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The holidays & new year can be a time of emotional highs and lows, so today, we're diving into the topic of young ones grappling with "big feelings" - whether neurodiverse or neurotypical!
We kick things off by emphasizing the importance of recognizing the subtle signs that precede emotional outbursts—because there's usually a whole lot brewing before the storm hits. With a blend of our real-life moments and professional insights, we'll share our experiences as moms and clinicians dealing with emotional rollercoasters, whether it’s a joyous moment or a meltdown. We'll also highlight the need for parents and professionals to adopt a curious mindset, spotting those precursor behaviours, and using practical strategies to help kiddos navigate their emotions. If you’re a parent or working with young ones, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable tips to better support those wild emotional waves!
Timestamps:
(01:31) - Welcome
(04:39) - Inspiration For This Episode: Biting At Home
(11:43) - In The Moment Teaching
(23:38) - Strategies For Emotion Regulation
(34:45) - Understanding Big Feelings In Neurodivergent Learners
(57:22) - Coaching Strategies for Older Kids
(01:03:57) - Book: The Fantastic Elastic Brain
Mentioned In This Episode:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Time for a guest we're so excited about. In this episode, we'll be sitting down with Meg Raby of Kulture City to discuss all things inclusivity!
Meg Raby is an autistic female, pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) and neurodivergent advocate, writer of the children's book series "My Brother Otto", and a regular contributor to "Scary Mommy". She writes about life, love, family dynamics and hustling for an inclusive world for other neurodivergent children and adults while working full-time for global leading nonprofit, KultureCity, alongside an unstoppable, diverse team of like-minded individuals.
KultureCity is all about making sure that every individual, no matter their sensory needs, feels like they belong, and Meg is leading the charge with her work there. Throughout our conversation, we discuss ground-breaking initiatives at KultureCity, Meg’s background and work as an author, and much more! Meg's insights aren't just heartwarming but also packed with practical tips for parents and communities. So, if you’re looking to shift from just awareness to real inclusion & acceptance, grab a comfy seat and tune in, because this chat is gonna spark some serious joy!
Timestamps:
(01:36) - Welcome & Life Updates
(02:16) - Today's Topic
(05:21) - Introduction To Meg
(06:43) - Meet Meg
(17:41) - The Mission of KultureCity
(27:38) - Setting The Table Of Hospitality
(36:03) - KultureCity App w/ Koji
(43:45) - KultureCity's Newest Exciting Project
(56:44) - Understanding Inclusion and Awareness
(01:08:30) - Barriers to Inclusion
Mentioned In This Episode:
Meg's Socials:
KultureCity Socials:
Meg’s children’s books:
Meg shared about her ASD diagnosis and the link with Ehlers-Danlos, for more information see: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/
KultureCity
KultureCity app with Koji - includes venues with sensory materials, social stories, and Koji AI AAC app
KultureCity’s Make The Nevers Possible ® Experience Program
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Mentioned in this episode:
CTA - Brit - Show Idea
For our next episode, we get into the nitty-gritty of so-called “bad” behaviour in neurodiverse kids, emphasizing that there are no bad kids—just unmet needs.
We'll break down how to identify and tackle these behaviours both at home and in clinical settings, offering practical tips for parents and professionals alike. With a mix of personal anecdotes and clinical insights, we'll highlight the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind a child's actions rather than simply labelling them as “bad.” Whether it's figuring out how to manage hitting between siblings or navigating the complexities of communication, we've got you covered with strategies that promote empathy and effective intervention. So grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to turn those challenging moments into opportunities for growth!
Timestamps:
(01:10) - Welcome
(06:50) - Unmet Needs Behind Actions
(19:53) - Friman: No Such Thing As A "Bad" Boy
(33:38) - The Importance of Skill Building and Reinforcement
(46:19) - Balancing Feedback for Neurodiverse Children
(52:00) - Tips When Dealing With "Bad" Behaviour
(01:03:51) - Creating Predictability for Children
Mentioned In This Episode:
Articles:
Blogs:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Today, we're talking all about communication! Get ready to dive into what really counts as communication, especially for our neurodiverse kiddos.
In this episode, we'll share our experiences as both clinicians and mothers, breaking down the myth that if a child isn’t talking, they aren't communicating. From pointing and tantrums to those adorable first sounds, we'll explore how every little expression matters and how we can support our little ones in their unique communication journeys. Plus, we'll sprinkle in some personal stories that make it all feel relatable and real. So settle in, and let's prepare to unpack the beautiful messiness of communication together!
Timestamps:
(01:32) - Welcome
(04:30) - Introduction To Early Communication
(09:05) - One Of The Biggest Myths
(14:10) - Function & Form
(21:25) - Milestones In Communication
(35:24) - Communication In The SLP/BA Fields
(45:43) - The Importance of Connection in Communication
(50:43) - Myth Busted: "All Behaviour Is Communication"
Articles Mentioned In This Episode:
Resources For Parents:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Mentioned in this episode:
CTA - Brit - Show Idea
Join us as we chat with Jamie McCleary, the Executive Director of Autism Canada. Throughout this episode, she shares insights on her personal journey as both an autistic professional and a mom to a neurodiverse family while also shedding light on the amazing resources offered by Autism Canada for families & autistic individuals across Canada.
She kicks things off by diving into the challenges of navigating corporate environments while being true to herself. We chat about masking, how it impacts daily life, early/late diagnoses, and the resources Autism Canada offers to support individuals and families across Canada. Jamie’s insights are authentic & valuable, especially for anyone trying to figure out the complexities of autism—whether you’re a parent, a professional, or just someone curious about the experience. So, grab a comfy seat and get ready for a heartwarming and eye-opening conversation with Jamie McCleary. This conversation reminds us that representation isn’t optional — it’s essential.
Timestamps:
(01:28) - Welcome
(02:15) - Understanding Masking in Neurodiversity & Autism
(15:24) - Late Diagnoses
(22:56) - Navigating Parenting with Neurodivergent Children
(36:01) - Autism Canada Resources for Families
(44:56) - Community Assistance Program
(59:10) - Living In a World Not Designed For The Neurodiverse
Autism Canada Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Today, we're jumping into the world of play and its crucial role in helping both neurodiverse and neurotypical kids learn & thrive. We'll kick off by emphasizing that play isn’t just a fun pastime; it’s a powerful tool for learning, behaviour development, emotional regulation and communication.
Throughout our chat, you’ll hear some real talk about the difference between child-led and adult-directed play, and why following a kiddo's lead can unlock their potential in ways structured activities just can’t. Using our experiences as mothers and clinicians, we'll share practical tips and strategies that make playtime a learning opportunity, packed with joy and connection.
By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered to create playful learning opportunities that will make a lasting impact on your children’s development. So, grab your favorite toy, and let’s get into how we can turn play into a bridge for communication!
Timestamps:
(01:25) - Welcome
(01:59) - Episode Learning Objectives
(05:05) - Have Fun & Be Silly
(06:09) - "Play is anything that sparks joy"
(18:30) - Identifying Joyful Moments
(26:30) - Understanding Adult Directed vs Child Led Play
(36:57) - Understanding Social Reciprocity in Communication
(44:20) - Understanding Verbal Behaviour Development Theory
(50:34) - The Importance of Context in Learning
(59:33) - Special Guests!
Articles Mentioned In This Episode:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Time for a super important topic: Spotting those early signs of autism in kiddos! If you've been feeling something's a bit different with your little one or maybe a friend or teacher has raised some questions, you're definitely not alone and this is the episode for you!
We'll share our insights as clinicians in the field, giving you the lowdown on what to watch for, how to approach it, and how to trust your gut without jumping to conclusions. Plus, we'll provide you with practical tips and resources to help navigate this journey together. So, whether you're a parent or a professional, tune in for some great advice on recognizing those early signs and fostering connection and communication with your child.
Timestamps:
(01:25) - Welcome & Introduction
(13:05) - Understanding Autism: Communication and Interaction
(21:35) - Understanding Sensory Differences in Children
(31:28) - Looking At Earliest Months Of Life
(33:36) - Understanding Parental Gut Feelings
(35:05) - Where To Start & First Steps To Take
(37:00) - Things to Try At Home
(39:34) - Visual Support Strategies
(40:39) - Setting Up Predictable Routines
(41:25) - Our Closing Message
Mentioned In This Episode:
Kennedy Krieger Institute, Early Signs of Autism Video
Articles:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Mentioned in this episode:
CTA - Brit - Show Idea
Join us as we sit down with the incredible Mercedes Palermo, the founder behind Autism Out Loud. As a registered nurse and dedicated mom to her autistic daughter, Mercedes shares her inspiring journey toward creating a platform that champions inclusivity & awareness for neurodiverse individuals across the globe.
We dive deep into her personal experiences—navigating the joys and challenges of parenting an autistic child, the common misconceptions about autism, and the crucial importance of early diagnosis and acceptance. With a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of heart, Mercedes emphasizes how vital it is for society to shift its perspective on autism from one of stigma to one of understanding and celebration. So, grab your headphones and get ready for a conversation that’s not just enlightening but also a reminder of the beauty in neurodiversity!
Timestamps:
(01:34) - Welcome
(11:10) - Autism: The Unique Experience of Autistic Girls
(18:18) - Autism Diagnosis and Acceptance
(21:55) - Navigating Early Signs of Autism
(29:45) - Challenges of Autism
(39:36) - Empowering Perspectives on Autism and Motherhood
(43:48) - Unique Experiences in Parenting
Mentioned In This Episode:
Articles:
Book Recommendations For Kids:
Book Recommendations For Adults:
Autistic Voices To Follow On Socials:
Follow Autism Out Loud:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Transitioning from one task to another can feel like climbing Mount Everest for our young kiddos, whether neurodiverse or neurotypical. In this episode, we'll dive into the core of why these transitions can be such a tough nut to crack and share some real-life strategies that both parents and professionals can use to smooth out those bumps along the road.
Transitioning isn't just about changing gears; it's a whole mental gymnastics routine! In this episode, we'll discuss the various systems at play, from executive functioning to emotional regulation, highlighting that asking kids to shift their focus is a big ask, especially when they’re leaving something they love, like their favorite toy or an exciting game. We'll talk about how both parents and professionals can step in to ease these transitions with real-life strategies that are both practical and, dare we say, fun! We'll also sprinkle in some personal anecdotes and a few laughs, because hey, we’re all in this together, right? So, if you're looking to make those tricky transitions a little easier for your kiddos, you’re in the right place because this episode is all about success, not stress.
Timestamps:
(01:24) - Welcome
(03:43) - Understanding Why Transitions Can Be So Hard
(06:54) - Rich vs. Lean Conditions
(13:35) - It's Not That They're Stubborn or "Bad"
(23:34) - "Three Term Contingency"
(28:00) - Our Go-To Transition Strategies
(35:25) - Tip: Shifting The Focus To What's Next
(41:05) - Tip: Get In Early With Reinforcement
(46:43) - Tailoring Strategies To Your Child
(47:41) - Tip: Staying Connected & Calm
(51:33) - Practicing Strategies In Different Contexts
(55:22) - Get Into Your Kiddos Mindset
Mentioned In This Episode:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
Mentioned in this episode:
CTA - Brit - Show Idea
Visual supports can be the key to understanding in young learning minds, whether neurodiverse or not, and that’s our topic for today! So, whether you're a parent, teacher, or clinician, this episode is sure to leave you with fresh ideas to help your children thrive.
We'll dive deep into how these tools—like visual schedules, comic strips, and beyond—can help kids learn and communicate needs effectively by making expectations clear and reducing anxiety. We'll share personal tips and tricks we've used in the clinic and at home, tackling everything from first-then boards to social stories. We'll also discuss common pitfalls and how to make these strategies work while also highlighting that visual supports are not a "one-size-fits-all" solution, but rather, they should be tailored to fit your unique kiddo's needs, preferences, and understanding. So, if you’re looking to amp up your teaching game with visuals, stick around for some great advice and a few laughs along the way!
Timestamps:
(01:24) - Welcome
(08:12) - Episode Overview
(09:42) - "First-Then" Boards in Behavioural Support
(20:13) - Common Implementation Errors
(37:44) - Transitioning with Visual Schedules
(39:11) - When Visual Schedules Don't Work
(46:55) - Social Stories
(53:07) - Visuals For Executive Functioning & Self Regulation
(01:01:42) - Comic Strip Conversations
(01:08:12) - Video Modeling as a Strategy
(01:17:35) - Visuals for Goal Setting and Progress Tracking
(01:26:17) - Stop, Think, Do
(01:30:00) - Reinforcement & Reward Strategies
(01:36:46) - Closing Tips For Therapy Sessions Or The Home
Materials We Love and Use:
Articles Mentioned In This Episode:
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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.
Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.
Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:
Follow us:
Contact:
Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at [email protected]
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