30. Understanding Sensory Processing and Why It’s So Important with Rachel Harrington

EPISODE 30 Today’s topic is one that I did not know much about before walking into this interview with Rachel Harrington. Rachel is breaking down what sensory processing is and why it’s so important to understand as parents. She shares how sensory challenges show up with our children and what we can do to best support their needs. Some children will only wear certain fabrics or eat certain foods. Others may be extremely sensitive to sounds. Or maybe you have a child who constantly needs to be chewing on something. Rachel is going to explain the why behind these preferences and behaviors.  Rachel is a Pediatric Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant who is dedicated to helping children with different abilities feel confident in their own skin. She began her sensory journey by designing fashionable, innovative weighted vests to give children the ability to regulate their sensory needs, while fitting in with their peers. She lives in Boise, Idaho with her husband, young son, and dog, and can be found outside hiking, playing games, and not taking life too seriously! Rachel is the co-host of the All Things Sensory by Harkla Podcast, which aims to educate and equip parents, therapists, and educators with the tools and information to understand sensory integration. She holds her Autism Certificate, as well as additional continuing education in Handwriting Without Tears, Primitive Reflex Integration, Sensory Integration, and more! Rachel shares tips, tricks and strategies about sensory processing on her Instagram to help parents and therapists better understand the sensory system!   In this episode we discuss: -What different sensory processing challenges look like -Early warning signs of sensory processing in infants -What to do if you are concerned with your child’s sensory needs -Suggested sensory based activities based on age   Resources mentioned: -All Things Sensory by Harkla -Digital Courses -The Sensory Project WEIGHTED VESTS -Z-Vibes | All Tips, Kits, & Accessories -Sit 'n Spin Activity Toy   Connect with Rachel: -Instagram: @thesensoryproject208 -Podcast Instagram: @allthingssensorypodcast   Connect with me on Instagram @motherhoodmeetsmedicine. For full show notes, head to lynzyandco.com/motherhood-meets-medicine-the-podcast/   Join the Motherhood Meets Medicine community at patreon.com/motherhoodmeetsmedicine.   Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The information on this podcast is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices