About this episode

This episode discusses how the therapy environment can impact a child's nervous system and offers practical ideas for creating a calmer, more regulation-friendly space.

Here's a hot take: sometimes the most dysregulating part of occupational therapy is the clinic itself. In this episode, we take a closer look at how the therapy environment can impact a child's nervous system and why the space around us is just as important as the intervention itself. From fluorescent lighting and visual clutter to noisy waiting rooms, strong fragrances, and harsh cleaning products, we discuss simple ways to create a calmer, more regulation-friendly environment for both kids and therapists. We also share practical ideas for reducing sensory overload, organizing therapy spaces with intention, making thoughtful product swaps, and creating an environment that helps children feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn. Whether you're an OT, PT, SLP, educator, or clinic owner, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the spaces where we support children every day. Thanks for listening 🩷 We'd love to hear from you! What's one small change you've made, or want to make, to create a calmer therapy environment? 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…

People in this episode

Host: Rachel Harrington

Topics covered

• therapy environment
• occupational therapy
• sensory overload
• children's nervous system
• calmer spaces
• therapy space organization

Keywords

• therapy space
• occupational therapy
• sensory overload
• children
• environment
• calm
• regulation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Harkla

Products: Force of Nature Cleaning Products

More episodes of All Things Sensory by Harkla

• #420 - Quick Update for our ATS Family! · August 14, 2026 · 5 min
• #419 - Research Papers Every OT Should Read in 2026 · August 5, 2026 · 23 min
• #418 - The School OT Guide to IEPs, 504s & Classroom Support · July 22, 2026 · 25 min
• #417 - Fear Paralysis Reflex: Signs Every Pediatric Therapist Should Know · July 15, 2026 · 19 min
• #415 - The Real Cost of Screens in Classrooms · July 1, 2026 · 24 min
• #414 - How to Write Primitive Reflex Goals That Actually Get Approved · June 24, 2026 · 14 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the All Things Sensory by Harkla podcast page.