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.
- 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 - 1 hour 1 minute#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 pain
Why visual and vestibular systems are key to body awareness and regulation
How the brainstem, eyes, and tongue all work together for posture and balance
The impact of mouth breathing and poor CO₂ tolerance on the nervous system
Practical drills for vision, vestibular activation, and improved breathing
Thanks for listening 🩷 Try one of Taylor’s breathing or visual drills and let us know how it goes!
LINKS
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
Taylor’s Website
Follow Taylor on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/kruseelite
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
24 December 2025, 12:00 pm - 29 minutes 6 seconds#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 important
The difference between seekers, avoiders, and under-responders
Signs of vestibular overload and what to look for
How to safely build up tolerance to spinning, swinging, and movement
Tips for balancing vestibular input with proprioception for regulation
Thanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who wants to better understand movement and regulation!
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/
Harkla Website
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://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 Cards
https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards
Research Articles:
Vestibular Input in Children
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/11/1/2
Vestibular Activity and Development in Children
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/integrative-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnint.2013.00092/full
Vestibular Dysfunction in Children
Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairments
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6054584/
Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population
Effectiveness of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Exercises in Reducing Hyperactivity in Children with Autism
Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children
17 December 2025, 12:00 pm - 23 minutes 22 seconds#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 use
How visuals help with transitions, routines, and emotional regulation
Creative ways to use timers, checklists, and visual cues in daily life
Why consistency and modeling matter when introducing visuals
Our favorite programs and tools for teaching kids about emotions and self-regulation
Thanks for listening 🩷 Share this with another parent or therapist who could use more tools for smoother transitions and calmer routines!
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://harkla.co/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
https://zonesofregulation.com/
https://www.socialthinking.com/products
https://sensationalbrain.com/brainworks/
https://shopgiftsofjoy.com/
Solo Boto Toys – Emotional Baggage
https://solobotoys.com/10 December 2025, 12:00 pm - 21 minutes 44 seconds#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 essential
The danger of passive treatment sessions
How to involve families for better carryover
Why a bottom-up approach matters in pediatrics
The importance of setting boundaries and self-care
Thanks for listening 🩷 If you’re a new grad or new to pediatrics, let us know which tip resonated most with you!
LINKS
https://harkla.co/pages/holiday-sale
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
https://harkla.co/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
3 December 2025, 12:00 pm - 23 minutes 10 seconds#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 recommend.
Thanks for listening 🩷 Tell us what’s on your holiday gift list this year. We’d love to hear your ideas!
LINKS
https://harkla.co/pages/black-friday-cyber-monday
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://harkla.co/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
https://amzn.to/41pqZKQ
https://tinyurl.com/yjh5ntwk
https://tinyurl.com/kt88wj2j
https://tinyurl.com/yt4z772y
https://www.spotitgame.com/
https://tinyurl.com/yxfy356f
https://tinyurl.com/4tr49u3d
https://treefrogplay.com/?sca_ref=3949086.UhRyARIVfT
https://tinyurl.com/23hp8j8p
https://tinyurl.com/yj5bnkez
https://tinyurl.com/5cu4rdz6
https://vitalneuro.com/?dt_id=1422082&utm_campaign=ABT_Creator&utm_medium=affiliate
https://www.getspeks.com/products/speks?variant=31705494323287
https://tinyurl.com/bdhmh8yy
App for managing time / to-do list
https://thruday.com/
Tracking device for phone, keys, wallet, etc
https://tinyurl.com/9cu9a82c
https://tinyurl.com/4sdj2f6f
Liquid sand frame - visual input
https://tinyurl.com/54486he5
Grounding mat / EMF blocker blanket
https://tinyurl.com/5x9j5j5k
https://thecomfyshield.com/?sca_ref=8911243.bJLixhEk6VPYU2rd
https://tinyurl.com/44jcya4k
26 November 2025, 12:00 pm - 19 minutes 43 seconds#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 matter
How retained reflexes show up in school settings
Simple classroom strategies to support students
Why movement breaks and alternative seating make a difference
Thanks for tuning in 🩷 If this episode was helpful, share it with a teacher or therapist who could use these strategies!
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://harkla.co/
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Freebie-_Pyramid_of_Learning.pdf?v=1758648557
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg
https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards
https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice
https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks
https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training
Primitive Reflex Course
https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course19 November 2025, 3:22 pm - More Episodes? Get the App