All Things Sensory by Harkla

NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-courseIn this episode of the All Things Sensory Podcast, we’re sharing our favorite regulation activities and tools to support your child / clients before and after school — plus tips for YOU as an adult.We’ll walk you through simple, practical strategies that start the night before, like creating a calming bedtime routine, prepping for the next morning, and setting everyone up for success.We also answer a listener question about supporting a 6-year-old who’s struggling to read and follow instructions at school — including practical steps parents can take to help.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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses

Sarah Selznick, MS, OTR/L is an occupational therapist, author, and the founder of Sensory Explorers, a private practice supporting children, caregivers, and adults through sensory wellness, pelvic health, and developmental care. She’s the creator of the online Super Poopers course, helping families navigate pediatric bowel and bladder challenges with humor and heart. Sarah is also the author and illustrator of children’s books that support early learning and independence — including I Am Learning: How to Poop in the Toilet and I am Learning how to Listen to my Body. You can find her on Instagram @sensoryexplorers for tips, tools, and a peek into her playful approach to therapy. Sign up for her newsletter to stay in the loop: www.sensoryexplorers.comLINKSWe’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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/coursesInterview with Quiara Smith, OTR/Lhttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/315-pediatric-pelvic-health-occupational-therapy-with-quiara-smith-otr-l?_pos=1&_sid=a8fdc59f2&_ss=rAn Interview with Dr. Steve Hodgeshttps://kidsbowelbladder.com/an-interview-with-dr-steve-hodges/

Have you ever wondered why some children constantly chew on clothing, pencils, or even their hair? In this episode of All Things Sensory, we’re diving into oral sensory seeking—what it is, why it happens, and how to support children who experience it.Children who are sensory seekers often crave oral input to regulate their nervous system. Chewing, sucking, and biting provide proprioceptive input that can be calming, especially for children experiencing stress, anxiety, or fight-or-flight responses.Oral sensory seeking is more than just a “bad habit”—it’s communication. With the right tools, strategies, and understanding, you can help your child meet their sensory needs safely and successfully.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3⁠Tips for Oral Seekers⁠https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/159-tips-for-oral-seekers?_pos=1&_sid=cf200d27b&_ss=r⁠PICA or Oral Seeking?⁠https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/263-pica-or-oral-seeking-sensory-strategies-for-both?_pos=3&_sid=cf200d27b&_ss=r⁠ARK Therapeutic ⁠https://www.arktherapeutic.com/⁠Buzz Buddy (Amazon)⁠https://a.co/d/8GnT2AVAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses

In this episode, we dive deep into the connection between childhood anxiety and the retained Moro Reflex — and how both can impact children in the classroom. From understanding what anxiety looks like in a school setting, to uncovering the role of primitive reflexes, we’ll explore how to support children who struggle with heightened worry, reactivity, and sensory sensitivity.A retained Moro reflex can mimic or worsen classroom anxiety. Kids may:Overreact to sounds, lights, or unexpected touchStruggle with transitions or changes in routineLive in a constant state of fight-or-flight, making it harder to focus or socializeStartle easily, avoid certain activities, or have ongoing challenges with attentionThese signs may point to an underlying reflex that hasn’t fully integrated. Tune in to learn how understanding this mind-body connection can transform the way we support children in school and at home.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 FREE Primitive Reflex Checklisthttps://harkla.co/pages/freebies?_pos=1&_sid=be7c6473f&_ss=r⁠Movements That Heal (Amazon)⁠https://a.co/d/hyQrYLA⁠Harkla Digital Courses⁠https://harkla.co/collections/coursesAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

This week, we’re diving into one of our favorite topics - Motor Labs! These movement-based, circuit-style spaces are game-changers for students of all ages, especially those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing challenges, or retained primitive reflexes.We’ll break down:What a Motor Lab is and who benefits mostThe science-backed benefits like improved attention, self-regulation, and foundational sensory-motor skillsCalm down zones that promote emotional regulationHow to set up your Motor Lab in any school space — from hallways to empty classroomsCustomizing for student needs including sensory seekers vs. sensory avoidersSimple ways to track progress and collaborate with staffCommon challenges and practical solutions to overcome themIdeas for keeping movement going outside the lab with brain breaks, transitions, and in-class sensory toolsWe’ll also share our favorite resources, from budget-friendly equipment to apps that support motor planning.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Digital Course Libraryhttps://harkla.co/collections/coursesMotor Labs - Sensational Brain CEU Coursehttps://sensationalbrain.com/product/motor-labs-sensory-paths/All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Do you have a student who’s always moving, touching everything, or humming non-stop? They might be a sensory seeker—a child with a high sensory threshold who craves extra input to feel regulated.In this episode of All Things Sensory, we break down what sensory seeking really means, why it can look different for every child, and how to proactively support these students in the classroom. We’ll share real-life examples, practical strategies you can start using tomorrow, and the one thing you should never take away from a sensory seeker.Plus—we’ve got a free Sensory Preferences Checklist to help you understand each child’s unique needs!FREE Sensory Preference Checklisthttps://harkla.co/pages/freebiesImproving Focus and Behavior in the Classroom Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-trainingA Balanced Brain: A Multi-Sensory Program for Learning and  Focus https://harkla.co/products/balanced-brainClassroom Sensory Kitshttps://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-kit?_pos=1&_sid=79e63bbfb&_ss=rMixed Sensory Needshttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/316-supporting-mixed-sensory-needs-children-adults?_pos=1&_sid=65c45e7a7&_ss=rSupporting Sensory Seekershttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/348-supporting-sensory-seekers-practical-tips-for-every-day?_pos=7&_sid=88bd86b3a&_ss=rBefore School Strategieshttps://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/before-school-strategies?_pos=4&_sid=5d068f958&_ss=rAfter School Strategieshttps://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/after-school-strategies?_pos=2&_sid=5d068f958&_ss=rSchool Sensory Breakshttps://youtu.be/TzxL6YEBl6c?si=Yt50AQWu1htefhxSBack to School Tipshttps://youtu.be/o3LdX9NuxYw?si=K3cYJtOJlVdUwAXgCrawling for Brain Development https://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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Crawling is a foundational developmental milestone that does more than just strengthen muscles — it plays a critical role in developing the visual system, especially ocular motor skills such as tracking, convergence, and coordinated eye movements.We’re diving into why crawling is essential and how to help children of ALL ages crawl! LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Early Intervention Blueprint https://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-courseCrawling for Brain Development https://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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Is your child/client constantly skipping words while reading, losing their place on the page, or avoiding reading altogether? These might not be “reading problems”—they could be visual problems.In this episode, we break down how ocular motor skills—specifically saccades, pursuits, and convergence—are essential for reading success. You’ll learn how these visual skills impact everything from decoding to attention span, and why children with ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or retained primitive reflexes are at higher risk for visual-motor challenges.LINKSRelationship Between Ocular Motility and Motor Skillshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11698614/Primitive Reflex Integration and Reading in the Classroomhttps://jneuroscience.com/2023/02/26/primitive-reflex-integration-and-reading-achievement-in-the-classroom/Statistics of Infants’ Natural Visual Experience https://jov.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2792416We’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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

In this episode, we break down what ocular motor skills really are, how they affect your child’s behavior and development, and most importantly simple at-home activities you can start using right away to help.They also share how retained primitive reflexes, screen time, and missed developmental milestones can all impact how your child’s eyes work together — and why this often goes unnoticed.Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode is full of practical tools you can start today. Here’s what you’ll learn: What ocular motor skills really are (hint: it’s not just 20/20 vision!)Signs your child might be struggling with visual tracking or coordinationEasy, playful at-home activities for:Saccades (eye jumping)Pursuits (smooth tracking)Convergence & divergence (eye teaming)How primitive reflexes and screen time impact visionTips for building a consistent and doable home exercise routineAnd, we'll answer a listener question at the end of the episode. Happy listening! LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Ocular Motor Skills Screening Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMSVhwIL5wI&t=11sAssessing Primitive Reflexes Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkGDm3t2hb8&t=1sBrock String Instructionshttps://www.optometrists.org/vision-therapy/guide-to-vision-therapy/vision-therapy-faqs/how-is-a-brock-string-used/Spot Ithttps://www.spotitgame.com/Zoomballhttps://www.amazon.com/Toysmith-6219-Zip-Ball/dp/B00E6DXQU8/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9wtOAvhcy8jgIIeXS3esac48UmRrA0araB1icT_BW19b5HZVhEuyaKG-Ol5vGUNVEPSfO1x7UHrpflm1GmNTMLbeaernwnXIy-Dku7CqPUBlD9pnMEHeFNF54jWVJcgWOa_UXJ7HbqnmbqssbFeU-NfwXZH5MN1xLnOP5z6dFqN5X0yr4OzQ3EVyl155PjJ6sInCbUUCcQoLp70CERAeNxnQ1wiE6p-IZb6Gd_SrrjT-JrbMONntd9tdIflCvBKEl2mlfk6wwc-Jj20SJKoRAc8LZCOieWhOYy5zQBC9VLA.i5FuA9BWsSe4NReui8vk3vdZFtEmEpBd_hPz8xfAfHc&dib_tag=se&keywords=zoom%2Bball&qid=1752800406&refinements=p_72%3A1248963011&rnid=1248961011&s=toys-and-games&sr=1-3&th=1A Balanced Brain Full Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/balanced-brainEarly Intervention Blueprint Full Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-courseAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagram

In episode of All Things Sensory, we sit down with the incredible Dr. Tessa Grigg - PhD, Dip Tch (Primary) Dip Tch (ECE). She has a wide range of experience within the Early Childhood Education field. She has taught in a Primary School, supervised a preschool with specialist work in the sensory-motor area, worked as a Child and Family Therapist, taught adult students in teaching and child development, and owned and operated a GymbaROO centre for nine years. Tessa is the "Tessa" in Tessarose Productions, a business that has produced music for children for over 30 years. Currently, Tessa is a certified Rhythmic Movement Training Practitioner and runs a Kinesiology clinic for children and adults. Following the completion of a PhD focused on children's primitive reflexes, Tessa now works part-time as a lecturer at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, and is the Research and Education Manager for GymbaROO-KindyROO in Australia.We chat about:How Tessa’s career path led her to primitive reflex researchThe surprising effects of natural disasters (like earthquakes) and the pandemic on reflex development in childrenHer fascinating classroom-based research showing how simple, rhythmic movement interventions can dramatically impact learning, emotional regulation, and behaviorWhy crawling and skipping might just be two of the most important activities your child can do dailyHow to bring reflex integration into schools and homes without overwhelmWhether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode is filled with practical tips, lightbulb moments, and hopeful reminders that everything can change when we meet kids where they are.LINKSTessa's Research Articleshttps://jneuroscience.com/jnen/articles/v9n1/jnen-103-tess-grigg.pdfhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29529872/Visit Tessa’s website https://www.gymbaroo.com.au/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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Headaches that won’t go away? Trouble reading or switching between screens? Feeling drained after a day at your desk? These might not be random quirks—they could be signs of ocular motor deficits.In this episode, we’re diving into how visual-ocular challenges—convergence, saccades, and pursuits—can impact adults in everyday life. You’ll hear a personal story, a powerful example of how unresolved visual motor skills led to chronic headaches, and how vision therapy changed everything.We’ll also unpack the key signs of ocular motor dysfunction in adults, how they’re often linked to headaches, fatigue, and even ADHD symptoms, and why primitive reflexes might still be at play long after childhood. You’ll learn simple screening tools to try at home and get expert insight into what interventions actually help.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Free live webinar on July 16th https://harkla.co/pages/infant-sensory-development-webinar-registration-2025Primitive Reflex Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-courseAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

In this episode, we sit down with pediatric audiologist Debbie Baerlocher to unpack the real truth about Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)—what it is, what it’s not, and why it’s often misunderstood. Learn how APD is diagnosed, when to seek help, and why many children show similar symptoms without actually having APD.Debbie has her Doctorate in Audiology and has been working at Elks Hearing and Balance, aka St. Luke's Hearing and Balance, in Boise, Idaho since she moved to the Treasure Valley just about 25 years ago. By the end of this episode you’ll learn:- What a true APD diagnosis involves- Why symptom lists can be misleading- When hearing loss, ADHD, or anxiety might be the real cause- What parents can do right now to helpWhether you’re a parent, caregiver, or therapist, this episode offers clarity, empathy, and expert advice you won’t want to miss.LINKShttps://www.hearingfirst.org/https://www.readingrockets.org/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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Dr. Craig D. Clayton is a functional and biomimetic dentist based in Meridian, Idaho, and an influential online educator with a following of over 380K on Instagram. Passionate about uncovering the root causes of oral health issues, Dr. Clayton focuses on holistic cavity prevention, airway health, and innovative, biologically sound approaches to restoring teeth. As the host of the Dentistry Disrupted podcast, he is on a mission to shift the dental industry toward a more patient-centered, root-cause-focused approach. Through educating and empowering patients, he hopes to bridge the gap between oral health and overall well-being.Follow Dr. Clayton on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/restoration.dentistryMore information https://restorationdentistryid.com/Free resources https://stan.store/restorationdentistryListen to Dr. Clayton’s Podcast - Dentistry Disrupted https://open.spotify.com/show/37YIyN9xGxzvT5MkuH9GOD?si=JNrtjoisToSEU80e1asRQwElementa Toothpaste https://elementasilver.com/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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Shop our Summer Sensory SALE! https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-sale-2025Free Primitive Reflex Webinar https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025Free Sensory Diet Webinar https://harkla.co/pages/sensory-diet-webinar-registration-2024We’re diving deep into the why behind retained primitive reflexes. These early movement patterns are essential in infancy—but when they don’t integrate properly, they can lead to challenges with regulation, development, and everyday functioning.We cover some of the most common causes of retained reflexes, including:Neurological immaturityBirth trauma or complications during deliveryLack of early movement (think: limited tummy time or crawling)Environmental stressors during pregnancyPrematurity and other perinatal factorsGenetic predispositionsWe also highlight insights from Sally Goddard Blythe’s work on neuromotor immaturity and how these retained reflexes can show up in both kids and adults.We also respond to a thoughtful question from a literacy coach about a 5-year-old with ADHD. We explore possible sensory and neurological factors at play—and share ideas for supporting regulation and integration through movement.This is a must-listen for parents, therapists, and educators who want to better understand the foundational role of reflexes in child development.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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Neuromotor Immaturity in Children and Adults by Sally Goddard Blythhttps://a.co/d/dlX4KGIFreebies - Free Sensory Checklist https://harkla.co/pages/freebies?_pos=1&_sid=af3b45f36&_ss=r

Shop our Summer Sensory SALE! https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-sale-2025Free Primitive Reflex Webinar https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025Summer can bring a lot of fun — and a lot of sensory dysregulation. In this episode, we’re sharing 10 activity ideas to help your child stay regulated during the warmer months. From water play and outdoor obstacle courses to sensory-friendly picnics and consistent routines, these ideas are designed to support sensory processing, connection, and fun for the whole family.We also answer a thoughtful listener question about tongue proprioception and how to support oral awareness in a child navigating speech sound production, balance challenges, toe-walking, and a history of a frenectomy.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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Water Balloons - Bunch O Balloons https://a.co/d/0jkzuSHOral Motor Super Duper Deck https://a.co/d/40Jclqd

Summer is here—and with the heat, play, and sunshine comes a unique challenge for kids (and adults!) who struggle with interoception. In this episode, we explore what interoception is and why it’s so important to pay attention during the summer months. We discuss how challenges like dehydration, overheating, and sun sensitivity can affect children with sensory needs and how parents and caregivers can better support them through practical strategies, products, and daily routines.We also share actionable tips for boosting interoceptive awareness, from mindfulness exercises to hydration reminders, and highlight summer-friendly tools like cooling vests, splash pads, and visual schedules.PLUS—we answer a thoughtful listener question about managing sensory seeking behaviors at home after school, and offer guidance for making sensory play more structured and less overwhelming.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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/The Interoception Curriculum by Kelly Mahlerhttps://www.kelly-mahler.com/product/the-interoception-curriculum-a-step-bystep-guide-to-developing-mindful-self-regulation/Sensational Brain: The Interoceptive Sensory Systemhttps://sensationalbrain.com/product/interoceptive-sensory-system/Beyond Behaviors (Amazon) https://a.co/d/ft3dFmFSensory Explorers https://www.sensoryexplorers.com/

Register for our FREE live webinar on June 4, 2025 https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-diet-webinar-registration-2025In this episode of the All Things Sensory Podcast, we explore how a baby’s sensory and nervous systems begin developing long before birth — and how expectant parents can actively support this critical growth during pregnancy.From taste and touch to vestibular and proprioceptive systems, you'll learn when each sensory system starts forming in the womb and what factors influence healthy development. We also highlight practical, evidence-based strategies for optimizing your baby’s neurological health through nutrition, movement, stress management, and mindful prenatal care.Plus, we dive into fascinating research connecting prenatal experiences — like maternal stress, illnesses, medications, and even birth methods — to the likelihood of sensory processing difficulties later in childhood.Whether you’re expecting or supporting someone who is, this episode empowers you with tools and insights to lay a strong sensory foundation for your baby’s future.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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Research: Incidence of pre-, peri-, and post-natal birth and developmental problems of children with sensory processing disorder and children with autism spectrum disorderhttps://www.frontiersin.org/journals/integrative-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/neuro.07.031.2009/fullResearch: Association between cesarean section and sensory integration dysfunction in preschool children: a prospective cohort studyhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34511164/Research: The Occurrence of the Sensory Processing Disorder in Children Depending on the Type and Time of Delivery: A Pilot Studyhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35682475/#:~:text=Descriptive%20results%20and%20percentage%20calculations%20were%20compared.,those%20delivered%20on%20time%20by%20vaginal%20birth.Research: The Prenatal and Perinatal Risk Variables of the Sensory Processing Disorderhttps://www.walshmedicalmedia.com/open-access/the-prenatal-and-perinatal-risk-variables-of-the-sensory-processing-disorder-2090-7214-1000286.pdf

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Fritz, a board-certified pediatric physical therapist with a passion for infant development. Angela brings her expertise working in the NICU and shares valuable insights on supporting babies from the very beginning—especially those who’ve spent time in the NICU.We dive into:The role of physical therapy in the NICUTummy time and developmental milestone tips for infants (including NICU grads)The importance of positioning for developmentPrimitive reflexes and how they influence early movementPractical advice for parents and caregiversWhether you're a therapist, parent, or caregiver, you'll come away with actionable tips and a deeper understanding of the early building blocks of development.Angela Fritz, PT, DPT, PCS is a board-certified pediatric physical therapist who specializes in infant development. She received her doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of Washington (Go Dawgs!) and has worked with infants and children ever since! Angela just recently moved to Boise, ID and works in the NICU and NICU follow up at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital, but was trained in neonatal therapy at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Though her passion lies with infants, Angela has experience working with children 0-18 years of age. She is passionate about celebrating the unique spark in each and every baby, and believes that empowering parents to advocate for, engage with, and support their baby is the best way to foster lifelong success. Angela was also born with hearing loss and is passionate about disability awareness, inclusion, and justice and making healthcare more accessible for all!LINKSVisit Angela’s Website - https://www.bebe-pt.com/servicesWe’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/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

In this episode, we sit down with Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed., Educational Intervention Specialist and founder of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, to explore the heart of DIRFloortime. We dive into the power of connection, the role of play-based therapy, and how honoring all forms of communication can transform the way we support children. Whether you're a parent or professional, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with curiosity, connection, and compassion.Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed Educational Intervention Specialist, is the owner of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, a private practice providing direct support to families and children, as well as professional development opportunities to private and school based professionals nationwide.LINKSVisit Lori's websitehttps://loribensonadams.com/Lori on Sensational Brainhttps://sensationalbrain.com/ceu/on-demand-webinars/?_speaker=lori-benson-adams-medDIRFloortimehttps://www.icdl.com/dirDyslexia with Lori Benson Adamshttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/179-what-is-dyslexia?_pos=2&_sid=89fa10f07&_ss=rWe’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/playlistsHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Welcome Amy Whelan, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) specialist, and passionate AAC advocate. Amy brings her deep expertise and compassionate approach to early childhood communication, guiding us through the world of gestalt language processing, child-led therapy, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.Amy Whelan, Ph.D., CCC-SLP has worked with young children at-risk for speech and language delays and their families her entire career. Movement and play are her favorite ways to encourage regulation, connection, engagement, and communication. She believes in the power of YET to give hope to what is to come and foster positive, empowered, resilient children. Always learning, Amy has specialized training in family-centered therapy, early intervention and preschool-based therapy, Natural Language Acquisition and gestalt language processors, as well as neurodiversity affirming goal writing and therapy practices.LINKSFollow Amy on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/twojillsandajack/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/@HarklaFamily/videosHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/