PiP Cast: Perspectives in Paeds

In this episode, Caitlin, Jackie and Caitlyn share their current thoughts on Thriving Kids - the Australian Government’s proposed early intervention model that has generated concern across the paediatric community. With details still emerging and a lot still to be finalised, they unpack what we know so far, what the transition period means for families and clinicians on the ground, and what isn’t being said loudly enough in the conversation. From workforce readiness and clinical governance, to the real risk of children falling through the cracks before new services are rolled out, this episode is an honest discussion about what families deserve and what is needed for best practice from the perspective of 3 experienced OTs passionate about delivering early intervention services.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:Thriving Kids Advisory Group Final Report (Feb 2026): https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/thriving-kids-advisory-group-final-report?language=enOT Unplugged podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/38U487pQI0MRanss2Z91w1?si=c134d5bc572f48b2National Best Practice Framework for Early Childhood Intervention: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-best-practice-framework-for-early-childhood-intervention?language=enNo child left behind Report into the Thriving Kids initiative (Dec 2025): https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/download/committees/reportrep/RB000704/toc_pdf/Nochildleftbehind.pdfTranscript of Minister Butler's press conference on the Thriving Kids Advisory Group’s report (3rd Feb, 2026) .https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-mark-butler-mp/media/press-conference-with-minister-butler-canberra-3-february-2026?language=en

In this episode, Jackie, Caitlyn and Mikayla explore how clinicians can work collaboratively with families to unpack their priorities and define what meaningful progress looks like for them. They discuss the importance of having a clear therapy plan while maintaining flexibility to pivot when needed, the risks of therapy progressing without a clear direction, and how short-term goals can be structured within a broader therapy framework. The conversation also reflects on real examples from practice, how their service’s approach to therapy planning has evolved, and key insights about goal setting that families may not always realise.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:Kid Link PD Booster - Goal Setting & Helping Families Stay Accountablehttps://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/goal-setting

In this episode, Jackie and Caity sit down with Haylee Parfett, experienced Speech Pathologist and passionate advocate of Augmentative and Alternative Communication, to unpack what every clinician needs to know about AAC.Haylee covers what AAC actually is, the different systems available, and the evidence behind one of the most common family concerns — will it stop or delay my child from speaking? She discusses how all clinicians can meaningfully support clients who use AAC, the importance of partner-modelling, and why communication is everyone's responsibility on the care team.The episode wraps with Haylee's advice for clinicians looking to build confidence in this space. A practical and important listen for any clinician working with children who use, or may benefit from, AAC. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:PODD information – Gayle Porterhttps://www.cpec.org.au/podd-communication-books/Jorgensen (2005) – Least Dangerous Assumptionhttps://publications.ici.umn.edu/ties/foundations-of-inclusion-tips/using-the-least-dangerous-assumption-in-educational-decisionsAGOSCI (Australian AAC body)https://www.agosci.org.au/Two Way Streethttps://www.twowaystreet.com.au/PrAACtical AAChttps://praacticalaac.org/Assistive Technology providers:Link Assistive – https://www.linkassistive.com.au/Zyteq – https://www.zyteq.com.au/Assistiveware – https://www.assistiveware.com/Liberator – https://www.liberator.co.uk/Assistive Tech - https://www.assistivetech.com.au

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Georgia and Caity to share their experiences supporting children with executive functioning goals. Together, they explore how executive functioning shows up in everyday routines, how to distinguish typical development from functional impact, and when intervention may be helpful. The conversation also covers practical, evidence-informed approaches to setting meaningful, neuro-affirming goals and therapy plans that support real-world participation.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels

In this episode, Gabs, Keely and Jackie talk about Kristin Neff’s work on self-compassion. They explore the 3 components of self-compassion and why it is important for clinicians. They also explore why it differs to self-esteem and how to start fostering more of it to support your sustainability as a clinician. Join them as they share some personal insights as clinicians and people. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:Self-compassion test: https://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-test/What is self-compassion: https://self-compassion.org/what-is-self-compassion/

In this episode, Jackie, Gabs and Georgia unpack the complexities of setting neurodiversity-affirming play goals. They explore what play really is, why play-based therapy isn’t always truly play, and how to distinguish affirming goals from those that may unintentionally miss the mark. The episode wraps up with practical reflections and helpful resources for clinicians.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels

In this episode, Georgia, Gabs and Caity wrap up the year with a light-hearted reflection on things we as OT’s may recommend to our clients that we may not always do for ourselves. From executive functioning strategies and mindfulness to not completing stretches that their osteo prescribed, join them as they candidly explore the challenges of not always practicing what we preach. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels How we feel app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/how-we-feel/id1562706384Officeworks: https://www.officeworks.com.au

In this episode, Jackie is joined by Danni and Georgia to explore the transformative power of reflection when supporting caregivers on their parenting journey. They unpack why reflection is essential for meaningful change when working collaboratively with parents in a family-centred practice.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Georgia and Mikayla to unpack the role of screens in supporting occupational balance for children and young people. Together they explore how screens can both enhance and challenge participation - from the benefits screens can offer in connection and learning, to the need for support when screen use begins to replace engagement in other meaningful occupations.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:https://www.gameaware.com.au/

In this episode, Caitlin, Maddie and Caitlyn unpack the difference between typical worry and anxiety disorders, and why understanding that distinction matters for clinicians and families. Together they explore how anxiety can present in children, the role of OTs in assessment and intervention, and what supports & interventions are evidence-based when supporting anxiety disorders. From fear ladders to thinking traps, they share practical ways to address anxiety-related goals and support participation for kids experiencing anxiety.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:Register for our upcoming webinar: Supporting Kids with Anxiety: A Functional Approach for Clinicianshttps://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supporting-kids-with-anxiety-a-functional-approach-for-clinicians-tickets-1698820179889?aff=oddtdtcreatorKid Link’s on-demand webinar for caregivers: ‘Spotlight On Anxiety’ https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/spotlight-on-anxiety

In this episode, Jackie, Gabs, and Alyssa chat about masking and the young people they work with. They explore the nuances of masking and the importance of vulnerability and curiosity as therapists when supporting kids as they learn about and navigate what masking means for them. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Caity Waters (OT) and Keely Jenkins (OT) to unpack the value of clinical supervision and how to make the most of it. They reflect on how the focus of supervision can evolve throughout your career, explore its core purpose, and share practical strategies for maximising this protected time.Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:Kid Link OT External Supervision: https://kidlink.net.au/mentoring/Kid Link - OT Subscription Service - OT Link: https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/bundles/ot-link-membershipsMichelle Bihary supervision workshops: https://michellebiharyhealth.com/

In this episode, Caitlin is joined by her colleagues Caitlyn Cowie (OT) and Alyssa Armytage (OT) to discuss their experience in supporting clients navigate puberty. They chat about the shift their clients experience in regards to their occupational needs and where they feel OT’s and other clinicians can support in this area. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.Music by Daniel Pavey Produced by Michael Daniels Relevant Episode Links:https://www.planetpuberty.org.au/Insta: @sexpositive_familiesInsta: @trickychatsparentingConquering the Puberty Blues - Zi Mei Events by Rebecca Khan