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.
- 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 - 20 minutes 27 seconds#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 activities
How rapport & co-regulation make a difference
When hunger, sleep, or illness affect behavior
Simple ways to modify activities so kids succeed
Thanks for listening 🩷 We’re so glad you’re here and can’t wait to hang out with you again next week! 🌈
LINKS
Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale
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://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course
12 November 2025, 12:00 pm - 13 minutes 32 seconds#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 development
The importance of ruling out tongue ties, torticollis, or delayed milestones
Play-based strategies to support oral motor skills outside the high chair
Helpful tools like the Z-Vibe, bite blocks, and vibrating teethers
When to seek out additional support from an SLP, IBCLC, or pediatric specialist
Thanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who is supporting an infant with feeding challenges!
LINKS
Early Bird Black Friday Sale Opt-In
https://harkla.co/pages/earlybird-subscribe-page
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://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/
https://myomunchee.com/bebe
https://www.arktherapeutic.com/ark-bite-blocks-for-jaw-grading-stability/
https://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Vibrating-Teether-Style-Vary/dp/B0047WGOLQ/ref=sr_1_6
https://www.amazon.com/NUK-Massage-Brush-Germany-White/dp/B0CTJ5JKL5
Early Intervention Blueprint Digital Course
https://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-course
https://www.reddit.com/r/slp/comments/1m8zlsl/baby_struggling_with_solids/
5 November 2025, 12:00 pm - 21 minutes 50 seconds#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 winter
How weather, daylight, and school routines affect regulation
The impact of rigid thinking with clothing changes
Simple strategies to reduce stress and support sensory kids
Immune-boosting ideas and cozy after-school routines that actually help
Thanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or teacher who could use some fall regulation tips!
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
Sensory Diet Digital Course
29 October 2025, 11:00 am - 23 minutes 16 seconds#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs
Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course
NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-course
In 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 parent, therapist, or educator, this episode will give you the tools to better understand and support the children in your life.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
Why primitive reflexes matter for movement, attention, and emotional regulation
The Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR): what it is, how it develops, and what happens if it doesn’t integrate
Signs of low core strength vs. signs of a retained TLR during the Superman position
How muscle tone challenges connect to reflexes
Practical strategies to assess and address both core weakness and retained reflexes
Tips for parents and professionals to create fun, consistent, and effective 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/
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
Muscle Tone vs. Muscle Strength
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/108-muscle-tone-vs-muscle-strength
Research Article - The Relationship Between Primitive Reflexes and Motor Proficiency
22 October 2025, 11:00 am - 26 minutes 24 seconds#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 developing self-regulation.
The science behind co-regulation: nervous system syncing, polyvagal theory, and mirror neurons.
Why co-regulation is vital for therapeutic success in occupational therapy sessions.
5 practical strategies to co-regulate with kids and clients effectively.
Recommended tools and products to make co-regulation fun and engaging.
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
Sleep Crash Course Webinar Sign Up
https://harkla.co/pages/sleep-course-webinar-registration-2025
Create a Calm Down Corner
https://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=Chvc-PT2bX6zGdMJ
Hoberman Sphere (Breathing Ball)
Projector Lamps (Galaxy or Starry Sky)
https://www.amazon.com/starry-sky-night-light-projector/s?k=starry+sky+night+light+projector
https://www.homedics.com/atlas-vibration-acu-node-massager
Grounding Mat
https://www.groundingwell.com/
LifePro Vibration Plate
15 October 2025, 12:00 pm - 18 minutes 45 seconds#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 sensory processing, and the hidden reasons why you might not be seeing progress even after consistent reflex work. If you’ve been feeling frustrated or stuck in your reflex journey, this episode will give you clarity and next steps.
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://harkla.co/pages/spd-awareness-2025-giveaway-sign-up
8 October 2025, 12:00 pm - 23 minutes 50 seconds#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 helping, this episode will help you connect the dots between reflexes, functional outcomes, and real-life independence.
This episode will help you shift your focus from testing and exercises alone to looking at real-life skills—because progress isn’t just about what happens in therapy, it’s about creating lasting change in daily life.
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
Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course
AOTA Smart Practices: https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/evidencebased-practiceknowledge-translation/practice-smart
Primitive Reflex Screening Checklist Freebie https://harkla.co/pages/freebies
1 October 2025, 11:00 am - More Episodes? Get the App