logo
episode-header-image
Oct 15
26m 24s

#382 - 5 Ways to Practice Co-Regulation ...

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC & Jessica Hill, COTA/L
About this episode

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.

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 

https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ 

Harkla Website 

https://harkla.co/ 

Harkla YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily 

Harkla Instagram

​​https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ 

Harkla Digital Courses

https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

Sleep Crash Course Webinar Sign Up

https://harkla.co/pages/sleep-course-webinar-registration-2025 

Create a Calm Down Corner

https://youtu.be/S-1EtUHJOGo?si=Chvc-PT2bX6zGdMJ

GloPals Sensory Bin

https://glopals.com/

webe kälm

https://a.co/d/fg5Nt4D

Hoberman Sphere (Breathing Ball)

https://a.co/d/2WreKVr

Vibration pillow

https://a.co/d/c4uHY6l

Projector Lamps (Galaxy or Starry Sky)

https://www.amazon.com/starry-sky-night-light-projector/s?k=starry+sky+night+light+projector

Panda Drum

https://pandadrum.com/

Vibration Massage Ball

https://www.homedics.com/atlas-vibration-acu-node-massager

Grounding Mat

https://www.groundingwell.com/

LifePro Vibration Plate

https://lifeprofitness.com/collections/vibration-therapy

Up next
Nov 19
#387 - Retained Primitive Reflexes: The Overlooked Cause of Struggles in the Classroom
<p>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. 📚</p><p>In this episode, you’ll learn:</p><ul><li><p>What p ... Show More
19m 43s
Nov 12
#386 - Don’t Force It: How to Support Kids Who Say “No” to Sensory Play
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 ... Show More
20m 27s
Nov 5
#385 - 10-Month-Old Struggling With Solids? Here’s What Might Be Going On
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. ... Show More
13m 32s
Recommended Episodes
Nov 2019
Introducing Curious Neuron
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1255388/open_sms">Send us a text</a></p><p>The Curious Neuron podcast is an extension of our website. We provide science-backed information related to child development and education. </p><p><a rel="payme ... Show More
1m 15s
Apr 2025
Do you know about batteries? ⚡🔋
In this episode, we will explore how batteries work, how they are made, the different types you might find at home or school, and why some gadgets gobble up more power than others. We'll even look at some wild, wacky, battery-powered inventions that might spark your imagination. ... Show More
23m 17s
May 2025
Nervous System Regulation as a Foundation for Parenting with Randi Johnson
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2204728/open_sms">Send us a text</a></p><p>If you are a parent, grandparent, aunt uncle or anyone that has small children in your life - this episode is for you.  How do we ride the waves of emotion with ... Show More
44m 22s
Dec 2024
Do you know how LEGO are made? 🧱🤖
In this episode, we’re exploring the world of LEGO! Discover how these iconic bricks are made, the fascinating science behind their strength and precision, and how they became a global favourite. From tiny plastic pellets to towering creations, we’ll explore the creativity, engin ... Show More
22m 49s
Mar 2025
Fun facts about Mummies, Inventions, Senses, and Food 🏺💡👀🍕
In this fun facts episode, we will learn the secrets of the senses, ranging from flies tasting with their feet to owls hearing a mouse step on a twig from 23 meters away. Then, we will explore the world of inventions, learning how creativity, curiosity, and even accidents can lea ... Show More
28m 15s
Apr 2025
Do you know about semiconductors? ⚡💻
Semiconductors might be tiny, but they do BIG things! In this episode of Sleep Tight Science, we explore what semiconductors are, how they’re made, and why they’re so important in everything from smartphones and laptops to space rockets and self-driving cars. This episode is perf ... Show More
25m 33s
Jun 2025
Simple Ways to Reclaim Your Calm: How Breathwork Impacts the Nervous System
In this episode, Valeria sits down with Stefanie Broes, the co-founder of Moonbird, for a refreshing conversation about something we all need more of: calm. They explore how breathwork can help us manage stress, sleep better, and feel more grounded in our daily lives. Stefanie op ... Show More
54m 7s
Sep 2024
Preparing your child for preschool using play
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1255388/open_sms">Send us a text</a></p><p>In this conversation, I chat with Connie about the critical aspects of preschool education, emphasizing the importance of play in child development. We explore t ... Show More
57m 47s
Apr 2023
You are yelling at your child because you are dysregulated...here is how to change this
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1255388/open_sms">Send us a text</a></p><p>Today, I want you to change your guilt around yelling to compassion for yourself for being dysregulated. <br/><br/>Sometimes, we power through our days, weeks, m ... Show More
17m 41s
Nov 2024
Is Your Child’s Whinnying Driving You Crazy?
<p>EP:117 Hey there! 👋 In this episode, I’m diving into a topic I know so many of us can relate to: why certain noises—like our kids’ whining—feel SO triggering.</p> <p>I share my personal experience with my colicky, high-needs son, Charlie, and unpack the science behind why tho ... Show More
23m 38s