All Things Sensory by Harkla

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Fritz, a board-certified pediatric physical therapist with a passion for infant development. Angela brings her expertise working in the NICU and shares valuable insights on supporting babies from the very beginning—especially those who’ve spent time in the NICU.We dive into:The role of physical therapy in the NICUTummy time and developmental milestone tips for infants (including NICU grads)The importance of positioning for developmentPrimitive reflexes and how they influence early movementPractical advice for parents and caregiversWhether you're a therapist, parent, or caregiver, you'll come away with actionable tips and a deeper understanding of the early building blocks of development.Angela Fritz, PT, DPT, PCS is a board-certified pediatric physical therapist who specializes in infant development. She received her doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of Washington (Go Dawgs!) and has worked with infants and children ever since! Angela just recently moved to Boise, ID and works in the NICU and NICU follow up at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital, but was trained in neonatal therapy at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Though her passion lies with infants, Angela has experience working with children 0-18 years of age. She is passionate about celebrating the unique spark in each and every baby, and believes that empowering parents to advocate for, engage with, and support their baby is the best way to foster lifelong success. Angela was also born with hearing loss and is passionate about disability awareness, inclusion, and justice and making healthcare more accessible for all!LINKSVisit Angela’s Website - https://www.bebe-pt.com/servicesWe’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/

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.LINKSVisit Lori's websitehttps://loribensonadams.com/Lori on Sensational Brainhttps://sensationalbrain.com/ceu/on-demand-webinars/?_speaker=lori-benson-adams-medDIRFloortimehttps://www.icdl.com/dirDyslexia with Lori Benson Adamshttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/179-what-is-dyslexia?_pos=2&_sid=89fa10f07&_ss=rWe’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/playlistsHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

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.LINKSFollow Amy on Instagramhttps://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 YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamily/videosHarkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/

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!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 YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlistsHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/The Listening Program  https://advancedbrain.com/Build a Sensory Cornerhttps://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=6Lhw682STyGzoYhbShop Harkla Weighted Products https://harkla.co/collections/focusARK Therapeutics - Oral Chew Tools https://www.arktherapeutic.com/oral-motor-chewing-tools/Buzz Buddyhttps://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_Nhe8UccZwG8ugFu5Fvi3PlbtvbDThe Jungle Crawlhttps://sensationalbrain.com/product/pre-order-the-jungle-crawl-interactive-childrens-book/Bilibo Chair https://www.moluk.com/bilibo.phpBubble Tube https://www.playlearn.com/sensory-room-equipment/sensory-lights/bubble-tube?srsltid=AfmBOorohmDQt9aPWdjKAssvn-ZWgrh0o803UJUuzoHzJ70v4hXhbGPkWhisper Phonehttps://whisperphone.com/collections/all-products

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat 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 educationWhy collaboration with other professionals is a game-changerHow building rapport with a wide variety of clients and families is a mustThe value of teaching and sharing your knowledgeAnd why sometimes, doing less can actually mean more in this professionPlus, 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.LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamilyHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagram

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/aam-saleWhat are Primitive Reflexes?https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=rWe’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/ItWxQNP3All Things Sensory Podcast Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/Harkla YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlistsHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!https://harkla.co/Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9301367/

Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleSign up for our FREE live webinar on April 16th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/classroom-sensory-strategies-webinar-registration-2025We’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!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 Harkla YouTube ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramThe First 1000 Days of Life

Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-saleHappy 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 therapyFine and gross motor exercisesSocial skills trainingOT 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! 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 Harkla YouTube ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramWhat We Really Do in OTDIRFloortimePICA or Oral Seeking?

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.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 Harkla YouTube ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramCrawling for Brain DevelopmentThe Jungle Crawl Advanced Brain Technologies Sensory SnacksThe Zones of RegulationSensory Diet Digital CourseBrainWorks6 Tips for Crawling Early Intervention Blueprint 

Register for our FREE Live Webinar on March 24, 2025 - https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025Primitive 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 developmentHow unintegrated reflexes can affect attention, handwriting, posture, and self-regulationSigns and symptoms educators and parents should watch forPractical strategies for teachers and school staff to support children with retained reflexesPlus, we’ll wrap up with a listener Q&A on sensory diets and meal planning for a child with ARFID and oral sensitivities!LINKSSensory Dice and Sensory SticksFree 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 ChannelHarkla Website - Shop Sensory Products!Harkla InstagramWhat are Primitive Reflexes? The Pyramid of LearningAn Introduction to ARFID