Translating the sensory–motor nervous system into stories, practices, and tools that support daily life.

About

I’m Sarah Selznick, MS, OTR/L an occupational therapist who helps families and professionals understand the sensory–motor nervous system through play, story, and practical tools.

My work spans direct services, parent coaching, speaking, and creating resources that make complex concepts feel accessible.

Here are some common topics I help people with:

  • Sensory Processing and Regulation

  • Pediatric toileting issues

  • Motor development

  • Difficulty with transitions

  • Issues with daily routines and life skills

  • General functioning with play, school, and socializing.

I’m also the author and illustrator of several children’s books that support emotional and developmental learning, and I have been featured in Parents Magazine, The Washington Post, and ParentMap. I was also a featured guest on the All Things Sensory by Harkala Podcast.

I believe real change happens when we blend science with connection, and when caregivers feel supported, informed, and empowered with knowledge that truly helps.

Offerings

My work translates the sensory–motor nervous system into clear, practical support for families and professionals. Please contact me for details or to explore which service is the best fit for your needs. info@sensoryexplorers.com

two women talking while looking at laptop computer
two women talking while looking at laptop computer
Speaking Engagements

I offer practical, evidence-based talks for schools, organizations, and professional groups focused on the sensory–motor nervous system and daily life skills. Presentations emphasize clear frameworks, real-world application, and strategies participants can use immediately. Each talk is tailored to the audience and grounded in current research and clinical experience. Click here to inquire.

Webinars

Understanding Potty Problems Webinar

Gain insights into potty issues that happy after initial toilet learning and learn actionable strategies that empower caregivers. Understand how sensory-motor connections impact potty training success. Walk away with a fresh take on toileting.

Parent Coaching

Parent coaching is a personalized, educational service designed to help you understand your child’s sensory–motor nervous system and daily challenges. These virtual sessions offer practical guidance and tools for supporting regulation, routines, and emotional well-being. Coaching is not occupational therapy, but focused education to help you respond with clarity and confidence. Click here to schedule.

Guides, handouts, and practical tools designed to support everyday routines and understanding of the sensory–motor nervous system. These resources are educational, easy to use, and grounded in evidence. They’re intended to offer clear guidance you can apply right away.

Woman working on a laptop in a modern office.
Woman working on a laptop in a modern office.

Book Series

I Am Learning is a growing series of children’s books written and illustrated by Sarah. Designed to teach foundational life skills in a way kids actually understand. Rooted in sensory–motor development and written with caregivers in mind, these books offer clear language, simple steps, and a warm, supportive approach to everyday challenges.

This interactive book helps young readers explore the concept of interoception-the awareness of internal body signals-and teaches them how to recognize and respond to these cues. Through relatable, easy-to-understand examples, children will learn to identify sensations such as hunger, thirst, fullness, the need to use the bathroom, and discomfort.

"Learning to poop in the toilet instead of your diaper can feel different..." Colorful pictures and kid-friendly language help children understand that learning to poop in the toilet can feel different and that there are things you can do to help your body relax and your mind feel safe.

5.0 out of 5 stars Life-changing help

I felt hopeless and completely clueless on what to do when my, formerly potty trained, toddler developed encorpresis and stopped using the toilet. This book has been a life-changing resource because it’s literally all we need to help him. We read the book and use the scripts given to support him learning to relax his muscles and feel “safe and comfortable”.- Clarice Turner

5.0 out of 5 stars Our child is learning lots

Our four year old has struggled with potty issues for the last year and a half, and also has sensory processing issues that have contributed to our challenges. Despite the fact he prefers not to use the potty, he asks to read this book all the time! We appreciate that the book labels body parts correctly, has helpful illustrations and positive messaging. Our child takes interest in understanding how his body works and is wanting to get better. I think this book has helped him a lot. We recommend it.

5.0 out of 5 stars Life-changing help
5.0 out of 5 stars I LOVE this book!

I LOVE this book! The illustrations are colorful and fun, with the perfect level of detail to share the story. And the content-- learning to listen to and trust one's body-- is something I've not seen explored in a children's book. How opportune and LONG NEEDED this content is! The book is also a good reminder for adults to listen to their body, too!

5.0 out of 5 stars A must for your practice!

Sarah has done a superb job connecting the dots for kids to understand interoception. I particularly like the games at the end of the book both for parents and practitioners like myself!

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Get in touch

Phone

540-705-0014

Email

info@sensoryexplorers.com