All Things Sensory by Harkla
Amanda Mathers, OTR/L, and Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, are two passionate pediatric therapy practitioners who answer questions related to sensory processing, occupational therapy, parenting, self-care, nutrition, and health from a therapist's perspective. They provide raw, honest, fun ideas and strategies for parents and families to implement into daily life. This podcast is great for those who work with children with sensory processing disorder, special needs, autism, and ADHD. It is brought to you by Harkla.
Episodes
#422 - OTs Have Sensory Needs, Too: How to Support Yours
I spend so much time thinking about what my clients and my own kiddos need. More movement? Less noise? A sensory break? But sometimes the person who needs those supports is me. And knowing all the regulation strategies doesn’t mean I always remember to use them myself.In this episode, I’m turning the attention back to our own nervous systems. I talk about recognizing sensory overload, finding stra
#421 - Sensory Processing Disorder Explained
In honor of Sensory Processing Disorder Awareness Month, I’m going back to the basics and diving into one of my all-time favorite topics: sensory processing.In this episode, we’re talking about sensory modulation, over- and under-responsiveness, sensory craving, and all eight sensory systems. We’ll also look at how sensory differences can show up during everyday occupations like dressing, eating,
#420 - Quick Update for our ATS Family!
Hi podcast fam! I just wanted to have a quick pow-wow and chat about what this season is going to look like. As many of you may know already, my son is starting kindergarten this fall and I'll be doing a homeschool program with him. Exciting but also very time consuming!We also have a team member getting married this fall and we are excited to travel and celebrate with her family!And of course
#419 - Research Papers Every OT Should Read in 2026
If you're an occupational therapist who loves evidence-based practice, this episode is for you. In this episode, I'm sharing some of my favorite research articles that I think every pediatric OT should have bookmarked. These are the studies I come back to again and again, whether I'm teaching, creating content, working with clients, or answering questions from other therapists.I’ll cov
#418 - The School OT Guide to IEPs, 504s & Classroom Support
Starting your first school-based OT job can feel overwhelming. Between IEP meetings, evaluations, accommodations, and the endless acronyms, it can be hard to know where to start.In this episode, we break down the basics of school-based occupational therapy. Amanda shares what she wishes every new school-based OT knew before walking into their first IEP meeting, explains the differences between IEP
#417 - Fear Paralysis Reflex: Signs Every Pediatric Therapist Should Know
Have you ever worked with a child who seems extremely cautious, shuts down when something feels hard, or gives up before they even get started? There may be more going on than meets the eye.In this episode, we take a closer look at the Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR), one of the lesser-known primitive reflexes that can have a significant impact on a child's development. We explain what the reflex is,
#416 - Is Your Therapy Space Helping... or Hurting?
Here's a hot take: sometimes the most dysregulating part of occupational therapy is the clinic itself.In this episode, we take a closer look at how the therapy environment can impact a child's nervous system and why the space around us is just as important as the intervention itself. From fluorescent lighting and visual clutter to noisy waiting rooms, strong fragrances, and harsh cleaning
#415 - The Real Cost of Screens in Classrooms
I know this might be a controversial opinion, but I don't think screens belong in preschool classrooms.In this solo episode, I share what I've observed as a school-based occupational therapist and why I believe we've become too reliant on technology in early education. This isn't about being anti-screen or anti-teacher. It's about asking whether screens are replacing the hands-on, movement-rich ex
#414 - How to Write Primitive Reflex Goals That Actually Get Approved
If you're writing goals for primitive reflex integration, this episode is for you.In this episode, we break down one of the biggest mistakes therapists make when writing goals for primitive reflex integration and explain how to connect reflex work to meaningful, functional outcomes that matter to families, IEP teams, and insurance providers.We discuss why reflex integration itself should never
#413 - It's Not Just You: OT Burnout Is More Common Than You Think
If you asked 100 occupational therapists whether they've experienced burnout, how many do you think would say yes?In this episode, we have an honest conversation about burnout in the OT profession. We share our own experiences working in clinics, schools, and early intervention, and talk about the realities that many therapists face every day: overwhelming caseloads, endless documentation, pro
#412 - Why We're Screening More COVID-Era Kids for Primitive Reflexes
If your child was born between 2018 and 2022, should they have their primitive reflexes screened?In this episode, we explore how the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted child development and why Rachel believes primitive reflex screenings should become a routine part of early childhood care. From pregnancy stress and delayed services to increased screen time, fewer social opportunities, and less m
#411 - What Lactation Consultants Want Parents to Know: An Interview with Wild Milk Co.
Feeding a baby can feel overwhelming, especially when things don't go as planned. In this episode, I sit down with Kristin and Maureen from Wild Milk Co., two International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), for a conversation about infant feeding, lactation support, oral ties, and what families really need to know during those early months.We talk about common feeding challenges
#410 - Understanding Pediatric Pelvic Floor Health and Potty Training Struggles
If potty training, constipation, accidents, or stool withholding feel way harder than they should, you are not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about pediatric pelvic floor health and why many toileting struggles are actually connected to body awareness, sensory processing, nervous system regulation, and coordination.Amanda shares her perspective as an OT specializing in pediatric pelvic floo
#409 - Using Vibration Plates With Kids: Benefits, Risks & Safety
Vibration plates are everywhere right now, but how do you actually use them safely and effectively with kids? In this episode, I’m diving into one of my favorite tools and sharing how I use vibration plates in therapy, what the research is saying, and what families and therapists need to know before trying one at home.I talk about how vibration plates work, why they were originally developed, and
#408 - Proprioception: What It Is and Why It Matters
If your child is constantly crashing into things, squeezing you a little too tight, or always on the move, there’s a good chance they're seeking out proprioceptive input. In this episode, we’re breaking down one of the most important (and often overlooked) sensory systems and why it can feel like a “secret tool” when it comes to regulation.We talk about what proprioception actually is, how it
#407 - Why I Took My Daughter to a Developmental Eye Doctor (Part 1)
In this episode, I’m sharing a very real, very personal story about my daughter and what led me to take her to a developmental optometrist. As both a COTA and a mom, I always tell families “when in doubt, rule it out,” and this was one of those moments where I had to take my own advice.I walk through what I started noticing at home, from how she was positioning her head while writing, to her diffi
#406 - Why Your Child Needs MORE Movement Before Bed (Sleep Tips for Sensory Seekers)
If your child seems to get a burst of energy right before bed, asks for one more hug, one more drink, or one more lap around the house, it can feel confusing and exhausting. In this episode, we’re breaking down what might really be going on, especially for kids who are sensory seekers.We talk about what it means to have a high sensory threshold and why some kids need more movement, pressure, and i
#405 - ADHD in Women: My Diagnosis Journey as a Mom & Pediatric Therapist
In today’s episode, I’m sharing something a little more personal. This conversation is all about ADHD in women and moms, why it’s so often missed, and what it can actually feel like in real life.For so many of us, ADHD doesn’t look like what we're taught to expect. It’s not always the hyper, can’t-sit-still version we picture in young boys. For women, it often shows up as mental overload, cons
#404 - Should Schools Take Away Recess? Why It Can Backfire
Recess is often the first thing to go when kids are struggling at school. But what if taking it away is actually making things worse?In this episode, we break down why recess is not a reward and should never be used as a punishment. From a sensory and nervous system perspective, movement is one of the most important tools kids have to regulate, focus, and learn throughout the day.We talk about wha
#403 - Reacting to Parenting Advice I Hear All the Time (Through a Sensory Lens)
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
#402 - What Is Sensory Integration? Understanding How the Brain Processes the World
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.
#401 - What Therapists Wish More Pediatricians Talked About
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
#400 - Should Kindergartners Be Potty Trained Before School? What a New Kansas Bill Could Mean for Families
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 gra
#397 - The Best Nutrients to Support Sensory Processing in Kids
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 becom
#396 - Top Three Primitive Reflex Exercises for Emotional Regulation in the Classroom
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 refle
#395 - Helping Neurodivergent Kids Make Friends – OT Social Skills Tips
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 kids
#394 - Is Thumb Sucking Sensory? What to Know (and What to Do)
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 kid
#393 - Is Crawling Really That Important? Yes - Here’s Why!
“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 probl
#392 - Unlocking the Nervous System: Vision, Balance, and Breathing with Taylor Kruse
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 vi
#391 - How to Use Vestibular Input Without Overloading the Sensory System
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 bet
#390 - Using Visual Supports for Sensory Regulation
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
#389 - Top 5 Mistakes New Pediatric Therapists Make and How to Avoid Them!
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 invol
#388 - Top 10 Sensory Gift Ideas for Kids & Adults (Holiday 2025 Guide)
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 reco
#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom
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 moveme
#386 - Don’t Force It: How to Support Kids Who Say “No” to Sensory Play
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 c
#385 - 10-Month-Old Struggling With Solids? Here’s What Might Be Going On
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 tong
#384 - OT Tips to Handle Sensory Challenges This Fall
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
#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs
Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-courseNEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-courseIn this episode, we break down the difference between low core strength and a retained Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR), a primitive reflex that plays a huge role in posture, coordination, and motor development. Whether you’re a p
#382 - 5 Ways to Practice Co-Regulation (Without Saying a Word)
In this episode, we explore what co-regulation really is, why it’s a critical foundation for emotional development, and how occupational therapists, parents, and educators can use it to support kids and adults alike. You’ll learn why co-regulation is more than just a buzzword, and how to intentionally use it in your daily life and practice.What co-regulation is and why it’s essential for developin
#381 - The Truth About the Moro & Fear Paralysis Reflexes: Why Progress Feels Stuck
“I’ve been doing the Moro and FPR exercises for three months but haven’t seen any positive results. Why?”This is a common question we hear from parents, therapists, and caregivers working on primitive reflex integration—especially with the Moro Reflex and Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR).In this episode, we break down what these two powerful reflexes are, how they impact emotional regulation and sensor
#380 - 7 Everyday Signs Your Child’s Primitive Reflexes Aren’t Integrated
In this episode, we explore how to track progress beyond reflex testing by looking at functional, everyday signs of improvement. Reflex tests are important, but they don’t always tell the whole story. Sometimes a child may have several retained reflexes, but those reflexes don’t significantly interfere with their day-to-day life!If you’ve ever wondered whether your reflex integration work is truly
#379 - There’s No Right Way to Play: Supporting Autistic & Sensory-Seeking Kids
NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-coursePlay is a child’s main occupation — it’s how they learn, grow, and develop critical skills like sequencing, executive functioning, and social interaction. But what happens when a child doesn’t engage with the types of play activities we expect them to enjoy?In this episode, we dive into a real-life scenario with
#378 - Before and After School Routines That Reduce Meltdowns
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 ro
#377 - The Hidden Link Between Sensory Needs, Regulation & Pooping with Sarah Selznick, MS, OTR/L
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
#376 - Oral Sensory Seeking in Kids: What You Need to Know & How to Help
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 t
#375 - Anxiety in the Classroom: The Hidden Link to the Moro Reflex
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
#374 - How to Create a Motor Lab for Your Classroom That Boosts Focus & Learning
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
#373 - Sensory Seekers in the Classroom: How to Help Kids Who Can’t Sit Still
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 shar
#372 - Crawling & Ocular Motor Skills: What’s the Connection?
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
#371 - Are Your Child’s ADHD Symptoms Really a Vision Problem? | Ocular Motor Skills & Daily Life
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 decodin
#370 - Improve Your Child’s Ocular Motor Skills With These Fun At-Home Visual Activities
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.Whethe
#369 - Unlocking Classroom Success with Reflex Integration with Dr. Tessa Grigg
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 developm
#368 - Ocular Motor Skills: The Secret to Better Focus & Fewer Headaches
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 v
#367 - Auditory Processing vs. Attention Issues: How to Tell the Difference with Debbie Baerlocher
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 B
#366 - What Your Dentist Won’t Tell You: A Functional Approach to Oral Health with Dr. Craig Clayton
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 Disrupt
#365 - What Pregnancy & Birth Can Tell Us About Retained Reflexes
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 the
#364 - 10 Sensory Activities to Support Regulation During the Summer
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
#363 - Sensory Smart Summer: Interoception Tips and Tools That Work
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
#362 - Supporting Sensory Development Before Birth
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 s
#361 - Helping Babies Thrive: Infant Development with Angela Fritz, PT, DPT, PCS
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
#360 - Beyond Words: Supporting Communication Through Connection and Play with Lori Benson Adams
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 wi
#359 - Supporting Communication in a Neurodiverse World with Amy Whelan, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
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 chil
#358 - Our Must-Have Sensory Tools for Autistic Children
In this episode, we’re diving into our all-time favorite sensory tools to support autistic children. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator, these go-to items can help create a more regulated and sensory-friendly environment!We’ll share why tools like noise-canceling headphones, a sensory corner, weighted items, Ark Therapeutic chewy toys, tunnels, crash pads, sour spray, and more—inc
#357 - What It Really Takes to Be a Great OT Practitioner
Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat really makes a great occupational therapy practitioner? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the key qualities that set exceptional OTs apart—beyond just clinical skills.We’ll chat about:The importance of lifelong learning and continuing educationWhy collaboration with other professionals is a game-changerHow building rap
#356 - How Retained Primitive Reflexes Impact Daily Life for Autistic Children
Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat are Primitive Reflexes?https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=rWe’re diving deep into the connection between retained primitive reflexes and autism. You'll learn what these reflexes are, why they might stick around longer in autistic children, and how they can
#355 - OT Isn’t Just Arts and Crafts (and Other Myths We’re Busting!)
Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleSign up for our FREE live webinar on April 16th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/classroom-sensory-strategies-webinar-registration-2025We’re setting the record straight on some of the most common myths about occupational therapy! From the idea that OTs just help people find jobs to the belief that OT is only for kids
#354 - The Power of OT: Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life
Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleHappy OT Month and Autism Acceptance Month! In this episode of All Things Sensory, we’re diving into the incredible role Occupational Therapy (OT) plays in supporting autistic children. Whether you’re an OT, parent, educator, or just curious about how OT can make a difference, this episode is packed with valuable i
#353 - Building Sensory Success at Home: Our Favorite HEP Strategies
Home exercise programs (HEPs) are a game-changer for sensory regulation, emotional development, and reflex integration—but only if they’re done consistently! In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite HEP activities that are easy to implement and make a big impact. From sensory diet routines like jumping, crawling, and bubble mountain to oral motor tools and co-regulation strategies, we’re giving
#352 - Hidden Barriers to Learning: What Every Teacher Should Know
Register for our FREE Live Webinar on March 24, 2025 - https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025Primitive reflexes play a crucial role in early development, but when they don’t integrate properly, they can create challenges in the classroom—impacting focus, learning, and behavior. In this episode, we’re breaking down what primitive reflexes are, why they matter, and ho
#351 - The Power of Play: Primitive Reflex Integration with the Harkla Sensory Dice
We are beyond excited to introduce Harkla’s newest sensory tool—the Sensory Dice! These simple yet powerful dice are designed to make sensory and primitive reflex integration fun, engaging, and effective. In this episode, we dive into how sensory integration and primitive reflex integration are deeply connected—when you work on one, you naturally support the other! We’ll break down how each of the
#350 - BCBAs Unfiltered: The Truth About Behavior Therapy & Juvenile Justice
Maranda Argiros, BCBA and Jenny Barcellona, BCBA provide Behavior Training and Support for Caregivers and Families which consists of Family Focused Treatments and Interventions that equip families with the tools they need to foster behavior change in their natural environment. In addition, they provide Behavior Consulting Services for schools, daycares, and other providers by implementing realisti
#349 - 5 Strategies to Support Sensory Avoiders in Everyday Life
Creating and Implementing Sensory Diet Routines to Improve Daily Activities - https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course In today’s episode, we dive into the world of sensory avoiders—children (and even adults) who may experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input and react with avoidance or distress. We'll explore key signs that your child might be a sensory avoider and share 5 pract
#348 - Supporting Sensory Seekers: Practical Tips for Every Day
Learn how to create personalized sensory diet routines that actually work! https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-courseIn today's episode we dive into strategies to support sensory seekers. If your child is constantly seeking movement, touch, or sounds that interfere with their daily activities—or if they never seem to get enough sensory input—this episode is for you! We’re sharing five prac
#347 - Helping Kids Love Mealtime: OT Tips for Feeding Success!
In today’s episode, we dive into some real-life feeding strategies that Jessica recently discussed with a fellow OT who’s working with a client struggling with picky eating and meal-time resistance. Feeling stuck in a rut? You're not alone! Sometimes it just takes a good brainstorming session to unlock fresh ideas.We cover practical tips and strategies, including:How focusing onone meal a day
#346 - Finding the Right Balance: Should We Accommodate or Desensitize?
In this episode, we dive deep into a critical question for therapists and caregivers: should we accommodate or desensitize? Sensory processing challenges can significantly impact a child’s daily life, and understanding when to offer accommodations and when to gently push for desensitization is key to promoting independence and improving quality of life. Through real-life examples, we'll explor
#345 - The Multi-Sensory Metronome Program - Our New Course is LIVE!
Many many years ago, we created a 30 day challenge - it was our 30 Day Multi-Sensory Challenge - and it included 30 activities with the metronome. Our goal was to give parents and therapists a variety of multi-sensory activities to help with processing speed, auditory processing, motor coordination, ocular motor development, bilateral coordination, and more! We recently decided that this challenge
#344 - The Connection Between Multi-Sensory Processing and Dyslexia
Check out our new program! https://harkla.co/products/the-multi-sensory-metronome-programIn this episode, we explore the powerful connection between dyslexia and multi-sensory learning strategies. From understanding the neurological challenges dyslexia presents, to discovering how engaging multiple senses can significantly improve reading and writing skills, we dive deep into the science of learni
#343 - How Sensory Processing Affects Executive Function
LIVE Free Webinar on Jan. 20! Sign up here: https://harkla.co/pages/balanced-brain-webinar-registration
In this episode, we dive into the connection between sensory processing and executive function. We begin by defining sensory processing and its vital role in our daily lives. From the basic five senses of touch, taste, sight, sound, and smell, to the more complex senses of vestibular, propriocep
#342 - How to Use Movement and Sensory Activities to Promote Communication When You’re Not an OT
Should SLPs use sensory strategies during their sessions? That’s the question we’re discussing in this podcast episode! We dive into making sure we stay within our scope of practice when using different tools, how SLPs and other professionals can use movement and sensory activities with their clients, and some specific activity ideas that we know will help your clients, no matter what area you’re
#341 - Five OT Tips to Improve Handwriting!
In this episode, we’re not going to talk about how to improve letter formation, placement on the line, or size. Instead, we’re going to focus on how to improve the underlying skills required for handwriting, including postural control, strength, dexterity, visual tracking, and more! We also chat about primitive reflexes and give you some specific ideas to help build hand strength!
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