“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 

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 

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 

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/ 

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 

Zones of Regulation

https://zonesofregulation.com/ 

Superflex Curriculum

https://www.socialthinking.com/products

BrainWorks Program

https://sensationalbrain.com/brainworks/

Gifts of Joy Visuals

https://shopgiftsofjoy.com/

Solo Boto Toys – Emotional Baggage
https://solobotoys.com/

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

Harkla Holiday Sale!

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

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 

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

Harkla Holiday 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/ 

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 

Webe Kalm

https://amzn.to/41pqZKQ

Hoberman Sphere

https://tinyurl.com/yjh5ntwk

Yogibo bean bag

https://tinyurl.com/kt88wj2j

Sensory Compression swing

https://tinyurl.com/yt4z772y

Spot it

https://www.spotitgame.com/

Sensory art - clay by number

https://tinyurl.com/yxfy356f

Glow in the dark basketball

https://tinyurl.com/4tr49u3d

Rock wall 

https://treefrogplay.com/?sca_ref=3949086.UhRyARIVfT

Gymnastics bar

https://tinyurl.com/23hp8j8p

Stapelstein stepping stones

https://tinyurl.com/yj5bnkez

Vibration plate

https://tinyurl.com/5cu4rdz6

Vital neuro

https://vitalneuro.com/?dt_id=1422082&utm_campaign=ABT_Creator&utm_medium=affiliate

Speks fidgets

https://www.getspeks.com/products/speks?variant=31705494323287

Self care for ADHD book

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

Loop ear plugs

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

Air purifier

https://tinyurl.com/44jcya4k

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/ 

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 

Pyramid of Learning

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Freebie-_Pyramid_of_Learning.pdf?v=1758648557 

Tessa’s Interview

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg 

Sensory Activity Cards

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards 

Sensory Dice

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice 

Sensory Sticks 

https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks 

Classroom Course 

https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training 

Primitive Reflex Course
https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course

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/ 

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 

Sensory Diet Digital Course

https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course 

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/ 

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 

Z Vibe 

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/ 

Myo Munchee

https://myomunchee.com/bebe 

Bite Blocks 

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/ark-bite-blocks-for-jaw-grading-stability/ 

Vibrating Teether

​​https://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Vibrating-Teether-Style-Vary/dp/B0047WGOLQ/ref=sr_1_6 

NUK Brush

https://www.amazon.com/NUK-Massage-Brush-Germany-White/dp/B0CTJ5JKL5 

Early Intervention Blueprint Digital Course

https://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-course 

Reddit Thread Question

https://www.reddit.com/r/slp/comments/1m8zlsl/baby_struggling_with_solids/

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 

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 

Sensory Diet Digital Course

https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course