#323 - Reflex Integration Through Play with Kokeb McDonald

All Things Sensory by Harkla

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram ⁠

46:39

“If we march into that village and we start trying to persecute people for using poison, something that's very illegal, nobody's going to talk to us. We're not going to find out where the poison came from. We're not going to be able to shut anything down. We should take the approach that people are using poison because they're desperate, because they see no other alternative.” – Andrew Stein Andrew Stein is a wildlife ecologist who spent the past 25 years studying human carnivore conflict from African wild dogs and lions in Kenya and Botswana to leopards and hyenas in Namibia. His work has long focused on finding ways for people and predators to coexist. He is the founder of CLAWS , an organization based in Botswana that's working at the intersection of cutting-edge wildlife research and community driven conservation. Since its start in 2014 and official launch as an NGO in 2020, CLAWS has been pioneering science-based, tech-forward strategies to reduce conflict between people and carnivores. By collaborating closely with local communities, especially traditional cattle herders, CLAWS supports both species conservation and rural livelihoods—making coexistence not just possible, but sustainable.…

about a year ago 48:13

MP3•एपिसोड होम

Special gift from Kokeb: “Harkla25” for 25% off of RITP at Home Family Bundle - https://www.integratingreflexes.com/family-bundle/

Kokeb Girma McDonald is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ (RITP) program. She is the mother of two wonderful children, and has extensive professional experience working with young people of all ages and backgrounds since 2004. Recognizing the need for practical and universally accessible primary motor reflex integration programs, Kokeb created the Integrating Primitive Reflexes Through Play and Exercise book series and the Reflex Integration Through Play™️ method to empower and reassure frustrated parents, and to offer fellow professionals a tool to expand their clinical reach.

LINKS

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 Follow Kokeb on Instagram www.instagram.com/reflexintegrationthroughplay/ RITP Certification and Coaching https://www.integratingreflexes.com/certification/ RITP books, game, and books https://www.integratingreflexes.com/shop/ https://www.integratingreflexes.com/

⁠Harkla YouTube Channel⁠

⁠Harkla Website⁠ - Shop Sensory Products!

⁠Harkla Instagram

365 एपिसोडस

#Parenting #Jessica Hill #Rachel Harrington #Occupational Therapy #Health and Well-Being #Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC & Jessica Hill, COTA/L #Sensory Integration #Special Education #Sensory Processing Disorder #Autism #Special Needs #Teaching #Autism Spectrum Disorders #ADHD

#323 - Reflex Integration Through Play with Kokeb McDonald

All Things Sensory by Harkla

84 subscribers

published about a year ago

साझा करें

MP3•एपिसोड होम

Special gift from Kokeb: “Harkla25” for 25% off of RITP at Home Family Bundle - https://www.integratingreflexes.com/family-bundle/

LINKS

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram ⁠

⁠Harkla YouTube Channel⁠

⁠Harkla Website⁠ - Shop Sensory Products!

⁠Harkla Instagram

365 एपिसोडस

सभी एपिसोड

All Things Sensory by Harkla

1
#356 - How Retained Primitive Reflexes Impact Daily Life for Autistic Children 23:08

4 days ago23:08

23:08

Shop our Autism Acceptance Month Sale! https://harkla.co/pages/aam-sale What are Primitive Reflexes? https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/what-are-primitive-reflexes?_pos=1&_sid=91f65780c&_ss=r We’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/ItWxQNP3 All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ Harkla YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily/playlists Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! https://harkla.co/ Harkla Instagram https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9301367/…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#355 - OT Isn’t Just Arts and Crafts (and Other Myths We’re Busting!) 21:17

11 days ago21:17

21:17

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

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#354 - The Power of OT: Helping Autistic Children Navigate Life 27:05

18 days ago27:05

27:05

Shop our OT Month SALE! Ends April 14th, 2025! https://harkla.co/pages/ot-month-sale Happy 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 therapy Fine and gross motor exercises Social skills training OT 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! 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram What We Really Do in OT DIRFloortime PICA or Oral Seeking?…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#353 - Building Sensory Success at Home: Our Favorite HEP Strategies 21:03

25 days ago21:03

21:03

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. 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram Crawling for Brain Development The Jungle Crawl Advanced Brain Technologies Sensory Snacks The Zones of Regulation Sensory Diet Digital Course BrainWorks 6 Tips for Crawling Early Intervention Blueprint…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#352 - Hidden Barriers to Learning: What Every Teacher Should Know 24:33

5 weeks ago24:33

24:33

Register for our FREE Live Webinar on March 24, 2025 - https://harkla.co/pages/register-for-the-primitive-reflex-webinar-2025 Primitive 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 development How unintegrated reflexes can affect attention, handwriting, posture, and self-regulation Signs and symptoms educators and parents should watch for Practical strategies for teachers and school staff to support children with retained reflexes Plus, we’ll wrap up with a listener Q&A on sensory diets and meal planning for a child with ARFID and oral sensitivities! LINKS Sensory Dice and Sensory Sticks Free 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 Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram What are Primitive Reflexes? The Pyramid of Learning An Introduction to ARFID…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#351 - The Power of Play: Primitive Reflex Integration with the Harkla Sensory Dice 17:59

6 weeks ago17:59

17:59

We are beyond excited to introduce Harkla’s newest sensory tool—the Sensory Dice! These simple yet powerful dice are designed to make sensory and primitive reflex integration fun, engaging, and effective. In this episode, we dive into how sensory integration and primitive reflex integration are deeply connected —when you work on one, you naturally support the other! We’ll break down how each of the three Sensory Dice categories (Alerting, Calming, and Focus) can help integrate retained primitive reflexes through movement and sensory-based activities. We’ll also share specific activities from each dice that target common retained primitive reflexes, such as the Moro, STNR, ATNR, TLR, Palmar Grasp, and more! From yoga flows and windmills to wall push-ups and animal walks, these activities are simple yet effective for supporting nervous system development. LINKS Harkla Sensory Activity Dice Primitive Reflex 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 Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram What are Primitive Reflexes?…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#350 - BCBAs Unfiltered: The Truth About Behavior Therapy & Juvenile Justice 1:06:05

7 weeks ago1:06:05

1:06:05

Maranda Argiros, BCBA and Jenny Barcellona, BCBA provide Behavior Training and Support for Caregivers and Families which consists of Family Focused Treatments and Interventions that equip families with the tools they need to foster behavior change in their natural environment. In addition, they provide Behavior Consulting Services for schools, daycares, and other providers by implementing realistic strategies and techniques to increase skill acquisition while decreasing and managing challenging behaviors. What The Function also provides IEP Advocacy Services and BCBA supervision for students seeking certification. They work to expand the reach and increase public knowledge of how the science of Behavior Analysis is used to help individuals outside of what ABA is typically known for. Marand and Jenny are passionate about the success they have had in using Behavior Analysis across all environments regardless of age, socioeconomic status, and diagnoses. 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 Harkla Website Harkla YouTube Harkla Instagram What The Function Website…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#349 - 5 Strategies to Support Sensory Avoiders in Everyday Life 20:50

8 weeks ago20:50

20:50

Creating and Implementing Sensory Diet Routines to Improve Daily Activities - https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course In today’s episode, we dive into the world of sensory avoiders—children (and even adults) who may experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input and react with avoidance or distress. We'll explore key signs that your child might be a sensory avoider and share 5 practical tips for helping them manage sensory overload, whether at home, in the clinic, or in everyday situations. Some signs that your child may be a sensory avoider: The fight or flight response when entering new or familiar situations Avoiding certain movements Sensitivity to sounds (like vacuums or blenders) that lead to meltdowns Extreme picky eating habits Struggling to focus in busy environments, or avoiding them altogether 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram Advanced Brain Technologies Vital Neuro Vital Links The Just Right Challenge Create a Sensory/Calm Down Corner Gifts of Joy The Zones of Regulation…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#348 - Supporting Sensory Seekers: Practical Tips for Every Day 20:27

9 weeks ago20:27

20:27

Learn how to create personalized sensory diet routines that actually work! https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course In today's episode we dive into strategies to support sensory seekers. If your child is constantly seeking movement, touch, or sounds that interfere with their daily activities—or if they never seem to get enough sensory input—this episode is for you! We’re sharing five practical tips to help you support sensory seekers at home, in the clinic, or anywhere in between. From providing sensory snacks to integrating full-body heavy work, these strategies can make a world of difference in nervous system regulation and emotional well-being. Plus, we’ll discuss the importance of daily outdoor time and how emotional intelligence programs can help children identify and manage their sensory needs. 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram Webe Kalm (Amazon) Talk Tools Sensory Snacks Explained Zones of Regulation Superflex Curriculum Alert Program Balanced and Barefoot Tips and Tricks for Your Sensory Seeking Child Episode 11…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#347 - Helping Kids Love Mealtime: OT Tips for Feeding Success! 27:34

10 weeks ago27:34

27:34

In today’s episode, we dive into some real-life feeding strategies that Jessica recently discussed with a fellow OT who’s working with a client struggling with picky eating and meal-time resistance. Feeling stuck in a rut? You're not alone! Sometimes it just takes a good brainstorming session to unlock fresh ideas. We cover practical tips and strategies, including: How focusing on one meal a day can improve family engagement around the table. Fun and motivating ways to get a picky eater excited about meals (yes, fun really does help!). The power of consistency—how building a daily habit can change everything. Giving kids more responsibility in the kitchen and around meal prep, from grocery shopping to cleanup. Moving away from grazing to structured sit-down meals (and why hunger can actually be a good thing in some situations!). Ways to switch up therapy routines to keep feeding sessions fresh and engaging, like using sensory bins, changing environments, or giving kids more control. If you’re working with kids on feeding challenges, or just looking for some fresh perspective, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can try today. Tune in for an honest, practical conversation on making mealtime a little less stressful and a lot more fun! 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram Book: Food Chaining (Amazon) https://a.co/d/aS3LY4L More resources for picky eating - https://harkla.co/search?q=picky+eating&submit=Search…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#346 - Finding the Right Balance: Should We Accommodate or Desensitize? 23:58

11 weeks ago23:58

23:58

In this episode, we dive deep into a critical question for therapists and caregivers: should we accommodate or desensitize? Sensory processing challenges can significantly impact a child’s daily life, and understanding when to offer accommodations and when to gently push for desensitization is key to promoting independence and improving quality of life. Through real-life examples, we'll explore how these strategies work together to help children navigate their sensory world, from a variety of environments to everyday activities like dressing and playing. Plus, we’ll share practical tips for therapists and caregivers to develop personalized plans that promote both immediate comfort and long-term resilience. Create personalized sensory diets that work! https://harkla.co/products/sensory-diet-course 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram The Just Right Challenge for Sensory Activities How to Know if Your OT is Right For You…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#345 - A Balanced Brain - New Multi-Sensory Program is LIVE! 17:24

12 weeks ago17:24

17:24

Many many years ago, we created a 30 day challenge - it was our 30 Day Multi-Sensory Challenge - and it included 30 activities with the metronome. Our goal was to give parents and therapists a variety of multi-sensory activities to help with processing speed, auditory processing, motor coordination, ocular motor development, bilateral coordination, and more! We recently decided that this challenge needed an upgrade, so we created an entirely new program based on the 30 day challenge and it’s FINALLY ready for you! Introducing - A Balanced Brain: A Multi-Sensory Program for Learning and Focus https://harkla.co/products/balanced-brain We also share 3 of our favorite activities from the program! LINKS Check out all of our digital courses! https://harkla.co/collections/courses 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 Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#344 - The Connection Between Multi-Sensory Processing and Dyslexia 21:23

13 weeks ago21:23

21:23

Check out our new program! https://harkla.co/products/balanced-brain In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between dyslexia and multi-sensory learning strategies. From understanding the neurological challenges dyslexia presents, to discovering how engaging multiple senses can significantly improve reading and writing skills, we dive deep into the science of learning. We also introduce our new program, A Balanced Brain: A Multi-Sensory Program for Learning and Focus, designed to help children, teens, and adults overcome learning difficulties and unlock their full potential. 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram What is Dyslexia? https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/179-what-is-dyslexia?_pos=2&_sid=74dc1a6a2&_ss=r How to Build Literacy Skills https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/297-how-to-build-literacy-skills-and-a-love-for-reading?_pos=3&_sid=74dc1a6a2&_ss=r Lori Benson Adams - Sensational Brain Courses https://sensationalbrain.com/ceu/on-demand-webinars/?_speaker=lori-benson-adams-med Research: Rhythmic processing in children with developmental dyslexia: Auditory and motor rhythms link to reading and spelling Research: Auditory and motor rhythm awareness in adults with dyslexia Research: Rhythm discrimination and metronome tapping in 4-year-old children at risk for developmental dyslexia Research: Improving reading abilities in dyslexia with neurofeedback and multi-sensory learning Research: Effect of Multi-Sensory Intervention Programmes on Fluid Reading Abilities of Dyslexic Children in Primary Schools in Anambra State…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#343 - How Sensory Processing Affects Executive Function 20:37

14 weeks ago20:37

20:37

LIVE Free Webinar on Jan. 20! Sign up here: https://harkla.co/pages/balanced-brain-webinar-registration In this episode, we dive into the connection between sensory processing and executive function. We begin by defining sensory processing and its vital role in our daily lives. From the basic five senses of touch, taste, sight, sound, and smell, to the more complex senses of vestibular, proprioception, and interoception, we explore how each sense helps us navigate the world and regulate our physical and emotional responses. Next, we define executive function and its core components. We explain how these skills are essential for tasks like planning, organizing, decision-making, and self-regulation. We examine how difficulties with sensory processing—whether it’s over-responsiveness, under-responsiveness, or sensory-seeking behaviors—can disrupt focus, attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. These challenges can make it harder to plan, organize, and complete tasks, impacting children and adults both at school, work, and in social settings. Finally we share practical tips for supporting individuals with sensory processing difficulties in improving executive function. Learn how creating sensory-friendly environments, offering sensory breaks, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and incorporating calming sensory activities can help regulate emotions and enhance self-control. 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 Harkla YouTube Channel Harkla Website - Shop Sensory Products! Harkla Instagram The Ultimate Guide to Sensory Processing Disorder The Pyramid of Learning Executive Function Skills Sensory Diet Digital Course…

All Things Sensory by Harkla

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#342 - How to Use Movement and Sensory Activities to Promote Communication When You’re Not an OT 19:53

15 weeks ago19:53