All Things Sensory by Harkla

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS is a passionate pediatric therapy practitioner who answers 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. 2 gg fa

    #420 - Quick Update for our ATS Family!

    Hi podcast fam! I just wanted to have a quick pow-wow and chat about what this season is going to look like. As many of you may know already, my son is starting kindergarten this fall and I'll be doing a homeschool program with him. Exciting but also very time consuming! We also have a team member getting married this fall and we are excited to travel and celebrate with her family! And of course, we have been working on a really exciting product launch: My Weighted Vest! It's finally coming to life and it's been a really time consuming product to bring (back) to life! That being said, it's a crazy time for our whole team, which is why we're pressing the pause button on recording new episodes, so we can all find our footing over the next few months. As always, I appreciate your support and dedication! I'll be back soon as your podcast host and give you all the homeschooling tea you could ever imagine! Make sure you're subscribed here so you get notified when our next episode launches! And we'll share all the pictures, videos and updates on Instagram in the meantime: @allthingssensorypodcast Love you all and I'll be back soon! 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

  2. 5 ago

    #419 - Research Papers Every OT Should Read in 2026

    If you're an occupational therapist who loves evidence-based practice, this episode is for you. In this episode, I'm sharing some of my favorite research articles that I think every pediatric OT should have bookmarked. These are the studies I come back to again and again, whether I'm teaching, creating content, working with clients, or answering questions from other therapists. I’ll cover research on sensory processing, primitive reflexes, ADHD, interoception, proprioception, nature play, classroom lighting, whole body vibration, pregnancy, and so much more. I also share why these studies have stood out to me and how they've shaped the way I think about child development and occupational therapy. Whether you're a new grad or a seasoned clinician, I hope this episode gives you a few new resources to explore and inspires you to keep asking questions and digging into the research. Thanks for being here 🩷 If you have a favorite research article that's changed your practice, send it my way! I’m always looking to learn something new! Links We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3  Link to All Research Articles Mentioned Interview with Dr. Tessa Grigg https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg How to Use a Vibration Plate https://www.youtube.com/watch Episode #409 - Using Vibration Plates with Kids https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/409-using-vibration-plates-with-kids-benefits-risks-safety 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

  3. 22 lug

    #418 - The School OT Guide to IEPs, 504s & Classroom Support

    Starting your first school-based OT job can feel overwhelming. Between IEP meetings, evaluations, accommodations, and the endless acronyms, it can be hard to know where to start. In this episode, we break down the basics of school-based occupational therapy. Amanda shares what she wishes every new school-based OT knew before walking into their first IEP meeting, explains the differences between IEPs, 504 plans, and MTSS, and offers practical tips for collaborating with teachers, administrators, and the rest of the educational team. We'll also discuss how school-based OT differs from clinic-based practice, why goals need to be educationally relevant, what consultative services actually look like, and how to feel more confident advocating for students while working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Whether you're a new graduate, transitioning into the schools, or just curious about how school-based OT works, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you feel more prepared. Links We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3  Sensory Strategies for the Classroom Course https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training?srsltid=AfmBOoqG8NnYkiSWB_T-oxJNV3RI0lYd5-kUy9draacDoX5fsnDIxqvt Classroom Sensory Kits https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-kit?srsltid=AfmBOopRCtKs2HeI1HXt-Iw30p0DTLiFkRgc2SyW7PUyCSGW8Zd5e__H Slant Board for Writing  https://amzn.to/44GU0mI Loop Scissors https://amzn.to/4pv9x2q 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

  4. 15 lug

    #417 - Fear Paralysis Reflex: Signs Every Pediatric Therapist Should Know

    Have you ever worked with a child who seems extremely cautious, shuts down when something feels hard, or gives up before they even get started? There may be more going on than meets the eye. In this episode, we take a closer look at the Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR), one of the lesser-known primitive reflexes that can have a significant impact on a child's development. We explain what the reflex is, why it serves an important purpose before birth, and what it can look like if it's retained beyond infancy. Together, we explore how a retained Fear Paralysis Reflex may contribute to challenges like anxiety, perfectionism, selective mutism, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, and an intense fear of making mistakes. We also share why it's so important to look beyond behavior, connect with the child in front of you, and remember that your therapeutic relationship is often more powerful than any activity you have planned. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or parent, this episode will help you better understand the nervous system and offer a more compassionate lens for supporting children who seem fearful, hesitant, or overwhelmed. 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

  5. 8 lug

    #416 - Is Your Therapy Space Helping... or Hurting?

    Here's a hot take: sometimes the most dysregulating part of occupational therapy is the clinic itself. In this episode, we take a closer look at how the therapy environment can impact a child's nervous system and why the space around us is just as important as the intervention itself. From fluorescent lighting and visual clutter to noisy waiting rooms, strong fragrances, and harsh cleaning products, we discuss simple ways to create a calmer, more regulation-friendly environment for both kids and therapists. We also share practical ideas for reducing sensory overload, organizing therapy spaces with intention, making thoughtful product swaps, and creating an environment that helps children feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn. Whether you're an OT, PT, SLP, educator, or clinic owner, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the spaces where we support children every day. Thanks for listening 🩷 We'd love to hear from you! What's one small change you've made, or want to make, to create a calmer therapy environment? 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 Force of Nature Cleaning Products https://www.forceofnatureclean.com/

  6. 1 lug

    #415 - The Real Cost of Screens in Classrooms

    I know this might be a controversial opinion, but I don't think screens belong in preschool classrooms. In this solo episode, I share what I've observed as a school-based occupational therapist and why I believe we've become too reliant on technology in early education. This isn't about being anti-screen or anti-teacher. It's about asking whether screens are replacing the hands-on, movement-rich experiences that young children actually need to develop. I talk about SMART Boards, educational apps, handwriting, fine motor development, free play, and why movement, creativity, and real-world learning can't be replaced by a screen. I also share practical ideas for parents, therapists, and educators who want to reduce screen time without eliminating technology altogether. At the end of the day, technology isn't the enemy, but development has to come first. Thanks for listening 🩷 I'd love to hear your perspective. Do you think screens belong in preschool classrooms? Let me know on Instagram or in the comments! 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

  7. 24 giu

    #414 - How to Write Primitive Reflex Goals That Actually Get Approved

    If you're writing goals for primitive reflex integration, this episode is for you. In this episode, we break down one of the biggest mistakes therapists make when writing goals for primitive reflex integration and explain how to connect reflex work to meaningful, functional outcomes that matter to families, IEP teams, and insurance providers. We discuss why reflex integration itself should never be the goal, how retained reflexes can impact skills like handwriting, attention, coordination, regulation, and participation, and how to write goals that focus on the real-life challenges a child is experiencing. We also share practical examples of how to connect primitive reflex interventions to functional outcomes that support independence and participation. Whether you're an OT, COTA, PT, or therapist interested in reflex integration, this episode will help you think differently about goal writing, advocacy, and demonstrating the value of the services you provide. Thanks for listening 🩷 If you work in pediatrics, we'd love to hear from you. What's one goal-writing tip that's helped you better advocate for the kids you support? Links We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3  Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course  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

  8. 17 giu

    #413 - It's Not Just You: OT Burnout Is More Common Than You Think

    If you asked 100 occupational therapists whether they've experienced burnout, how many do you think would say yes? In this episode, we have an honest conversation about burnout in the OT profession. We share our own experiences working in clinics, schools, and early intervention, and talk about the realities that many therapists face every day: overwhelming caseloads, endless documentation, productivity demands, long commutes, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure to constantly do more.  We also discuss something that doesn't get talked about enough: how caring deeply about the children and families we serve can make it difficult to leave work at work. From challenging cases to social media comparison, there are so many factors contributing to burnout that go beyond simply being "too busy."  Most importantly, we share practical strategies that have helped us protect our nervous systems, advocate for ourselves, set better boundaries, and create more sustainable careers.  Thanks for listening 🩷 Whether you're a new grad, a seasoned therapist, or somewhere in between, we hope this conversation helps you feel a little less alone. And reminder: GO ON THE TRIP. We’d love to hear your thoughts: have you experienced burnout and what have you used to combat it?  Links We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course  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

Elenco completo (427)

Descrizione

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS is a passionate pediatric therapy practitioner who answers 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!

Informazioni

  • Creatore
    Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
  • Anni di attività
    2018 - 2026
  • Puntate
    427
  • Classificazione
    Contenuti adatti a tutti
  • Copyright
    © Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS
  • Sito web del podcast
    All Things Sensory by Harkla

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