#391 - How to Use Vestibular Input Without Overloading the Sensory System

Swinging, spinning, and jumping can be incredible tools for regulation but they can also lead to overstimulation if we’re not careful. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to safely use vestibular input (aka movement) to support sensory regulation without causing meltdowns or motion sickness.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the vestibular system is and why it’s so importantThe difference between seekers, avoiders, and under-respondersSigns of vestibular overload and what to look forHow to safely build up tolerance to spinning, swinging, and movementTips for balancing vestibular input with proprioception for regulationThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who wants to better understand movement and regulation!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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTube​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses What is Vestibular Input? (Blog Post) https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/vestibular-input?_pos=4&_sid=58b88ae0e&_ss=r What is the Vestibular System? (Podcast)https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/21-vestibular-system?_pos=1&_sid=58b88ae0e&_ss=r Sensory Dice https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice Sensory Sticks https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks Sensory Cardshttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards Research Articles:Vestibular Input in Children https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/11/1/2Vestibular Activity and Development in Children https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/integrative-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnint.2013.00092/fullVestibular Dysfunction in Children https://vestibular.org/article/diagnosis-treatment/types-of-vestibular-disorders/pediatric-vestibular-disorders/part-i-vestibular-dysfunction-children/ Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairmentshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6054584/Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population https://www.audiology.org/practice-guideline/american-academy-of-audiology-clinical-consensus-statement-assessment-of-vestibular-function-in-the-pediatric-population/Effectiveness of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Exercises in Reducing Hyperactivity in Children with Autismhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S305065652500015X#:~:text=Vestibular%20and%20proprioceptive%20training%20significantly,significant%20changes%20in%20vestibular%20function. Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children https://research.aota.org/ajot/article-abstract/78/Supplement_2/7811500008p1/25267/Association-of-Sensory-Processing-amp-Behavioral?redirectedFrom=fulltext 

Visual supports can be a game-changer for kids at home, in the classroom, and in therapy. From calendars and visual timers to emotion charts and AAC devices, these tools provide structure, reduce anxiety, and build independence.In this episode, we cover:The different types of visual supports and schedules you can useHow visuals help with transitions, routines, and emotional regulationCreative ways to use timers, checklists, and visual cues in daily lifeWhy consistency and modeling matter when introducing visualsOur favorite programs and tools for teaching kids about emotions and self-regulationThanks for listening 🩷 Share this with another parent or therapist who could use more tools for smoother transitions and calmer routines!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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTube​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Zones of Regulationhttps://zonesofregulation.com/ Superflex Curriculumhttps://www.socialthinking.com/products BrainWorks Programhttps://sensationalbrain.com/brainworks/ Gifts of Joy Visualshttps://shopgiftsofjoy.com/ Solo Boto Toys – Emotional Baggagehttps://solobotoys.com/

Starting out in pediatrics can feel overwhelming and it’s easy to fall into some common traps. In this episode, we’re sharing the top 5 mistakes new pediatric therapists make (yes, we made them too!) and how to avoid burnout while still giving your clients the best support possible.We cover: Why staying on top of continuing education is essentialThe danger of passive treatment sessionsHow to involve families for better carryoverWhy a bottom-up approach matters in pediatricsThe importance of setting boundaries and self-careThanks for listening 🩷 If you’re a new grad or new to pediatrics, let us know which tip resonated most with you!LINKSHarkla Holiday Sale!https://harkla.co/pages/holiday-saleAll Things Sensory Podcast Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ ⁠Harkla Website ⁠https://harkla.co/ ⁠Harkla YouTube⁠​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily ⁠Harkla Instagram⁠https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ ⁠Harkla Digital Courses⁠https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming 🎁 In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite sensory-friendly gift ideas for kids and adults, plus creative experience gifts that go beyond toys.We cover: Our top 10 sensory-friendly gift ideas for kids.Unique and practical gift ideas for adults.Why experience-based gifts can be so meaningful.Links to products and tools we use and recommend.Thanks for listening 🩷 Tell us what’s on your holiday gift list this year. We’d love to hear your ideas!LINKSHarkla Holiday Salehttps://harkla.co/pages/black-friday-cyber-mondayWe’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 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Webe Kalmhttps://amzn.to/41pqZKQHoberman Spherehttps://tinyurl.com/yjh5ntwkYogibo bean baghttps://tinyurl.com/kt88wj2jSensory Compression swinghttps://tinyurl.com/yt4z772ySpot ithttps://www.spotitgame.com/Sensory art - clay by numberhttps://tinyurl.com/yxfy356fGlow in the dark basketballhttps://tinyurl.com/4tr49u3dRock wall https://treefrogplay.com/?sca_ref=3949086.UhRyARIVfTGymnastics barhttps://tinyurl.com/23hp8j8pStapelstein stepping stoneshttps://tinyurl.com/yj5bnkezVibration platehttps://tinyurl.com/5cu4rdz6Vital neurohttps://vitalneuro.com/?dt_id=1422082&utm_campaign=ABT_Creator&utm_medium=affiliateSpeks fidgetshttps://www.getspeks.com/products/speks?variant=31705494323287Self care for ADHD bookhttps://tinyurl.com/bdhmh8yyApp for managing time / to-do listhttps://thruday.com/Tracking device for phone, keys, wallet, etchttps://tinyurl.com/9cu9a82cLoop ear plugshttps://tinyurl.com/4sdj2f6fLiquid sand frame - visual inputhttps://tinyurl.com/54486he5Grounding mat / EMF blocker blankethttps://tinyurl.com/5x9j5j5khttps://thecomfyshield.com/?sca_ref=8911243.bJLixhEk6VPYU2rdAir purifierhttps://tinyurl.com/44jcya4k

Teachers and therapists often see students struggling with focus, posture, handwriting, or behavior but the root cause might not be what you think. Retained primitive reflexes can have a huge impact in the classroom. 📚In this episode, you’ll learn:What primitive reflexes are and why they matterHow retained reflexes show up in school settingsSimple classroom strategies to support studentsWhy movement breaks and alternative seating make a differenceThanks for tuning in 🩷 If this episode was helpful, share it with a teacher or therapist who could use these strategies!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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTube​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Pyramid of Learninghttps://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1380/9417/files/Freebie-_Pyramid_of_Learning.pdf?v=1758648557 Tessa’s Interviewhttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/369-unlocking-classroom-success-with-reflex-integration-with-dr-tessa-grigg Sensory Activity Cardshttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-cards Sensory Dicehttps://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-foam-dice Sensory Sticks https://harkla.co/collections/focus/products/sensory-activity-sticks Classroom Course https://harkla.co/products/classroom-sensory-training Primitive Reflex Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course

Is your child refusing sensory play you know would help them? You’re not alone — and it doesn’t always mean they’re being “defiant.” 💡In this episode, you’ll learn:Why kids say “no” to sensory activitiesHow rapport & co-regulation make a differenceWhen hunger, sleep, or illness affect behaviorSimple ways to modify activities so kids succeedThanks for listening 🩷 We’re so glad you’re here and can’t wait to hang out with you again next week! 🌈LINKSBlack Friday/Cyber Monday Salehttps://harkla.co/pages/black-friday-cyber-mondayWe’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 Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sensory Diet Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course 

Feeding challenges in infancy can feel overwhelming especially when solids are hard, weight gain is a concern, or oral motor skills seem delayed. In this episode, we respond to a real-life question from a parent about their 10-month-old struggling with solids and tongue movement.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why core and trunk strength impact oral motor developmentThe importance of ruling out tongue ties, torticollis, or delayed milestonesPlay-based strategies to support oral motor skills outside the high chairHelpful tools like the Z-Vibe, bite blocks, and vibrating teethersWhen to seek out additional support from an SLP, IBCLC, or pediatric specialistThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or therapist who is supporting an infant with feeding challenges!LINKSEarly Bird Black Friday Sale Opt-Inhttps://harkla.co/pages/earlybird-subscribe-pageWe’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 Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Z Vibe https://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/ Myo Muncheehttps://myomunchee.com/bebe Bite Blocks https://www.arktherapeutic.com/ark-bite-blocks-for-jaw-grading-stability/ Vibrating Teether​​https://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Vibrating-Teether-Style-Vary/dp/B0047WGOLQ/ref=sr_1_6 NUK Brushhttps://www.amazon.com/NUK-Massage-Brush-Germany-White/dp/B0CTJ5JKL5 Early Intervention Blueprint Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/infant-sensory-development-course Reddit Thread Questionhttps://www.reddit.com/r/slp/comments/1m8zlsl/baby_struggling_with_solids/

The transition from fall into the holiday season can feel overwhelming for both parents and sensory kids. Between weather changes, shorter days, holiday stress, and immune system struggles, it’s no wonder regulation gets harder this time of year.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why meltdowns and anxiety increase in fall and winterHow weather, daylight, and school routines affect regulationThe impact of rigid thinking with clothing changesSimple strategies to reduce stress and support sensory kidsImmune-boosting ideas and cozy after-school routines that actually helpThanks for listening 🩷 Share this episode with a parent or teacher who could use some fall regulation tips!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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sensory Diet Digital Coursehttps://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course

Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-courseNEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-courseIn this episode, we break down the difference between low core strength and a retained Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR), a primitive reflex that plays a huge role in posture, coordination, and motor development. Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode will give you the tools to better understand and support the children in your life.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy primitive reflexes matter for movement, attention, and emotional regulationThe Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR): what it is, how it develops, and what happens if it doesn’t integrateSigns of low core strength vs. signs of a retained TLR during the Superman positionHow muscle tone challenges connect to reflexesPractical strategies to assess and address both core weakness and retained reflexesTips for parents and professionals to create fun, consistent, and effective routinesLINKSWe’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 Harkla Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Muscle Tone vs. Muscle Strengthhttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/108-muscle-tone-vs-muscle-strength Research Article - The Relationship Between Primitive Reflexes and Motor Proficiency https://brieflands.com/articles/jmcl-158078.pdf SPD Sale https://harkla.co/pages/spd-awareness-month-2025

In this episode, we explore what co-regulation really is, why it’s a critical foundation for emotional development, and how occupational therapists, parents, and educators can use it to support kids and adults alike. You’ll learn why co-regulation is more than just a buzzword, and how to intentionally use it in your daily life and practice.What co-regulation is and why it’s essential for developing self-regulation.The science behind co-regulation: nervous system syncing, polyvagal theory, and mirror neurons.Why co-regulation is vital for therapeutic success in occupational therapy sessions.5 practical strategies to co-regulate with kids and clients effectively.Recommended tools and products to make co-regulation fun and engaging.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 Website https://harkla.co/ Harkla YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily Harkla Instagram​​https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses Sleep Crash Course Webinar Sign Uphttps://harkla.co/pages/sleep-course-webinar-registration-2025 Create a Calm Down Cornerhttps://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=Chvc-PT2bX6zGdMJGloPals Sensory Bin https://glopals.com/webe kälm https://a.co/d/fg5Nt4DHoberman Sphere (Breathing Ball) https://a.co/d/2WreKVrVibration pillow https://a.co/d/c4uHY6lProjector Lamps (Galaxy or Starry Sky) https://www.amazon.com/starry-sky-night-light-projector/s?k=starry+sky+night+light+projectorPanda Drum https://pandadrum.com/Vibration Massage Ball https://www.homedics.com/atlas-vibration-acu-node-massagerGrounding Mathttps://www.groundingwell.com/LifePro Vibration Platehttps://lifeprofitness.com/collections/vibration-therapy