. Funding rules and eligibility can change, so please confirm current requirements with the relevant service or official government source before making decisions.

Thanks for listening to the Parent Teacher Interview Podcast — the space between home and school.

Music Credits

• “Ember” — The Lakes

• “Green Leaves” — The Lakes

Music sourced via Uppbeat.