#358 - Our Must-Have Sensory Tools for Autistic Children
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!LINKSWe’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 Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlistsHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/The Listening Program https://advancedbrain.com/Build a Sensory Cornerhttps://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=6Lhw682STyGzoYhbShop Harkla Weighted Products https://harkla.co/collections/focusARK Therapeutics - Oral Chew Tools https://www.arktherapeutic.com/oral-motor-chewing-tools/Buzz Buddyhttps://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_Nhe8UccZwG8ugFu5Fvi3PlbtvbDThe Jungle Crawlhttps://sensationalbrain.com/product/pre-order-the-jungle-crawl-interactive-childrens-book/Bilibo Chair https://www.moluk.com/bilibo.phpBubble Tube https://www.playlearn.com/sensory-room-equipment/sensory-lights/bubble-tube?srsltid=AfmBOorohmDQt9aPWdjKAssvn-ZWgrh0o803UJUuzoHzJ70v4hXhbGPkWhisper Phonehttps://whisperphone.com/collections/all-products
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#357 - What It Really Takes to Be a Great OT Practitioner
Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat 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 educationWhy collaboration with other professionals is a game-changerHow building rapport with a wide variety of clients and families is a mustThe value of teaching and sharing your knowledgeAnd why sometimes, doing less can actually mean more in this professionPlus, 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.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamilyHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagram
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#356 - How Retained Primitive Reflexes Impact Daily Life for Autistic Children
Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat are Primitive Reflexes?https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=rWe’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/ItWxQNP3All Things Sensory Podcast Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlistsHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9301367/
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#355 - OT Isn’t Just Arts and Crafts (and Other Myths We’re Busting!)
Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleSign up for our FREE live webinar on April 16th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/classroom-sensory-strategies-webinar-registration-2025We’re setting the record straight on some of the most common myths about occupational therapy! From the idea that OTs just help people find jobs to the belief that OT is only for kids with disabilities—we’re debunking it all. Whether you’re new to OT or a seasoned pro, this episode will leave you with a clearer understanding of what OTs really do and how they support individuals across the lifespan.We also answer a listener question about supporting a 9-year-old adopted daughter navigating ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and sensory challenges—including eating struggles, emotional regulation, and more.Tune in for practical insights and encouragement, and share this episode with someone who still thinks OT is just arts and crafts!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram Harkla YouTube ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramThe First 1000 Days of Life
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#354 - The Power of OT: Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life
Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleHappy OT Month and Autism Acceptance Month! In this episode of All Things Sensory, we’re diving into the incredible role Occupational Therapy (OT) plays in supporting autistic children. Whether you’re an OT, parent, educator, or just curious about how OT can make a difference, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Every child is unique, and OT interventions reflect that! We’ll discuss how therapists tailor interventions to each child’s strengths and needs, including:Sensory integration therapyFine and gross motor exercisesSocial skills trainingOT is just one piece of the puzzle! We’ll discuss how it works alongside speech therapy, behavioral therapy, and other interventions to provide a holistic approach. Collaboration is key, and we’ll explore how OTs communicate with parents, educators, and other professionals to create the best support system possible.We also answer a listener question at the end! LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram Harkla YouTube ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramWhat We Really Do in OTDIRFloortimePICA or Oral Seeking?
Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill, are two passionate Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants 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. At Harkla, our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives.
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