In this weeks episode, I take some time to answer one of your listener questions. Since I began talking about the challenges I’ve been facing as I help my son make the transition into his adult life, you folks have been asking me “How do I prepare my kids for adulthood and when should I start?”

This is such a good question and honestly, I had a tough time recording this episode because in doing so, I recognized some mistakes I’ve made as a parent. Those mistakes have made preparing my kids for adulthood, a bit more challenging. These realizations were a bitter pill to swallow for me but at the same time, I’m hoping you can learn from my mistakes. This turned into a great episode and I hope it helps. Please be sure to share this with the special needs parents in your life because we can all learn from my parenting mistakes. :-)

Please keep the questions coming. You can submit your listener questions here.

About Rob Gorski and the Special Needs Ohio podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, digital marketer, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.specialneedsohio.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Quiet Mind:

Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, an innovative tool for easing anxiety, stress, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder symptoms. This compact alternative to weighted blankets is created by Mikey Goldman, who himself deals with ADHD and anxiety. It's a portable companion, providing an instant calming effect. Unlike large weighted blankets, this soft, easy-to-move pillow won't make you too hot or claustrophobic. Using Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), it offers the benefits of weighted blankets in a smaller, portable format, ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. Consider it a stress ball for your body - hold it, hug it, and let your mind relax.

For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15%

In this week's episode, we dive deep into an enlightening conversation with Ray White, unraveling the intricacies of his journey as a father of a child with autism. We discuss the unique experiences and emotions that have shaped him, shedding light on the resilience, strength, and love required in his role. Our candid chat reveals the transformative lessons he's gleaned from his journey, which are sure to resonate with many. This insightful dialogue amplifies the often unheard perspectives of fathers. So tune in, because this conversation not only enriches our understanding but also emphasizes the pivotal role of fathers in advocating for autism awareness and acceptance.

About Ray:

Ray is a 42-year-old father of 3, living in Northeast Ohio. Ray is not only a devoted husband and dad but also an entrepreneur. Navigating the challenges and joys of parenthood, his unique journey includes raising his youngest son, Raymie, who is on the autism spectrum. Sharing this incredible journey with his supportive wife, Nikki White, well-known for her influential podcast 'Raising Raymie,' they form a formidable duo in their commitment to their family and autism advocacy.

About Rob Gorski and the Special Needs Ohio podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.specialneedsohio.com.

Social Cipher:

I'm really excited to share a great new video game we just played in my house, called Ava and it was created by a company called Social Cipher. Social Cipher’s mission is to represent and empower Neurodivergent youth by teaching self-advocacy skills and self-confidence through Social Emotional Learning. 

This amazing game follows Ava, an autistic space pirate, as she navigates her way through social challenges, self-doubt, and connecting with her community. Ava is helping kids in over 220 schools and therapy centers across 6 countries build the social-emotional skills they need to better navigate everyday life.! 

Social Cipher is excited to share that they have just released a brand new game mode, called World Builder. World Builder lets players design and create their own fantasy world while exploring the building blocks of social-emotional learning. It’s time to design a world with your own creative and adventurous spirit whether it's building a home, a pirate ship, or anything else you can dream up! 

Visit https://www.socialciphergame.com/ and use the code: theautismdad to get 15% off and start playing today!

Quiet Mind:

Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, a revolutionary solution for those seeking relief from anxiety, stress, and the symptoms of ADHD and sensory processing disorder, commonly associated with autism. The Original Weighted Pillow offers a huggable, compact and improved alternative to traditional weighted blankets.

Created by Mikey Goldman, who has long struggled with ADHD and anxiety, The Original Weighted Pillow is designed to act as a companion, especially for kids. It’s super easy to grab and go, so, it’s always there when you need a boost of calm. The Original Weighted Pillow provides a personal hug, acting as a tool to promote calmness whenever you need it. Unlike bulky weighted blankets, this ultra-soft pillow is easy to move, and won’t cause you to overheat or feel claustrophobic.

The Quiet Mind Pillow utilizes the science of Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), delivering the same emotional, cognitive, and physical benefits as a weighted blanket. It offers a compact, portable, and versatile solution for anyone seeking a natural way to unwind. It is particularly beneficial for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. The Quiet Mind Pillow is like a stress ball for your body, providing relief and relaxation. Just Hold it, hug it, and quiet your mind. 

For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15%

On this week’s episode, Montoya Rogers is back to share her personal parenting journey raising her autistic son. We talk about her journey to acceptance and the path she followed to help her son. We also discuss her non-profit, Puzzle Mom. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Puzzle Mom is devoted to empowering mothers of minority children diagnosed with autism.

Montoya L. Rogers is a Community Marketing Representative for CareSource of Ohio. Montoya is a licensed Health & Life insurance agent. She has successfully sustained a 10+ year career in the health insurance industry. As an avid leader, Montoya has a passion for serving the community and helping others. She is a trailblazer and a dynamic advocate for the nonprofit industry.

Montoya was born in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Reynoldsburg high school. She obtained her Community Health Worker certification from The Ohio State University. Montoya is the proud mother of two children Amya and Tre. Tre was diagnosed with Autism at the age of six. While navigating the diagnosis and advocating accommodations for her son, Montoya founded the non-profit organization Puzzle Mom. The mission of Puzzle Mom is to empower minority mothers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, to become effective advocates for their children through education, support, and community resources. Montoya is committed to create autism awareness within under-served communities throughout Ohio.

Camp Nuhop:

Camp Nuhop in Perrysville, OH offers a summer camp experience for all, specializing in neurodivergent youth. They welcome young people aged 6-29 who are Autistic, have ADHD, learning and/or developmental disabilities, as well as emotional and behavioral health challenges. 

Camp Nuhop maintains a 3-8 staff-to-camper ratio to ensure both safety and that each camper's unique needs are met. Camp Nuhop's traditional camp is an ideal option for new campers. It provides a classic American summer camp experience, including activities like hiking, swimming, canoeing, team building, field games, and sleeping under the stars. 

The staff at Camp Nuhop is committed to promoting social and emotional development among campers. They understand the importance of being flexible and meeting campers where they are.

Limited, partial camperships are available. Social agency and waiver funding are also accepted. For more information about the camp, funding options, or anything else, please visit their website at www.Nuhop.org.

Social Cipher:

I'm really excited to share a great new video game we just played in my house, called Ava and it was created by a company called Social Cipher. Social Cipher’s mission is to represent and empower Neurodivergent youth by teaching self-advocacy skills and self-confidence through Social Emotional Learning. 

This amazing game follows Ava, an autistic space pirate, as she navigates her way through social challenges, self-doubt, and connecting with her community. Ava is helping kids in over 220 schools and therapy centers across 6 countries build the social-emotional skills they need to better navigate everyday life.! 

Social Cipher is excited to share that they have just released a brand new game mode, called World Builder. World Builder lets players design and create their own fantasy world while exploring the building blocks of social-emotional learning. It’s time to design a world with your own creative and adventurous spirit whether it's building a home, a pirate ship, or anything else you can dream up! 

Visit https://www.socialciphergame.com/ and use the code: theautismdad to get 15% off and start playing today!

. 

On this weeks episode, I sat down with Laurie Cramer, Executive Director of The Autism Society of Greater Akron and talked about her personal parenting journey raising an autistic son. We also talked about some of the things we need change or improve upon, in order to better support the autism community. Finally, we discussed the Autism Society of Greater Akron and how they are supporting the local autism community.

Laurie Cramer is the executive director at the Autism Society of Greater Akron. Laurie started at ASGA in 2011 and was the very first staff member in what had been up to that point an all-volunteer parent organization. Previously, she was a long-time volunteer at ASGA and served as president of the board of directors. Laurie has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida State University and a master’s degree in organizational development from George Washington University. 

Laurie and her family moved to Akron from Washington, D.C. in 2003. At that time, her family learned that their two-and-a-half-year-old son had autism. From that point forward, life changed forever for her and her family. Laurie’s drive and passion to support a better life for individuals on the autism spectrum comes from her family’s personal journey raising a child with autism.

Laurie currently resides in Fairlawn with her husband, Gregg, and their two sons, Philip and Robbie.

Visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron

About Rob Gorski and the Special Needs Ohio podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.specialneedsohio.com.

Camp Nuhop:

Camp Nuhop in Perrysville, OH offers a summer camp experience for all, specializing in neurodivergent youth. They welcome young people aged 6-29 who are Autistic, have ADHD, learning and/or developmental disabilities, as well as emotional and behavioral health challenges. 

Camp Nuhop maintains a 3-8 staff to camper ratio to ensure both safety and that each campers unique needs are met. Camp Nuhop's traditional camp is an ideal option for new campers. It provides a classic American summer camp experience, including activities like hiking, swimming, canoeing, team building, field games, and sleeping under the stars. 

The staff at Camp Nuhop is committed to promoting social and emotional development among campers. They understand the importance of being flexible and meeting campers where they are.

Limited, partial camperships are available. Social agency and waiver funding are also accepted. For more information about camp, funding options, or anything else, please visit their website at www.Nuhop.org.

The Autism Society of Greater Akron:

The Autism Society of Greater Akron is once again holding two Step Into Autism walks and resource fairs to support individuals and families living with Autism in northeast Ohio. This event attracts some 1,000 people and raises important dollars for ASGA’s programs like providing a free HelpLine for information and referral to local services, scholarships for every family in their water safety program and bike camp, social clubs for individuals with Autism, and many other ongoing education and community-based programs.. 

This next part is really important. All money raised here stays here!  The ASGAprovides many important programs and services that support, educate, and advocate for people living with developmental disabilities and their families in Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne and Medina counties.

 The Summit County walk is Saturday, June 10, at Lock 3, in Akron, and the Stark County walk is Saturday, August 12, at the McKinley Museum, Canton. To learn more, register a team, donate, or become a sponsor, please visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron.

Health insurance is arguably the single most important resource available to special needs families. The reality is that many special needs families in Ohio rely on Medicaid to meet their families health care needs. CareSource is a very popular Medicaid provider in Ohio and I wanted to have a conversation with them about how they are supporting special needs families. CareSource made arrangements for me to speak with Montoya Rogers. Montoya is not only a CareSource Rep but she’s also an autism mom. She knows firsthand the struggles many families are facing and is here to talk about how CareSource can help meet your healthcare needs.

Montoya L. Rogers is a Community Marketing Representative for CareSource of Ohio. Montoya is a licensed Health & Life insurance agent. She has successfully sustained a 10+ year career in the health insurance industry. As an avid leader, Montoya has a passion for serving the community and helping others. She is a trailblazer and a dynamic advocate for the nonprofit industry.

Montoya was born in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Reynoldsburg high school. She obtained her Community Health Worker certification from The Ohio State University. Montoya is the proud mother of two children Amya and Tre. Tre was diagnosed with Autism at the age of six. While navigating the diagnosis and advocating accommodations for her son, Montoya founded the non-profit organization Puzzle Mom. The mission of Puzzle Mom is to empower minority mothers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, to become effective advocates for their children through education, support, and community resources. Montoya is committed to create autism awareness within under-served communities throughout Ohio.

Learn more about CareSource by clicking here.

Camp Nuhop:

Camp Nuhop in Perrysville, OH offers a summer camp experience for all, specializing in neurodivergent youth. They welcome young people aged 6-29 who are Autistic, have ADHD, learning and/or developmental disabilities, as well as emotional and behavioral health challenges. 

Camp Nuhop maintains a 3-8 staff to camper ratio to ensure both safety and that each campers unique needs are met. Camp Nuhop's traditional camp is an ideal option for new campers. It provides a classic American summer camp experience, including activities like hiking, swimming, canoeing, team building, field games, and sleeping under the stars. 

The staff at Camp Nuhop is committed to promoting social and emotional development among campers. They understand the importance of being flexible and meeting campers where they are.

Limited, partial camperships are available. Social agency and waiver funding are also accepted. For more information about camp, funding options, or anything else, please visit their website at www.Nuhop.org.

The Autism Society of Greater Akron:

The Autism Society of Greater Akron is once again holding two Step Into Autism walks and resource fairs to support individuals and families living with Autism in northeast Ohio. This event attracts some 1,000 people and raises important dollars for ASGA’s programs like providing a free HelpLine for information and referral to local services, scholarships for every family in their water safety program and bike camp, social clubs for individuals with Autism, and many other ongoing education and community-based programs.. 

This next part is really important. All money raised here stays here!  The ASGAprovides many important programs and services that support, educate, and advocate for people living with developmental disabilities and their families in Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne and Medina counties.

 The Summit County walk is Saturday, June 10, at Lock 3, in Akron, and the Stark County walk is Saturday, August 12, at the McKinley Museum, Canton. To learn more, register a team, donate, or become a sponsor, please visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron.

. 

In this weeks episode, Becca Mitchner is here to talk about Camp Nuhop. Camp Nuhop is located in Perrysville, Ohio. They provide an amazing summer camp experience for neurodivergent youth. While most kids are from Ohio, some travel from across the country to spend time here. This episode will discuss what the camp has to offer. Whether or not it’s a good fit for your family, and how to get it funded.

Becca Mitchner is the Co-Director of Summer & Respite Programs at Camp Nuhop. She graduated from Murray State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Outdoor Recreation and Nonprofit Leadership Studies. She continued at Murray State to obtain a Masters's Degree in Human Development & Leadership with emphases in Environmental Education and Autism Studies in 2015. Becca found a passion for working with children at a young age and enjoys helping campers create a positive and empowering experience at Camp Nuhop.

Social Media

Facebook.com/CampNuhop

Insta- @Nuhop

https://nuhop.org/

About Rob Gorski and the Special Needs Ohio podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.specialneedsohio.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

Goally

Goally is a digital visual scheduler, AAC talker, token board system, and more all rolled into one easy-to-use app. It's made for unique thinkers like autistic kids and kids with ADHD. Kids together with Goally can conquer daily routines and therapy practice without prompting from mom or dad. This reduces that feeling of nagging your kids, and it also grants your kids some autonomy to sort of manage their own lives. Goally can easily be used on your child's existing device or with Goally's optional and affordable, dedicated device. In my house, we found that the dedicated device seems to work better for my son, so that's what we use.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

I’m so excited about this weeks episode because it marks the beginning of my interviews with parents across Ohio who are raising autistic kids. My guest this week is Nikki White from Raising Raymie on Instagram and Facebook. Nikki is here to talk about her autism parenting journey, and share what life is like for her amazing family, from her perspective.

About Nikki White:

Nikki is a wife and mother of 3. She created the Raising Raymie pages to help further autism acceptance in honor of her 5 year old son Raymie, who was diagnosed with severe non-speaking autism and all those just like him. She was recently published in The Gratitude Journal created by Amanda Owen, for Mom's of children with disabilities trying to find joy in the tough days.

Facebook

Instagram

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.theautismdad.com.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Camp Nuhop:

Camp Nuhop in Perrysville, OH offers a summer camp experience for all, specializing in neurodivergent youth. They welcome young people aged 6-29 who are Autistic, have ADHD, learning and/or developmental disabilities, as well as emotional and behavioral health challenges. 

Camp Nuhop maintains a 3-8 staff to camper ratio to ensure both safety and that each campers unique needs are met. Camp Nuhop's traditional camp is an ideal option for new campers. It provides a classic American summer camp experience, including activities like hiking, swimming, canoeing, team building, field games, and sleeping under the stars. 

The staff at Camp Nuhop is committed to promoting social and emotional development among campers. They understand the importance of being flexible and meeting campers where they are.

Limited, partial camperships are available. Social agency and waiver funding are also accepted. For more information about camp, funding options, or anything else, please visit their website at www.Nuhop.org.

Goally

Goally is a digital visual scheduler, AAC talker, token board system, and more all rolled into one easy-to-use app. It's made for unique thinkers like autistic kids and kids with ADHD. Kids together with Goally can conquer daily routines and therapy practice without prompting from mom or dad. This reduces that feeling of nagging your kids, and it also grants your kids some autonomy to sort of manage their own lives. Goally can easily be used on your child's existing device or with Goally's optional and affordable, dedicated device. In my house, we found that the dedicated device seems to work better for my son, so that's what we use.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

On this weeks episode of Special Needs Ohio, I interviewed my friend Rick Miller, owner of Special Needs Living Magazine (Akron & Canton). Special Needs Living Magazine exists to celebrate the amazing special needs families in Stark and Summit county, in Northeast Ohio. It’s beautifully done, absolutely free, and loved by so many people. This is the story behind this amazing magazine.

About Rick Miller:

Rick is a husband, and father of three amazing kids, as well as the owner of Special Needs Living Akron & Canton.

Free Digital Subscription

Special Needs Living Magazine

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad and Special Needs Ohio podcasts:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

https://specialneedsohio.com 

https://theautismdad.com.

Featured in this week’s episode:

Goally

Goally is a digital visual scheduler, AAC talker, token board system, and more all rolled into one easy-to-use app. It's made for unique thinkers like autistic kids and kids with ADHD. Kids together with Goally can conquer daily routines and therapy practice without prompting from mom or dad. This reduces that feeling of nagging your kids, and it also grants your kids some autonomy to sort of manage their own lives. Goally can easily be used on your child's existing device or with Goally's optional and affordable, dedicated device. In my house, we found that the dedicated device seems to work better for my son, so that's what we use.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

Learn More About Mightier

Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

Mentioned In this Episode

Huge thank you to the North Canton Public Library. Thank you so much for being so welcoming and accommodating at the last minute. :-)

Check out my friends at Whole Latte Love Cafe in North Canton.

In this week's episode, I speak with Lisa Morrison. Lisa is a mother to 3 autistic kids, as well as Co-Founder and President of Integrated Community Solutions, Inc. ICS is a nonprofit based in Medina Ohio. She’s here to talk about her journey as a parent, as well as all the free resources, and social enrichment programs ICS provides for people with developmental disabilities in Northeast Ohio. We also talk about an exciting housing development she building for people with developmental disabilities.

About Lisa Morrison:

Lisa is the Co-Founder, President, and Treasurer of Integrated Community Solutions, Inc. Being the parent of three young adults with autism, she recognized the need for community-based housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities that provide permanence and security, and foster individual growth and independence. 

She is committed to developing a safe and enduring community that will offer a broad range of social engagements, training and educational opportunities, and peace of mind for individuals living with developmental disabilities and their families. 

In 2016, Lisa was appointed as a board member of the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities. She was drawn to serve the agency that is such a vital source of support in her children’s lives. Lisa also is an adjunct faculty member of the Psychology Department for Cuyahoga Community College, the University of Akron, and Lorain County Community College. Lisa has volunteered with the Special Olympics and other social engagement groups in the surrounding area.

Integrated Community Solutions

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad and Special Needs Ohio podcasts:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

https://specialneedsohio.com 

https://theautismdad.com.

In this very first episode, I sit down with Gary Tonks, President and CEO of the Arc of Ohio. The Arc of Ohio is the states oldest and largest organization that advocates for people with disabilities and their families. We talk about what the Arc is, and how families across the state of Ohio can access their services for free. The Arc is here to help and this episode will highlight some of the many ways they can.

About Gary Tonks:

Gary Tonks is the president/CEO of The Arc of Ohio in Columbus, the state’s oldest and largest grassroots organization representing individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families. 

About the Arc of Ohio:

The Arc of Ohio is the voice of people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends of people with disabilities, and those who work with them. The Arc of Ohio is a grassroots organization which advocates for human rights, personal dignity and community participation of individuals with developmental disabilities through legislative and social action, information and education, local chapter supports, and family involvement.

The Arc of Ohio

Facebook

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad and Special Needs Ohio podcasts:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

https://specialneedsohio.com 

https://theautismdad.com.

Featured in this week’s episode:

Goally

Goally is a digital visual scheduler, AAC talker, token board system, and more all rolled into one easy-to-use app. It's made for unique thinkers like autistic kids and kids with ADHD. Kids together with Goally can conquer daily routines and therapy practice without prompting from mom or dad. This reduces that feeling of nagging your kids, and it also grants your kids some autonomy to sort of manage their own lives. Goally can easily be used on your child's existing device or with Goally's optional and affordable, dedicated device. In my house, we found that the dedicated device seems to work better for my son, so that's what we use.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.