Introduction / Background
Interoception is increasingly recognised as a key foundation for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and participation in daily life. Difficulties with interoceptive processing are common across neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, and trauma, and can be complex and confusing for occupational therapists to assess and address in practice. This presentation explores how interoception underpins functional performance and offers practical approaches for integrating interoceptive awareness into therapy.

Method / Implementation
Drawing on current neuroscience and occupational therapy literature, this session synthesises evidence linking interoception to core life skills, including emotional regulation, toileting, feeding, and sleep. Clinical reflections and practice examples demonstrate how therapists can identify interoceptive challenges through observation, informal assessment, and client-centred inquiry, and how these insights can guide participation-focused goal setting and intervention.

Discussion / Outcomes
Attendees will gain an understanding of the neural basis of interoception and its multidimensional influence on occupational performance. Examples highlight how supporting body-signal awareness can improve regulation, autonomy, and engagement in everyday occupations. The session also reviews emerging occupational therapy interventions tools.

Conclusion
Interoception provides a crucial sensory foundation for participation. Enhancing interoceptive awareness through occupational therapy enables children to better understand their internal states, regulate effectively, and engage meaningfully in daily life.