#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 seekingWhen sucking is developmentally appropriate and when to look closerCommon reasons older kids continue sucking for regulation or anxietyHow to talk to your child about the habit in a supportive wayPractical sensory and oral motor replacements that actually helpThanks 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 Tubeshttps://www.arktherapeutic.com/handheld-chews/ Chewleryhttps://www.arktherapeutic.com/chewelry/ 5 Ways to Use Proprioception for Calming and Regulationhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHdCj8sWtV0 Top 10 Oral Motor Activities Every Parent Should Knowhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEXEbyBX858&t=443s Sensory Snacks Explainedhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOswosl5pHg All Things Sensory Ep. 376 - Oral Sensory Seeking in Kidshttps://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/376-oral-sensory-seeking-in-kids-what-you-need-to-know-how-to-helpAll 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 

“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 developmentHow crawling supports strength, coordination, vision, and primitive reflex integrationWhy skipping crawling may not seem like a problem early on, but can impact coordination, learning, and regulation laterSimple ways to encourage crawling in babies, kids, and even adultsHow 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.LINKSWe’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 Strategieshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKcDD9FtVIY Crawling for Brain Developmenthttps://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 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses 

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 painWhy visual and vestibular systems are key to body awareness and regulationHow the brainstem, eyes, and tongue all work together for posture and balanceThe impact of mouth breathing and poor CO₂ tolerance on the nervous systemPractical drills for vision, vestibular activation, and improved breathingThanks for listening 🩷 Try one of Taylor’s breathing or visual drills and let us know how it goes!LINKSWe’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Taylor’s Websitehttps://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 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ Harkla Digital Courseshttps://harkla.co/collections/courses 

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/