Episode Summary:

In part 2 of this episode, we continue our conversation with Nikki Zimmerman, a passionate advocate and mother to Erik, a child with high support needs due to profound autism. Nikki opens up about her relentless efforts to challenge systems that often exclude and underestimate children like Erik. From addressing her local school board to organizing the 1st Annual Autism Event in her community, Nikki shares her journey of advocacy, hope, and the reality of navigating a world not built for her son.

Liz and Nikki dive into critical topics, including:

• The importance of creating inclusive education systems that meet every child’s needs.

• What true inclusion means: fostering empathy, understanding, and belonging for all.

• Overcoming systemic barriers, like lack of training and accessibility in special education.

• The complexities of parenting a child with profound autism, including balancing advocacy with self-care.

• The divide within the autism community and how parents and self-advocates can learn from each other.

• The success of the 1st Annual Autism Event and its impact on our community.