
Advertise on podcast: All Things Sensory by Harkla
Rating
4.8from
This podcast has
414 episodes
Language
EnglishExplicit
No
Date created
2018/06/27
Latest episode
2026/04/22
Average duration
24 min.
Release period
9 days
Description
Amanda Mathers, OTR/L, and Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, are two passionate pediatric therapy practitioners 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, where our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives
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Check latest episodes from All Things Sensory by Harkla podcast
#405 - ADHD in Women: My Diagnosis Journey as a Mom & Pediatric Therapist
2026/04/22
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, constant overwhelm, emotional ups and downs, and feeling like we just can’t keep up no matter how hard we try. It gets labeled as anxiety, disorganization, or just being “too much,” and we carry that for years without realizing there might be more going on.
I share my own journey of starting to question things, what I experienced growing up versus now as a mom, and how masking, perfectionism, and overcompensating played a role in how I showed up. There were moments of relief, validation, and honestly a lot of emotion that came with finally understanding my brain in a different way.
I’ll also talk about how ADHD can show up in motherhood. The mental load, the constant juggling, the time blindness, the sensory overwhelm, and the emotional regulation challenges that can feel so intense. Motherhood has a way of bringing all of that to the surface in a way that’s hard to ignore.
But this episode isn’t just about the challenges. It’s also about reframing ADHD through a different lens. I talk about the strengths I now recognize in myself, like creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and the ability to hyperfocus. Letting go of unrealistic expectations and the “shoulds” has been a huge part of that process.
I also get into what support can actually look like. Things like creating systems that work for your brain, externalizing tasks instead of trying to hold everything mentally, using sensory strategies to regulate, and giving yourself permission to ask for help without guilt.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this me?” I want you to know that it’s okay to explore that question. You’re not broken, and you’re not failing. Understanding your brain can open the door to so much more compassion and support.
Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode made you feel seen, share it with another mom who might need to hear this too.
LINKS
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
#233 ADHD in Adults with Dr. Ashley
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/233-adhd-in-adults-with-dr-ashley-houchin-clinical-psychologist
#275 - Alternative Strategies for ADHD with Dr. David
https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/275-alternative-strategies-for-adhd-with-dr-david-nowell
Best Part Multivitamin
https://bestpartkids.com/
Enter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway & Shop Our Sale!
https://harkla.co/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#404 - Should Schools Take Away Recess? Why It Can Backfire
2026/04/15
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 what a typical school day looks like today and how different it is from previous generations. Many kids are spending hours sitting, working on computers, and getting very little movement. For some students, recess may be the only time all day they have the opportunity to run, play, socialize, and reset their nervous system.
This episode walks through what’s actually happening in the brain and body during recess, including the role of movement, social play, emotional regulation, stress reduction, and even digestion. We also discuss why the kids who “struggle the most” are often the ones who need recess the most, and how removing it can create a cycle of more dysregulation, more behavior challenges, and more frustration for everyone involved.
We’ll also share practical ways to think differently about discipline and motivation in the classroom, along with simple strategies that support regulation without removing movement. From adding movement into the school day to advocating for your child through an IEP or 504 plan, this conversation is all about supporting kids in a way that actually works.
Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode resonated, share it with a teacher, parent, or school team member who cares about supporting kids in a more effective way.
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
Best Part Multivitamin
https://bestpartkids.com/
Shop our OT Month Sale!
https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale
Enter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!
https://harkla.co/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#403 - Reacting to Parenting Advice I Hear All the Time (Through a Sensory Lens)
2026/04/08
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
Shop our OT Month Sale!
https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale
Enter the Autism Acceptance Month Giveaway!
https://harkla.co/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#402 - What Is Sensory Integration? Understanding How the Brain Processes the World
2026/04/01
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
Sensory Preferences Checklist
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Copy_of_Mod_3_5_Child_Sensory_Preferences.pdf?v=1729447315
Shop our OT Month Sale!
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/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#401 - What Therapists Wish More Pediatricians Talked About
2026/03/25
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
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/WhatToAskYourDoctor_Checklist__EP_145_Freebie_1.pdf
We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#400 - Should Kindergartners Be Potty Trained Before School? What a New Kansas Bill Could Mean for Families
2026/03/18
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:
https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/02/kansas-bill-would-require-kindergarteners-to-be-potty-trained-before-starting-school/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#399 - Meet Amanda! Our New Co-Host & Occupational Therapist at Harkla
2026/03/11
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
Amanda’s Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/yourpediatricot/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#398 - 2026 Update: What's Next for the Podcast
2026/02/04
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
Jessica’s Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/jessicaaaa_atlarge/
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#397 - The Best Nutrients to Support Sensory Processing in Kids
2026/01/28
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
Navigating SPD Digital Course
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/
Association of feeding/mealtime behavior issues with internalizing/externalizing problems in children with autism
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/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#396 - Top Three Primitive Reflex Exercises for Emotional Regulation in the Classroom
2026/01/21
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/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#395 - Helping Neurodivergent Kids Make Friends – OT Social Skills Tips
2026/01/14
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/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#394 - Is Thumb Sucking Sensory? What to Know (and What to Do)
2026/01/07
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
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#393 - Is Crawling Really That Important? Yes - Here’s Why!
2025/12/31
“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
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#392 - Unlocking the Nervous System: Vision, Balance, and Breathing with Taylor Kruse
2025/12/24
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
https://www.kruseelite.com/
Follow Taylor on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/kruseelite
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/
Harkla Website
https://harkla.co/
Harkla YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily
Harkla Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/
Harkla Digital Courses
https://harkla.co/collections/courses
#391 - How to Use Vestibular Input Without Overloading the Sensory System
2025/12/17
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
https://harkla.co/
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
https://vestibular.org/article/diagnosis-treatment/types-of-vestibular-disorders/pediatric-vestibular-disorders/part-i-vestibular-dysfunction-children/
Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairments
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6054584/
Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population
https://www.audiology.org/practice-guideline/american-academy-of-audiology-clinical-consensus-statement-assessment-of-vestibular-function-in-the-pediatric-population/
Effectiveness of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Exercises in Reducing Hyperactivity in Children with Autism
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S305065652500015X#:~:text=Vestibular%20and%20proprioceptive%20training%20significantly,significant%20changes%20in%20vestibular%20function.
Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children
https://research.aota.org/ajot/article-abstract/78/Supplement_2/7811500008p1/25267/Association-of-Sensory-Processing-amp-Behavioral?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Podcast reviews
Read All Things Sensory by Harkla podcast reviews
Kay_S_E 2025/05/29
Great for parents of neurodivergent children
This is my go to for all things sensory support. Although we have private support, the resources and activities that you all share have been great! I ...
Monicalissette 2025/04/08
New listener
I just started listening and my oh my has this podcast helped me so much with my two boys getting more information other ideas on how to help them. De...
yesfornow 2024/01/26
Such a valuable resource
I’ve never written a review for a podcast before but I really love this one!!! The biggest reason is after listening to the episode with Tara (autism ...
Artsymillie 2025/01/30
Intro/Outro Music is UGH!
I’m starting from the beginning and for a podcast that’s about sensory issues the intro/outro music is THE WORST - so over stimulating. Please PLEASE ...
Sugarplum P. 2024/02/16
Toxins
If a podcast built on “science-based” approaches mentions “toxins,” it’s an immediate unsubscribe. How can I believe anything else said? :(
Pedi.OT 2023/09/28
A great resource for parents and therapists
As an OT myself, I am always learning something new from all things sensory. This podcast is a great resource for parents and other members of the tea...
GreatMockingBeauty424 2023/09/20
Radiants kindness and full of knowledge
I come from a biased perspective as I’m part of the team but the hosts Rachel and Jessica radiant genuine kindness in their advice and are very knowle...
MamaMama18 2023/07/10
Beyond Helpful!
I am very new to this SPD journey and am needing help fast to help my daughter as I just discovered what is going on with her. I love this podcast so ...
Jennifer Ramirez-Serrano 2023/06/06
My favorite podcast
The information I’ve received from listening to this podcast is just priceless. Thank you ladies for your time and sharing your expertise this has bee...
Christian Father & Salesman 2023/04/14
Kind & Caring
We’re new to the sensory journey & love how many resources these awesome ladies provide. Good references throughout the episodes & reassurance we’re n...
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