Executive Function: Does Interoception “Move the Train to Build the Brain?”

Presented by Nicole Quint and Cara Koscinski

Executive Function: Does Interoception “Move the Train to Build the Brain?”

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Pediatric Pioneers: Executive Function: Does Interoception “Move the Train to Build the Brain?” (Episode 18)

Audio Runtime: 57 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 21 Minutes

Join host Nicole Quint and Dr. Cara Koscinski, OTD, MOT, OTR/L, CAS, for an insightful exploration into how a “body-first“ lens can revolutionize your approach to executive function. Together, they dive into Dr. Koscinski’s Executive Function Express framework, illustrating how interoception and postural stability serve as the “tracks“ that allow a child’s cognitive “train“ to move forward. You will discover how to move beyond behavior labels to identify the physiological readiness cues and embodied cognition strategies that support participation, even with your most complex patients. Tune in to learn how you can start "moving the train to build the brain" in your practice tomorrow.

Learning Outcomes
  • Analyze the relationship between interoception, embodied cognition, and executive function
  • Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably support executive function through an interoceptive lens, starting with creating comfort for readiness
  • Solve patient case scenarios involving state-dependent executive function challenges by identifying interoceptive breakdown points and selecting targeted regulation supports

This is an audio-only course. Additional materials are available for download within the course. To receive continuing education credit, complete the course and the accompanying quiz.

Meet your instructors

A smiling woman with glasses and turquoise earrings poses in front of colorful artwork, representing medbridge's vibrant culture.

Nicole Quint

Nicole Quint is a professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy in the College of Health Care Sciences at Nova Southeastern University. She serves as the program director for the postprofessional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT) program and the dual-degree DrOT/PhD program. With more than 20 years of pediatric…

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Cara Koscinski

Dr. Cara Koscinski, OTD, MOT, OTR/L, CAS, is an occupational therapist with over 28 years of clinical experience, specializing in pediatrics, interoception, executive function, and professional mentoring. She earned her bachelor’s degree in health sciences and her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Duquesne…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Executive Function: Does Interoception “Move the Train to Build the Brain?”

1. Executive Function: Does Interoception “Move the Train to Build the Brain?”

In this episode, Nicole Quint and Cara Koscinski discuss a “body-first“ approach to pediatric therapy, exploring how interoceptive awareness and postural stability serve as the foundational “tracks“ that allow a child’s executive function “train“ to move forward.

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