Shop our Summer Sensory SALE! https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-sale-2025

Free Primitive Reflex Webinar

https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025

Free Sensory Diet Webinar

https://harkla.co/pages/sensory-diet-webinar-registration-2024

We’re diving deep into the why behind retained primitive reflexes. These early movement patterns are essential in infancy—but when they don’t integrate properly, they can lead to challenges with regulation, development, and everyday functioning.

We cover some of the most common causes of retained reflexes, including:

• Neurological immaturity

• Birth trauma or complications during delivery

• Lack of early movement (think: limited tummy time or crawling)

• Environmental stressors during pregnancy

• Prematurity and other perinatal factors

• Genetic predispositions

We also highlight insights from Sally Goddard Blythe’s work on neuromotor immaturity and how these retained reflexes can show up in both kids and adults.

We also respond to a thoughtful question from a literacy coach about a 5-year-old with ADHD. We explore possible sensory and neurological factors at play—and share ideas for supporting regulation and integration through movement.

This is a must-listen for parents, therapists, and educators who want to better understand the foundational role of reflexes in child development.

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/

Neuromotor Immaturity in Children and Adults by Sally Goddard Blyth

https://a.co/d/dlX4KGI

Freebies - Free Sensory Checklist

https://harkla.co/pages/freebies?_pos=1&_sid=af3b45f36&_ss=r

Shop our Summer Sensory SALE! https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-sale-2025

Free Primitive Reflex Webinar https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025

Summer can bring a lot of fun — and a lot of sensory dysregulation. In this episode, we’re sharing 10 activity ideas to help your child stay regulated during the warmer months. From water play and outdoor obstacle courses to sensory-friendly picnics and consistent routines, these ideas are designed to support sensory processing, connection, and fun for the whole family.

We also answer a thoughtful listener question about tongue proprioception and how to support oral awareness in a child navigating speech sound production, balance challenges, toe-walking, and a history of a frenectomy.

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/

Water Balloons - Bunch O Balloons

https://a.co/d/0jkzuSH

Oral Motor Super Duper Deck

https://a.co/d/40Jclqd

Summer is here—and with the heat, play, and sunshine comes a unique challenge for kids (and adults!) who struggle with interoception. In this episode, we explore what interoception is and why it’s so important to pay attention during the summer months. We discuss how challenges like dehydration, overheating, and sun sensitivity can affect children with sensory needs and how parents and caregivers can better support them through practical strategies, products, and daily routines.

We also share actionable tips for boosting interoceptive awareness, from mindfulness exercises to hydration reminders, and highlight summer-friendly tools like cooling vests, splash pads, and visual schedules.

PLUS—we answer a thoughtful listener question about managing sensory seeking behaviors at home after school, and offer guidance for making sensory play more structured and less overwhelming.

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/

The Interoception Curriculum by Kelly Mahler

https://www.kelly-mahler.com/product/the-interoception-curriculum-a-step-bystep-guide-to-developing-mindful-self-regulation/

Sensational Brain: The Interoceptive Sensory System

https://sensationalbrain.com/product/interoceptive-sensory-system/

Beyond Behaviors (Amazon) 

https://a.co/d/ft3dFmF

Sensory Explorers 

https://www.sensoryexplorers.com/

Register for our FREE live webinar on June 4, 2025 https://harkla.co/pages/summer-sensory-diet-webinar-registration-2025

In this episode of the All Things Sensory Podcast, we explore how a baby’s sensory and nervous systems begin developing long before birth — and how expectant parents can actively support this critical growth during pregnancy.

From taste and touch to vestibular and proprioceptive systems, you'll learn when each sensory system starts forming in the womb and what factors influence healthy development. We also highlight practical, evidence-based strategies for optimizing your baby’s neurological health through nutrition, movement, stress management, and mindful prenatal care.

Plus, we dive into fascinating research connecting prenatal experiences — like maternal stress, illnesses, medications, and even birth methods — to the likelihood of sensory processing difficulties later in childhood.

Whether you’re expecting or supporting someone who is, this episode empowers you with tools and insights to lay a strong sensory foundation for your baby’s future.

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/

Research: Incidence of pre-, peri-, and post-natal birth and developmental problems of children with sensory processing disorder and children with autism spectrum disorder

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/integrative-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/neuro.07.031.2009/full

Research: Association between cesarean section and sensory integration dysfunction in preschool children: a prospective cohort study

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34511164/

Research: The Occurrence of the Sensory Processing Disorder in Children Depending on the Type and Time of Delivery: A Pilot Study

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35682475/#:~:text=Descriptive%20results%20and%20percentage%20calculations%20were%20compared.,those%20delivered%20on%20time%20by%20vaginal%20birth.

Research: The Prenatal and Perinatal Risk Variables of the Sensory Processing Disorder

https://www.walshmedicalmedia.com/open-access/the-prenatal-and-perinatal-risk-variables-of-the-sensory-processing-disorder-2090-7214-1000286.pdf

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Fritz, a board-certified pediatric physical therapist with a passion for infant development. Angela brings her expertise working in the NICU and shares valuable insights on supporting babies from the very beginning—especially those who’ve spent time in the NICU.

We dive into:

• The role of physical therapy in the NICU

• Tummy time and developmental milestone tips for infants (including NICU grads)

• The importance of positioning for development

• Primitive reflexes and how they influence early movement

• Practical advice for parents and caregivers

Whether you're a therapist, parent, or caregiver, you'll come away with actionable tips and a deeper understanding of the early building blocks of development.

Angela Fritz, PT, DPT, PCS is a board-certified pediatric physical therapist who specializes in infant development. She received her doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of Washington (Go Dawgs!) and has worked with infants and children ever since! Angela just recently moved to Boise, ID and works in the NICU and NICU follow up at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital, but was trained in neonatal therapy at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Though her passion lies with infants, Angela has experience working with children 0-18 years of age. She is passionate about celebrating the unique spark in each and every baby, and believes that empowering parents to advocate for, engage with, and support their baby is the best way to foster lifelong success. Angela was also born with hearing loss and is passionate about disability awareness, inclusion, and justice and making healthcare more accessible for all!

LINKS

Visit Angela’s Website - https://www.bebe-pt.com/services

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/

In this episode, we sit down with Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed., Educational Intervention Specialist and founder of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, to explore the heart of DIRFloortime. We dive into the power of connection, the role of play-based therapy, and how honoring all forms of communication can transform the way we support children. Whether you're a parent or professional, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with curiosity, connection, and compassion.

Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed Educational Intervention Specialist, is the owner of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, a private practice providing direct support to families and children, as well as professional development opportunities to private and school based professionals nationwide.

LINKS

Visit Lori's website

https://loribensonadams.com/

Lori on Sensational Brain

https://sensationalbrain.com/ceu/on-demand-webinars/?_speaker=lori-benson-adams-med
DIRFloortime

https://www.icdl.com/dir

Dyslexia with Lori Benson Adams

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/179-what-is-dyslexia?_pos=2&_sid=89fa10f07&_ss=r

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/playlists

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

Welcome Amy Whelan, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) specialist, and passionate AAC advocate. Amy brings her deep expertise and compassionate approach to early childhood communication, guiding us through the world of gestalt language processing, child-led therapy, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Amy Whelan, Ph.D., CCC-SLP has worked with young children at-risk for speech and language delays and their families her entire career. Movement and play are her favorite ways to encourage regulation, connection, engagement, and communication. She believes in the power of YET to give hope to what is to come and foster positive, empowered, resilient children. Always learning, Amy has specialized training in family-centered therapy, early intervention and preschool-based therapy, Natural Language Acquisition and gestalt language processors, as well as neurodiversity affirming goal writing and therapy practices.

LINKS

Follow Amy on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/twojillsandajack/

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/@HarklaFamily/videos

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

In this episode, we’re diving into our all-time favorite sensory tools to support autistic children. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator, these go-to items can help create a more regulated and sensory-friendly environment!

We’ll share why tools like noise-canceling headphones, a sensory corner, weighted items, Ark Therapeutic chewy toys, tunnels, crash pads, sour spray, and more—including fun products like the Bilibo chair and The Jungle Crawl book—can make such a big impact in your sensory toolbox.

Plus we’ll answer two questions!

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 YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlists

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

The Listening Program  

https://advancedbrain.com/

Build a Sensory Corner

https://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=6Lhw682STyGzoYhb

Shop Harkla Weighted Products 

https://harkla.co/collections/focus

ARK Therapeutics - Oral Chew Tools 

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/oral-motor-chewing-tools/

Buzz Buddy

https://specialsupplies.com/products/special-supplies-buzz-buddy-oral-stimulation-toys-with-6-soft-textured-interchangeable-heads-calm-sensory-needs-support-speech-and-stimulate-self-feeding-gentle-vibrations?srsltid=AfmBOorPLcRF7y8KLdPFtqCmnGH5_Nhe8UccZwG8ugFu5Fvi3PlbtvbD

The Jungle Crawl

https://sensationalbrain.com/product/pre-order-the-jungle-crawl-interactive-childrens-book/

Bilibo Chair 

https://www.moluk.com/bilibo.php

Bubble Tube 

https://www.playlearn.com/sensory-room-equipment/sensory-lights/bubble-tube?srsltid=AfmBOorohmDQt9aPWdjKAssvn-ZWgrh0o803UJUuzoHzJ70v4hXhbGPk

Whisper Phone

https://whisperphone.com/collections/all-products

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-sale

What really makes a great occupational therapy practitioner? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the key qualities that set exceptional OTs apart—beyond just clinical skills.

We’ll chat about:

• The importance of lifelong learning and continuing education

• Why collaboration with other professionals is a game-changer

• How building rapport with a wide variety of clients and families is a must

• The value of teaching and sharing your knowledge

• And why sometimes, doing less can actually mean more in this profession

Plus, we wrap up the episode by answering a fantastic listener question: “How do you integrate reflex work in a school setting when there’s no carryover?” We share some practical tips and strategies to help support reflex integration even with limited consistency.

Whether you're a seasoned OT or just starting out, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to grow in your practice.

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 YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamily

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale!

https://harkla.co/pages/aam-sale

What are Primitive Reflexes?

https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=r

We’re diving deep into the connection between retained primitive reflexes and autism. You'll learn what these reflexes are, why they might stick around longer in autistic children, and how they can impact sensory processing, motor skills, and emotional regulation.

We break down five key reflexes — the Moro, ATNR, STNR, TLR, and Spinal Galant — with signs of retention and how they affect daily life.

Plus, we answer a listener question about PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and how reflex integration plays a role.

Check out all of the links below! 

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 YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlists

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9301367/