All Things Sensory by Harkla
Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC & Jessica Hill, COTA/L
Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill, are two passionate Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants 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. At Harkla, our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives.
- 19 minutes 23 seconds#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 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.
LINKS
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale
Enter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
8 April 2026, 8:00 am - 36 minutes 24 seconds#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. 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.
LINKS
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale
Enter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!
https://harkla.co/pages/aam-giveaway
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
1 April 2026, 8:00 am - 15 minutes 45 seconds#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 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.
LINKS
What To Ask Your Doctor Checklist
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/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
25 March 2026, 8:00 am - 23 minutes 36 seconds#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 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.
LINKS
We’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:
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
18 March 2026, 6:27 pm - 16 minutes 45 seconds#399 - Meet Amanda! Our New Co-Host & Occupational Therapist at Harkla
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
https://www.instagram.com/yourpediatricot/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
11 March 2026, 11:00 am - 10 minutes 52 seconds#398 - 2026 Update: What's Next for the Podcast
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
https://www.instagram.com/jessicaaaa_atlarge/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
4 February 2026, 12:00 pm - 21 minutes 33 seconds#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 life
Why supplements are becoming more common in the sensory world
Which nutrients show the most promise in current research
Why quality, testing, and sourcing of supplements really matter
How to safely explore supplements without overwhelming your child
Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode got you thinking, share it with a parent or therapist navigating sensory supports.
LINKS
We’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-difficulties
SPD Info:
10 Facts About Sensory Processing Disorder
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/277-10-facts-about-sensory-processing-disorder
What is Sensory Processing Disorder?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fE476Zlyio
https://harkla.co/products/navigating-sensory-processing-disorder
Research:
Mineral-Vitamin Treatment Linked to Sustained Remission of ADHD Symptoms
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/cap.2019.0036
Potential Role of L-Carnitine in Autism Spectrum Disorder
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/6/1202
Phosphatidylserine's effect on memory and ADHD symptoms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23495677/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30761818/
Sensory processing patterns in children with ASD and ADHD
https://mecp.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43045-024-00441-6
Get More Content:
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
28 January 2026, 12:00 pm - 14 minutes 52 seconds#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 behavior
How retained reflexes can show up as anxiety, dysregulation, or inattention
The connection between the Moro, STNR, and ATNR and emotional regulation
Three easy, classroom-friendly movements to support regulation and focus
How short, consistent movement breaks can change the feel of the entire classroom
Thanks for listening 🩷 If you’re a teacher or therapist, try one of these movements with your group and tell us what you notice.
LINKS
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/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
21 January 2026, 12:00 pm - 20 minutes 44 seconds#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
How sensory processing, executive function, and communication impact social skills
Why quality of connection matters more than the number of friends
OT-informed strategies to support social interaction in safe, structured ways
How to build friendships by leaning into a child’s strengths and interests
Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode resonated, share it with a parent or therapist supporting a neurodivergent child.
LINKS
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/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
14 January 2026, 12:00 pm - 16 minutes 59 seconds#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 seeking
When sucking is developmentally appropriate and when to look closer
Common reasons older kids continue sucking for regulation or anxiety
How to talk to your child about the habit in a supportive way
Practical sensory and oral motor replacements that actually help
Thanks 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 Tubes
https://www.arktherapeutic.com/handheld-chews/
Chewlery
https://www.arktherapeutic.com/chewelry/
5 Ways to Use Proprioception for Calming and Regulation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHdCj8sWtV0
Top 10 Oral Motor Activities Every Parent Should Know
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEXEbyBX858&t=443s
Sensory Snacks Explained
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOswosl5pHg
All Things Sensory Ep. 376 - Oral Sensory Seeking in Kids
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/376-oral-sensory-seeking-in-kids-what-you-need-to-know-how-to-help
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
7 January 2026, 12:00 pm - 19 minutes 5 seconds#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 development
How crawling supports strength, coordination, vision, and primitive reflex integration
Why skipping crawling may not seem like a problem early on, but can impact coordination, learning, and regulation later
Simple ways to encourage crawling in babies, kids, and even adults
How 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.
LINKS
We’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 Strategies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKcDD9FtVIY
Crawling for Brain Development
https://sensationalbrain.com/product/crawling-brain-development-curriculum/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
31 December 2025, 2:10 pm - More Episodes? Get the App