How Sensory Processing Shapes Behavior (And What Parents Miss)

In this episode of Parenting With Vanessa Kahlon, Vanessa sits down with occupational therapist Lindy Joffe, a longtime colleague and expert in child development, to unpack the often misunderstood world of sensory processing. With over 24 years of experience, Lindy shares how sensory regulation affects everything from focus and behavior to a child’s ability to navigate social situations.

If your child ever seems “checked out,” overly reactive, or struggles with transitions and noise—this episode is a must-listen. Lindy explains how what we often label as “behavior” is really a regulation issue, shaped by a child’s sensory, emotional, and cognitive state. Through real-world examples and grounded explanations, you’ll learn how to shift from reacting to connecting.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:
🧠 Behavior isn’t always intentional – Many kids aren’t trying to misbehave—they’re struggling with how they process the world around them.
🎢 Regulation happens on a spectrum – Kids may be in a “too high” or “too low” arousal state, making it difficult to focus, listen, or even sit still.
👀 Hidden rules aren’t obvious to all kids – Social expectations that come naturally to some must be taught explicitly to others.
🧭 Emotions + cognition + sensory are intertwined – You can’t separate how a child feels from how they think or act.
🌱 The environment makes a huge difference – When a child is placed in a supportive setting, everything from behavior to confidence can shift.

Resources & Next Steps:
📧 Contact Lindy Joffe – Have questions or want to connect? Email her directly at LindyJoffeOT@gmail.com
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn – Follow Lindy for insights on child development and sensory integration
📣 Submit your questions for next time! – Want Lindy back? Email Vanessa with your questions to be answered in a future episode
🧠 Reframe how you see “behavior” – Share this episode with your child’s teacher or co-parent—it’s a game-changer.