#382 - 5 Ways to Practice Co-Regulation (Without Saying a Word)
In this episode, we explore what co-regulation really is, why it’s a critical foundation for emotional development, and how occupational therapists, parents, and educators can use it to support kids and adults alike. You’ll learn why co-regulation is more than just a buzzword, and how to intentionally use it in your daily life and practice.What co-regulation is and why it’s essential for developing self-regulation.The science behind co-regulation: nervous system syncing, polyvagal theory, and mirror neurons.Why co-regulation is vital for therapeutic success in occupational therapy sessions.5 practical strategies to co-regulate with kids and clients effectively.Recommended tools and products to make co-regulation fun and engaging.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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sleep Crash Course Webinar Sign Uphttps://harkla.co/pages/sleep-course-webinar-registration-2025 Create a Calm Down Cornerhttps://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=Chvc-PT2bX6zGdMJGloPals Sensory Bin https://glopals.com/webe kälm https://a.co/d/fg5Nt4DHoberman Sphere (Breathing Ball) https://a.co/d/2WreKVrVibration pillow https://a.co/d/c4uHY6lProjector Lamps (Galaxy or Starry Sky) https://www.amazon.com/starry-sky-night-light-projector/s?k=starry+sky+night+light+projectorPanda Drum https://pandadrum.com/Vibration Massage Ball https://www.homedics.com/atlas-vibration-acu-node-massagerGrounding Mathttps://www.groundingwell.com/LifePro Vibration Platehttps://lifeprofitness.com/collections/vibration-therapy
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#381 - The Truth About the Moro & Fear Paralysis Reflexes: Why Progress Feels Stuck
“I’ve been doing the Moro and FPR exercises for three months but haven’t seen any positive results. Why?”This is a common question we hear from parents, therapists, and caregivers working on primitive reflex integration—especially with the Moro Reflex and Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR).In this episode, we break down what these two powerful reflexes are, how they impact emotional regulation and sensory processing, and the hidden reasons why you might not be seeing progress even after consistent reflex work. If you’ve been feeling frustrated or stuck in your reflex journey, this episode will give you clarity and next steps.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 Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/coursesSPD Month Giveawayhttps://harkla.co/pages/spd-awareness-2025-giveaway-sign-up
In this episode, we explore how to track progress beyond reflex testing by looking at functional, everyday signs of improvement. Reflex tests are important, but they don’t always tell the whole story. Sometimes a child may have several retained reflexes, but those reflexes don’t significantly interfere with their day-to-day life!If you’ve ever wondered whether your reflex integration work is truly helping, this episode will help you connect the dots between reflexes, functional outcomes, and real-life independence.This episode will help you shift your focus from testing and exercises alone to looking at real-life skills—because progress isn’t just about what happens in therapy, it’s about creating lasting change in daily life.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 Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/coursesPrimitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-courseAOTA Smart Practices: https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/evidencebased-practiceknowledge-translation/practice-smartResearch: https://moveplaythrive.com/conditions/bedwetting-bladder-and-bowel/can-primitive-reflex-integration-relieve-bedwetting-bowel-issues#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20bladder%20and,gait%20(Goddard%2C%202023)Primitive Reflex Screening Checklist Freebie https://harkla.co/pages/freebiesStopping ADHD - book (Amazon) https://a.co/d/aFWQ531
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#379 - There’s No Right Way to Play: Supporting Autistic & Sensory-Seeking Kids
NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-coursePlay is a child’s main occupation — it’s how they learn, grow, and develop critical skills like sequencing, executive functioning, and social interaction. But what happens when a child doesn’t engage with the types of play activities we expect them to enjoy?In this episode, we dive into a real-life scenario with a non-speaking autistic child whose family is struggling to connect through play.We’ll explore:Why some children reject certain play activitiesHow to identify the types of play a child enjoys mostWays to weave preferred play into daily routinesBuilding rapport and connection first, while gently challenging skillsPractical, sensory-rich play ideas you can try at homeOur goal? To help families, therapists, and caregivers reframe their perspective of play and focus on connection over perfection.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 Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
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#378 - Before and After School Routines That Reduce Meltdowns
NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-courseIn this episode of the All Things Sensory Podcast, we’re sharing our favorite regulation activities and tools to support your child / clients before and after school — plus tips for YOU as an adult.We’ll walk you through simple, practical strategies that start the night before, like creating a calming bedtime routine, prepping for the next morning, and setting everyone up for success.We also answer a listener question about supporting a 6-year-old who’s struggling to read and follow instructions at school — including practical steps parents can take to help.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 Website https://harkla.co/Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamilyHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses
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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