Seeing the Child Differently: An OT Perspective in Montessori

What happens when Montessori education and occupational therapy come together?

In this thoughtful and deeply practical conversation, Biff and Nicole sit down with a Montessori educator and occupational therapist Tia Gamelin to explore how movement, sensory regulation, emotional development, and environment all shape the way children learn.

Together, they discuss:

• The connection between occupational therapy and Montessori philosophy
• Why behavior is often communication — not defiance
• How movement, sensory input, and regulation affect learning and focus
• What educators and parents often misunderstand about child development
• Supporting children with anxiety, sensory challenges, emotional overwhelm, and executive functioning difficulties
• Simple ways adults can better observe, support, and empower children

Throughout the conversation, the focus remains on seeing the whole child — not just academic performance, but emotional wellbeing, confidence, independence, and connection.

Warm, insightful, and filled with practical takeaways, this episode offers a powerful reminder that children thrive when we better understand how they experience the world.