by Tina Gabel | May 19, 2026
In this episode, we bring everything together and move into the how. After exploring what deep interests are and why forcing engagement backfires, we now look at how to actually incorporate a child’s deep interests to support meaningful learning. If you’ve ever... by Tina Gabel | May 8, 2026
In this episode, we gently shift how we understand one of the most common challenges in classrooms and therapy spaces: low engagement. When a child walks away, refuses, shuts down, or pushes materials aside, it can feel confusing and frustrating, especially when... by Tina Gabel | Apr 29, 2026
In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in how we understand one of the most recognizable traits in autistic children: their deep interests. If you’ve ever watched a child return to the same topic, object, or activity again and again with intense focus, you may... by Tina Gabel | Apr 22, 2026
In this episode, we continue the play series by talking about the gentle bridge from exploratory play into functional play. If a child loves dumping toys, spinning wheels, dropping objects, or lining things up, it can be tempting to rush toward “using the toy the... by Tina Gabel | Apr 14, 2026
In this episode, we continue the play series with an important reframe for educators, therapists, and caregivers: Exploratory play is not a problem to fix. It is a stage to understand. When a child dumps toys, spins wheels, mouths objects, drops items, or repeats the...