All Things Sensory by Harkla

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/ 
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

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:
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 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