All Things Sensory by Harkla

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS is a passionate pediatric therapy practitioner who answers 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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425 episodes
Updated July 22

Episodes425

Newest first

Oct 4, 2023 · 13 min
#276 - "Why Does My 2 Y.O. Say Everything is Hot? Is This a Sensory Thing?"
Today’s episode answers a listener's question - “Why does my 2-year-old say everything is hot? Is this a sensory thing or a weird phase?”We dive into the different phases toddlers can go through, gestalt language processing, fun activities that identify temperatures, and strategies for interoception. Make sure to check out all of our links below! Looking for more in-depth help? Sign up for 2-on-1 Mentoring With Us!!We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form -> ht...
Sep 27, 2023 · 57 min
#275 - Alternative Strategies for ADHD with Dr. David Nowell
David D. Nowell, Ph.D. is a clinical neuropsychologist in private practice in Northborough, Massachusetts. He offers consultations to patients on an inpatient rehabilitation unit and is an adjunct instructor in neuropsychology to graduate students in the Clark University psychology program. Dr. Nowell speaks internationally to clinicians on such topics as executive functioning and non-medication management of ADHD. He is passionate about motivation and deep happiness and helping his clients d...
Sep 20, 2023 · 19 min
#274 - Our 5 Favorite Scooter Board Activities
The scooter board is a common therapeutic tool used in just about every clinic and school. It’s a simple, effective tool that targets a ton of underlying skills. Because it’s one of our favorite pieces of equipment to use in a treatment session, we decided to dedicate an entire episode to it! We are giving you 5 fun, therapeutic activities using a scooter board that you should try including into your next treatment session! Be sure to modify as needed to meet your client’s needs! Parents! Thi...
Sep 13, 2023 · 18 min
#273 - Helping an SLP Implement Sensory Strategies into Speech Sessions
This episode is perfect for any therapist working with children, not just SLPs! Adding sensory into a treatment session does not have to be difficult. In fact, it can be fairly simple and so effective! Sensory activities help a child meet their sensory needs and feel more regulated, which in turn helps with cognitive development!We dive into HOW to identify a child’s sensory preferences, different sensory circuits to include into the treatment plan, and a variety of free resources to learn mo...
Sep 6, 2023 · 26 min
#272 - Developing a Sensory-Based Treatment Session
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of sensory-based treatment sessions. Join us as we explore the concept of sensory integration and how it can be incorporated into various therapeutic interventions. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or simply curious about the power of sensory experiences, this episode will provide valuable insights and practical tips for developing effective sensory-based treatment sessions.Make sure to check out all of our links below! Skylight Calenda...
Aug 30, 2023 · 23 min
#271 - Strategies for Teens Who Self-Harm
Today’s episode is a brainstorming session in response to a listener question. We talk about different forms of therapy, different strategies for the family at home, as well as tips and tricks for therapists who work with teens who might be struggling with depression and self harm.Make sure to check out all of our links below! We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form -> https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Looking for more in-depth help? Sign up for 2-on-1 M...
Aug 23, 2023 · 48 min
#270 - Creating a Regulated Classroom Starts with YOU!
Check out our digital course - Improving Focus and Behavior in the Classroom! Emily Read Daniels is author and creator of The Regulated Classroom©, a former school counselor, and a proud soccer mum. Daniels is an internationally recognized trauma specialist and trainer in the trauma-informed schools movement and has served thousands through in-person and virtual professional development training, workshops, conferences, webinars, and keynote addresses. Daniels and her work have been featured ...
Aug 16, 2023 · 24 min
#269 - What Are Primitive Reflexes + FREE Screening Checklist!
We are OBSESSED with primitive reflexes! Why? Because they are the foundation to higher level motor and cognitive skills! When primitive reflexes are retained in older children, they can cause a whole host of problems - and we want to help with this!This episode provides you with the basics, but if you want more, check out all of our links below!NEW Primitive Reflex Digital Course - now AOTA approved for CEU! Download the Free Primitive Reflex Checklist All of our Primitive Reflex ContentMake...
Aug 9, 2023 · 23 min
#268 - Sensory Integration with Visual Impairments
Welcome to another All Things Sensory by Harkla podcast episode! In today’s episode, we discuss the challenges faced by children with visual impairments and how sensory integration therapy can be beneficial.Studies have shown that children with visual impairments are at a higher risk of experiencing sensory processing difficulties. Sensory integration therapy has been found to be effective in helping children with visual impairments navigate their environment and improve their overall sensory...
Aug 2, 2023 · 45 min
#267 - A Unique Model of Private Practice with Lauren Grabowski, MS, OTR/L
After discovering occupational therapy when she was 10 years old, Lauren Grabowski knew that was the path for her, earning a Bachelor of Health Science in 2013 and continuing on to earn a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2014 from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She began her career at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, then transitioned to traveling therapy a few years later, working in a variety of settings. She has now built her private practice working pr...
Jul 26, 2023 · 55 min
#266 - Gestalt Language Processing with Jacquelyn Vorndran, MA, CCC-SLP
Jacquelyn Vorndran is a nature-based pediatric speech language therapist located in Durham, North Carolina. Her practice is entitled "Brave Roots Speech Therapy" and she is so grateful to be able to operate this practice and grow it in a way that feels intentional, respectful and individualized. The opportunity to witness a child's wonder and joy in nature is one of the best ways she’s been able to maintain perspective on what really matters in this life! These children and families teach her...
Jul 19, 2023 · 29 min
#265 - 5 Alternatives to Screen Time + Routine Ideas for Summer
Summer brings a change in routine and often that includes a lack of structure. This can cause anxiety and challenges with emotional regulation.If this is the challenge you’re facing, this episode is for YOU!We dive into some strategies for managing routines during summer - including some resources we’ve created for you! - as well as some ideas for managing screen time during the crazy summer months. Summer Sensory Guide - on Sale through August 2023Fine Motor Activity CourseGross Motor A...
Jul 12, 2023 · 16 min
#264 - Bath Time Blues? We've Got You!
In today’s episode, we are answering a listener question!We discuss the importance of creating a calming and enjoyable bath time experience as well as practical tips and tricks on how to make bath time more sensory-friendly. We also touch on different games and modifications that can be used outside of bathtime. Whether you're a parent of a child with sensory processing challenges or a caregiver looking for ways to make bath time more enjoyable, this episode is packed with helpful information...
Jul 5, 2023 · 22 min
#263 - PICA or Oral Seeking? Sensory Strategies for Both!
Today’s episode is an answer to a listener's question! We dive into what PICA is, its causes, and how it differs from typical oral seeking behaviors.We provide practical strategies for managing PICA and oral seeking, such as providing alternatives, using visual cues, and implementing sensory diets. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or a professional working with children who struggle with sensory processing, this episode is filled with valuable information and insights!Make sure to che...
Jun 28, 2023 · 21 min
#262 - 6 Key Components to Building a Sensory Friendly Home
Today’s episode is in response to a listener question - how to build a sensory-friendly home?We offer practical tips and insights on how to create a home environment that minimizes sensory overload, including the use of calming colors, lighting, and textures. We also touch on the importance of incorporating sensory activities into your daily routine, and the benefits of investing in sensory-friendly products and equipment.Whether you're a parent of a child with sensory processing challenges o...
Jun 21, 2023 · 30 min
#261 - Sensory Friendly Bedtime Routines
In today’s episode, we dive into the topic of bedtime routines for kids. First we explore our own personal bedtime routines with our children and offer practical strategies for creating an enjoyable and effective bedtime routine. We then discuss the importance of incorporating sensory activities during the day and after dinner to help prepare children for a restful night's sleep.We also tackle some questions that our listeners have about sleep and the bedtime routine. From dealing with bedtim...
Jun 14, 2023 · 52 min
#260 - Peaceful Parenting Tips for the Overwhelmed Parent with Sarah Rosensweet
Sarah Rosensweet is a certified peaceful parenting coach, speaker, and educator. She lives in Toronto with her husband and her 16 and 19 year old kids. Her 22 year old son has launched. Peaceful parenting is a non-punitive, connection-based approach that uses firm limits with lots of empathy. Sarah works one-on-one virtually with parents all over the world to help them go from frustrated and overwhelmed to, “We’ve got this!” Read more at: www.sarahrosensweet.com or listen to her top-rated par...
Jun 7, 2023 · 16 min
#259 - Life Update - Rachel's ADHD Diagnosis and Jessica is Back in the Clinic!
Make sure to check out all of our links below! We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form -> https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3Looking for more in-depth help? Sign up for 2-on-1 Mentoring With Us!!Brought To You By HarklaThis podcast is brought to you by Harkla. Our mission at Harkla is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives. We accomplish this through high-quality sensory products & child development courses.Podcast listener...
May 31, 2023 · 54 min
#258 - Functional Neurology for Kids with Dr. Conner Bor
Dr. Conner Bor was born and raised in Voorhees, New Jersey. He completed his undergraduate degree in Health & Exercise Science at The College of New Jersey and went on to earn his Doctorate of Chiropractic at Palmer College of Chiropractic. While at Palmer, Dr. Bor received many academic honors and was awarded the prestigious Clinical Excellence award upon graduation. Growing up, Dr. Bor’s passion for helping others was fueled by having two uncles who are chiropractors. While competi...
May 24, 2023 · 24 min
#257 - Premature Babies + The Sensory System: Activities to Promote Integration
Today’s episode is diving into a question that we received from a listener. “I have a preemie (32 weeks) and would love to see content on preemies as I know their sensory experience for the first few months of life are quite different and their development is likely going to be off as well.”Get ready for some tips and tricks that you can implement in infancy, such as support for primitive reflexes, ideas for different sensory experiences, and feeding strategies. We also dive into tips for tod...

All Things Sensory by Harkla

#276 - "Why Does My 2 Y.O. Say Everything is Hot? Is This a Sensory Thing?"

#275 - Alternative Strategies for ADHD with Dr. David Nowell

#274 - Our 5 Favorite Scooter Board Activities

#273 - Helping an SLP Implement Sensory Strategies into Speech Sessions

#272 - Developing a Sensory-Based Treatment Session

#271 - Strategies for Teens Who Self-Harm

#270 - Creating a Regulated Classroom Starts with YOU!

#269 - What Are Primitive Reflexes + FREE Screening Checklist!

#268 - Sensory Integration with Visual Impairments

#267 - A Unique Model of Private Practice with Lauren Grabowski, MS, OTR/L

#266 - Gestalt Language Processing with Jacquelyn Vorndran, MA, CCC-SLP

#265 - 5 Alternatives to Screen Time + Routine Ideas for Summer

#264 - Bath Time Blues? We've Got You!

#263 - PICA or Oral Seeking? Sensory Strategies for Both!

#262 - 6 Key Components to Building a Sensory Friendly Home

#261 - Sensory Friendly Bedtime Routines

#260 - Peaceful Parenting Tips for the Overwhelmed Parent with Sarah Rosensweet

#259 - Life Update - Rachel's ADHD Diagnosis and Jessica is Back in the Clinic!

#258 - Functional Neurology for Kids with Dr. Conner Bor

#257 - Premature Babies + The Sensory System: Activities to Promote Integration