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Can music and games really help both parents and children transition smoothly back to school? That’s exactly what we discuss with our wonderful guest, Shawna Fox, in this episode of the Special Parent Podcast. We explore practical techniques to shift from an emotional state to a logical thinking brain, making the start of the school year a little less stressful. From dancing in the car to celebrating small wins with special treats, Shawna shares personal stories that highlight how simple pleasures can lead to big improvements.

Ever tried celebrating the first day of school with an ice cream outing? We delve into family traditions that ease back-to-school stress and explore the significance of simple rewards in motivating children. Tackling common challenges like school transportation for special needs children, we provide proactive strategies for smoother arrangements, such as checking bus schedules and providing comfort items. Our experiences emphasize the importance of patience and understanding, showing that even the small steps can make a significant impact.

Parenthood is a rollercoaster of emotions, especially when raising differently-abled children. Shawna and I share humorous and heartfelt anecdotes, such as dealing with stubborn cowlicks on picture day or the emotional toll of school drop-offs. We emphasize resilience and the power of adapting parenting styles to meet unique needs. Through humor and celebrating small victories, we aim to bring joy and empowerment to your back-to-school journey, reminding you that it's okay to embrace the chaos and find laughter along the way.

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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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Struggling with back-to-school anxiety? Imagine if a simple scent could help ease your child's transition. In part two of our series on back-to-school stressors, Shawna and I share inventive ways to empower your children and reduce the stress that comes with the new school year. From establishing pre-school routines to using familiar scents like vanilla candles at bedtime, we discuss practical methods that can make this annual upheaval smoother. We also highlight the importance of supporting and listening to your kids as they navigate the complexities of new teachers, classmates, and social circles.

Tune in for heartfelt stories and actionable advice! I recount my own experiences, like how I reached out to my son's new teachers before the school year started to give them a heads-up about his unique needs and vibrant sense of style. By recognizing your child's bravery in facing these transitions, you can help normalize their anxieties and boost their confidence. Don't miss out on tips that can make this school year a positive and empowering experience for your entire family. Listen and discover how to turn back-to-school stress into an opportunity for growth and resilience.

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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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Ever wondered how to ease the back-to-school transition for your special needs child? Join us for part 1 of 3 of an enlightening conversation with Dr. Deanna Iverson and special guest, Shawna Fox, as they share their personal journeys and hard-earned wisdom. As both educators and parents of special needs children, Dr. D and Shawna dive into the common stressors parents face at the start of a new school year, from coordinating transportation and lunches to ensuring teachers are well-informed about their child's unique needs. Shawna even reveals her creative solution involving Tic Tacs, offering a fresh perspective on managing complex medical and psychological needs.

We'll also explore practical strategies for managing back-to-school stress, focusing on the power of effective communication with teachers and establishing structured schedules and routines. Learn how to create positive responses to anxiety, pick the right moments to address negative behaviors, and serve as a role model for stress management. We emphasize the importance of family traditions and daily routines to provide emotional stability. Tune in for actionable tips like adjusting sleep and food schedules, using music to manage time, and incorporating sensory cues into your child's daily routine. Whether you're a seasoned parent of a special needs child or new to the journey, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help make the transition back to school smoother for everyone involved.

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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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Have you ever felt the weight of judgmental stares when your child's behavior is misunderstood? In today's heartfelt episode, we explore the raw and real challenges faced by parents of special needs children, seen through the lens of a profoundly moving blog by Kristen Crow. We delve into the emotional rollercoaster that parents endure, highlighting the dedication and resilience it takes to navigate public criticism and to raise these unique and wonderful children. Through Kristen's touching insights, we emphasize the necessity of patience, unconditional love, and the importance of educating the broader public on the realities of special needs parenting.

Do parents have the right to a moment of peace amidst the chaos? Absolutely. In this episode, we discuss why taking time for self-care is not just a luxury but a necessity for parents of special needs children. Despite the unpredictable nature of public outings, parents must understand that they are entitled to moments of relaxation without guilt, even if their child is having a tough time. Cherish the extraordinary joy in raising your children, knowing that it’s okay to not have all the answers. Remember, you are part of a supportive community that values mutual encouragement and understanding. Join us as we promote the essential message of self-care and shared support for these incredible parents.

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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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How do you teach your community to see children beyond their disabilities while acknowledging the role those disabilities play in their lives? This episode promises to empower parents and communities with actionable strategies to foster friendships and build a supportive environment for children with special needs. We explore the nuances of language and perspective shifts that are essential for helping everyone recognize the strengths and limitations of children with diverse needs.

Personal stories and real-life examples breathe life into our discussion, revealing the profound impact of shared experiences and connections. From breaking down complex topics into manageable pieces to finding common ground through shared interests, we provide practical advice on nurturing inclusive relationships. Hear how a father's patience with mountain biking helped a child with autism find his tribe, underscoring the significance of supportive interactions and purposeful social activities.

Our episode also delves into the critical role of modeling positive behavior and effective communication. Discover how maintaining a calm demeanor and having a game plan can empower children to navigate social situations gracefully. We explore strategies for dealing with uncomfortable interactions and the potential impact on relationships, emphasizing the importance of grace, patience, and self-compassion. Join us as we strive to build a community where every child feels valued and included, demonstrating true, undying love in special needs parenting.

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

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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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How can you empower friendships for children with special needs and make their social interactions more enriching? On this episode of the Special Parent Podcast, Dr. Deanna Iverson guides you through the intricate journey of building meaningful relationships for special needs children. You'll learn how explaining meltdowns and unexpected behaviors in relatable terms can foster empathy and understanding among peers. Discover effective strategies to prevent fear and teasing, and how to encourage other children to seek help and view different behaviors with compassion. Your response as a parent plays a pivotal role in shaping how others perceive and interact with your child, and this episode provides actionable insights to help you navigate these challenges.

Developing patience and understanding is crucial in nurturing friendships, especially when special needs are involved. Dr. Iverson discusses ways to teach children patience, such as encouraging questions and creating proactive action plans. Emphasizing the importance of respecting differences while highlighting similarities, this episode is a treasure trove of strategies to build strong, healthy relationships. We also touch upon coping mechanisms for when family and friends distance themselves, transforming this emotional journey into a learning opportunity. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation aimed at creating an inclusive environment of respect, empathy, and mutual support.

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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!

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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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Ever wondered how to choose the best educational setting for your special needs child and navigate the often daunting world of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans? Join Dr. Deanna Iverson as she empowers you with critical insights and practical advice to make informed decisions for your child's education journey. Discover the nuances of private, charter, and public schools, and learn how to identify institutions that may attempt to limit necessary accommodations. Dr. Iverson emphasizes your pivotal role in the IEP process and demonstrates effective collaboration strategies with your educational team to ensure your child's unique strengths and challenges are fully supported.

Effective communication with educators is essential for managing homework and school interactions, especially for children with special needs. Dr. Iverson shares invaluable strategies to build strong relationships with your child's school team, stressing the importance of collaboration over apologies for your child's behavior. You'll also gain insights on involving therapists and special education advocates, and understand why accommodations are not unfair advantages but essential tools for equal access to education. The power of appreciation in fostering positive relationships with educators and connecting with fellow special education parents is also highlighted, offering a supportive community to enhance your advocacy efforts. Tune in for actionable insights and heartwarming stories that will support you every step of the way.

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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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Imagine feeling less isolated and more supported in your journey as a parent of a special needs child. That's exactly what you'll gain by listening to our latest episode of the Special Parent Podcast! Through heartfelt personal stories and practical advice, we unpack the complexities of building a balanced support system. Discover how to manage the logistical challenges of outings, set healthy boundaries, and create a social environment where your children can truly thrive. You’ll hear a touching story illustrating the transformative power of simple acts of kindness that will warm your heart and inspire you to strengthen your own community bonds.

We also provide valuable strategies for teaching your child to recognize positive interactions and set necessary boundaries. Listen as we share experiences with both helpful and misguided advice, including a distressing encounter with a doctor’s bad advice. Learn the importance of connecting with fellow parents through therapies and support groups. Lastly, we emphasize fostering an inclusive and accepting community, offering insights on how to let go of what doesn't serve this purpose to build a village filled with love and acceptance. Join us for an empowering conversation aimed at creating a stronger, more understanding community for all.

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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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Join me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast as we unlock the secrets to effectively balancing therapy and personal time for parents of special needs children. Imagine transforming your home into a fun-centered therapy haven and watching your child make leaps in progress while still maintaining your sanity. In this episode, I share my personal journey of managing a myriad of therapies, from physical and occupational to speech and behavior, and the real impact these have on both child and parent.

Ever wondered how to foster a strong therapeutic relationship between your child and their therapist without stepping on toes? I'll guide you through the intricate dance of setting boundaries, celebrating those hard-earned milestones, and knowing just when to step back to let the magic happen. Using real-life anecdotes, I reveal the challenges and rewards of creating an environment where therapy doesn't feel like a chore but rather an engaging, enjoyable experience for your child.

But that's not all—learn from my missteps and victories as we discuss the critical role of clear communication with therapy providers, the pitfalls of taking breaks from therapy, and the strategies for finding and keeping excellent therapists. Discover practical tips for tracking therapy goals and why patience is your best ally on this journey. Join me for an episode filled with heartfelt insights, designed to empower you as you navigate the complex world of therapy for your special needs child.

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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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Have you ever felt overwhelmed trying to find the right doctor for your special needs child? Journey with me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, as I recount the trials and triumphs of assembling a dedicated medical team for my son. You’ll hear about the turning point when we realized our first pediatrician wasn’t suitable and the extensive search that led us to a doctor who has been invaluable for over 13 years. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you find medical professionals who truly understand and support your child’s unique healthcare needs.

Ever had a specialist disregard your concerns about your child? You’re not alone. We delve into the complex dynamics of working with specialists—balancing their medical expertise with your intimate knowledge of your child. Through personal stories, like dealing with an unhelpful orthopedic surgeon and the breakthrough we found with a geneticist, I highlight the importance of preparation, persistence, and effective communication. Learn how to advocate for second opinions and share daily observations to ensure your child receives the most tailored and compassionate care.

Communication is the cornerstone of effective healthcare. Discover how to keep your cool and foster positive interactions with medical staff, even when faced with distressing news. By preparing questions ahead of time, bringing a support person to challenging appointments, and obtaining clear follow-up instructions, you can strengthen your relationships with doctors and enhance the care your child receives. This episode offers practical tips and heartfelt advice to empower you in making the best decisions for your child’s well-being. Join our Special Parent Podcast community and take the first step towards building a robust medical team for your special needs child.

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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!