In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Kerry Murphy, early childhood education specialist, lecturer, author and founder of Diverse Pathways for Early Childhood, for a thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to create neurodiversity-affirming practice in the early years.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience, Kerry explores why early childhood is such a critical period for shaping identity, belonging and lifelong wellbeing. Together, Amanda and Kerry examine how traditional developmental frameworks, deficit-based thinking and compliance-driven practices continue to influence early years education, often at the expense of Autistic and otherwise neurodivergent children.

The conversation explores the importance of moving beyond labels and checklists towards understanding each child as an individual with their own unique constellation of strengths, needs, interests and ways of engaging with the world. Kerry shares practical insights into creating inclusive environments that protect autonomy, honour communication in all its forms, reframe behaviour through a neuroaffirmative lens, and challenge ableist assumptions that have become embedded within education systems.

Amanda and Kerry also discuss play, relationships, regulation, professional curiosity, ethical practice and the role of educators in driving meaningful systemic change. Throughout the episode, they highlight how neurodiversity-affirming practice benefits not only neurodivergent children but every child, creating environments where diversity is understood, valued and celebrated.

Whether you are an early years educator, teacher, school leader, therapist, student, policymaker or parent, this episode offers evidence-informed, reflective and practical insights that will encourage you to think differently about childhood, inclusion and what it means to truly support neurodivergent children.

If you're passionate about Autism, neurodiversity, inclusive education, early childhood practice, SEND, play-based learning and creating environments where every child belongs, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Learn More from Kerry Murphy

If this conversation resonates with you and you're passionate about creating truly neurodiversity-affirming early childhood environments, be sure to explore Diverse Pathways for Early Childhood, Kerry Murphy's platform dedicated to reimagining child development, play, communication, behaviour and regulation through an affirming, anti-ableist lens. Grounded in research, lived experience and practice, Diverse Pathways supports educators, leaders, specialists and families to create environments where neurodivergent children are understood, valued and able to thrive.

Join the Early Childhood Neurodiversity-Affirming Summit

Kerry is also the founder of the Early Childhood Neurodiversity-Affirming Summit, an online professional learning event bringing together leading voices in early childhood, Autism, disability, inclusion and neurodiversity. Designed for early years educators, teachers, therapists, school leaders, students and families, the summit explores evidence-informed, neurodiversity-affirming approaches to play, communication, development, regulation and inclusive practice.

Learn more and book your place:

https://diversepathways.thinkific.com/products/courses/summitpass

Connect with Kerry

🌐 Website: https://diversepathways.org/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversepathways_earlyyears/

Through her website and social media, Kerry regularly shares practical resources, research insights, reflections on neurodiversity-affirming practice, and updates on training, publications and new projects, making them essential resources for anyone working with or supporting neurodivergent children.

Constipation is one of the most common childhood health conditions, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, particularly for Autistic and neurodivergent children. Many families don't realise that constipation can develop gradually, present with subtle signs, and have a significant impact on a child's comfort, behaviour, bladder function and toilet learning.

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Ann Costigan, founder of @pooandtheloo, for the first of a two-part series exploring childhood bowel health.

Ann is also the Co-founder and Chair of Children's Continence Ireland, bringing together healthcare professionals working in paediatric continence to improve education, collaboration and services for children and families.

Together, Amanda and Ann unpack what constipation really looks like in children, why it is so frequently missed, and how recognising the early signs can prevent longer-term bowel and bladder difficulties. They also discuss why constipation and toilet learning are so closely connected, particularly for Autistic children and those with additional developmental needs.

• What childhood constipation actually is and why it is often overlooked.

• The subtle signs of constipation that many parents and professionals miss.

• How constipation can affect bladder function, wetting, behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

• Why constipation is so common during infancy, toilet learning and periods of transition.

• The relationship between constipation and successful toilet learning.

• How bowel habits, diet, hydration and routines influence bowel health.

• Understanding macrogol medications, disimpaction and current evidence-based treatment approaches.

• Why tracking bowel movements can provide valuable information for families and healthcare professionals.

• Practical strategies to support bowel health while reducing stress for children and families.

• When to seek support from your GP and other healthcare professionals.

This is Part One of a two-part series with Ann Costigan. In Part Two, Amanda and Ann explore poo withholding, toilet learning after previous unsuccessful attempts, and practical strategies for supporting children to develop confidence around using the toilet.

Helpful books, resources and supports for families.⁠https://tr.ee/saUPdQihi6⁠A practical checklist designed to help parents recognise the often subtle signs of constipation and identify when further assessment or support may be needed.⁠https://tr.ee/-Tgj5sK_Nc⁠A helpful guide to support conversations with your GP, outlining the information that may assist in assessing constipation, stool withholding, toileting difficulties, and bowel health.⁠https://tr.ee/KeJhYU0E7T⁠A parent-friendly resource explaining macrogol medications, how they work, and their role in treating childhood constipation.⁠https://tr.ee/9oZSlhZdSe⁠Information to help parents understand the disimpaction process, why it may be needed, and what to expect during treatment.⁠https://tr.ee/fQ_k5qvGr0⁠A beautifully illustrated children's book that can help normalise conversations about poo, reduce anxiety around toileting, and support children experiencing stool withholding or fear of poo.⁠https://www.amazon.ie/princess-who-wa...Kids Physiotherapy Waterford⁠https://kidsphysiotherapywaterford.ie/⁠Leah Bryans Physiotherapy⁠https://leahbryansphysiotherapy.com/⁠Anatomy Physiotherapy⁠https://anatomyphysiotherapy.ie/⁠National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management (CG99)⁠https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg99⁠🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.littlepuddins.ie⁠

Autism, Poo Withholding & Toilet Learning | Why Autistic Children Withhold Poo & How to Help | Ann Costigan

Why do some Autistic children refuse to poo in the toilet? Why does stool withholding happen? How can parents support toilet learning without creating additional stress?

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Ann Costigan, founder of @pooandtheloo, to explore one of the most common, yet least discussed, challenges affecting Autistic and neurodivergent children: poo withholding and toilet learning.

With over 13 years of experience as a Paediatric Colorectal and Stoma Clinical Nurse Specialist, Ann has supported hundreds of children and families experiencing constipation, stool withholding and toileting difficulties. She has a particular clinical interest in Idiopathic Constipation (constipation with no underlying medical cause) and toilet learning.

Ann created @pooandtheloo to provide clear, evidence-based education and practical advice for parents, with the aim of normalising conversations about poo, toileting, and bowel health. Her approach is supportive, non-judgemental, and always centred around the child and family. Through @pooandtheloo, she offers a wide range of free parent resources on Instagram, group Zoom sessions focusing on toilet learning and constipation, and one-to-one consultations tailored to each child's individual needs.

Ann is also the Co-founder and Chair of Children's Continence Ireland, bringing together healthcare professionals working in paediatric continence to improve education, collaboration and services for children and families.

Together, Amanda and Ann discuss why withholding develops, how constipation and the nervous system influence toileting, and why traditional toilet training approaches can often make things harder rather than easier.

• Why children withhold poo and how it often begins after a painful bowel movement.

• The connection between constipation, bladder difficulties and toilet learning.

• How the nervous system influences stool withholding.

• Why pressure, rewards and rushing toilet learning are often ineffective.

• Practical strategies to reduce anxiety around poo.

• How to restart toilet learning after previous unsuccessful attempts.

• The importance of meeting children where they are.

• When to seek support from your GP and other healthcare professionals.

• Helpful books, resources and supports for families.

https://tr.ee/saUPdQihi6

A practical checklist designed to help parents recognise the often subtle signs of constipation and identify when further assessment or support may be needed.

https://tr.ee/-Tgj5sK_Nc

A helpful guide to support conversations with your GP, outlining the information that may assist in assessing constipation, stool withholding, toileting difficulties, and bowel health.

https://tr.ee/KeJhYU0E7T

A parent-friendly resource explaining macrogol medications, how they work, and their role in treating childhood constipation.

https://tr.ee/9oZSlhZdSe

Information to help parents understand the disimpaction process, why it may be needed, and what to expect during treatment.

https://tr.ee/fQ_k5qvGr0

A beautifully illustrated children's book that can help normalise conversations about poo, reduce anxiety around toileting, and support children experiencing stool withholding or fear of poo.

https://www.amazon.ie/princess-who-was-afraid-poop/dp/B0FNMCQJ9Y

Kids Physiotherapy Waterford

https://kidsphysiotherapywaterford.ie/

Leah Bryans Physiotherapy

https://leahbryansphysiotherapy.com/

Anatomy Physiotherapy

https://anatomyphysiotherapy.ie/

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management (CG99)

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg99

🌐 Website: https://www.littlepuddins.ie

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Danielle Jata-Hall of PDA Parenting to explore the realities of parenting and supporting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

Drawing on both lived experience and professional insight, Danielle shares her family's journey, the challenges of navigating a world that often misunderstands PDA, and the importance of creating environments that prioritise safety, trust, autonomy, and connection.

Together, Amanda and Danielle discuss the emotional impact of parental shame and judgement, the challenges of advocating for PDA children within educational systems, and the importance of moving beyond traditional behaviour-based approaches. The conversation explores emotional school avoidance, nervous system safety, family well-being, and practical ways to support children whose demand avoidance is rooted in anxiety and overwhelm.

This episode offers valuable insights for parents, caregivers, educators, therapists, and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of PDA and neurodivergent experiences.

Topics discussed include:

• What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?
• Danielle Jata-Hall's lived experience of PDA parenting
• Understanding demand avoidance through a neurobiological lens
• Parental shame, guilt, and judgement
• Emotional school avoidance and educational advocacy
• Supporting neurodivergent children at home and school
• Creating low-pressure, trust-based environments
• PDA resources, community support, and family well-being
• Autism, anxiety, autonomy, and nervous system safety

If you are parenting, teaching, or supporting a child with PDA, this conversation provides compassionate insight, practical guidance, and reassurance that you are not alone.

Danielle's incredible website: www.pdaparenting.com

#PDA #PDAParenting #PathologicalDemandAvoidance #Autism #Neurodiversity #NeurodivergentChildren #DemandAvoidance #SchoolAvoidance #AutisticChildren #Parenting #ParentAdvocacy #AutismSupport #PDAAwareness #Neuroaffirmative #DanielleJataHall #AmandaMcGuinness #TheUnfilteredAutisticPodcast

Adam Harris is one of Ireland's most recognised Autistic advocates and the CEO and founder of AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity . In this deeply personal episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness sits down with Adam as he prepares to step down as CEO of AsIAm and begin a new chapter as CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.

Rather than focusing on policy or organisational achievements alone, this conversation explores the person behind the public role. Adam reflects on growing up as an Autistic child in Ireland, the unwavering support of his parents, the experiences that shaped his confidence and identity, and the journey that led him to establish AsIAm while still a teenager.

Together, Amanda and Adam discuss:

• Adam Harris' Autism journey and growing up in Ireland
• The role his parents played in building confidence, self-belief and belonging
• Why inclusion, relationships and high expectations matter for Autistic children
• The story behind founding AsIAm
• What it takes to build lasting social change
• Leadership, advocacy and creating opportunities for future Autistic voices
• Autistic identity, burnout, vulnerability and self-acceptance
• Why Adam believes it is time to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders
• His move to Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and his hopes for Ireland's future

Throughout the conversation, Adam shares honest reflections on Autism, advocacy, leadership, family, education and creating a society where Autistic people are accepted, valued and respected.

Whether you are an Autistic adult, parent, educator, therapist, professional, researcher or someone passionate about disability rights and inclusion, this episode offers powerful insights into authentic leadership, community change and the importance of believing in people's potential.

This episode explores themes including:

• Autism
• Autistic Leadership
• Adam Harris's early life and his parents unwavering belief in him
• AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity
• Autistic Advocacy
• Neuroaffirmative Practice
• Disability Rights
• Inclusive Education
• Autism Acceptance
• Parenting Autistic Children
• Autistic Identity
• Autistic Burnout
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Inclusion
• Community Leadership

If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode to help more people discover neuroaffirmative conversations about Autism and authentic lived experience.

Follow Amanda McGuinness and Little Puddins for more evidence-informed Autism resources, professional learning, podcasts and practical supports for families, schools and professionals.

#Autism #Autistic #AdamHarris #AsIAm #AutismIreland #Neuroaffirmative #AutisticLeadership #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #Parenting #AutisticAdults #TheUnfilteredAutisticPodcast #LittlePuddins

Understanding the Waves of Regulation with Nikki Smit OT | Co-Regulation, Nervous Systems & Neurodivergent Well-Being

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Nikki Smit, a neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, speaker, educator, and creator of the Waves of Regulation framework.

Together, they explore a compassionate understanding of regulation, moving beyond the idea that regulation simply means being calm. Nikki explains how regulation is about feeling safe and connected to our experience while managing the energy in our bodies and brains. Drawing on neuroscience, sensory health, trauma-sensitive practice, and lived experience, she shares practical insights for parents, educators, therapists, and support professionals supporting neurodivergent children, young people, and adults.

The conversation explores co-regulation, nervous system attunement, emotional capacity, resilience, sensory health, and the importance of authentic connection. Nikki also introduces her powerful Waves of Regulation resource, which supports adults to understand regulation through a more compassionate and reflective lens.

Topics discussed include:

• Understanding regulation beyond calmness
• The Waves of Regulation framework and practical application
• Co-regulation and the science of human connection
• Nervous system regulation and neuroception
• The Window of Capacity and emotional flexibility
• Match, Mirror, Move and authentic attunement
• Mirror neurons and nervous system tracking
• Stress stacking and cumulative overwhelm
• Repair, resilience, and relational safety
• Supporting neurodivergent children at home and in school
• Sensory health, wellbeing, and emotional regulation
• The role of parents, educators, therapists, and other helping professionals

Key Quotes:

"Regulation is about feeling safe and connected."

"Feelings go up, peak, and come down."

"Use your body to mirror and validate feelings."

Nikki Smit - Instagram

Nikki Smit is a neurodivergent occupational therapist, speaker, and educator with over fifteen years of clinical experience. Based in Singapore and working globally, her work sits at the intersection of nervous system regulation, sensory health, neurodiversity-affirming practice, and trauma-sensitive care.

She is interested in the capacity to stay present as experiences rise and fall, and in wellbeing as something dynamic and relational, grounded in dignity and curiosity rather than calm or compliance. Her work is shaped as much by her own lived experience as by relational neuroscience and sensory health, and she helps people make sense of why they respond the way they do, and what genuinely supports them.

Nikki works with children, adults, and families, as well as the practitioners who support them, and speaks, writes, and mentors internationally. Her mentoring work extends beyond occupational therapy and clinical practice, supporting professionals across a wide range of helping professions who are seeking deeper understanding of themselves, their work, and the relational aspects of supporting others.

To learn more about Nikki's work, explore her Waves of Regulation resource, follow her on Instagram @nikkismittherapy, and subscribe to her free newsletter.

Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, helping professional, autistic adult, or someone interested in understanding regulation more deeply, this episode offers practical strategies and powerful insights that can transform how you think about wellbeing, connection, and support.

Keywords: Nikki Smit, Waves of Regulation, regulation, co-regulation, neurodivergent, neurodiversity, Autism, Autistic, sensory processing, sensory health, nervous system regulation, neuroception, trauma-sensitive practice, occupational therapy, emotional regulation, wellbeing, parenting neurodivergent children

In this episode Amanda McGuinness speaks with Angela Cummins, a dedicated teacher and PhD candidate, sharing her extensive experience and research on creating inclusive schools.

She discusses the respect Autism Classes deserved and the practical strategies for supporting children with additional needs, building strong teacher-SNA relationships, and fostering an inclusive school culture.Angela Cummins is a primary school teacher, mam of four, and educator working in a DEIS Band 1 school in Dublin,Ireland. She is passionate about inclusive education and supporting schools to create environments where every child can thrive.

Angela holds a Master’s in Education from Maynooth University, a Master’s in Autism from Dublin City University, and a Graduate Diploma in Educational Leadership from Maynooth University. She is currently undertaking doctoral studies in DCU.

Through her teaching, webinars, speaking engagements, and online platforms, Angela supports teachers, SNAs, parents, and school communities with practical, compassionate, and evidence-informed approaches.

www.angelacummins.ie

Understanding PDA & Declarative Language | Amanda McGuinness & Julie Holmes SLT

In this episode of Unfiltered Autistic, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Speech and Language Therapist Julie Holmes for an engaging and practical conversation exploring PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and Declarative Language.

Together, they discuss what declarative language is, how it differs from traditional directive communication, and why it has become such an important approach within neuroaffirmative Autism practice. The conversation explores how communication styles can influence nervous system safety, autonomy, trust, emotional regulation, and connection for Autistic individuals, particularly those with a PDA profile.

Julie shares her professional journey into declarative language, including the influence of Linda K. Murphy's work and how child-led, relationship-based communication approaches can support a wide range of communication differences. Amanda and Julie also explore why declarative language is increasingly being used by parents, educators, therapists, and professionals seeking to create more collaborative and supportive environments for Autistic children and young people.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What declarative language is and how it differs from directive language

• PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and the relationship between communication, autonomy, and nervous system safety

• The work of Linda K. Murphy and the Declarative Language Handbook

• Supporting Autistic children through connection rather than compliance

• Child-led and neuroaffirmative approaches to communication

• Declarative language and Gestalt Language Processing

• Practical communication strategies for parents, educators, therapists, and professionals

• Building trust, reducing communication pressure, and fostering collaborative relationships

Whether you are a parent, educator, Speech and Language Therapist, healthcare professional, Autism practitioner, or an Autistic person interested in communication differences, this episode offers valuable insights grounded in neuroaffirmative practice, lived experience, and professional expertise.

About the Hosts

Amanda McGuinness is an Autism & PDA Specialist, educator, speaker, and founder of Little Puddins. She is the Director of Autism Advocacy and Professional Practice at Flourish Autism. Amanda is widely recognised for her work in neuroaffirmative Autism education, visual supports, PDA-informed practice, family advocacy, and professional training across Ireland and internationally.

Julie Holmes is a Speech and Language Therapist, founder of BeMe Therapy, with a passion for neuroaffirmative communication supports, child-led practice, and supporting Autistic and neurodivergent individuals across a range of communication profiles.

Let's Communicate Together - Click HERE

AAC Advocates - Click HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Unfiltered Autistic for honest conversations exploring Autism, PDA, neurodiversity, communication, lived experience, and neuroaffirmative practice.

New episodes feature leading professionals, Autistic voices, and practical insights for families, educators, therapists, and organisations.

#Autism #PDA #PathologicalDemandAvoidance #DeclarativeLanguage #NeuroaffirmativePractice #AutisticCommunication #SpeechAndLanguageTherapy #Neurodiversity #GestaltLanguageProcessing #ParentingAutisticChildren

Understanding Energy Regulation with Autism Level Up | Amy Laurent & Jacquelyn Fede

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Dr Amy Laurent and Dr Jacquelyn Fede, co-founders of Autism Level Up, to explore one of the most practical and transformative frameworks currently available for understanding energy regulation in Autistic and neurodivergent individuals.

Together, they discuss the origins of the Autism Level Up Energy Framework, how energy influences regulation, learning, communication, participation, and well-being, and why understanding energy is often the missing piece for families, educators, therapists, and support professionals.

Amy and Jacquelyn share the story behind their innovative tools, including The Regulator and Energy Meter, and explain how personalised, individualised supports can help neurodivergent people better understand their own energy needs, advocate for themselves, and access environments that support genuine regulation.

Topics discussed include:

• Understanding energy regulation through a neuroaffirmative lens
• The development of the Autism Level Up Energy Framework
• Supporting Autistic children, teenagers, and adults
• Energy safety, self-awareness, and self-advocacy
• Practical tools for schools, homes, and therapy settings
• Supporting non-speaking individuals and AAC users
• Creating cultures of acceptance and neuroinclusion
• Making regulation supports meaningful and individualised

Discount Code:

As mentioned in this episode, Outside the Box Learning Resources has generously provided listeners with an exclusive 10% discount on Autism Level Up resources until 31 July 2026.

Discount Code: Little-10

Autism Level Up Website

If you are new to Autism Level Up, this episode provides an excellent starting point for understanding their approach and discovering how energy-informed supports can transform regulation and participation across everyday life.

FREE Energy Discovery Cards From Little Puddins

Amanda has also created a free set of Energy Discovery Cards, available from Little Puddins. These visual supports were developed as companion visuals to supplement The Regulator from the Autism Level Up Energy Suite and can help individuals explore activities that support them to power up or power down. They are intended to be used alongside, not instead of, the Autism Level Up framework and resources.

Download the free Energy Discovery Cards and explore additional Autism and PDA resources at Little Puddins.

Keywords: Autism Level Up, Amy Laurent, Jacquelyn Fede, Autism, Autistic, neurodiversity, neurodivergent, energy regulation, self-regulation, co-regulation, The Regulator, Energy Meter, Autism resources, neuroaffirmative practice, Autism support, Autism education, PDA, AAC, sensory regulation, executive functioning, Autistic well-being, Autism podcast.

Autism, Environment and Outcome with Dr Luke Beardon

In this new episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast I am joined by Dr Luke Beardon, senior lecturer in Autism at Sheffield Hallam University and the mind behind the golden equation:

Autism + Environment = Outcome.

Luke and I explore what happens when we stop blaming Autistic people for their distress and start seeking information from the environments around us instead. We talk about autistic safety, energy and burnout, and why so many of us live in a near-constant state of unsafety long before crisis ever appears on the surface.

Together we unpack:

• How “Autism + Environment = Outcome” shifts responsibility away from the Autistic child or adult and onto systems, settings and relationships.

• Autistic safety, home as a haven, and why predictability and authenticity are non negotiable rather than “nice to have”.

• Autistic energy as more than social energy, and why expecting Autistic children to “bounce back” day after day is both unrealistic and harmful.

• Scrupulous autistic self blame and Luke’s idea of refusing apologies for simply being your authentic Autistic self.

• The autistic constellation and “donut” as richer ways to understand Autistic identity over time, rather than a fixed checklist.

• How to lay the groundwork for talking with children and young people about being Autistic, using neuroaffirmative language and everyday metaphors rather than fear based narratives.

Luke’s work has profoundly shaped my own Autistic life, my parenting and my practice, and his theories are woven through almost every training I deliver. It was a privilege to sit with the person whose books sit on my shelves and whose ideas sit in so many of our classrooms and homes.

Listen now to hear a deeply validating, practical and unapologetically Autistic centred conversation with Dr Luke Beardon on The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast.