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All Things Sensory by Harkla
All Things Sensory by Harkla
Author: Amanda Mathers, OTR/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
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© Amanda Mathers, OTR/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
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Amanda Mathers, OTR/L, and Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, are two passionate pediatric therapy practitioners who answer your questions related to all things sensory, occupational therapy, parenting, self-care, nutrition, and health, from a therapist’s perspective. Providing raw, honest, fun ideas, and strategies, for parents and families to implement into daily life. Great for those who work with children with sensory processing disorder, special needs, autism, and ADHD. This podcast is brought to you by Harkla, where our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives
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There are a few phrases I hear over and over again from parents, usually right after they’ve tried everything and nothing worked. If you’ve ever been told things like “they just need more discipline” or “they’ll grow out of it,” this episode is for you.In this episode, I share my perspective as a certified occupational therapy assistant and primitive reflex clinical specialist, reacting to common parenting advice I hear all the time. This isn’t about calling that advice wrong. It’s about understanding what might be missing when we don’t consider a child’s sensory system and nervous system.I’ll walk through familiar phrases like “ignore it and it’ll stop,” “they just need to get used to it,” and “all kids need the same routines,” and explain why these approaches can sometimes fall short. I share how behavior is often rooted in regulation, how sensory needs shape a child’s response to everyday situations, and why the same strategy can work for one child and completely backfire for another.Throughout the episode, you’ll hear practical reframes that help shift from reacting to behavior to understanding what the nervous system actually needs. I also share how I filter parenting advice as a COTA, including the questions I ask before recommending any strategy and why trusting what you’re seeing in your own child matters more than following one-size-fits-all advice.This conversation is a reminder that most parenting advice isn’t wrong, it’s just incomplete. When you start looking at your child through a sensory lens, things begin to make a lot more sense.Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode made you feel a little more confident in trusting your instincts, share it with someone who’s been second-guessing their parenting lately.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Shop our OT Month Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleEnter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!https://harkla.co/All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Have you ever wondered why your child seems “fine” all day at school… and then completely falls apart at home? In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on through a sensory lens.We walk through what sensory integration actually means in everyday life, how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input, and why this process can look very different from child to child. We talk about the difference between being over-responsive, under-responsive, and sensory seeking, and how each of those patterns can show up in behavior, emotions, and daily routines.You’ll also hear a clear, practical explanation of all eight sensory systems, including the three “hidden” senses (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception) that play a huge role in regulation, body awareness, and emotional responses.One of the most important takeaways from this episode is understanding how sensory input builds up throughout the day. Many kids are holding it together in structured environments like school, but by the time they get home, their nervous system is overwhelmed, which is why after-school meltdowns are so common.We also talk about how to tell the difference between sensory quirks and sensory challenges that are actually impacting daily life, why behavior is often communication, and how small, proactive strategies throughout the day can make a big difference in preventing dysregulation later on.This episode is all about helping you see your child and yourself through a new lens, so you can better understand what’s really driving behavior and how to support regulation in a more intentional way.Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode gave you a new perspective, share it with someone who’s navigating after-school meltdowns or trying to better understand sensory processing.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Sensory Preferences Checklisthttps://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Copy_of_Mod_3_5_Child_Sensory_Preferences.pdf?v=1729447315Shop our OT Month Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleEnter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!https://harkla.co/pages/aam-giveaway All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
In this episode, I share some honest reflections on pediatrician visits - what’s working, what could be improved, and what families truly need more of in those early appointments. This isn’t about criticizing pediatricians, but about opening up the conversation and advocating for better support for babies, kids, and their families.I walk through common phrases like “wait and see” or “they’ll grow out of it,” and why those approaches can sometimes delay important support. I'll also share my personal experience navigating torticollis with my son, feeding, and development and highlight how early intervention, referrals, and education can make a significant difference.I also share what I wish pediatric visits included more of - like education on tummy time, crawling, primitive reflexes, messy play, nutrition, lactation support, and trusted referrals to specialists like OT, PT, and lactation consultants.This episode is ultimately about empowering parents to ask questions, trust their instincts, and advocate for the support their child needs.Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode resonated, share it with a new or expecting parent who’s navigating those early pediatrician visits.LINKSWhat To Ask Your Doctor Checklisthttps://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/WhatToAskYourDoctor_Checklist__EP_145_Freebie_1.pdf We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
There has been growing conversation around proposed legislation that would require children to be toilet trained before enrolling in kindergarten. In this episode, we take a thoughtful look at what these policies mean from a developmental and occupational therapy perspective.We talk about what the proposed Kansas bill would require, how states like Utah already define “toilet trained,” and the gray area that can exist for children who may not yet have an official diagnosis but are still struggling with toileting for medical, sensory, or developmental reasons.Throughout the conversation, we discuss the many factors that can affect toileting development in young children, including pelvic floor dysfunction, constipation, encopresis, sensory processing differences, interoception challenges, anxiety, and major life changes that can lead to regression. We also look at the real-world challenges schools face when supporting young students and why toileting independence can’t always be viewed as a simple behavior or discipline issue.This episode is not about debating policy. Instead, it’s about understanding child development, recognizing how complex toileting readiness can be, and considering how families, schools, and healthcare professionals can better support kids who are still developing these skills.Thanks for listening 🩷If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a parent, teacher, or therapist navigating potty training or school readiness.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Read more about the Kansas bill:https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/02/kansas-bill-would-require-kindergarteners-to-be-potty-trained-before-starting-school/ All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Today’s episode is a special one because we’re introducing someone new to the podcast. If you’ve been listening for a while, you know our mission has always been to support families, therapists, and educators with practical, real-life strategies rooted in occupational therapy.As the Harkla team continues to grow, we’re excited to welcome Amanda, our new co-host and in-house occupational therapist to the podcast. In this episode, you’ll hear more about her journey into occupational therapy, the different settings she’s worked in, and the perspective she brings from both early intervention and school-based practice. Amanda shares about working directly in classrooms with children and families, the challenges she sees most often in schools today, and her knowledge of potty training and pediatric pelvic floor health. We’re so excited for this next chapter of the podcast and can’t wait for you to get to know Amanda in upcoming episodes.Thanks for listening 🩷 We’d love to hear from you! What questions would you like Amanda to answer in a future episode?We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Amanda’s Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/yourpediatricot/ All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Today’s episode is a little different. We’re sharing an important update about the podcast, our team, and what’s coming next as we move into a new season of All Things Sensory. We talk about Jessica’s decision to step away from her role as co-host and return to the clinic full time, why this transition feels meaningful for her, and what this change means for the future of the podcast. While this marks the end of an era, the mission of the podcast remains the same.Rachel also shares a personal reflection on working alongside Jessica over the years, how the podcast has grown since it launched in 2018, and why this transition is both bittersweet and exciting. Plus, we tease what’s coming next, including solo episodes, and a new OT co-host you may already know!Thanks for listening 🩷 We’d love to hear your favorite Jessica moments, what topics you want covered next, or your guesses about our new co-host.We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 History of the Podcast - Joining Harkla https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/bonus-announcement Jessica’s Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/jessicaaaa_atlarge/ All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Can supplements actually support kids with sensory processing challenges? In this episode, we take a research-based look at supplements commonly recommended for sensory processing disorder and neurodivergent individuals. We talk honestly about what science does (and doesn’t) say.In this episode, you’ll learn:What sensory processing disorder is and how it impacts daily lifeWhy supplements are becoming more common in the sensory worldWhich nutrients show the most promise in current researchWhy quality, testing, and sourcing of supplements really matterHow to safely explore supplements without overwhelming your childThanks for listening 🩷 If this episode got you thinking, share it with a parent or therapist navigating sensory supports.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Article Referenced in Episode:https://sfihealth.com/news/can-supplements-help-children-with-sensory-processing-difficultiesSPD Info: 10 Facts About Sensory Processing Disorderhttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/277-10-facts-about-sensory-processing-disorderWhat is Sensory Processing Disorder?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fE476Zlyio Navigating SPD Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/navigating-sensory-processing-disorder Research:Mineral-Vitamin Treatment Linked to Sustained Remission of ADHD Symptomshttps://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/cap.2019.0036Potential Role of L-Carnitine in Autism Spectrum Disorderhttps://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/6/1202Phosphatidylserine's effect on memory and ADHD symptomshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23495677/Association of feeding/mealtime behavior issues with internalizing/externalizing problems in children with autismhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30761818/Sensory processing patterns in children with ASD and ADHDhttps://mecp.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43045-024-00441-6Get More Content:All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
What if movement was built into the school day instead of saved for recess? In this episode, we’re talking about how retained primitive reflexes can impact emotional regulation in the classroom and sharing three simple, powerful activities teachers can use with the entire class.In this episode, you’ll learn:What primitive reflexes are and why they matter for learning and behaviorHow retained reflexes can show up as anxiety, dysregulation, or inattentionThe connection between the Moro, STNR, and ATNR and emotional regulationThree easy, classroom-friendly movements to support regulation and focusHow short, consistent movement breaks can change the feel of the entire classroomThanks for listening 🩷 If you’re a teacher or therapist, try one of these movements with your group and tell us what you notice.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Making friends can be hard, and for neurodivergent kids, the path to connection often looks a little different. This episode was inspired by a question from Instagram and dives into practical, compassionate ways to support social connection without forcing kids to fit into a mold that doesn’t work for them.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why friendship can be more challenging for neurodivergent kidsHow sensory processing, executive function, and communication impact social skillsWhy quality of connection matters more than the number of friendsOT-informed strategies to support social interaction in safe, structured waysHow to build friendships by leaning into a child’s strengths and interestsThanks for listening 🩷 If this episode resonated, share it with a parent or therapist supporting a neurodivergent child.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Is your child constantly sucking their thumb or fingers and you’re wondering if it’s sensory, habit, or something else? This episode comes straight from a parent question on Instagram, and we’re breaking it all down.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why thumb and finger sucking is considered oral sensory seekingWhen sucking is developmentally appropriate and when to look closerCommon reasons older kids continue sucking for regulation or anxietyHow to talk to your child about the habit in a supportive wayPractical sensory and oral motor replacements that actually helpThanks for listening 🩷 If this question hit close to home, share this episode with another parent who’s navigating thumb or finger sucking too.We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Z-Vibe https://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/ Chew Tubeshttps://www.arktherapeutic.com/handheld-chews/ Chewleryhttps://www.arktherapeutic.com/chewelry/ 5 Ways to Use Proprioception for Calming and Regulationhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHdCj8sWtV0 Top 10 Oral Motor Activities Every Parent Should Knowhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEXEbyBX858&t=443s Sensory Snacks Explainedhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOswosl5pHg All Things Sensory Ep. 376 - Oral Sensory Seeking in Kidshttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/376-oral-sensory-seeking-in-kids-what-you-need-to-know-how-to-helpAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
“I didn’t crawl and I’m fine.” We hear this all the time - from parents, grandparents, and even professionals. And while it can be true, there’s a lot more nuance to the conversation.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why crawling plays such a critical role in developmentHow crawling supports strength, coordination, vision, and primitive reflex integrationWhy skipping crawling may not seem like a problem early on, but can impact coordination, learning, and regulation laterSimple ways to encourage crawling in babies, kids, and even adultsHow to respond (kindly and confidently) when someone says, “I didn’t crawl and I’m fine”Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode made you think differently about crawling, share it with someone who says they’re “fine” without it.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Why Crawling Is Essential for Babies, Kids & Adults? Infant Development & OT Strategieshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKcDD9FtVIY Crawling for Brain Developmenthttps://sensationalbrain.com/product/crawling-brain-development-curriculum/ All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
This week, we’re joined by Taylor Kruse, movement coach, educator, and founder of Kruse Elite, who specializes in applied neurology and the nervous system. Taylor works with adults to help them move, feel, and function better but his insights are just as relevant for kids and therapists, too.In this episode, you’ll learn:What “applied neurology” means and how it connects to movement and painWhy visual and vestibular systems are key to body awareness and regulationHow the brainstem, eyes, and tongue all work together for posture and balanceThe impact of mouth breathing and poor CO₂ tolerance on the nervous systemPractical drills for vision, vestibular activation, and improved breathingThanks for listening 🩷 Try one of Taylor’s breathing or visual drills and let us know how it goes!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Taylor’s Websitehttps://www.kruseelite.com/Follow Taylor on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kruseelite All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Swinging, spinning, and jumping can be incredible tools for regulation but they can also lead to overstimulation if we’re not careful. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to safely use vestibular input (aka movement) to support sensory regulation without causing meltdowns or motion sickness.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the vestibular system is and why it’s so importantThe difference between seekers, avoiders, and under-respondersSigns of vestibular overload and what to look forHow to safely build up tolerance to spinning, swinging, and movementTips for balancing vestibular input with proprioception for regulationThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who wants to better understand movement and regulation!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses What is Vestibular Input? (Blog Post) https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/vestibular-input?_pos=4&_sid=58b88ae0e&_ss=r What is the Vestibular System? (Podcast)https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/21-vestibular-system?_pos=1&_sid=58b88ae0e&_ss=r Sensory Dice https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice Sensory Sticks https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks Sensory Cardshttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards Research Articles:Vestibular Input in Children https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/11/1/2Vestibular Activity and Development in Children https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/integrative-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnint.2013.00092/fullVestibular Dysfunction in Children https://vestibular.org/article/diagnosis-treatment/types-of-vestibular-disorders/pediatric-vestibular-disorders/part-i-vestibular-dysfunction-children/ Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairmentshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6054584/Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population https://www.audiology.org/practice-guideline/american-academy-of-audiology-clinical-consensus-statement-assessment-of-vestibular-function-in-the-pediatric-population/Effectiveness of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Exercises in Reducing Hyperactivity in Children with Autismhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S305065652500015X#:~:text=Vestibular%20and%20proprioceptive%20training%20significantly,significant%20changes%20in%20vestibular%20function. Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children https://research.aota.org/ajot/article-abstract/78/Supplement_2/7811500008p1/25267/Association-of-Sensory-Processing-amp-Behavioral?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Visual supports can be a game-changer for kids at home, in the classroom, and in therapy. From calendars and visual timers to emotion charts and AAC devices, these tools provide structure, reduce anxiety, and build independence.In this episode, we cover:The different types of visual supports and schedules you can useHow visuals help with transitions, routines, and emotional regulationCreative ways to use timers, checklists, and visual cues in daily lifeWhy consistency and modeling matter when introducing visualsOur favorite programs and tools for teaching kids about emotions and self-regulationThanks for listening 🩷 Share this with another parent or therapist who could use more tools for smoother transitions and calmer routines!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Zones of Regulationhttps://zonesofregulation.com/ Superflex Curriculumhttps://www.socialthinking.com/products BrainWorks Programhttps://sensationalbrain.com/brainworks/ Gifts of Joy Visualshttps://shopgiftsofjoy.com/ Solo Boto Toys – Emotional Baggagehttps://solobotoys.com/
Starting out in pediatrics can feel overwhelming and it’s easy to fall into some common traps. In this episode, we’re sharing the top 5 mistakes new pediatric therapists make (yes, we made them too!) and how to avoid burnout while still giving your clients the best support possible.We cover: Why staying on top of continuing education is essentialThe danger of passive treatment sessionsHow to involve families for better carryoverWhy a bottom-up approach matters in pediatricsThe importance of setting boundaries and self-careThanks for listening 🩷 If you’re a new grad or new to pediatrics, let us know which tip resonated most with you!LINKSHarkla Holiday Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/holiday-saleAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming 🎁 In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite sensory-friendly gift ideas for kids and adults, plus creative experience gifts that go beyond toys.We cover: Our top 10 sensory-friendly gift ideas for kids.Unique and practical gift ideas for adults.Why experience-based gifts can be so meaningful.Links to products and tools we use and recommend.Thanks for listening 🩷 Tell us what’s on your holiday gift list this year. We’d love to hear your ideas!LINKSHarkla Holiday Salehttps://harkla.co/pages/black-friday-cyber-mondayWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Webe Kalmhttps://amzn.to/41pqZKQHoberman Spherehttps://tinyurl.com/yjh5ntwkYogibo bean baghttps://tinyurl.com/kt88wj2jSensory Compression swinghttps://tinyurl.com/yt4z772ySpot ithttps://www.spotitgame.com/Sensory art - clay by numberhttps://tinyurl.com/yxfy356fGlow in the dark basketballhttps://tinyurl.com/4tr49u3dRock wall https://treefrogplay.com/?sca_ref=3949086.UhRyARIVfTGymnastics barhttps://tinyurl.com/23hp8j8pStapelstein stepping stoneshttps://tinyurl.com/yj5bnkezVibration platehttps://tinyurl.com/5cu4rdz6Vital neurohttps://vitalneuro.com/?dt_id=1422082&utm_campaign=ABT_Creator&utm_medium=affiliateSpeks fidgetshttps://www.getspeks.com/products/speks?variant=31705494323287Self care for ADHD bookhttps://tinyurl.com/bdhmh8yyApp for managing time / to-do listhttps://thruday.com/Tracking device for phone, keys, wallet, etchttps://tinyurl.com/9cu9a82cLoop ear plugshttps://tinyurl.com/4sdj2f6fLiquid sand frame - visual inputhttps://tinyurl.com/54486he5Grounding mat / EMF blocker blankethttps://tinyurl.com/5x9j5j5khttps://thecomfyshield.com/?sca_ref=8911243.bJLixhEk6VPYU2rdAir purifierhttps://tinyurl.com/44jcya4k
Teachers and therapists often see students struggling with focus, posture, handwriting, or behavior but the root cause might not be what you think. Retained primitive reflexes can have a huge impact in the classroom. 📚In this episode, you’ll learn:What primitive reflexes are and why they matterHow retained reflexes show up in school settingsSimple classroom strategies to support studentsWhy movement breaks and alternative seating make a differenceThanks for tuning in 🩷 If this episode was helpful, share it with a teacher or therapist who could use these strategies!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Pyramid of Learninghttps://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Freebie-_Pyramid_of_Learning.pdf?v=1758648557 Tessa’s Interviewhttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg Sensory Activity Cardshttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards Sensory Dicehttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice Sensory Sticks https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks Classroom Course https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training Primitive Reflex Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course
Is your child refusing sensory play you know would help them? You’re not alone — and it doesn’t always mean they’re being “defiant.” 💡In this episode, you’ll learn:Why kids say “no” to sensory activitiesHow rapport & co-regulation make a differenceWhen hunger, sleep, or illness affect behaviorSimple ways to modify activities so kids succeedThanks for listening 🩷 We’re so glad you’re here and can’t wait to hang out with you again next week! 🌈LINKSBlack Friday/Cyber Monday Salehttps://harkla.co/pages/black-friday-cyber-mondayWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sensory Diet Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course
Feeding challenges in infancy can feel overwhelming especially when solids are hard, weight gain is a concern, or oral motor skills seem delayed. In this episode, we respond to a real-life question from a parent about their 10-month-old struggling with solids and tongue movement.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why core and trunk strength impact oral motor developmentThe importance of ruling out tongue ties, torticollis, or delayed milestonesPlay-based strategies to support oral motor skills outside the high chairHelpful tools like the Z-Vibe, bite blocks, and vibrating teethersWhen to seek out additional support from an SLP, IBCLC, or pediatric specialistThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who is supporting an infant with feeding challenges!LINKSEarly Bird Black Friday Sale Opt-Inhttps://harkla.co/pages/earlybird-subscribe-pageWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Z Vibe https://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/ Myo Muncheehttps://myomunchee.com/bebe Bite Blocks https://www.arktherapeutic.com/ark-bite-blocks-for-jaw-grading-stability/ Vibrating Teetherhttps://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Vibrating-Teether-Style-Vary/dp/B0047WGOLQ/ref=sr_1_6 NUK Brushhttps://www.amazon.com/NUK-Massage-Brush-Germany-White/dp/B0CTJ5JKL5 Early Intervention Blueprint Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-course Reddit Thread Questionhttps://www.reddit.com/r/slp/comments/1m8zlsl/baby_struggling_with_solids/
The transition from fall into the holiday season can feel overwhelming for both parents and sensory kids. Between weather changes, shorter days, holiday stress, and immune system struggles, it’s no wonder regulation gets harder this time of year.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why meltdowns and anxiety increase in fall and winterHow weather, daylight, and school routines affect regulationThe impact of rigid thinking with clothing changesSimple strategies to reduce stress and support sensory kidsImmune-boosting ideas and cozy after-school routines that actually helpThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or teacher who could use some fall regulation tips!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sensory Diet Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course






This podcast is incredible. Rachel and Jessica pack in so much information in a fun, friendly and easy to process way. As a preschool teacher I have learned so much that has helped me better understand my children's behavior and needs, and have actionable ways to help them.
My first child is a sensory kiddo and this podcast along a few books I've discovered have been lifesavers. I've been so lost, confused, stressed and everything else you could think of. these ladies are amazing at explaining all the things.
Love this podcast
I love that I found this podcast!! I’m currently attending school for pediatric occupational therapist assistant.