All Things Sensory by Harkla

Latest Episodes:

#360 - Beyond Words: Supporting Communication Through Connection and Play with Lori Benson Adams May 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed., Educational Intervention Specialist and founder of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, to explore the heart of DIRFloortime. We dive into the power of connection, the role of play-based therapy, and how honoring all forms of communication can transform the way we support children. Whether you're a parent or professional, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with curiosity, connection, and compassion.

Lori Benson Adams, M.Ed Educational Intervention Specialist, is the owner of Breakthrough Learning Solutions, a private practice providing direct support to families and children, as well as professional development opportunities to private and school based professionals nationwide.

LINKS

Visit Lori's website

https://loribensonadams.com/

Lori on Sensational Brain

https://sensationalbrain.com/ceu/on-demand-webinars/?_speaker=lori-benson-adams-med
DIRFloortime

https://www.icdl.com/dir

Dyslexia with Lori Benson Adams

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/179-what-is-dyslexia?_pos=2&_sid=89fa10f07&_ss=r

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/playlists

Harkla Instagram

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

#359 - Supporting Communication in a Neurodiverse World with Amy Whelan, Ph.D., CCC-SLP May 07, 2025

Show notes

Welcome Amy Whelan, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) specialist, and passionate AAC advocate. Amy brings her deep expertise and compassionate approach to early childhood communication, guiding us through the world of gestalt language processing, child-led therapy, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Amy Whelan, Ph.D., CCC-SLP has worked with young children at-risk for speech and language delays and their families her entire career. Movement and play are her favorite ways to encourage regulation, connection, engagement, and communication. She believes in the power of YET to give hope to what is to come and foster positive, empowered, resilient children. Always learning, Amy has specialized training in family-centered therapy, early intervention and preschool-based therapy, Natural Language Acquisition and gestalt language processors, as well as neurodiversity affirming goal writing and therapy practices.

LINKS

Follow Amy on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/twojillsandajack/

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/@HarklaFamily/videos

Harkla Instagram

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

#358 - Our Must-Have Sensory Tools for Autistic Children Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

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!

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 YouTube Channel

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

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

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

The Listening Program

https://advancedbrain.com/

Build a Sensory Corner

https://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=6Lhw682STyGzoYhb

Shop Harkla Weighted Products

https://harkla.co/collections/focus

ARK Therapeutics - Oral Chew Tools

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/oral-motor-chewing-tools/

Buzz Buddy

https://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_Nhe8UccZwG8ugFu5Fvi3PlbtvbD

The Jungle Crawl

https://sensationalbrain.com/product/pre-order-the-jungle-crawl-interactive-childrens-book/

Bilibo Chair

https://www.moluk.com/bilibo.php

Bubble Tube

https://www.playlearn.com/sensory-room-equipment/sensory-lights/bubble-tube?srsltid=AfmBOorohmDQt9aPWdjKAssvn-ZWgrh0o803UJUuzoHzJ70v4hXhbGPk

Whisper Phone

https://whisperphone.com/collections/all-products

#357 - What It Really Takes to Be a Great OT Practitioner Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-sale

What 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 education
Why collaboration with other professionals is a game-changer
How building rapport with a wide variety of clients and families is a must
The value of teaching and sharing your knowledge
And why sometimes, doing less can actually mean more in this profession

Plus, 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.

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 YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamily

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

#356 - How Retained Primitive Reflexes Impact Daily Life for Autistic Children Apr 16, 2025

Show notes

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale!

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

What are Primitive Reflexes?

https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=r

We’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/ItWxQNP3

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

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

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

https://harkla.co/

Harkla Instagram

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

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9301367/

#355 - OT Isn’t Just Arts and Crafts (and Other Myths We’re Busting!) Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale

Sign up for our FREE live webinar on April 16th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/classroom-sensory-strategies-webinar-registration-2025

We’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!

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

The First 1000 Days of Life

#354 - The Power of OT: Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale

Happy 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 therapy
Fine and gross motor exercises
Social skills training

OT 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!

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

What We Really Do in OT

DIRFloortime

PICA or Oral Seeking?

#353 - Building Sensory Success at Home: Our Favorite HEP Strategies Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

Home exercise programs (HEPs) are a game-changer for sensory regulation, emotional development, and reflex integration—but only if they’re done consistently! In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite HEP activities that are easy to implement and make a big impact. From sensory diet routines like jumping, crawling, and bubble mountain to oral motor tools and co-regulation strategies, we’re giving you practical ideas to support your child’s development at home.

Plus, we answer a listener’s question about a 12-month-old with delayed gross motor skills and share our top tips to encourage independent movement.

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

Crawling for Brain Development

The Jungle Crawl

Advanced Brain Technologies

Sensory Snacks

The Zones of Regulation

Sensory Diet Digital Course

BrainWorks

6 Tips for Crawling

Early Intervention Blueprint

#352 - Hidden Barriers to Learning: What Every Teacher Should Know Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

Register for our FREE Live Webinar on March 24, 2025 - https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025

Primitive reflexes play a crucial role in early development, but when they don’t integrate properly, they can create challenges in the classroom—impacting focus, learning, and behavior. In this episode, we’re breaking down what primitive reflexes are, why they matter, and how retained reflexes can affect children academically, socially, and emotionally.

We’ll explore:

The role of primitive reflexes in infant development
How unintegrated reflexes can affect attention, handwriting, posture, and self-regulation
Signs and symptoms educators and parents should watch for
Practical strategies for teachers and school staff to support children with retained reflexes

Plus, we’ll wrap up with a listener Q&A on sensory diets and meal planning for a child with ARFID and oral sensitivities!

LINKS

Sensory Dice and Sensory Sticks

Free Classroom Webinar and Improving Focus and Behavior in the Classroom (Full Digital Course)

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

What are Primitive Reflexes?

The Pyramid of Learning

An Introduction to ARFID

#351 - The Power of Play: Primitive Reflex Integration with the Harkla Sensory Dice Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

We are beyond excited to introduce Harkla’s newest sensory tool—the Sensory Dice! These simple yet powerful dice are designed to make sensory and primitive reflex integration fun, engaging, and effective.

In this episode, we dive into how sensory integration and primitive reflex integration are deeply connected—when you work on one, you naturally support the other! We’ll break down how each of the three Sensory Dice categories (Alerting, Calming, and Focus) can help integrate retained primitive reflexes through movement and sensory-based activities.

We’ll also share specific activities from each dice that target common retained primitive reflexes, such as the Moro, STNR, ATNR, TLR, Palmar Grasp, and more! From yoga flows and windmills to wall push-ups and animal walks, these activities are simple yet effective for supporting nervous system development.

LINKS

Harkla Sensory Activity Dice

Primitive Reflex Digital Course

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

Harkla YouTube Channel

Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!

Harkla Instagram

What are Primitive Reflexes?