In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, Jami sits down with Melissa Murphy and Chandler Edge from Beyond Measure Pediatric Therapies to discuss sensory processing disorder. As an occupational therapist and occupational therapist assistant, they share how this frequently undiagnosed condition impacts children in foster care and the families who love them.
Melissa and Chandler break down how the central nervous system controls our daily experiences and what happens when a child’s sensory system is out of balance. They highlight various contributing factors—including genetics, prenatal care, birth history, and early childhood trauma—and discuss how these challenges manifest across different stages of development.
They explore how sensory dysregulation is often misinterpreted as defiance or standard hyperactivity, offering practical guidance to help caregivers distinguish between a sensory meltdown and goal-directed behavior. They provide actionable tools and routines for the home, such as sensory diets, heavy work, and calming spaces, while offering advice on advocating for sensory-sensitive children in school and community environments.
This episode is an encouraging guide for any caregiver seeking to understand their child’s internal struggles, trust their instincts, and build a stronger bond through patience and intentional care.
About the Guest
Melissa Murphy is an occupational therapist and the owner of Beyond Measure Pediatric Therapies. She is a dedicated wife and mother whose practice provides specialized care for complex medical diagnoses and works to promote community inclusion.
Chandler Edge is an occupational therapist assistant and a partner at Beyond Measure Pediatric Therapies. Also a wife and mother, she works alongside Melissa to support families navigating sensory processing needs and daily functional challenges through practical care.
- An introduction to sensory processing disorder and the role of the central nervous system.
- Why sensory processing challenges and a lack of resources are highly prevalent within the foster care community.
- The potential root causes of sensory dysregulation, including genetics, prenatal care, and early life trauma.
- Understanding three common types of sensory processing patterns: sensory seeking, sensory over-responsivity, and sensory under-responsivity.
- How to distinguish between a true sensory meltdown and defiant or goal-directed behavioral tantrums.
- Practical home tools and strategies, including sensory diets, heavy work activities, and weighted blankets.
- How to set up calm corners and advocate for inclusive sensory spaces in churches and classrooms.
- The importance of parental patience, self-compassion, and learning to trust your gut instincts.
Resources + Links
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