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Have you ever wondered why your child seems “fine” all day at school… and then completely falls apart at home? In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on through a sensory lens.
We walk through what sensory integration actually means in everyday life, how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input, and why this process can look very different from child to child. We talk about the differences between being over-responsive, under-responsive, and sensory-seeking, and how each of those patterns can show up in behavior, emotions, and daily routines.
You’ll also hear a clear, practical explanation of all eight sensory systems, including the three “hidden” senses (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception) that play a huge role in regulation, body awareness, and emotional responses.
One of the most important takeaways from this episode is understanding how sensory input builds up throughout the day. Many kids are holding it together in structured environments like school, but by the time they get home, their nervous system is overwhelmed, which is why after-school meltdowns are so common.
We also talk about how to tell the difference between sensory quirks and sensory challenges that are actually impacting daily life, why behavior is often communication, and how small, proactive strategies throughout the day can make a big difference in preventing dysregulation later on.
This episode is all about helping you see your child and yourself through a new lens, so you can better understand what’s really driving behavior and how to support regulation in a more intentional way.
Thanks for listening 🩷
If this episode gave you a new perspective, share it with someone who’s navigating after-school meltdowns or trying to better understand sensory processing.
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Have you ever wondered why your child melts down after school… even when their day seemed “fine”? Or why something as small as a clothing tag, a loud noise, or bright lights can completely derail their mood?
You’re not alone and more importantly, your child isn’t doing this on purpose. In many cases, it comes down to sensory integration—your child’s ability to take in, process, and respond to sensory input throughout the day.
Sensory integration is your brain’s ability to:
Receive sensory input (from your body and environment)
Organize and interpret that input
Respond appropriately
For example:
You hear a fire alarm → your brain processes danger → you leave the building.
That’s a typical adaptive response, but for some children, the brain has trouble organizing or interpreting sensory input. When that happens, even small sensations can feel overwhelming—or not noticeable at all.
As discussed in the podcast:
Sensory integration is like a traffic system—when signals get mixed up, responses become dysregulated
Here’s the key: sensory challenges impact daily life.
This might look like:
Meltdowns after school.
Avoiding certain clothes or foods.
Constant movement or crashing into things.
Difficulty focusing or sitting still.
And one of the most important takeaways?
Behavior is communication. Your child isn’t “misbehaving”—their nervous system is trying to tell you something.
Every child processes sensory input differently. Most fall into one (or a mix) of these categories:
These children feel sensory input too intensely.
Common signs:
Covering ears for normal sounds.
Avoiding swings or playground equipment.
Disliking certain clothing textures.
Fearful or cautious behavior.
Think of it like this:
Their “sensory cup” is already full when they wake up. Even small input = overwhelm.
These children don’t register enough sensory input.
Common signs:
Low energy or “sluggish” behavior.
Seeming unaware of surroundings.
Difficulty staying alert.
Their sensory cup starts empty—and they need help filling it.
These children actively seek out input—but often in ways that seem intense or unsafe.
Common signs:
Jumping, crashing, climbing constantly.
Touching everything.
Difficulty sitting still.
Their cup has “holes”—they keep adding input, but it doesn’t last.
Most of us learned about five senses—but there are actually eight, and the “hidden three” are critical for regulation.
Tactile (touch) – clothing, textures, physical contact
Auditory (hearing) – sounds, volume, background noise
Visual (sight) – light, movement, visual clutter
Gustatory (taste)
Olfactory (smell)
1. Vestibular (Movement & Balance)
Located in the inner ear
Detects motion, head position, and balance
Why it matters:Can be alerting—or overwhelming.
2. Proprioception (Body Awareness)
Input from muscles and joints
Examples: Pushing, pulling, jumping, squeezing.
Why it matters: This is your calming, grounding system.
3. Interoception (Internal Awareness)
Hunger, thirst, temperature, bathroom needs
Why it matters:Supports emotional regulation and self-awareness.
Here’s something many parents don’t realize: Sensory overload is often delayed.
As explained in the podcast:
Kids may hold it together all day—but after 72+ sensory inputs, their system finally says “too much.”
At school, children:
Sit under bright lights.
Hear constant noise.
Navigate social interactions.
Follow structured routines.
By the time they get home? Their sensory “cup” is overflowing.
It’s important to know: Everyone has sensory preferences. Not all sensory differences are a concern
Ask yourself:
Is this impacting daily life?
Are we avoiding activities because of it?
Does it happen consistently?
If yes, it may be worth exploring further with an occupational therapist.
The goal isn’t to eliminate sensory challenges—it’s to support your child’s nervous system.
Jumping, swinging, spinning.
Animal walks or obstacle courses.
Helps regulate energy and attention
Bear hugs.
Pushing/pulling heavy objects.
Weighted blankets or compression swings.
Helps calm an overwhelmed system
Before school.
After school.
Before homework.
Prevents overload instead of reacting to it.
Sunlight.
Barefoot time.
Nature walks.
One of the most powerful (and free!) sensory tools.
Dim lights.
Turn off background noise.
Create a quiet space.
Chewing gum.
Crunchy snacks.
Drinking cold water.
Supports regulation and focus.
Not every strategy works for every child. Try different tools and observe what helps.
Short answer: not exactly. But with the right support, children:
Learn coping strategies.
Build regulation skills.
Become more confident in their bodies.
As OTs often say:Children don’t grow out of it—they grow into it.
Consider reaching out to an occupational therapist if:
Sensory challenges interfere with daily routines.
Meltdowns are frequent or intense.
Your child avoids typical activities.
Early support can make a significant difference.
Sensory challenges can feel overwhelming—but understanding them is the first step toward meaningful change.
Remember:
Your child isn’t “too sensitive” or “too wild.”
Their nervous system is doing its best.
Small, consistent changes can create big progress.
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.
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