By Brian Keene
5
22 ratings
The podcast currently has 37 episodes available.
Guest:
Mitch Leppicello, LICSW, is a seasoned mental health professional with over 30 years of experience supporting autistic children and their families. Mitch is a Certified Autism Specialist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University in New York.
Website: https://eastmetrofamilycounseling.com/
Social Media: ASD Parenting Journey
About this Episode:
Raising a child with autism comes with unique joys and challenges. One of the biggest hurdles parents face is understanding and supporting their child's mental health. In this episode, we're joined by Mitch Leppicello, a social worker and certified autism specialist, who shares his CALM Compass program—a practical guide to help you connect, communicate, and empower your neurodivergent child.
Bullet Point Recap:
The CALM Compass: Discover the four directions of this innovative program: Connect, Articulate, Lift, and Move. Each direction offers practical strategies to address common mental health challenges in children with autism.
Connect: Learn how to strengthen your relationship with your child and use it as a foundation for support during emotional and behavioral challenges.
Articulate: Understand the importance of clear communication and how to effectively help your child express their feelings and needs.
Lift: Gain insights into how to inspire and motivate your child when feeling down, discouraged, or overwhelmed.
Move: Explore the power of movement and sensory activities in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.
Real-Life Examples: Mitch shares relatable examples and scenarios to illustrate how to apply the CALM Compass strategies in everyday situations.
Call to Action:
Ready to find your way through the mental health maze? Visit ASD Parenting Journey to learn more about Mitch Leppicello and his CALM Compass program. And don't forget to subscribe to The Autism Family Resource Podcast for more valuable resources and support on your parenting journey.
Mitch Leppicello Resources:
ASD Parenting Journey, East Metro Family Counseling
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In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keen welcomes back Lenora Edwards, head speaker and chief knowledge officer at Better Speech, to discuss the lingering effects of the lockdown on children's social and emotional regulation skills. Lenora shares her expertise in speech pathology and offers valuable strategies to help children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, improve their communication skills and navigate social situations effectively.
Guest:
Lenora Edwards is a distinguished Speech Language Pathologist at BetterSpeech.com—a nationwide online platform dedicated to providing top-notch speech therapy services. BetterSpeech.com offers free consultations to help determine how they can assist you or your loved one. They provide flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate your schedule. With a range of pricing options to fit different needs and itemized bills for insurance reimbursement, BetterSpeech.com ensures accessible and affordable speech therapy for all.
Main Topics Discussed:
The long-term impact of the lockdown on children's social and emotional skills.
The role of Better Speech in providing accessible therapy.
Strategies for helping children develop social and communication skills.
The importance of exposure to social interactions for language development.
Techniques for parents to support their children’s social skills at home.
The significance of modeling and practicing social interactions.
Bullet Point Recap:
Introduction: Brian Keen reintroduces Lenora Edwards and highlights the ongoing effects of the lockdown on children's social skills.
Guest Introduction: Lenora Edwards discusses her background and the mission of Better Speech, an online platform offering speech therapy.
Impact of Lockdown: Children missed out on vital social interactions and language exposure due to isolation during the lockdown.
Language Development Delays: The lockdown led to significant delays in children's language development, making it harder for them to understand and interpret social cues.
Real-life Examples: Lenora shares instances where children struggle with social interactions due to a lack of practice.
Strategies for Parents: Techniques for helping children develop social skills, such as brainstorming solutions and modeling appropriate behaviors.
Role of Therapy: The importance of professional support in addressing social and communication challenges.
Encouraging Communication: Tips for parents to create opportunities for social interactions and practice at home.
Final Thoughts: Trusting parental instincts and seeking professional help when needed.
BetterSpeech Resources:
Website: https://www.betterspeech.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourbetterspeech/
lnstagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterspeech/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-speech/mycompany/
You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BetterSpeechVideo
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In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene engages in a heartfelt conversation with Lynn and Jonathan Greenberg, a mother-son duo, about their personal journey with dyslexia. Jonathan, a college student born with dyslexia, shares the challenges he faced and how he discovered a deep love for writing, reading, and drawing with the support of his mother. Together, they turned obstacles into opportunities, creating the children's book "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi." The book celebrates determination, creativity, and the power of collaboration.
Guests: Joining us today are Jonathan Greenberg, Author, and Illustrator, born with dyslexia, who found a creative outlet through art and storytelling, and Lynn Greenberg, Author, retired attorney, and devoted mother. Together, they collaborated on "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi And The Airport Adventure," addressing dyslexia and advocating for neurodiversity. Their story highlights resilience and creativity in navigating learning challenges.
Bullet Point Recap: • Personal journey with dyslexia, challenges faced, and the creation of "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi." • Jonathan's positive perspective on dyslexia as a superpower. • The importance of parental support and trusting instincts. • Description of the book's storyline and characters. • The role of the Creative Cab Company in fostering a supportive community. • Plans for a series exploring different learning differences.
Creative Cab Company: www.creativecabcompany.com
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In this taboo-busting episode, Brian Keene welcomes Cindi Seifert, a devoted mother and the founder of Preventa Wear to share her journey raising her daughter Kyla, a 25-year-old with autism and epilepsy. The taboo topic of diaper digging, a behavior many parents face in silence, takes center stage as Cindi opens up about the challenges she encountered and the innovative solution she crafted to empower families worldwide.
Guest:
Cindi Seifert, a compassionate mother and the visionary founder of Preventa Wear, LLC, unfolds her remarkable journey as a caregiver and entrepreneur. Her commitment to addressing the challenges of incontinence and providing specialized clothing solutions has transformed Preventa Wear into a global phenomenon.
Bullet Point Recap:
Origins of Preventa Wear: Cindi shares the genesis of Preventa Wear, born out of the daily struggles with Kyla's diaper digging behavior and the need for a supportive solution.
The Preventa Wear Collection: A diverse range of sensory-friendly, fashionable, and functional outfits, including adult-sized onesies, wheelchair pads, and stylish apparel for individuals with various neurological disorders.
Breaking the Silence: Cindi's openness about the taboo topic of diaper digging aims to shatter societal silence and connect with families facing similar challenges.
Global Impact: The Prevent Aware movement extends beyond autism, reaching families dealing with Alzheimer's, Down syndrome, and other neurological disorders worldwide.
Empowering Families: Cindi's mission goes beyond providing clothing; it's about offering support, understanding, and a sense of community to families navigating the often isolating journey of caregiving.
The Preventa Wear Website: Cindi directs listeners to the Preventa Wear website, where families can explore the range of products, find resources, and connect with a community that understands their unique experiences
Prevent Aware Resources:
https://preventawear.com/
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Synopsis: In this episode, Brian Keene welcomes Manisha Snoyer, a teacher, tech entrepreneur, and host of the "Teach Your Kids" podcast. They discuss alternatives to the traditional education system, focusing on homeschooling as a customizable and flexible solution for families, especially those with special needs.
Guest: Manisha Snoyer is a renowned educator, speaker, and innovator in the field of personalized learning and childhood education. With over a decade of experience, she has worked passionately to bridge the gap between traditional education systems and individualized learning methodologies. Manisha's expertise extends to the intersection of technology and education, as she leverages digital tools to enhance learning experiences.
Bullet Point Recap:
Manisha Snoyer's 20 years of teaching experience and recognition of issues in the education system.
Cottage Class as a tech platform supporting teachers in starting micro-schools and aiding homeschooling families.
Diverse and modern landscape of homeschooling, addressing challenges faced by families with special needs.
Examples of customized curriculum recommendations based on a child's preferences and needs.
Cottage Class as a marketplace connecting families with tutors and providing training in child-centered communication.
Overview of Arizona's innovative Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and their impact on homeschooling.
Steps for families interested in homeschooling, including visiting the "Teach Your Kids" website.
Emphasis on affordability and support for all families interested in joining the homeschooling community.
Encouragement for families to explore homeschooling and seek help from available communities and specialists.
Resources:
Teach Your Kids Homeschooling Community Resources:
https://teachyourkids.substack.com/
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Synopsis:
In this episode of the Autism Family Resource podcast, host Brian Keene interviews Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum, who created the innovative safety product ScanMeHome.com. Justin shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind his product, and practical tips for enhancing child safety in the community.
Guest:
Meet Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum and founder, director, and CEO of ScanMeHome.com, a QR code solution for child safety.
Main Topics Discussed:
Recap:
Resources:
https://scanmehome.com/ https://www.facebook.com/scanmehomenow VIPMEMBER is your discount code. This gives people half off for life, including their sign-up and monthly.
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Communication Devises Part 3: AAC Device Best Practices
Synopsis:
On today’s episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists. Lydia and Stacey delve into the significance of communication, the joy of language development, and the transformative power of AAC in the lives of individuals with communication difficulties. This episode, part three of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
Bullet Point Recap:
For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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Synopsis: On today’s episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists, about the process of obtaining Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices in Arizona. This episode, part two of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
Recap:
For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, speech-language pathologists from the Phenix area, to delve into the world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They discuss the importance of communication, language acquisition, and the various communication options, such as AAC devices. This is the first part of a three-part series to provide valuable insights and guidance for parents of non-speaking or special needs children.
Guests:
Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.
Main Topics Discussed:
Key Takeaways:
For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:
https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication
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Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource
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Guest
Karen Thomas is a mom and the author of "Naturally Healing Autism: The Complete Step-by-Step Resource Handbook for Parents.” She is passionate about spreading the possibility of drug-free recovery and is set to help parents whose children are on the autism spectrum get natural recovery. This passion was born out of her personal experience. She went through a long research process to get help for her son, who now lives without autistic symptoms.
Topics Discussed
Karen shares how her experience as a Cranial Sacral Therapist helped her to ignore the traditional treatment advice for Autism she got and sought to find a lasting treatment for her son.
When my son was diagnosed with Autism, now 17 years ago, I was told to drug him and try behavioral therapies but I didn't want to do that because I wanted to find out what the causes were, not just mask symptoms, especially with dangerous drugs. My background is that I have been a Cranial Sacral Therapist for over 20 years, which means I work on the bones of the head to balance the brain, and I have extensive courses and research on the brain. So I knew when my son was diagnosed that the brain can and does heal, but I didn't know that much about autism, so I began, like most parents on the journey, seeking various therapists and practitioners and people.
Some challenging experiences
He had extreme oppositional defiance, extreme OCD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trouble sleeping, would wake up screaming from stomach ache at 3 am, and constant headaches. I mean, everything was just pointing to these issues of health and behaviors. I knew that the behaviors had a lot to do with health, so I started to work with them, and today you wouldn't even imagine he could ever act in that aggressive way that he used to or have the irritability that he used to because today, he is so calm and easy going and kind and relaxed.
Karen shares how she overcame gut inflammatory problems by curating a proper diet plan for her son.
The gut controls the brain and controls the immune system. So if your child is always sick, it leads to a gut issue, which is why we need to start from the gut. We also need to start with detoxification support and pathway because even the dietary changes alone are going to start killing off the bad bacteria, and there is a work term that's called “die of” When these bad bacteria die off, they start to release more toxins, so you can see an increase in worsened behaviors of your child and this is happening. You have to support the detoxification pathway better with binders and mutational support.
The starting point of a detoxification process and Keren's experience with her son.
My food guide is the best resource to start looking at, and it explains why you want to remove these specific foods and the purpose behind them. When we have more education, we tend to take more responsibility, and knowledge helps us know why we want to continue pursuing it because it can be challenging… So for my son, I noticed that he started sleeping better and that was good because there were so many ups and downs that I didn't know then, that I do now, that I can lead parents now correctly through.
Karen talks about diet change and creating substitutes for autistic children.
I think if you switch to organic foods, that will help a lot even if in the beginning, you are getting an organic chicken nugget and it still has the gluten covering on it, things like that but at least, you are not getting the antibiotics and hormones and additional pesticides because our kids are already so toxic… So just start making some substitutions, it will be a process of trial and error to find the things that your child will eat and like.
Recap
● It is okay to refuse to accept the status quo when your child's health is concerned, no matter how long it will take, keep doing your research, and you will eventually get a break.
● Every child's level of recovery is different and the definition is to regain health.
● There are 4 stages of detoxification: Dietary changes, Heavy metal detox, clearing co-infections, and finding supplements. These stages have to be followed in the correct order for effective results.
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Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy
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Connect with Karen
NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com
NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/7foods
Facebook.com/NaturallyRecoveringAutism
Instagram.com/recoveringautism (@recoveringautism)
The podcast currently has 37 episodes available.