All Things Sensory by Harkla

Amanda Mathers, OTR/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
  • 4.7 (32)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Amanda Mathers, OTR/L, and Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, are two passionate pediatric therapy practitioners 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, where our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives

  1. #399 - Meet Amanda! Our New Co-Host & Occupational Therapist at Harkla

    4D AGO

    #399 - Meet Amanda! Our New Co-Host & Occupational Therapist at Harkla

    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/  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

    17 min

  2. FEB 4

    #398 - 2026 Update: What's Next for the Podcast

    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

    11 min

  3. JAN 28

    #397 - The Best Nutrients to Support Sensory Processing in Kids

    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

    22 min

  4. JAN 21

    #396 - Top Three Primitive Reflex Exercises for Emotional Regulation in the Classroom

    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

    15 min

  5. JAN 14

    #395 - Helping Neurodivergent Kids Make Friends – OT Social Skills Tips

    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

    21 min

  6. JAN 7

    #394 - Is Thumb Sucking Sensory? What to Know (and What to Do)

    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

    17 min

  7. 2025-12-31

    #393 - Is Crawling Really That Important? Yes - Here’s Why!

    “I didn’t crawl and I’m fine.” We hear this all the time - from parents, grandparents, and even professionals. And while it can be true, there’s a lot more nuance to the conversation. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why crawling plays such a critical role in development How crawling supports strength, coordination, vision, and primitive reflex integration Why skipping crawling may not seem like a problem early on, but can impact coordination, learning, and regulation later Simple ways to encourage crawling in babies, kids, and even adults How to respond (kindly and confidently) when someone says, “I didn’t crawl and I’m fine” Thanks for listening 🩷 If this episode made you think differently about crawling, share it with someone who says they’re “fine” without it. LINKS We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - ⁠https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3⁠  Why Crawling Is Essential for Babies, Kids & Adults? Infant Development & OT Strategies https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKcDD9FtVIY  Crawling for Brain Development https://sensationalbrain.com/product/crawling-brain-development-curriculum/  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

    19 min

  8. 2025-12-24

    #392 - Unlocking the Nervous System: Vision, Balance, and Breathing with Taylor Kruse

    This week, we’re joined by Taylor Kruse, movement coach, educator, and founder of Kruse Elite, who specializes in applied neurology and the nervous system. Taylor works with adults to help them move, feel, and function better but his insights are just as relevant for kids and therapists, too. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “applied neurology” means and how it connects to movement and pain Why visual and vestibular systems are key to body awareness and regulation How the brainstem, eyes, and tongue all work together for posture and balance The impact of mouth breathing and poor CO₂ tolerance on the nervous system Practical drills for vision, vestibular activation, and improved breathing Thanks for listening 🩷 Try one of Taylor’s breathing or visual drills and let us know how it goes! LINKS We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Taylor’s Website https://www.kruseelite.com/ Follow Taylor on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/kruseelite  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

    1h 2m
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4.7
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

Amanda Mathers, OTR/L, and Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS, are two passionate pediatric therapy practitioners 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, where our goal is to help those with special needs live happy and healthy lives

Information

  • Creator
    Amanda Mathers, OTR/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    408
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Amanda Mathers, OTR/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
  • Show Website
    All Things Sensory by Harkla

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