The Special Parent Podcast

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A baby can look “fine” until a tiny skill disappears, and then you’re suddenly living on a clock you never knew existed. We sit down with Melanie to tell the story of her son Kyle and his spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), from the first subtle signs (stopping weight bearing, skipping a typical crawl, slumping in a chair) to the moment one word changes the medical response: “used to.” If you’ve ever felt dismissed with “kids develop on their own timeline,” this conversation gives you language that helps: be proven wrong.

Melanie walks us through the real-life path to answers: IVF, gaps in carrier screening, a fast-tracked pediatric neurology visit, genetic confirmation, and AAV9 antibody testing that determined whether gene therapy was even possible. We also get honest about the part families rarely see coming until they’re in it, insurance. Denials, peer-to-peer review, strict criteria, and the pressure of knowing that in SMA, every day can mean more motor neuron loss.

We break down SMA types, why newborn screening is a game changer, and how AAV9 gene therapy works as a viral vector delivering the missing gene so the body can produce the SMN protein. You’ll also hear what life looks like after the big medical moments: physical therapy, school supports like a 504 plan, playground dynamics, and the power of community through Cure SMA, advocacy, and resources like Ryan House respite care.

If this helped, subscribe, share it with a parent who needs to hear “trust your gut,” and leave a review so more families can find these stories.

For more information on SMA please visit www.curesma.org

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Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

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Unlock the secrets to having meaningful and effective conversations about sexuality with neurodivergent children in this enlightening episode. Join me as I sit down with Amy Lang, a celebrated sexuality educator with a focus on neurodiversity. Amy shares her inspiring journey from general sex education to a specialized focus, which was driven by her personal experiences and the glaring lack of resources for neurodivergent families. Together, we address the intricacies and unique challenges of discussing sexual health with neurodivergent kids, emphasizing the importance of using proper anatomical terms and fostering open, honest dialogue to ensure a safe and informed environment for young minds.

We navigate the critical role parents play in supporting their children's exploration of sexuality. From understanding teenage sexuality to preparing children for sexual health responsibilities, we provide a toolkit for parents to engage in these essential conversations, encouraging a sex-positive perspective and nurturing stronger family bonds.

This episode also tackles the tough subjects of STIs, pregnancy, and pornography, especially in the context of neurodivergent and disabled individuals. Learn effective communication strategies to address these sensitive topics, while empowering your children with the knowledge they need to navigate their social environments safely. With resources like Amy's book "Sex Talks with Tweens", parents will be better equipped to maintain open lines of communication and guide their children toward a healthy understanding of sexuality. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your parenting arsenal with expert advice from Amy Lang.

Follow Amy:
Facebook- @BirdsBeesKids
Instagram- @BirdsBeesKids
Birds & Bees & Kids - https://birdsandbeesandkids.com

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Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
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Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

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Uncover the keys to helping your child conquer back-to-school anxiety with the Special Parent Podcast. Join us for an enriching conversation with Shauna Fox as we explore strategies to support children, especially those with special needs, in navigating the emotional landscape of returning to the classroom. Discover how to validate your child's feelings, while teaching them that emotions don't always equate to reality. Our discussion provides insights into addressing classroom anxiety, social stress, and personal grief, ensuring your child feels confident and understood as they face these external pressures.

Empower your child's morning routine with practical tips designed to foster independence, particularly for those with ADHD. From personalized checklists to music playlists, learn how to turn chaotic mornings into seamless starts. We emphasize building resilience through controlled exposure to fear, allowing children to gain confidence and inner strength. Parents can benefit too, as we share strategies to manage the challenges along this journey. Join us in this episode for a wealth of knowledge to support your child's emotional well-being and boost their confidence for the school year ahead.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

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Can anxiety really be a stepping stone to growth? Join me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast to unravel this intriguing concept, inspired by insights from Lisa DeMoor. This episode offers a heartfelt promise to equip you with the tools to empower your children in navigating their anxieties. By focusing on normalizing anxiety as an essential part of development, we delve into the art of asking open-ended questions that encourage genuine expression without fixating on fear. Discover how validating emotions and celebrating small victories can build resilience, supported by both modern psychology and timeless biblical wisdom. 

We then explore actionable strategies for managing anxiety, tailored especially for children. Learn how modeling positive coping mechanisms and implementing rewarding systems like mantras and visualizations can transform anxious moments into opportunities for growth. Practical techniques such as gratitude exercises, sensory experiences, and reframing negative thoughts are just some of the tools that can aid in this journey. We also shed light on tackling school-related anxiety by shifting from emotion-driven to more rational responses, providing insights that are as practical as they are empowering. Together, let's embark on this journey of understanding and support, because you're not alone—we've got this.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

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Discover the incredible potential of neurofeedback therapy with our special guest, Sheri Reichman, a seasoned neurotherapist. Together, we navigate the promising world of neurofeedback, offering hope to families seeking alternative therapies for children with special needs. This episode promises to unveil how training brainwaves can lead to remarkable transformations in behavior, cognitive function, and emotional regulation. Sheri and I share personal stories of how incorporating neurofeedback and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) into our children's routines has significantly reduced reliance on medication and brought about positive changes.

Explore the unique benefits of neurofeedback therapy for nonverbal children, especially those on the autism spectrum. We dive into the science of EEG monitoring, explaining how it allows children to engage without verbal communication, often resulting in breakthroughs in emotional connections and communication. With insights from reputable institutes, we highlight how neurofeedback addresses symptoms of ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. Learn about the holistic approach involving HBOT and the importance of adaptability and healing through therapies offered by East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, which include specialty labs, genetic testing, and nutritional counseling. Join us for a transformative discussion that could just be the key to unlocking new possibilities for your child's growth and development.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us Fan Mail

What if you could unlock a new world of possibilities for your child with special needs? This week on the Special Parent Podcast, we have exciting insights to share as Sheri Reichman, a board-certified neurotherapist from East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, joins us. We explore the incredible potential of neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for children with autism and ADHD. Sheri brings her wealth of experience to the table, and together, we discuss how these alternative therapies can provide results that traditional medications might not.

Dive into our conversation about the personalized approach to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, where comfort and flexibility are key. We discuss how private chambers can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, making this therapy not only effective but also an enjoyable experience. From managing pressure changes to integrating screen time as a motivational tool, we cover creative strategies that make therapy sessions something children look forward to. Plus, we explore the advantages of home-use units, offering families the convenience of frequent sessions in their own space.

In our exploration of comprehensive therapy options, we discover how combining HBOT with neurofeedback can amplify the benefits and support overall brain health. Trevor's story illustrates the importance of addressing underlying health issues for the best outcomes, while Sheri shares invaluable advice on maximizing insurance benefits and crafting tailored treatment plans. This episode equips you with knowledge and hope, providing you with the tools to navigate your own family's journey with confidence. Whether you're new to alternative therapies or looking to expand your options, this episode is filled with insights and encouragement. Remember, you've got this!

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us Fan Mail

Imagine standing in a bustling grocery store with a child mid-tantrum, feeling the eyes of strangers on you and wondering how to regain control with love and understanding. Join me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast as we unravel these intense moments and explore strategies to discipline children with special needs in ways that affirm their unique potential. This episode promises to equip you with practical tools to navigate the chaos with grace and patience, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

Our journey begins with the critical task of setting clear boundaries, a cornerstone of effective parenting. We delve into techniques like using quick, concise directions to help children navigate emotional turbulence, with a spotlight on strategies tailored for kids with a history of trauma. Consistency is key, and we'll discuss how building trust can lead to emotional resilience, enabling children to learn the art of self-regulation over time. Through examples and real-life anecdotes, discover how creative consequences, such as planned ignoring for attention-seeking behaviors, can lead to valuable learning moments without resorting to punitive measures.

In the final segment, we tackle the daunting subject of managing public tantrums with composure. Learn how to distinguish between a typical tantrum and an emotional outburst stemming from sensory overload. With insights on implementing visual communication tools and immediate rewards, gain confidence in guiding your child towards improved behavior. Let this episode be a reminder that progress, no matter how small, is a victory, and parenting is a journey filled with love, patience, and unwavering belief in your child's ability to thrive.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us Fan Mail

Can discipline really be a tool for growth and empowerment in children with special needs? On this follow-up to episode 22 of the Special Parent Podcast, we're tackling this profound question head-on. We'll explore the internal struggles parents often face when setting boundaries, and how these decisions can influence our children's potential to learn and thrive. Join me as I share personal stories and professional insights from therapists, respite providers, and fellow parents who have navigated these challenging yet rewarding waters.

Discover the nuances of behavior modification with practical reinforcement strategies tailored to the unique needs of special children. We’ll clarify the differences between positive and negative reinforcement and emphasize the crucial role of consistency. Understanding each child's cognitive and developmental stages is key, and we’ll discuss why a unified approach among caregivers is so vital. You'll learn about the importance of community support and creative, individualized solutions to behavioral challenges.

Finally, we'll highlight the indispensable role of siblings and the power of teamwork in fostering positive behaviors. From setting clear goals to implementing effective strategies, we cover it all. Plus, we emphasize the importance of self-care for parents and the magic of celebrating small victories. By creating a "wins jar," you can document and reflect on those positive moments that fuel motivation and resilience. So tune in for an empowering message: you've got this, and your child has the potential to flourish with the right discipline and support.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us Fan Mail

Can disciplining your special needs child strengthen or strain your marriage? Join Brian and me, as we share practical insights and heartwarming stories on the Special Parent Podcast. Hear how we navigate the often challenging waters of setting consistent expectations for our children, both with and without disabilities. We promise you'll come away with new strategies for training behavior positively and managing your reactions to those tricky negative actions.

Discover the keys to promoting responsibility and independence in your children without the pressure of striving for perfection. We dig into the importance of modeling accountability and the power of giving your child choices to foster a sense of autonomy. Listen as we share relatable anecdotes, like handling cell phone etiquette during family conversations, to illustrate the real-world application of effective parenting strategies.

Finally, we tackle the complex issue of behavior modification, especially in the context of modern technology. Learn from our personal experiences with our oldest son on the spectrum and the delicate balance of allowing responsible phone use. Consistency is crucial, but so is patience and adaptation, and we discuss how to keep all caregivers on the same page. We close the episode with heartfelt gratitude to our listeners and supporters, underscoring how your involvement makes the Special Parent Podcast a beacon of support for parents everywhere.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us Fan Mail

What if the feelings of isolation and loneliness you’ve been grappling with could be the very catalyst for a transformative journey? This week on the Special Parent Podcast, we sit down with Annie Carter, a resilient life coach and single mom, who opens up about her heartfelt experiences of raising a child with autism. From recognizing the early signs in her son, to facing initial resistance from medical professionals, and finally finding effective therapies, Annie’s journey is a testament to patience, unconditional love, and the power of advocacy. Her touching stories of navigating the highs and lows of special needs parenting will resonate deeply with anyone on a similar path.

Ever wondered how a life coach can help you overcome emotional challenges, much like a soccer coach guiding their team? Annie shares invaluable insights into the practical steps life coaching offers, emphasizing the importance of thought work and the role it plays in conquering loneliness and building resilience. We also delve into the distinction between life coaching and therapy, and explore innovative tools like the Marco Polo app that provide real-time support and validation, making the process of managing emotions much more effective. Through Annie’s expertise, listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to take actionable steps towards a more fulfilling and connected life.

Connecting with others on an emotional level can often feel daunting, especially when grappling with feelings of rejection and self-worth. Annie courageously shares her personal battles with depression, the pain of broken relationships, and the journey to finding self-acceptance. Together, we explore the universal nature of emotions and the power of empathy in fostering deep, meaningful connections. Drawing from her experiences as a special needs parent, Annie discusses the importance of reparenting oneself through their children and teaching them resilience. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the joys and challenges of parenting, and a reminder of the transformative power of empathy and self-love. Join us for a conversation filled with hope, healing, and the celebration of milestones that make the journey worthwhile.

Support the show

Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 
https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!

Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcast

Support the show:  https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcast

Your contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!