Meet Lindsey Wood | Occupational Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lindsey Wood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lindsey, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
A work life balance is not something you find, it’s definitely something you must create. In the past, I found it easier to manage balancing my work and personal life. This is when I was younger, single, no kids, and just entering into my professional career as an Occupational Therapist. I was able to bounce from work, to family, to friends, and to myself as it seemed I had more time in my days. I was able to focus and put full effort into my work, as well as my relationships and my self-care. Over time, this balancing act has become a bit more challenging. I am now married, with an almost 2 year old, and I am an entrepreneur in addition to being a full-time employee. I wake up, go to work, come home, take care of mom and wife duties, and when my son is asleep I work on growing my own business. I then go to bed and do it all over again the next day. It’s harder to fine time to balance family, friends, and self-care in this mix, even thought I know how important it is! As I’ve grown, I’ve learned that to make this work life balance possible, we can’t be all things to all people. We have to prioritize and plan time for working and personal life and try to stick to it. We have to prioritize taking care of our health and mental state. We have to unplug, take a vacation, and relax. And we have to be in the moment and present with our family and friends in order to find meaning and enjoyment in our life (this might be the most important). Although I am still working my day job, finding the “work” (my own company) that inspires me has helped me add balance to my life–if I could only do that full-time ;). I’ve been making conscious choices and acting in ways that help me create my work life balance by planning and prioritizing time for work, family, friends, and myself.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As an OT, I’ve been working with children of varying abilities from birth to 8th grade. While leaving a client’s house, sitting in San Diego traffic one afternoon, I had an idea. It’s extremely common for parents to ask me for the “best” or “most appropriate” toys for their child’s development and sensory needs. I have a list of my “go-to” toys that are therapeutic, yet also so much fun. I thought, instead of writing down this list and having parents or teachers search for these toys, why not make it easier on families by finding and delivering the toys directly to them! As a parent myself, I know how little extra time we have in our lives. I’ve created DeveloPLAY to help parents and caregivers save time and energy searching for the best toys for their child’s development and sensory needs. The DeveloPLAY Box is unique because it includes hand-picked, developmentally appropriate sensory and motor tools and toys by a licensed pediatric occupational therapist. Each box has a variety of favorite tools and toys geared toward children with Autism, attention deficits, anxiety, emotional and behavioral disorders, and developmental delays, but FUN for ALL children. Each box is delivered to your doorstep, making it easy for you and your family to get your hands on the sensory and motor tools and toys for your child’s development! My hopes are to give children the sensory and motor tools and toys they need to aid in self-regulation and motor skill development needed for dressing, eating, writing, playing, and more!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a resident in north county, I would definitely take them to some spots up here. I’m all about finding places to dine with good vibes and atmosphere. We would spend a day at the beach, followed by rooftop snacks and drinks (The Rooftop bar in Oceanside has a great sunset view). We’d go on walks on the bluff in Cardiff, maybe stop at VG’s for some amazing donuts, and check out the Self-realization garden in Encinitas. We would have to do a brunch at Le Papagayo- great food and bottomless mimosas. We have kids, so we could take them to the Safari Park followed by a picnic at Orfila Vineyards and Winery. Soaking up the sun, spending time outside in San Diego is the best way to experience it no matter where you are!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband deserves a shoutout as he is my biggest supporter and number one fan. From day one of deciding to start my own business, he has backed me up. He has packed and prepared hundreds of boxes with me, invested in the company, and thinks outside the box for all things marketing and growing my business. I truly could not have followed my passion without him!

Website: eatplayloveot.com

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Twitter: twitter.com/eatplayloveot

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbvXiUas-UdgOiqjWnPxF1Q