What if the behaviours we label as acting out were actually sensory cries for help?

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward pulls back the curtain on the sensory side of behaviour. From spinning in circles to hiding under tables and chewing hoodie strings—these aren’t just disruptions; they’re messages. Backed by research from Dr. Lucy Jane Miller, Dr. Mona Delahooke, and more, Carla explores how sensory processing impacts children’s regulation and what educators might be missing when they only focus on surface-level behaviours.

You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the 8 sensory systems, practical strategies to create a sensory-smart classroom, and ways to support both children and yourself with compassion and intention.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• How sensory processing shows up in daily behaviour

• Why traditional discipline strategies might be missing the mark

• Easy changes you can make to your classroom to reduce overwhelm

• How to partner with families for deeper understanding and connection

Whether you’re an early childhood educator, administrator, or parent—this episode will change the way you see “challenging” behaviour.