Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

By Elyse Scheeler MS CCC-SLP, Special Needs & Homeschool Strategy Coach, AdvocateReligion & SpiritualityChristianityEducationSelf-ImprovementParentingKids & Family
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Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities episodes

  • 37 God First, Spouse Second, Then Kids: The Biblical Order of Personal Rhythms (with Spark Coach Aubree Felderhoff)

    Do you know taking care of yourself is important but find yourself the first one to neglect it?

    What if you could create personal rhythms that align with your God-given mission instead of just adding more to your to-do list?

    Are you exhausted from parenting kids with additional needs and feeling like you have nothing left to pour into your marriage?

    In this conversation, I had so much fun sitting down with my personal coach Aubree Felderhoff to discuss creating personal rhythms for yourself and marriage. This is Part 4 of the Mission-Plan-Rhythms series, completing the framework for moving from survival mode to thriving.

    I'm being really vulnerable in this episode because while I can create beautiful rhythms for my family, in that past, I've been the first one to neglect taking care of myself and my marriage. Aubree walks me (and you!) through practical strategies for building rhythms that align with your mission, strengthening your marriage, and preventing burnout. From the "brain dump" strategy to weekly marriage meetings, this episode is packed with actionable tools for exhausted moms.

    Connect with Aubree:

    • Podcast: Mom Intentional
    • Website: www.momintentional.com


    Take Action:

    1. Do a brain dump - Write down everything you need to do this week
    2. Identify your mission - What is God calling you to as a mother?
    3. Start with God - Establish one rhythm for connecting with Him
    4. Schedule a marriage meeting - Pick a weekly time and protect it
    5. Create a shared list with your spouse - Add items throughout the week
    6. Ask yourself: What would make my life more breathable if I fixed it first?
    7. Get support - Consider coaching, connect with your pastor, or join community


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    33 min
  • 36 Why Rigid Schedules Are Failing Your Special Needs Family (The Simple Rhythm Strategy for ADHD, Autism, and Exhausted Moms)

    Are you exhausted from trying to keep up with rigid schedules that fall apart the moment life doesn't cooperate?

    What if your ADHD or autistic child could have the predictability they need WITHOUT the stress of time-blocked schedules?

    Have you ever had a day so hard you just wanted to quit - but somehow you made it through smoothly? What if you could create THAT feeling on purpose?

    After saying goodbye to our beloved dog, I woke up ready to give up on the day - but rhythms carried our family through peacefully. Learn the crucial difference between rigid schedules and flexible rhythms, why all kids thrive with rhythms, and practical examples for both homeschool AND traditional school families.

    This completes the trilogy:

    • Mission = WHY you do this
    • R.E.S.T. Framework = WHAT to do on hard days
    • Rhythms = HOW to make it all sustainable


    Resources Mentioned:

    • Previous Episode: How To Use Visuals in Your Home Episode 26
    • Previous Episode: Why You Need A Mission Statement Episode 34
    • Previous Episode: R.E.S.T. Framework Episode 35


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    24 min
  • 35 Stop White-Knuckling Motherhood: The Exhausted Special Needs Mom's Plan for Hard Days (Without Adding Another Thing to Your List)

    Have you ever had a day where you're just barely getting by - trying not to fall apart while every little thing your kids say feels like nails on a chalkboard?

    What if you could have a simple plan for those hard days that's easy enough to remember even when your brain is foggy, but practical enough that it actually works?

    Are you tired of white-knuckling your way to bedtime and wondering why you can't just handle the "smaller" struggles better?

    In this episode, I share my own recent struggle with a hard day and walk you through the R.E.S.T. Framework - a simple acronym to help you move from survival mode to actually making it through without regrets.

    You'll learn how to recognize your warning signs before you break, why routine actually helps when you're falling apart, practical tools to calm your nervous system in minutes, and how to release the guilt around needing rest and respite. This episode is for every mama who's tired of just surviving and ready to have a plan for her hardest days.


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    17 min
  • 34 Why You Need a Mission Statement: Moving from Exhausted to Empowered in Motherhood

    Are you constantly overwhelmed by decisions and drowning in the chaos of special needs motherhood? What if one simple tool could help you find clarity and purpose on even your hardest days? Could having a mission statement be the anchor you've been searching for?

    In this episode, I'm getting vulnerable about my journey from infertility and miscarriage to discovering my God-given mission as a mom. I share how that moment of surrender in the shower changed everything and how advocating for my son's dismissed difficulties led me to the work I do today. More importantly, I'm walking you through the exact five steps to create YOUR own mission statement—one that will filter your decisions, give you grace on hard days, and help you move from survival mode to purposeful living.

    Five Steps to Create Your Mission Statement:

    1. Pray and ask God for clarity about what He's calling you to in this season
    2. Identify your 3-5 core values as a mom
    3. Think about your unique calling and what you're passionate about
    4. Consider what your family needs from you right now
    5. Write your 1-3 sentence mission statement that's clear, specific, and meaningful


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    15 min
  • 33 God Cares About Your Nutrition: Why Energy Starts with Faith-Filled Self-Care
    • Are you running on empty, trying to care for everyone else while your own tank is bone dry? 
    • Do you feel like you know what Scripture says but can't seem to make it move from your head to your heart? 
    • What if the answer to having more energy for your kids isn't another therapy to add to the schedule—but actually learning to nourish and rest your own body first?

    In this episode, Bethany Thomson, a registered dietitian, certified Christian life coach, and soul care practitioner, shares her powerful journey from complete burnout to restored wholeness. Through walking her own stormy seasons of caregiving, trauma healing, and physical depletion, Bethany discovered that true sustainable health requires addressing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—all from a foundation of rest, not hustle.

    Connect with Bethany:

    • Website: ingrainedliving.com
    • Instagram: @ingrainedliving
    • Facebook: Ingrained Living
    • Podcast: Nourishing Her Midlife Rest: Body and Soul* Bethany has updated her podcast title since we recorded the episode this summer. 

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Bethany's list of quality multivitamins (available on her website)
    • Her "Planting Trio" approach: three intentional daily actions for sustainable momentum
    • Immune calming program based on food sensitivities testing
    • Group coaching on "Rooting Ourselves in Rhythms of Grace"


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    33 min
  • 32 How to Talk to your Child When You Experience Unexpected Loss: How to Heal, Fight Back, and Speak Life in the Wake of the Charlie Kirk Assassination
    • Are you struggling to understand why you're grieving so deeply for someone you've never met personally?
    • Do you feel angry that you have to explain violence and tragedy to your children when they should be innocent?
    • Are you wondering how to help your family process unexpected loss while maintaining their sense of safety and faith?


    Episode Overview

    In this raw episode, I address the profound impact of Charlie Kirk's tragic death on our Christian community and share practical guidance for supporting yourself and your children through unexpected tragedy. I explore the concept of "symbolic loss" and offer faith-based strategies for processing grief while maintaining hope. I share specific approaches for children of different ages and developmental needs, emphasizing the importance of allowing various forms of emotional expression - including my own raw experience of having to explain to my 5-year-old why mommy and daddy were crying.


    Scripture References:

    • Exodus 14 - Moses encourages the Israelites not to fear
    • Galatians 6:9 - "Let us not become weary in doing good..."
    • 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 - Paul's words about being hard pressed but not crushed

    Practical Tools:

    • Drawing supplies, playdough, blocks for non-verbal emotional expression
    • Visual supports for children on the autism spectrum
    • Progressive muscle relaxation techniques for children with ADHD
    • Routine maintenance strategies during crisis

    Professional Note: If you or your family are experiencing depression or other significant psychological needs, please seek professional clinical support.



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    17 min
  • 31// Homeschooling with Special Needs - How This Mom Cracked the Code for Severe Learning Struggles

    Are you exhausted from feeling like your special needs child is stuck in perpetual elementary school because they don't read, write, speak, or do math?

     Do you wonder if God has abandoned you when your child faces constant rejection and you're drowning in decision paralysis about what they really need? 

    What if there was a Biblical foundation that could give you direction for homeschooling any child - regardless of their abilities or disabilities?

    In this deeply encouraging episode, I sit down with veteran homeschool mom Stephanie Buckwalter, who has over 20 years of experience homeschooling five children across the spectrum from gifted to moderate special needs. 

    After hitting rock bottom with her nonverbal daughter in sixth grade, Stephanie discovered a life-changing truth in Genesis 2 that transformed her approach to education and gave her hope for her daughter's future. She shares her innovative ELARP method of homeschooling and her journey through public school IEPs, alternative therapies, and ultimately finding breakthrough communication methods. 

    This conversation offers practical hope for exhausted moms who feel stuck between survival mode and actually helping their children thrive, especially those navigating autism, ADHD, and severe learning struggles.


    Connect with Stephanie Buckwalter:

    • Website: adaptedhomeed.com
    • Facebook: Adapted Home Education (search by name)


    Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    • Teaching A Child With Special Needs At Home and At School: Judith Munday
    • ELARP Method: Explore, Label, Apply, Reason, Produce - available as adapted unit studies



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    40 min
  • 30 Why Your Child's ADHD or Behavioral Symptoms Might Actually Be Unintegrated Reflexes (And What Exhausted Christian Moms Can Do)

    Are you exhausted from watching your child struggle in the classroom while feeling like you're missing something important? 

    Do you suspect your child needs support but don't know where to start or feel overwhelmed by the options? 

    What if the key to helping your wiggly, unfocused child isn't another diagnosis, but addressing foundational reflexes that never properly integrated?

    In this episode, I sit down with Tiffany Parsons, a practicing occupational therapist, pastor's wife, and twin mom who is revolutionizing how families access therapeutic support in non-traditional settings. Tiffany shares her journey from outpatient pediatric OT to teaching at a micro school, revealing how primitive reflexes, core stability, and simple sensory strategies can transform a child's ability to learn and thrive. This conversation is packed with practical hope for exhausted moms who feel stuck between knowing their child needs help and not knowing where to find it - especially for families navigating ADHD, autism, and other neurodiversity challenges.


    Connect with Tiffany Parsons:

    • Facebook: The Homeschool OT, Tiffany Parsons
    • Website: www.agapeloveot.com

    Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    • Harkla - Online courses for primitive reflex integration (for both therapists and parents/teachers)
    • Sarah Collins - The other Homeschool OT who offers worldwide parent coaching
    • HOPE Scholarship - West Virginia funding for homeschool families to access approved therapeutic services
    • Previous Episode On Using Visuals: 26 Overwhelmed & Over Stimulated By Summer Meltdowns? This Hack Can Save your Summer Routine As A Special Needs Family


    Key Takeaways:

    • Primitive reflexes and reflex integration as foundational to learning challenges
    • The importance of core stability before addressing fine motor skills
    • Simple sensory strategies for regulation in classroom and home settings
    • Visual schedules and environmental modifications for better transitions
    • The eight senses (not just five) and their role in learning


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    29 min
  • 29 Does My Child Have Special Needs? How to Navigate Diagnoses, Disabilities, and Discouragement as a Concerned Christian Mom

    Is that nagging feeling in your heart telling you something about your child's development? In this first episode of our Back to School series, we're diving deep into the question every concerned parent faces: "Does my child have special needs?"

    Join me as we explore the wide spectrum of what "special needs" really means - from food allergies and ADHD to sensory processing and behavioral challenges. You'll discover why many parents initially say their child doesn't have special needs, then list countless struggles they're navigating daily including medication management, behavior plans, and daily meltdowns.

    We'll cover early warning signs to watch for from birth through preschool years, why "wait and see" isn't always the best approach, and the important difference between school eligibility and your child's actual needs. I'll share practical questions to ask professionals and red flags to watch out for when seeking evaluations.

    Most importantly, you'll learn how to trust your God-given parental intuition and become your child's best advocate. We'll also discuss natural support strategies you can implement at home right now, including nutrition changes, toxin reduction, and sensory supports.


    Keywords: special needs, child development, early intervention, parental advocacy, ADHD, autism, sensory processing, IEP, special education, developmental delays, Christian parenting, back to school, whole family wellness

    Perfect for: Parents questioning their child's development, families navigating special needs evaluations, Christian mothers seeking support and biblical encouragement in their special needs journey, parents preparing for the school year.


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    17 min
  • 28 Biblical vs. Modern Medicine: The Exhausted Mom's Guide to Holistic Health Without Compromising Faith with the Christian Nutritionist Chelsea Blackbird
    • Are you exhausted from hitting dead ends with doctors who never ask about your diet, leaving you feeling like poor health is just "normal"?
    • Do you struggle to show up as your best self for your family because you're constantly tired, achy, or lacking confidence in your own skin?
    • What if God's design for healing was simpler and more accessible than you ever imagined - found right in the creation story?

    In this powerful conversation, Chelsea Blackbird, The Christian Nutritionist, shares her incredible journey from digestive issues and infertility to discovering God's blueprint for wellness in Genesis. After overcoming health problems doctors said were permanent and conceiving naturally through dietary changes, Chelsea now helps Christian women reach optimal health using biblical principles. She introduces us to the Genesis Prescription - a holistic approach that combines sunshine, grounding, real food, rest, and relationship to help moms feel well so they can serve well.

    Connect with Chelsea:

    • Website: thechristiannutritionist.com
    • Podcast: The Christian Health Club Podcast
    • Social Media: @thechristiannutritionist

    Resources Mentioned:

    • "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" book
    • Genesis Prescription Quick Start Guide (free download on Chelsea's website)
    • Naturopathic medicine approach
    • Amino acid therapy (mentioned connection with Laurie Hammer)
    • Morning sunshine and circadian rhythm support
    • Grounding/earthing practices
    • Schumann resonance and earth's natural frequency



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    32 min

About Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

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Are you a Christian mom exhausted from  navigating a tough season with your child? Are you worried your child is not developing normally,…