Access2Education

Today on the show I am talking to DJ, she is an Early Childhood Specialist who works closely with neurodiverse students. Never underestimate the power of an educator who can build a bond with your child. DJ came to this work through her love of children and helping them grow to be successful. On today's episode, we talk about: - What an Early Childhood Educator/Specialist is - How to create a relationship with that educator - What ECEs do to support students from an early age - Some of the success stories she has seen of children - Advice for families on how to support their child in the classroom Make sure to check out DJ and the work she does at Little Hearts Academy. Here DJ works with families to support positive transitions to school. DJ also has a podcast, called Imperfect Heroes, where she talks about her experience and gives tips and tricks. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Being a neurodiverse person can bring on so many different struggles. Now add being neurodiverse with becoming an entrepreneur, running and growing a business can feel like an uphill climb. Today on the show I am chatting with Kara Laws. She is an entrepreneur who was diagnosed with ADHD later in her career. Her diagnosis has not stopped her from growing a successful business. Now she's taken what she's learned personally about being a person with ADHD and supports others in their careers. On the show, she shares her experiences as an entrepreneur and a mother with the ups and downs of learning about how our brain works. Books that Kara suggests: The Compound Effect (this is the one I couldn't remember) Five Secret Fears of Failing in Business Clockwork Want to learn about Kara and her work? Check out her web page Launched Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

* Please note - There are some technical difficulties with the sound on this episode. It does not impact the ability the hear the full episode. Never underestimate the power of your gut feel. When you have a child who is struggling at school and you feel it as a parent you act. Sometimes the system can say "it's OK they'll catch up", or "don't worry yet, it's early". Today's podcast is all about this very story. Today I speak with Philipa, she is a mom of two boys living in the UK. She felt early on that one of her children was really struggling but kept being told everything was fine. The Pandemic in 2020 gave her, even more, clarity on the situation when she began to see what a day of schooling was for her children. This episode explores: - How to ask questions - What signs to look for - How to support your child through hard times - Supporting your child in understanding their learning Philipa has taken her own personal life experience and what she has learned from supporting her children and becoming a life coach. She can be found at www.safeandsupported.co.uk. If you are in the UK and looking for information on Dyslexia, check out British Dyslexia Association. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Being mindful is not always easy. When we are neurodiverse or have children in our lives who are neurodiverse finding ways to slow down and be present can be difficult. Today on the show I have a conversation with Dr. Rabia Subhani about her journey through mindfulness with a neurodiverse child. The conversation explores how we as parents and educators can support young learners in being more intentional and mindful. In the episode: - What is mindfulness? - How can parents support a more mindful environment - When is a good time to start teaching mindfulness to children - How educators and schools can help support - How mindfulness can support the neurodiverse community Make sure you check out her web page Dr. Rabia Subhani to learn more about her the work she does in supporting mindfulness and neurodiversity. Check out her social media on Instagram @mindful.living.llc Make sure to check out www.drrabia.com/podcast and get your free Mindful workbook. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

When you think about physiotherapy what comes to mind? After injury recovery perhaps. Supporting you after surgery to regain strength perhaps. Did you know that physiotherapy can support our students and children who are neurodiverse? Did you know there is a group of therapists who specialize in children? On today's show, a conversation with Jennifer Halfin. She is the clinic owner of Toronto Kids Physiotherapy and together we talk about how this type of therapy often gets overlooked and how it can support our neurodiverse children. Highlights: - What physiotherapy (PT) is and how it's different from occupational therapy - When to consider connecting with a PT - Examples of how PT supports different children - Why seeing an expert in children is important - Connection between education/school and supporting the body Links: Toronto Kids Physio - 2 locations in the GTA Leaside and Midtown canchild.ca - McMaster Hospital's webpage provides information about child development Instagram - @torontokisphysio Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

As students move through elementary to high school we begin to start looking to the future. Though it always feels too soon it's never too early to start exploring the options for post-secondary school. For students who are neurodivergent knowing which paths to take early is so important. As schools adjust to few supports in guiding students as they move through their educational career we as parents have to take that task on. That's where people just like Jane Kristoffy come into play. She is a former educator and owner of Right Track Educational Services. Highlights from our conversation: - Transitions to high school - Working with the schools for students with Individual Education Plans - For Ontario Students Myblueprint - Course Codes - When to start considering your path beyond high school - Support in choosing Secondary School Links: - The Self Drive Child by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson - Grit by Angela Duckworth - Transition Resource Guide - LINK - Canadian Gap Year Association - LINK - Right Track Educational Services - LINK - @jane_right_track Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

When we as parents start thinking about which school our child will go to we always think it's easy, they go to the local school. But if you have a child who is neurodiverse or requires more support than can be found in the public education system picking a private school might be something you explore. But where do you start? Where do you look? What is the difference between a private school and an independent school? Today's episode is a conversation with Paige Walker of Renew Education. Together we explore the options. Highlights: - Difference between private and independent school - How to apply - When to apply - Pros and Cons of private VS public system - Where to find more information about school options Links: Paige Walker - Renew Education Find Paige on Instagram @reneweducation Our Kids - Ourkids.net Apple Financial Services - LINK Canadian Accredited Independent Schools - LINK For transcripts of this episode and more check out the Access2Education podcast web page. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

When you have a household with people who are neurodiverse staying organized can be tough. Constantly losing items, misplacing and generally causing stress to the household. Today on the show a conversation with Dennise Conforti. She is a certified professional organizer and works with the neurodiverse community. Our conversation centers around the ups and downs of family life with those with ADHD and self-regulation challenges. We talk about some easy things to do around the house to keep things organized, but also about how a personal organizer can help you to create a calm and happy space. In our conversation she mentions the following resources: www.caddac.ca www.additudemag.com Leslie Josel- www.orderoutofchaos.com Also, make sure you check her out at Organized MD For transcripts of this episode and more check out the Access2Education podcast web page. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

When families go through changes finding ways to support those with learning challenges can prove to be even more difficult. When parents go through a divorce it can be hard for your neurodiverse children to understand. Today on the show Danielle chats with me about her experience. We talk about how different family members can see things differently. The pressure to keep things as 'normal' as possible while still working through absent parents. Then when you begin to blend another family into the one you already have it can be hard. Danielle opens up about her experience and how she navigated a hard road. Want to learn more about Danielle and her work? Check her out on Instagram @octanedesigns or on her website at lexoctane.com. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! For a transcript of this episode please go to the Access2education Podcast Page.

Our neurodiverse children sure do go through some big emotions. My own children go through some major ups and downs and there's not always a good reason for the change. In this episode, I chat with Rachel Bailey. She is a Clinical Psychologist but before working with families she was an ADHD coach and psychotherapist for children, adolescents and adults. Now her work allows her to work with families in supporting their children's emotions. Through her programs, she supports families at all stages. Make sure to check out her web page - RACHEL BAILEY Please check out her offer to listeners - Diffuse Drama Quickly - It is FREE To find the transcript for this episode please check out my web page at Access2education Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Everyone needs to eat which means we all need to learn how to cook. For some it's easy, you read a receipt, you follow the directions and you have your meal. However, for some in the neurodiverse community, it's not as easy as that. There may be physical or mental barriers which make it hard. Simple things such as cutting, reading or understanding the dangers of the kitchen. On the podcast today I speak with Lisa Dickie of Dickie's Cooking School. Lisa is a former school Home Economics teacher, she took her love of cooking and teaching to create her unique program. In our conversation today we about her program, how it came to be and why it's so important to support the neurodiverse community. Follow Lisa: dickiescookingschool.com Follow along on Facebook and Instagram @Dickiescooking Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Not only are Homeroom Teachers key to student success but so too are occasional teachers. Over the course of time in any school, students will encounter occasional teachers be it for a day or for a longer term. The question is as a parent how do you build a relationship with that teacher? As that occasional teacher, how can you support neurodiverse learners? Today on the podcast I speak to Amanda Yuill. She is a long-time occasional teacher with experience supporting students of many abilities. We talk about how parents can build a relationship with both parents and students. The other thing we discuss is how the occasional teacher can build relationships with families, students and the school staff. Book Recommendations: Substitute Teaching By Amanda Yuill Reaching and Teaching Them All By Amanda Yuill You're Going to Love This Kid - Paula Kluth Just Give Them the Whale - Paula Kluth Born on a Blue Day - Daniel Temmet Web Pages to Visit: wrongplanet.net Elementary Teaching Federation of Ontario Learn more about Amanda by going to: amandayuill.com Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Being a parent to a child who is struggling in school can be hard. When you start wondering how to support your child you might come across the word "Psychoeducational Assessment". But what is that? How does it influence the understanding of your child? Where do you go to get this type of assessment done? What does it offer you? As a parent and a person who has been through this testing, I can tell you it's a game-changer. But you don't need to take it from me. Listen to this episode where I chat with Melissa Cait, owner and founder of Cornerstone Psychological Services in Thornhill Ontario. Our conversations explore: - What is a psycho-educational assessment - How do you get one of these assessments done - What do consider in finding a psychologist - How to share that information with your school team Web page Melissa speaks about: Learning Disability Association of Ontario (LDAO) Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Finding access to resources around children and self-regulation can be difficult. Often there are long waiting lists to see practitioner or therapist! Well there's a new program that's just come out to help support families while they wait. It's called Cam and Leo's Emotion School. It was created by Jenny Hazan out of need for her own children. Together with help of Dr. Avi Gordon and a consulting educator Talia Oziel they created Cam and Leo's Emotion School. This is not at all meant to replace outside support, but rather as a bridge while families wait or as an add on to what families are already doing. Want to learn more? Check out Emotion School online or through their Instagram @emotionschoolorg.

How often do your children play, and by play I don't mean on their screens. How often do your children get outside, run, climb and play without you watching? Without someone saying "be careful" without worrying about how messy they get? Today on the show, a conversation with Jane Pilskalnietis about all things play and more importantly outdoor play. Highlights from the show: - The need for outdoor natural spaces - How to create opportunities for play - The need for the adults to get out of the way of children's play - The importance of play and how it supports children in learning both academics and social skills - Different types of play - How teachers can incorporate play in different ways Web sites to explore: - Children and Nature Network - Play Wales - Canadian Public Health Association Book: Last Child in the Woods - by Richard Louv Balanced and Barefoot - by Angela Hanscom Free to Learn - by Peter Gray Want to learn more about Jane and her work? Check out her web page Wild and Bright Play. You can also find her on Instagram @janepilskalnietis, on Twitter @janepilsky, and LinkedIn @Janepilskalnietis. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Parenting is the one job or task were there really is no training. I mean you can babysit, be a camp counselor or a teacher all you want, but until those children are you flesh and blood, you don't really know what you're in for. Today on the show with Allan Robinson. She a parent expert with a keen understanding of young children and their development. She works with families in her Uncommon Sense Parenting programs to help support them understand their child's behaviour. Highlights from the show: - Understanding self-regulation - Limbic system and how it effects behaviour - How we as parents can impact our child's behaviour - Societal view of behaviour and our parenting - Sensory overload - Co-regulation VS compensation Book Recommendations: Self-Regulation by Stuart Shanker Co-Regulation by Linda K Murphy Beyond Behaviours by Mona Delahooke The Explosive Child by Dr. Ross Greene Web Pages: Lessonpix Dr. Ross Greene Want to learn more about Allana, what she does and work with her. Check out her webpage Uncommon Sense Parenting. Find her on Instagram @parentingposse, on Facebook Uncommon Sense Parenting, on Pinterest @parentingposse and on YouTube @UncommonSenseParenting. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

There's been a few episodes with moms on the podcast in the past year. This episode features Julie Cole, she's the founder of Mable's Labels, yes you know the labels that we all need to keep track of kids (and sometimes our own) items! Today on the show Julie joins me to talks about her neurodiverse children but also her neurotypical kids and how she advocated for them. We talk about how motherhood started and how she's managed the changes. Highlights from the show: - Her journey on understanding each of children - The need for support of family and friends - Not taking NO for an answer - The importance of finding the right school and teachers - Encouraging children to be independent even with challenges Want to learn more about Julie and her work? Check her out at https://mabelslabels.ca/en_CA/juliecole on Instagram @juliecoleinc on twitter @juliecole and on Facebook @Julie Cole. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Did you know you can support your child in understanding their emotions through the books you have at home? I didn't until I sat down to chat with Tara about her work supporting families through the use of books. Highlights from the show: - How we can use everyday books to talk about our emotions - Making time to sit with your kids to talk about their feelings - The importance of social emotional intelligence - What society tells us about showing emotion Want to learn more about Tara? Check out her web page www.taragratto.ca or find her on Instagram @raisingresilientchildren Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Parenting is never easy. We are forever coming up again new routines and learners about our children. Today I am speak with Alex Leech on the podcast about her journey with her children with Autism and learning challenges. Alex and I speak openly about her challenges, our desire for our child to be successful and how we as moms have banded together to support them. It's a really open and honest window into the life of a mom working hard to ensure their success. Highlights from the show: - Journey to motherhood - The need for family and community - The search for treatment and resources - Mom guilt - Finding the right school - How she supports families through coaching Want to learn more about Alex and what she does? Check out her web page www.alexleech.ca on Facebook @thespectrumcoach and on Instagram @alexleechcoaching. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Every child is different and with each child so too is their behaviour. On this weeks episode, a conversation with Marlene Spencer of Cornerstone Family Services. In our conversation we talk about behaviour as communication, as a way to test us as parents but most of all we talk about how deal with the ups and downs. Marlene works with all families at different stages through her work with families. On the show we talk about: - Behavioural ups and downs - How to understand the difference between consequence and punishment - Exploring behaviour as something that bothers us as parents or something we need to redirect - How we can work with our child's school to support our work at home - Ideas on how to see what behaviours are happening and what it might connect too - Setting limits and boundaries Do you want to learn more about Marlene and how she supports families? Check out her web page below: Cornerstone Family Services Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Watching our children struggle can be really hard. We know as parents that struggling is sometimes part of life, but it doesn't make it easy. Today on the show a conversation with Leah Davidson. She is the co-owner of H and L Life Coach and together with her partner they support people in understanding their strengths and how they can be resilient. On the show Leah and I discuss: - The importance of perseverance - Defining resilience - How to help build confidence - The importance of making mistakes - Importance of accepting emotions -How teachers can support building resilience Book recommendations: Big Life Journal Carol Dwecks - Mindset Mark Brackett - Permission to Feel To learn more about Leah and her life coaching check her out her web page - https://leahdavidsonlifecoaching.com/ She also has a podcast where she talks all things resilience - The Building Resilience Podcast Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Learning to read is not as easy as just reading. It involves practice, work and learning sounds. When you add a second language it can seem to make learning to read even harder. Today on the show I talk to Kim about her experience and practice with teaching children to read in French Immersion. It's not impossible and as you'll hear the strategies we use for one child can work for many children. Key point: - Reading means learning sounds - The skill can be transferred - Using structured literacy is key - Resources - History of some reading theories Make sure to check out some of the resources suggested: Web Pages: International Dyslexia Association Decoding Dyslexia Ontario Books: Reading is Rock Science - Louise Moats Nipising Parry Sound Catholic School Board Parents Guild to Special Education in FI Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

When you have a child who is Neurodiverse you need to find a group. You need to find those people who will support you and lift you up in the moments when everything just seems so hard. On this episode of the podcast I speak to Megan, host and creator of On the Hard Days. We met in a Clubhouse chat room that allowed other people to talk about their struggles with their children. In the group we talked about our highs and lows. There was a feeling of no judgement. Megan and I have since gone on to lean on one another for support when the tough is tough but also to celebrate when there's something to celebrate!On the show we talk about:- Finding your support group- Megan's journey to understand her kids - Being in the tough place as mom and teacher- How to build your community - That it's OK to mess up - The fear of judgmentAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Never give up! Never take NO for answer. This weeks episode is a story of never giving up, of asking and continuing to ask for more from the school system.This week mom Crystal and daughter Katie come to us to share their journey. They wanted to share their story so that others can know they are not alone. It's a story of a mom who never gave up. A child who know she could do more and wanted more.Don't eve let anyone tell you your child is not worth it. Don't let anyone tell you to give up! Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Have you ever heard of Vision Therapy? Has it ever been something you have considered?I have heard of it and honestly I was never really sure it was a true thing. How can someone fix my child's reading just by having them work out their eyes. In this weeks podcast I have a deep conversation with Fabian Tai. He is a graduate of The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and he has grown his practice to now support Vision Therapy in the west end of Toronto.As a parent of two children with learning differences I always looking for resources and therapies which might help support my child. After chatting with my child's eye doctor she encouraged me to look into. I have taken it one step further and also had a conversation with Dr. Fabian Tai about the broader idea of eyes and how vision therapy can support my kids, and even my own dyslexia. Highlights from the show:- What is Vision Therapy- How do know if it's a fit for you- Where did Vision Therapy start- What to look for in a therapist- A discussion about the controversy about the therapy- The connection of the brain and the eyes and how the work together.To learn more about Dr. Fabian Tai and his practice please check out his web page:Dr. Fabian Tai and Associates Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Today on the show a conversation with Cassidy. She is a person who is Epileptic and has learned to grow up around the diagnosis while still being her and enjoying life. Epilepsy affect 139,200 people in Canada but I feel like it's like one of the lesser thought of neurodiversity. On the show Cassidy talks openly about her diagnosis, how her parents advocated to gain answers and what young people can do advocate for themselves. Highlights from the show: - Her diagnosis - Maintaining friendships when different - How educators can help support students - Medication journey - How to advocate for oneself Cassidy also suggest the follow links to learn more: Epilepsy Canada - A web page dedicated to supporting families learn and understand their diagnosis Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Stuttering or speech disfluency. It can feel debilitating and cause to be embarrassed.As young children learn to talk as parents we so look forward to the moment their voice for the first time. But sometimes that voice doesn't come out a smooth as other kids. How to you help a child who is struggling with speech? What can others around them do? In my conversation with Angie we talk about stuttering and speech disfluency to help others understand how to support and better empathize with that person or child.High lights:- Her story of growing up with a stutter- Tips on how to support that child or person - Some things to try to help deal with moments where stuttering might be worse- How she as a parent is support her child, with a stutter, to over comeAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Having a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming and it came seem hard to know where to turn. Today on the show a conversation with Cris Brady who is a neurodivergent coach. She works with families, schools and work places to support those with ADHD.In our conversation we dig deep into the feelings of finding out the diagnosis, of how to support families and children and how the sigma of being a person with ADHD can effect the outcome of that person.Some highlights from our conversation:- The need for supportive inclusion- Ides of developing strategies to support learners- Breaking stereotypes- Different views in different countries- Barries to success and how to break them- What parents can do- Services in Post Secondary School- How schools can support learnersTo learn more about Cris and what she does check out the links below:Cris Brady - He web page where you can connect and learnFollow her on Instagram and Facebook and LinkedInAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

I've shared my story, my eldest story and today I share with you a bit about my middle child.He's journey is not same. Like all things with the brain, he was different. We didn't take exactly the same road for his learning as his brother. I felt at some points that I'd dropped the ball for him. That I was so busy looking after what his older brother needed that I missed the signs.Go listen to hear about how we got to the other side and how we're still working on the journey.In the episode:- I talk about the challenges and success- A bit about his diagnosis- How I missed the flags- He was not enjoying school- Where we started- Challenges came through really in grade 2- The challenges my husband and I faces and our difference of option - Our Medication journey- Tutoring supportAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Sometimes the hardest part of having a child with a learning differences or neurodiversity is the feeling of being alone. Parenting is hard on the good days but when you add extra stresses and unknowns it can be even harder.On the show today a conversation with Susan and Sperry about a community they have created that helps to remove the loneliness. Their initiative called Shift Your Thinking is there to support parents and students alike in navigating and understanding the road before them.Each comes with their own level or knowledge and understanding providing different insights into the journey. Have a listen to learn more about this organization and see how it might help support you thorough the journey.To learn more about Shift Your Thinking check out their webpage:Shift Your Thinking Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

As a parent with a neurodiverse child that road has not always been easy. There have been good days and there have been really hard days. On the podcast today I am sharing a bit about the first journey we had with our eldest. It was not an easy journey for me. There was guilt and there were any moments of thinking we'd never figure things out. We've come a long way, there is still work to be done but we're getting there!!Highlights from today's episode:- An outline of his diagnosis- Some of the signs we saw- Struggles in preschool and daycare and then school- Saying YES to support- How our journey changed my views as an educator - Advocating for the right support people- Programs we tried- You are NOT alone.I hope this episode can help you in some way feel less alone.Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Supporting peoples understanding of Autism is not always easy. It can be hard for outsiders to understand what Autistic people or families need. Today on the show a conversation with Kelly Johnson. She is a person with Autism who didn't come to learn about her diagnosis until she had one of her children diagnosed. She has since become a fears advocate for the inclusion of neurodiverse people in the work place. As well as supporting working places she is an author.In this episode we talk about:- Kelly's late in life diagnosis and how it made sense to her- We talk about biases and barriers within workplaces for those who are neurodiverse- Advocating for yourself within the workspace- Advice for parents of neurodiverse and how to help them get into the workplace- Inclusion in schools- Her book - How to Parent Like an AutisticWant to learn more about Kelly and her work? Check her out at the links below.Completely Inclusive BLOG - "Creating Completely Inclusive workplaces and society, one person at a time."Completely Inclusive Business Page - Here connect with Kelly about she can support you in the workplace.Autistic Entrepreneurs Network - A membership program supporting Autistic entrepreneurs.Kelly Bron Johnson - On Linked InAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

BONUS EPISODE!Over the past while I've brought lots of interviews with experts and other parents. This episode is a chance for me to tell you a bit about my families journey and sharing some things for you to know. Working with families over the past few years I've come to understand some important things.I want to help families to be able to clear away the darkness and see the light of what is possible. This journey is not an easy one and comes with some darkness. In this episode I talk about:- How to see through the darkness- The importance of finding a group, a friend, or a family member who can help support you and your child through this journey.- Where to start for support- Trusting your gut- A little about my story- A reminder that you as the parent know your child bestAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

I've said it many times that no child comes with a manual, no child comes with a, how to guide when they arrive as parents, we fumble around trying to figure out how to parent our child so that they feel loved, safe and successful. But when you have a child, whose brain is wired differently, your parenting has to be different as well.Today on the show I'm talking with Kathy Heath, she's a mom of three, she's a coffee addict like myself and a socially anxious extrovert who has a child with autism. Her child was diagnosed in 2016. And since then she has created the Autism Edit Community. It's a website and social media space where she shares her experiences and perspectives about parenting a child with ASD. Her goal is to allow other families traveling a similar journey to feel less alone.Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Being blind or low vision can effect you in the classroom in so many different ways. Today on the show a conversation about how vision can effect people in their day to day lives.There are so many different types of exceptionalities, whether they are neurological, physical vision or something that's invisible. With me today on the show is Jason. He runs a tech company that helps support accessible technology called A.T. Guys a podcast and is an author.He is a believer that products and services should be accessible. No matter the person's ability.  Jason has worked with companies and agencies all over the world, promoting accessibility with a focus on technology. Jason, welcome to the show.Come hear about how parents, educators and the community can help support those how are blind or have low vision.Check out his webpage for more information:A.T. Guys Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Sleep! That thing that all parents miss from the beginning. Some of our kids do better with falling asleep. Some do better with staying asleep. As our children age the way the sleep changes too.Today on the show a conversation with Rosalee Lahaie Hera. She is a sleep consultant working the in the area of young children birth to 6 years old. In our conversation we explore the different stages of sleep. As children grow so to do their sleep habits. In this conversation with Rosalee we talk about different ways to set up bedrooms for our neurodiverse kids. I learned a lot and I know you will too.To learn about Rosalee and her work please check out her web page: https://babysleeplove.com/Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Learning to read, it's not an easy thing to do and it for sure requires lots of support and structure. When you are learning to read in a second language it can be all the more difficult.Today on the podcast a conversation with Jenny Gray. Through her understanding of linguistics she has created a literacy program from French Language readers which supports the directed teaching of sounds and syllables. Wondering how her program Watermelonworks might be able to support you child? Check our conversation where she dives into why she started her program. How she built it. Who's using her program and how you can access this resource!Check out her webpage to learn more.https://www.watermelon-works.com/?lang=enAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Being a parent of a child who is neurodiverse can feel so overwhelming. The waiting for answers and constant wonder can be hard. It's never easy to feel as though something is going on and have to wait to be sure. Waiting is sometimes part of a families journey to understanding their child.Today on the show a conversation with a mother who had a sense that something wasn't right. Her daughter seemed to be a little more needy than the average child. As they started their journey together as a family things came to light. Understanding those differences lead to deeper understanding of her daughter and what she needed.If you'd like to learn more about Adrienne and her journey check out her Instagram page @mom_of_a_superfeeler. She shares her daughters journey there as well. Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Gut and Brain health

When you thinking of students with learning differences we don't often take time to consider students who are demeaned to be Gifted. These students tend to fall under an umbrella of Special Education where assume they can be successful no matter where we 'place' them in schools.Today on the show I talk with Emily Edwards, owner of The Good Birth Co.. Together we talk about what school was like for her. Though one often doesn't see the challenges they must over come, Emily talks openly about what she wishes teachers and peers saw. Her need to learn to lead, to not just be smart but be able to lead a group. She did find support in teachers who challenged her lead big and small things. These experiences shaped who she is today.In our conversation Emily also opens up about one of children who struggled to begin speaking. Looking at learning challenges from a different side of things. As a mother she was not always ready for the outcome. She has gained strength from her knowledge and supports her child through this time.To learn more about Emily and her work with pregnancy and beyond check out her web page The Good Birth Co.Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

Schools can be loud. Schools can require you to hear what is happening the classroom and if you have a hearing impairment things can be tough.Today on the show I talk to Rhonda Tepper, a teacher and member of deaf and hard of hearing community. She has spent much or her teaching career support students with hearing impairment. Together we discuss how parents, teachers and other professionals can learners in the classroom.To learning more about Access to Education and I work with families to provide support please check out my web page:access2education.com

We all know that what we eat can have an affect on our development and function while trying to learn. On this episode we talk to nutritionist Nishta Saxton about all things food.From reading labels to talk about about vitamins we talk about it all.What is your greatest issue with food and your children? It's never easy to ensure we are always to doing the right thing. Have a listen to what Nishta feels is important when it comes to food.What to contact Nishta? Check our her web page:https://www.simplyvibrantnutrition.com/To learn more about Access to Education and how I support families check out my web page at:access2education.com

Do you know how music therapy can help support neurodivers child? This week on the podcast a conversation with Cheryl-Lee Campbell, a music therapist in East Toronto. She is the owner of East Toronto Music Therapy. Cheryl-Lee works with children with Autism, ADHD, anxiety and other learning challenges. In her work she helps to support her clients work on specific goals.Take aways from our conversation:- Music therapy helps work on goals that are not music related- Music can help engage children in learning and seeking engagement- Therapy session can work on goals such as strengthening, listening, self-regulation- Therapists can work with both verbal and non-verbal childrenWant to learn more about Cheryl-Lee and her work? Check out her webpage:East Toronto Music TherapyAre you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now! 

On this episode a conversation with Amina about her families struggle to understand her daughters needs. After adopting in 2010, after waiting through highs and lows, Amina and her husband were finally given a gift. A daughter.This gift came with challenges unforeseen. Listen to hear how Amina and her family came to understand her daughters ADHD, FASD and Anxiety Disorder. 

This weeks episode is all about children and play! As parents we all know how important play is to our children. From imagination to motor skill development it all has an impact.But, how is your play space organized? Is it able to cater to your child and their needs? In this episode I am talking to Connie a teacher and playroom expert. Together we talk about play from engagement to developing play skills. Play isn't just about being in an activity and playing it's about so much more.Key Concepts:- Ideas of how to set up a play space- Play if for all children, no matter their ability- The ideas of different play items create great ability for growing and learning.To learning about Connie and what she does check her web page:Connie Huson Playroom ConsultantBook recommendations:Simplicity Parenting - Raise Calmer, Happier, and more Secure Kids - By  Kim John Payne and Lisa M. RossTed Talk:Sir Ken Robinson - Do Schools Kill Creativity

Does your child struggle to communicate their thoughts or ideas? Not sure how to support your child with a learning difference with understanding social cues?In today's episode I am talking to Allie, a Speech and Language Pathologist. She works with families to support their understanding of communication skills and better support children in their own skills.Allie takes us through what a Speech Language Pathologist does and how they work together with other professionals to support the development of language, both oral and non-verbal communication. The biggest take away from the episode is how Speech Language Pathologists can work with children from birth. Also they don't just help support speaking, they can help support with all things having to do with communication, both verbal and non-verbal. You can find out more about working with Allie by checking out the following links below:Express Yourself Speech - Her personal webpagehttps://expressyourselfspeech.caThe Speech and Stuttering Institute https://www.speechandstuttering.comThe Red Oak Centerhttps://www.theredoak.caBook recommendations made by Allie:Aiden Goes to Speech - by by Lisa MortensenSammy goes to speech -  by Marissa SiegelWe Thinking Social Stories Julia Cook Books 

Today's show is a little different from the usual one. Today I have with me, a friend Camilla,  and we have met through a Facebook group cause that's what we do these days.She has a son who has been diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). She's got a really great story to share with you and I thought it would be a fun change on the show to talk to another parent, to get their perspective, to hear their story. Because as you're listening to this, I want you to know that you are not alone.You are not in this journey on this road by yourself. There are lots of us who have done this already and are still going through it. And we would like to share our story. I'm super excited for you to hear this story.If you are looking for support with your student from IEP to resources check out Access to Education for more information on how I can support you. Together we can build your road map to success.

Join me today in conversation with Julia where we discuss attachment parenting it's role in supporting our children. Not only we discuss attachment parenting but we talk about the role of Social Workers in helping navigate the Special Education System.Julia is the owner and operator of Attuned Families. She is a social worker who works with families to help them strengthen connections and understanding.Check her webpageAttuned FamiliesIf you are looking for support with your student from IEP to resources check out Access to Education for more information on how I can support you. Together we can build your road map to success.

Today an extra special epodes all about the possibilities that every person has to live their dream.My guests today are from Propeller Dance in Ottawa. A dance studio and company that believes in the inclusion of all peoples through the magic of dance. Propeller Dance began in 2007 to give a place for those who have disabilities to learn and enjoy dance. The company has both a professional company of dancers who perform new creations and repertoire works. They also profile dance training for children, youth and adults as well as providing education and outreach programs to schools and the wider community.Today on the show I have with me Shara and one of her company members Jessie Huggett. Jessie has been with the company since the beginning and is both an assistant teacher and dancer with the company. She is a person with Down syndrome and has a work I Am, exploring Down syndrome and inclusion included in the I Can Dance a Better World curriculum. You can learn more about Propeller Dance at:https://propellerdance.com/Learn more about Access to Education at:www.access2education.com

Todays episode is all about sharing a story. Sharing a journey that is unique to this family but at the same time a reminder that you are not alone. Today I talk to Tiana, a mom of three who supported her child through is diagnosis of ADHD but then discovered that she shares the same diagnosis as an adult.Tiana is the owner of The Part Time Jungle a space for mothers to come together to navigate the vines of motherhood. Check our conversation all about how motherhood changes and grows as we discover more and more about children.Books : Smart but Scattered by Peg Dawson and Richard GuareHeadspace app - https://www.headspace.comCheck out Tiana at https://www.theparttimejungle.com/Check out more about Access to Education at www.access2education.com 

Do you have a child with ADHD, Anxiety, Learning Disability or Autism? Are you looking for an amazing place where you child can learn and grow over the summer months?Check out today's podcast episode. This episode is all about Camp Kirk. It's a wonderful and amazing place where kids of all abilities can be themselves. Today I talk with Erica the camp director about all the amazing things it has to offer.Check them out at https://www.campkirk.com/If you want to read about our experience about sending our son to Camp Kirk please check my blog post He's Back From Camp Kirk!If you are looking for support in understanding the road through Special Education please check out my webpage to see how I support families in better understanding Special Education Access to Education.