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

by Jessica Hill, COTA/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC December 17, 2025

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

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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 important

  • The difference between seekers, avoiders, and under-responders

  • Signs of vestibular overload and what to look for

  • How to safely build up tolerance to spinning, swinging, and movement

  • Tips for balancing vestibular input with proprioception for regulation

Thanks for listening 🩷

Share this episode with a parent or therapist who wants to better understand movement and regulation!

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form -https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 

Links

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

Harkla Website 

Harkla YouTube

Harkla Instagram

Harkla Digital Courses

What is Vestibular Input? (Blog Post) 

What is the Vestibular System? (Podcast)

Sensory Dice 

Sensory Sticks 

Sensory Cards

Research Articles: 

Vestibular Input in Children 

Vestibular Activity and Development in Children 

Vestibular Dysfunction in Children 

Epidemiology of Vestibular Impairments

Assessment of Vestibular Function in the Pediatric Population 

Effectiveness of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Exercises in Reducing Hyperactivity in Children with Autism

Association of Sensory Processing and Behavioral Challenges in Children 

 

BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science & art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views & opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties & what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links & make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews & comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair & balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.

Jessica Hill, COTA/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC
Jessica Hill, COTA/L & Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC

Rachel Harrington, COTA/l, AC, CPRCS, and Jessica Hill, COTA/L, CPRCS are Harkla's in-house Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) and Certified Primitive Reflex Clinical Specialists. They have been working with children for over 6 years in outpatient settings. They specialize in creating easy-to-digest, actionable content that families can use to help their child's progress at home. Jessica and Rachel are the in-house experts, content creators, and podcast hosts at Harkla! To learn more about Jessica and Rachel, visit the Harkla About Us Page. Make sure to listen to their weekly podcast, All Things Sensory by Harkla for actionable, fun advice on child development.


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