How can executive functioning, reflex integration, and sensory processing impact a child’s ability to thrive? In this enlightening episode of The Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross sits down with pediatric occupational therapist Efraim Simkhayev to explore practical strategies for supporting children with developmental challenges. From real-life therapy tools to the power of parenting with empathy, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is executive functioning, and why is it essential for child development?
• How do reflexes like the Moro and Galant impact regulation and learning?
• What are signs of dysregulation, and how can we treat them?
• How can therapists and parents work together to support progress?
• Why is connection more important than correction?

Efraim Simkhayev shares his journey into pediatric occupational therapy, describing how personal experience as a parent shaped his empathetic and holistic approach to treating children. He breaks down executive functioning as the “brain’s management system” and explains how difficulties in areas like working memory, organization, and impulse control can affect children’s daily lives. The conversation dives into emotional regulation, how trauma and reflex integration play a role, and why early developmental milestones like crawling are foundational. Through real case examples and practical advice, Efraim emphasizes the importance of adapting therapy to meet each child’s unique needs. His core philosophy: connect before you correct.

About The Guest:

Efraim Simkhayev is a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in executive functioning, reflex integration, and sensory processing. As both a clinician and a father of three, Efraim brings a warm, grounded, and insightful approach to helping children grow in confidence and independence.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Efraim’s journey into OT and family background

05:00 How he discovered his passion for working with children

08:03 Unexpected opportunity that changed his career path

11:12 What is executive functioning?

12:37 Real-life case example and treatment strategies

14:39 Emotional impact of executive dysfunction on children

15:44 Teaching impulse control and emotional regulation

18:00 Stop-and-go exercises and real-life application

22:19 Executive functioning and neurodivergent children

26:49 How long does therapy take?

30:19 Different strengths and challenges in the brain

32:07 Limbic system and emotional regulation

35:11 Effective treatments for regulation challenges

38:38 Reflex integration and anxiety

41:15 Why crawling is essential to development

45:12 Vestibular input and hyperactivity

46:40 Galant reflex and bedwetting

49:32 Final message for parents and caregivers

Call to Action:

Ready to understand your child’s behavior through a new lens?

Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights that will empower your parenting and therapeutic approach.