The Autism Dad

In this episode, I chat with Megan Brannan, mom to a five-year-old boy named Rory, diagnosed with autism. Megan shares her journey from early concerns about Rory’s speech delay to facing long waitlists for a diagnosis, all while navigating COVID-19 hurdles. She emphasizes the importance of trusting parental instincts when developmental delays are present, especially when medical professionals encourage a “wait and see” approach.

We also dive into Rory’s struggles with ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) and how sensory challenges impact his eating. Megan shares how feeding therapy, though slow, has been a crucial step in helping Rory expand his list of safe foods. If you’ve ever felt unheard as a parent or struggled to navigate your child’s needs, this episode offers valuable insights and support.

- Recognizing early signs of autism in speech delays.

- Megan’s persistence in switching pediatricians after feeling dismissed.

- Long waitlists for autism diagnoses and how to manage the system.

- Rory’s journey with ARFID and the role of feeding therapy.

- Advocating for your child’s needs, including adding sensory challenges to IEPs.

- The emotional journey of seeing a child hit milestones, like talking.

1. Trust your gut: If you feel something’s not right with your child’s development, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.

2. Explore private testing options: If waitlists are long, consider alternative routes like private assessments or consulting school psychologists.

3. Leverage IEPs: Work with your child’s school to include food-related support in their IEP if sensory issues impact eating.

- Help Me Grow: https://www.helpmegrow.org – Early intervention services.

- Akron Children’s Hospital: https://www.akronchildrens.org – Feeding therapy and pediatric services.

Megan Brannan is a devoted mom to her 5-year-old son, Rory, who has Autism and ARFID. After noticing developmental delays at 15 months, Megan faced a long and challenging journey to secure an Autism diagnosis. Rory’s ARFID, driven by sensory and anxiety issues, limits him to a small selection of safe foods. With the support of her family and therapists, Megan is dedicated to helping Rory grow and thrive despite these challenges.

Instagram: @MegBran

- Understanding Autism in Girls

- Feeding Therapy and ARFID: What You Need to Know

- Website: https://www.theautismdad.com

- Instagram: @theautismdad – https://www.instagram.com/theautismdad

Hey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.

Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.

Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski talks with returning guest Amber Arrington, founder of Autism Savvy. Together, they explore the challenges and successes of helping their adult autistic children transition into independent living, whether through group homes or other arrangements. Rob shares his experience with his son Gavin, while Amber discusses her son Tyson’s journey.

They cover different living arrangements for adults with autism, ranging from group homes to more independent living, and discuss the emotional and practical aspects of these decisions. This episode is a must-listen for parents preparing their autistic children for adulthood.

- Choosing the right living arrangement for adult children with autism

- Various options like group homes, residential facilities, and independent living with support

- Navigating disability agencies, social security, and guardianship

- Emotional hurdles of letting go as a parent

"Assume from the moment your child is born, they’ll be an adult someday and will need to exist without you." — Rob Gorski

"Thriving looks different for every person. It’s important to remember that." — Amber Arrington

Amber Arrington is the founder of Autism Savvy and a mother of six, three of whom are autistic. She provides practical advice to help parents navigate the autism journey. Connect with Amber on Instagram @AutismSavvy or visit www.autismsavvy.com.

Rob Gorski, known as The Autism Dad, is a blogger, podcast host, and autism advocate. As a father of three autistic children, Rob offers personal insights and support for parents. Connect with Rob at www.theautismdad.com.

Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Please leave a review if you find the episode helpful!

Hey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.

Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.

Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

In this insightful episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski is joined by Dr. Taylor Day, a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuroaffirming care for autistic children and their families. Dr. Day offers her expertise on a topic that is critical yet often misunderstood—how autism presents differently in girls compared to boys. Together, they explore the challenges of diagnosing autism in girls, why they often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, and how parents can navigate these complexities to ensure their daughters receive the help they need.

This episode is packed with valuable information for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of autism, especially as it relates to girls. Dr. Tay shares her experiences from her practice, shedding light on common misconceptions, the importance of early diagnosis, and practical steps parents can take if they suspect their daughter might be on the autism spectrum.

- Differences in how autism presents in girls vs. boys

- Challenges in diagnosing girls with autism

- The impact of masking in girls and how it complicates the diagnostic process

- Common signs of autism in girls that parents should watch for

- The importance of trusting your gut as a parent and seeking second opinions if necessary

- How co-occurring conditions like anxiety can delay an autism diagnosis

- Practical advice on seeking evaluations and choosing the right providers

Dr. Taylor Day, known as Dr. Tay on social media, is a licensed psychologist who specializes in diagnosing and supporting children with autism, particularly girls who may present differently than boys. She is the founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care, where she focuses on providing neuroaffirming care, including early diagnosis and intervention, as well as therapy services. Dr. Day is also the host of the podcast Evolve with Dr. Tay, where she offers free education on neurodiversity and autism. Through her practice and online presence, Dr. Day empowers parents to support their children in an affirming and effective way.

Website: drtaylorday.com

Instagram: @the.dr.tay

Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (available on major podcast platforms)

Rob Gorski, also known as The Autism Dad, is a father of three autistic children and a prominent voice in the autism community. Through his blog, podcast, and social media, Rob shares his personal experiences and provides support and validation to other parents raising children with disabilities. His work has been featured on CNN, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, and more. Rob is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of families affected by autism.

Website: theautismdad.com

Social Media Links: The Autism Dad Link Hub

Never miss an episode—subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite podcast app, and stay tuned for more episodes that offer insights, advice, and support for parents navigating the autism journey.

Hey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.

Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.

Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

Episode Description: In this compelling episode, Rob Gorski, host of The Autism Dad Podcast, sits down with Danusia Malina-Derben, a mother of ten and a successful business consultant, to discuss the complexities of balancing motherhood, especially when raising neurodiverse children, with a demanding career. Danusia shares her journey from being a mother to ten children, including neurodiverse triplets, to managing a thriving consultancy and podcasting career.

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Hey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.

Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.

Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

In this episode of *The Autism Dad Podcast*, Rob Gorski interviews Eric MacKinnon, founder of Grokkoil, an AI-powered math tutoring platform tailored for kids with special needs like ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. Discover how Grokkoil is transforming special education by personalizing math learning experiences, diagnosing learning gaps, and accelerating progress by up to four times. Eric shares his journey from struggling in math to developing Grokkoil and discusses its impact on students and their families. Don’t miss this deep dive into how Grokkoil is helping special needs children excel in math.

Grokkoil’s AI-driven platform addresses the unique learning needs of children with ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and autism. By identifying learning gaps and customizing lessons, Grokkoil helps students master math concepts more effectively.

Grokkoil leverages expert systems and AI to adapt continuously to students' needs, ensuring they progress at their own pace. This method has proven particularly effective for children with special needs.

Eric MacKinnon shares inspiring success stories of children who have improved their math skills with Grokkoil, demonstrating the platform's effectiveness in overcoming learning challenges.

Eric MacKinnon, a tech entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience, developed Grokkoil after overcoming his own struggles with math. His platform has been especially effective for children with special needs, helping them achieve significant progress.

Rob Gorski, known as *The Autism Dad*, is a blogger, podcast host, and advocate for parents of children with disabilities. His work, inspired by raising three autistic children, has reached a global audience and earned recognition from major media outlets.

The Autism Dad Blog (https://www.theautismdad.com)

Grokkoil Website (https://www.grokkoil.com)

Try Grokkoil with a 7-day free trial: Sign Up Here (https://www.grokkoil.com/signup)

Contact Eric MacKinnon: Contact Form (https://www.grokkoil.com/contact)

AngelSense ensures safe transportation and transitions for kids. Get a free device with every new subscription this Back to School season. Visit AngelSense

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

In this episode, we dive deep into strategies for helping children with autism navigate picky eating and sensory challenges, especially as they transition back to school. Our guest, Brittyn Coleman, a registered dietitian specializing in autism, shares invaluable tips and insights.

Brittyn Coleman discusses the common challenges parents face with picky eaters and autistic children with sensory issues, particularly during the school year. She emphasizes the importance of preparing ahead, working with schools to create supportive environments, and maintaining open communication with teachers. Brittyn also shares practical tips for making mealtime less stressful both at home and school.

- Understanding the sensory challenges kids face at school.

- Strategies for working with schools to support your child's eating habits.

- Importance of including nutrition in IEPs.

- Tips for preparing children for the sensory impacts of school meals.

- Effective communication with teachers to ensure they understand your child's needs.

- Practical advice for packing lunches that children will eat.

Brittyn Coleman is a registered dietitian specializing in children on the autism spectrum. She supports families in expanding their child's diet in a sensory-friendly, child-led manner. Brittyn is the founder of the Nourishing Autism Collective, providing resources and community support for parents.

- Brittyn Coleman's Website and Instagram: https://autismdietitian.com - Instagram

- The Nurishing Autism Collective Membership

- Free Quiz for Parents: https://autismdietitian.com/quiz

- "Lunchtime is not the time to try new foods. It's the time to send foods that your child will eat." – Brittyn Coleman

- "Communicate with your child's teachers to ensure they understand and respect your child's eating needs." – Rob Gorski

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to our podcast and leave a

review on Apple Podcasts! Visit our website for more resources and support.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Learn More About AngelSense

As the new school year approaches, AngelSense helps parents track their loved ones in real-time, ensuring safe transportation, smooth transitions, and peace of mind. It supports navigation through school breaks, lunches, classroom changes, and after-school activities. The auto-pickup speakerphone allows caregivers to address concerns instantly. This Back to School season, get a free device with every new subscription. Protect your loved ones with AngelSense, making independence and safety achievable.

Visit AngelSense

In this episode of "The Autism Dad" podcast, Rob Gorski interviews Meghan Bailey, a mother of an 11-year-old son on the autism spectrum. Meghan shares her parenting journey, discussing the initial autism diagnosis, her approach to parenting a neurodiverse child, and the concept of autistic shutdowns versus meltdowns. The conversation delves into coping mechanisms and the importance of meeting children where they are in their developmental process.

- Introduction to Meghan Bailey: Meghan shares her story and her son’s late autism diagnosis in 2022.

- Grieving Process in Autism Diagnosis: Discussion on how parents may grieve the life they envisioned for their children.

- Differences between Autism Shutdowns and Meltdowns: Meghan explains her experiences with her son’s shutdowns as opposed to meltdowns in autism.

- Coping Mechanisms and Self-Regulation in Autism: Strategies Meghan employs to help her son manage sensory overload and emotional stress.

- Parenting Challenges with Neurodiverse Children: Navigating the tween years and distinguishing between typical developmental behaviors and those influenced by autism.

- Parental Advice for Managing Autism: Tips for parents on managing shutdowns and the importance of changing their approach to meet their children’s needs.

- Autism Community Support: The value of connecting with other parents for support and validation.

- Meghan Bailey on TikTok: @MeghanBailey

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About AngelSense

As the new school year approaches, AngelSense helps parents track their loved ones in real-time, ensuring safe transportation, smooth transitions, and peace of mind. It supports navigation through school breaks, lunches, classroom changes, and after-school activities. The auto-pickup speakerphone allows caregivers to address concerns instantly. This Back to School season, get a free device with every new subscription. Protect your loved ones with AngelSense, making independence and safety achievable.

Visit AngelSense

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

In this episode, Rob Gorski sits down with Melissa Schiefelbein, a board-certified behavior analyst, parent of a child with autism, and Clinical Advisor at AngelSense. Melissa shares her journey from being a concerned parent to becoming a professional in behavior analysis. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with high needs and how assistive technology, like Angel Sense, has transformed their lives. This episode delves into the importance of understanding behavior principles, promoting independence, and the role of technology in enhancing safety and autonomy for children with special needs.

Melissa Schiefelbein is a board-certified behavior analyst and a dedicated parent of a child with autism. Her personal experiences have driven her to become an advocate for understanding behavior principles and using assistive technology to promote independence and safety for children with special needs. Melissa currently works with Angel Sense as a clinical advisor, helping other parents navigate the challenges of raising children with high needs.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and educators! Enhance your child's learning with Super Duper Publications! Our tools, designed by experts in speech-language and occupational therapy, include engaging games, books, and card decks perfect for any time, anywhere learning.

Visit Super Duper Publications

Introduction:

In this insightful episode, we welcome Dr. Suzanne Goh, a pediatric neurologist and behavior analyst, to discuss the complexities of comorbid diagnoses in children with autism. Dr. Goh shares her expertise on the role of pediatric neurology, the importance of a holistic approach, and how parents can better advocate for their children.

Guest: Dr. Suzanne Goh

Dr. Suzanne Goh is a renowned pediatric neurologist and behavior analyst based in San Diego, California. Specializing in autism, Dr. Goh leads a comprehensive practice that integrates medical, behavioral, and developmental care. As the founder of Cordica, a network of 24 centers providing autism care services nationwide, she is dedicated to improving the lives of neurodivergent children and their families. Dr. Goh is also an author, with her latest book, "Magnificent Minds," offering a holistic approach to autism care.

Key Points and Takeaways:

Relevant Links:

Quotes and Highlights:

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.com

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and visit our website for more resources. Connect with us on social media to stay updated on future episodes.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) with Michelle from "My ARFID Life." Michelle shares her personal journey of parenting a child with ARFID, the challenges they face, and the incredible support they receive from their online community. This episode is packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding ARFID better.

Key Topics Discussed:

Quotes from the Episode:

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

Guest Bio:

Michelle is a dedicated mom of three, including her 8-year-old daughter Hannah, who has ARFID. After years of struggling with various therapies and witnessing Hannah's severe malnourishment, Michelle found a specialist who introduced a nutritional supplement to help fill Hannah's nutritional gaps. Despite Hannah's sensory sensitivities making it a challenge, Michelle noticed that Hannah thrived on praise and loved being on camera. To motivate Hannah, Michelle started an Instagram page called "My ARFID Life" to encourage her to try new foods. The account quickly gained attention, helping many people relate to ARFID and find support. This journey has not only boosted Hannah’s confidence but also empowered Michelle to spread awareness about ARFID, helping others feel seen and heard.

Connect with Michelle: https://www.instagram.com/myarfidlife/

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Subscribe & Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and bring you more valuable content!

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally