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 

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All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

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Harkla Website 

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Harkla YouTube

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

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

Harkla Digital Courses

https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

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

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

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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 

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Harkla Digital Courses

https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

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 

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Harkla YouTube

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

Harkla Instagram

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Harkla Digital Courses

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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/ 

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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/ 

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https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ 

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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:

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Harkla YouTube

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

Harkla Instagram

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

Harkla Digital Courses

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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 

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 

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