The first years of life are a time of extraordinary change. Infants and toddlers are constantly learning how to regulate, move, respond, explore and make sense of the world around them. Much of this early growth depends on sensory integration, the brain's remarkable ability to take in sensations, organise them, and use them for action. When sensory foundations are strong, children build the skills that support attention, emotional well-being, early motor coordination, communication and play. When those foundations are shaky, daily routines can quickly feel overwhelming for both the child and the family.

This is why the upcoming workshop Supporting Infant and Child Development with Dr Susanne Smith Roley is such a valuable opportunity for therapists, early years professionals and anyone working with children aged 0–3. Across two full days online, Dr Roley leads participants through an in-depth exploration of how sensory integration influences early development, and how to recognise the early signs of sensory integration differences in infants and toddlers.

Using video case studies, guided observation and structured analysis, the workshop helps you see beyond behaviour and into the underlying sensory systems that support state regulation, perception, motor skill development and early praxis. You'll learn how to interpret what you see, how to describe sensory-based patterns clearly and how to translate these insights into meaningful, family-centred intervention plans.

One of the most impactful aspects of the workshop is its attention to the broader context surrounding each child. Dr Roley highlights the importance of understanding caregiver wellbeing, environmental demands and the emotional landscape of early parenting. Sensory integration does not exist in isolation; when a baby struggles to regulate, the caregiver's own nervous system is involved, too. This expanded view supports more compassionate, co-produced approaches to care.

Throughout the workshop, you'll also explore practical strategies that parents and caregivers can use in everyday routines, from supporting regulation during feeding, sleeping and transitions, to creating sensory-friendly environments that help babies feel safe and engaged. Whether you work in early intervention, paediatrics, community practice or education, you'll walk away with a stronger foundation for supporting infants and toddlers through sensory-informed, developmentally attuned approaches.

By the end of the two days, participants will have a clearer understanding of the sensory foundations that underpin early development; the confidence to analyse and describe early sensory integration differences; and a toolkit of strategies for supporting both the child and their family. Most importantly, you'll feel empowered to connect early developmental theory with the real needs of babies, toddlers and caregivers in your community.

If you want to deepen your understanding of sensory integration in the earliest years and support children and families with insight, compassion and evidence-informed practice, this workshop is a decisive next step in your continuing development.