Embracing Autism

After a several month hiatus, we're ready to share our story. We'll dive into what's been going on with our family, future plans, and exciting AutismWish updates. We'd love to hear from you, so feel free to share your family updates with us by commenting on youtube.com/@autismwish or chatting with us directly in our exclusive Embracing Autism Community by becoming a member today! Become a Member: patreon.com/autismwish

A personal update from our family. If you've enjoyed the Embracing Autism Podcast, please consider showing your support by leaving us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Sasha Long, BCBA, M.A., is the founder and president of The Autism Helper, Inc. She is a board certified behavior analyst and former special education teacher. In Today's episode, Sasha shares strategies and best practices for parents tackling challenging IEP discussions at school, executive dysfunction accommodations, easing back to school transitions, and more! You can follow Sasha Long on social media @theautismhelper (facebook, instagram, tiktok, threads). You can also visit her website at www.theautismhelpernetwork.com for more resources and freebies!

Is Autism Speaks a hate group? Should autistics and autism allies embrace or turn away from the organization? Today I have with me a name that should be very familiar to you all, Eileen Lamb. Eileen is the author of "All Across The Spectrum" and “Be The One,” and is well-known as the founder of The Autism Cafe, an autism advocacy blog. She's also a writer, photographer, and host of the Autism Speaks Podcast—Adulting on the Spectrum. Born in France, Eileen now lives in Austin, Texas, with her two sons, Charlie, Jude, and their baby sister, Billie. On her blog, she shares the ups and downs of raising a severely autistic child while being on the autism spectrum herself. We discuss Autism Speaks from an autistic perspective and address the most notable controversies surrounding the organization. You can follow Eileen at @theautismcafe on Instagram and Facebook as well as @eileen.lamb on TikTok

It's tough being a parent, even tougher when your child is autistic. But we have learned through the last years that it's often better to laugh than cry or scream. Today we will share how our sense of humor has been the saving grace in our marriage and parenting journeys and why we encourage other parents to embrace the funny side of things to help restore your hope. Join our private Embracing Autism Community on Guilded.gg by Becoming a Member at Autismwish.org today! For as little as $5 a month, your membership will grant you exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, voice-only and video chat rooms, a book club, discounts, autism resources by state, free printables, direct access to Lia & Matt and much more with the added bonus of supporting our mission and advocacy work!

Our kids are heading back to school for the second year. This time, we're prepared and sharing our best tips and resources to help your autistic child start school on the right foot! Join our private Embracing Autism Community on Guilded.gg and support our charitable programs by Becoming a Member at Autismwish.org today! For as little as $5 a month, your membership will grant you exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, voice-only and video chat rooms, a book club, and direct access to Lia & Matt with the added bonus of supporting our mission and advocacy work!

Community outings can often seem impossible to manage with an autistic child, but sometimes the key to success can really be quite simple. Today we will chat about our experience at the Georgia Aquarium and why visiting a Certified Autism Center can make all the difference in a successful outing. Join our private Embracing Autism Community on Guilded.gg and support our charitable programs by Becoming a Member at Autismwish.org today! For as little as $5 a month, your membership will grant you exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, text, voice-only, and video chat rooms, a book club, autism resources/freebies, printables, and direct access to Lia & Matt with the added bonus of supporting our mission and advocacy work!

Seeking a more child-centered approach to therapy for your autistic child? Today we sit down with Dr. Rick Solomon, Founder of The PLAY Project, an evidence-based intervention complementary to ABA, with a parent-implemented autism intervention model, and take a closer look at this innovative therapy. Over the last 25 years, Dr. Rick has served as the Medical Director of The Ann Arbor Center for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. His book, Autism: The Potential Within, describes his clinical approach to helping young autistic children. You can follow Dr. Rick on social media: Facebook & Instagram @PLAYprojectASD LinkedIn @richard-solomon-6a4a006 Free Resources available on his website: www.theplayproject.org Our listeners also get 25% off of Dr. Rick's book, Autism The Potential Within with coupon code 25OFF Listeners can also take advantage of a discount for his upcoming August 2023 Intensive Workshop Online for $195 with code IWOParent

Did you know that drowning is the leading cause of death for autistic children? Today we will chat about the importance of water safety for autistic individuals and share our experience with special needs swimming lessons with our girls. Join our private Embracing Autism Community and support our charitable programs by Becoming a Member at Autismwish.org today! For as little as $5 a month, your membership will grant you exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, voice-only and video chat rooms, a book club, direct access to Lia & Matt, and more with the added bonus of supporting our mission and advocacy work!

When was the last time you went out to the movies as a family? Today we will share how we were able to share the movie magic of Super Mario Bros with our girls, the hiccups along the way, and what we did to ensure a positive outcome. If you like what you hear, please consider becoming a member of our Patreon at Patreon.com/autismwish. Your charitable membership will grant you exclusive access to the Embracing Autism Community while also helping us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

The 4th of July is one of the biggest celebrations in the United States, unfortunately, it's often marked by loud and bright fireworks displays, large crowds, and booming music. This year marks our family's first attempt to view fireworks, join us as we share tips on how to create an autism-friendly celebration. If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

Aggression in autistic children is often the most reported challenge by parents. Today we will dive into our experiences with aggression and violent outbursts, illustrate how we decode the reason behind them, and explain how we have both succeeded and failed in addressing these behaviors. If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

This one's for the dads! We don't often hear about fathers of autistic children, so this Father's Day we're honoring you by highlighting the "Autism Dad" experience. In this intimate 1-on-1 conversation, Matt will share his personal struggles, gains, and lessons learned along his journey as a father to autistic children (and husband to an autistic wife). If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

Regression, or the loss of a skill previously acquired, is a common characteristic of autism. From potty training to PICA - today will share our family's struggles with regressions and what steps we are taking to help our girls continue to make progress. If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

Individuals on the autism spectrum tend to have a particularly strong affinity toward certain items, shows, movies, activities, etc. This is often referred to as an autistic "special interest", but what makes a special interest different than a neurotypical hobby? Today we will discuss this difference and shed light on why these interests may bring your child intense joy. If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

Tune in as we sit down with Dawn M. Barclay, an award-winning author who has spent a career working in different aspects of the travel industry. Her book, "Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse" tackles the challenges parents of autistic and neurodivergent children face when going on short trips and vacations. Join us as we discuss how to create an autism-friendly and stress-free travel experience.

It's that time of year again when schools start to wrap up with exciting end-of-year celebrations, bouncy houses, snow cones, and games galore! It'll be fun, right? As parents of autistic children, something as simple as a Field Day can quickly turn dangerous or even life-threatening. Tune in this Friday as we share our experience with Family Field Day at our girls' school, what dangers to look out for, and what you can do to prevent them. If you like what you hear, please consider supporting our channel via Cash.App at $AutismWish or Venmo at AutismWish. Your donation will help us keep our studio lights on and programs running.

We talk about autism A LOT, but the truth of the matter is - most of us are dealing with other pressures, stressors, and relationship conflicts that often enhance an already challenging situation. Today we discuss what some of these challenges have been for our family and share the lessons we've learned along the way. Like our content? Please consider supporting our work by giving via Cash.app $AutismWish or Venmo - AutismWish to help keep our programs running.

In today's episode, we discuss how to advocate for your child in school, important 'buzzwords' you should know, your child's rights, and what parents can do to make sure their voices are heard during those critical IEP meetings. Laura Hales is a Mother of two autistic children, autism advocate, and author who recently began writing true stories about her autistic children. She was inspired to promote autism acceptance when she discovered the current literature available was severely lacking. Laura's mission is to create a more inclusive world for her sons and neurodivergent children like him. Please consider supporting our podcast by making a donation at www.autismwish.org/give

We made it to our 100th episode of the Embracing Autism Podcast! Today we will share reflections on our journey thus far and what we've learned along the way. We will also be sharing our favorite listener reviews and emails we've received. Please consider supporting us at autismwish.org/give to help keep our studio lights on.

Kate Swenson, the founder of Finding Cooper's Voice and nonprofit, The More Than Project, is a mother, a wife, and a proud Minnesotan. She writes and creates videos regularly about her life as a mother and an autism advocate for Facebook, Instagram, and her website, Finding Cooper's Voice. Her book, Forever Boy, A Mother's Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy, is available now and highlights the transformation that she went through after her son's diagnosis. Note: As this is a pre-recorded episode, the book give-away mentioned has since ended.

Oftentimes autistic individuals and their family members face blame, shame, and rejection typically from those who are misinformed about the nature of Autism. Today we focus on how to spot the stigma and the importance of stopping it. Our listeners get a FREE AngelSense GPS tracker during Autism Acceptance Month April 2023 by visiting our special link: https://bit.ly/AngelSense-AutismWish We have joined forces with @officialstarsoul to bring you Autism Acceptance Tees. 100% of the proceeds from every shirt sold will go directly back toward supporting our programs at AutismWish. Snag your Autism Awareness Tee today: https://bit.ly/starsoul4autism

"Aren't we all a little on the spectrum?" I'm sure you've heard it said before! Today we touch on what it means to be autistic and how dismissive it can be to claim that everyone is "a little autistic". We'll also make suggestions on alternative ways to state your support! Our listeners get a FREE AngelSense GPS tracker during Autism Acceptance Month April 2023 by visiting our special link: https://bit.ly/AngelSense-AutismWish Snag your Autism Awareness Tee today: https://bit.ly/starsoul4autism-- 100% of the proceeds from every shirt sold will go directly back toward supporting our programs at AutismWish.

Is there a cure for Autism, and if so, should there be? Today we discuss the ethical and moral questions surrounding the topic of "curing" Autism. We also share personal and community insights from this ongoing debate. Our listeners get a FREE AngelSense GPS tracker during Autism Acceptance Month April 2023 by visiting our special link: https://bit.ly/AngelSense-AutismWish

Why do some autistic children struggle with severe behavioral challenges? What does the brain have to do with it and can anything be done? Today we sit down with Lulu Mahne, an autistic adult whose dangerous and aggressive outbursts as a child led him to learn more about his neurology, and ultimately revealed the surprising cause to his troubling behavior.

Join us as for a special AMA (Ask Me Anything - or rather Ask "Us" Anything) session where we answer your questions! Questions were submitted in advance via email at podcast@autismwish.org and during a livestream that aired on March 17, 2023.

Have you struggled with addressing your child's meltdowns? Does it feel like none of the typical techniques are working? Today we discuss how co-regulation may be the key to success and why using this method has brought us closer to our girls. Check out the AngelSense GPS tracking device while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://www.angelsense.com?ref=autismwish

Does your child meltdown at the slight mention of a doctor's appointment? Today we will discuss implications of medical and dental phobias commonly associated with autism. We will chat about our children's most recent dental appointment and how incorporating some techniques helped us create a smoother experience for everyone. Check out the Kawaii Slime Company and get 15% off your order while also supporting our channel by using the code AutismWish15 at kawaiislimecompany.com

Today we dive into the many benefits that art expression can bring to autistic children and parents alike as we sit down with fine artist, and art instructor Anthony Galati. Anthony shares years of experience working with special needs students and the neurodiverse community, including respite work, regular volunteerism at a special education school, and meaningful relationships with special needs members of his community.

Did you know video games can help your child learn social skills? Join us as we chat about how gamifying social interactions can help your child better engage with their peers while also providing them with safe testing grounds to better hone their skills. For a comforting sensory experience, check out Galaxy Lamps while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://galaxylamps.co/?ref=AutismWish

Autistic individuals often struggle with social anxiety due to a variety of compounding factors. Today we will share an autistic perspective on why this happens, how your child may be feeling during these moments, and what you can do to help. Check out the Sensory Theraplay Box while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://shrsl.com/3tqle

Should a child be identified primarily by their autism? Today we discuss the topic of identity as it relates to autism, and the potential impact of boxing our children into a label. Check out the AngelSense GPS tracking device while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://www.angelsense.com?ref=autismwish

Dr. Wegner is the Neurodivergent author of the Brody The Lion Children's Book Series. She holds a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education, a PhD in Clinical Psychology and has worked with special needs kids for over 30 years. Join us as we discuss autism red flags, beating the waitlist, autism acceptance, the pros and cons of ABA and much more! Listeners can also take advantage of the special discount code BRODYSBUDDIES to get 10% off at www.brodythelion.com

Tune in as we get personal and share our family's struggles with the public education system, thoughts on how the current system often fails the special needs community, and how we plan to tackle it. This episode is sponsored by The Exceptional Learning Institute (E.L.I.), learn more about their customized academic programs for autistic children at exceptionalinstitute.org.

Join us as we talk about interoception and how the mind-body signals get disrupted in autistics. We chat about how this disconnect can result in bathroom accidents, fecal smearing, as well as poor awareness of sickness, hunger, thirst, emotional states, and beyond. This episode is sponsored by Kawaii Slime Company. Get 15% off your order while also supporting our channel by using the code AutismWish15 at kawaiislimecompany.com.

Why is apologizing so difficult for autistics? Today we talk about the challenges autistic children (and adults) face when asked to say "I'm Sorry", how inappropriately labeling your child as "proud" may do more harm than good, and what alternatives you can use for a successful apology. For a comforting sensory experience, check out Galaxy Lamps while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://galaxylamps.co/?ref=AutismWish

Today Lia goes solo as Matt recovers from Covid-19 and chats about Our Year in Review for 2022 and goals for 2023! Check out the Sensory Theraplay Box while also supporting our programs by using our special link: https://shrsl.com/3tqle

Join us as we discuss how the Embracing Autism Podcast is evolving in the new year.

Join us as we chat about how to provide your child with an autism-friendly holiday and lessons we've learned from past Christmases.

Today we sit down with Thomas A. McKean. Thomas is an autistic adult and co-creator of Autism Awareness month and the current autism puzzle piece awareness ribbon. We discuss the official meaning behind the puzzle piece ribbon, thoughts on autism self-diagnosis, and challenges the autism community (including parents) currently face.

Self-Diagnosis is often debated in the autism community. Today we speak with Nate Hallquist a budding neurodivergent advocate. Nate has gone through a journey of self-discovery, recently learning that he is both ADHD and Autistic. As part of this process, he is learning about the barriers to receiving an Autism diagnosis. Join us today to learn more about his experience of self-discovery thus far and why he supports self-diagnosis of Autism.

Our goal has always been to provide parents of autistic children with value, whether that be support, information, a few minutes of comic relief, or a familiar comforting voice. As caregivers, our needs can change over time, so we are committed to evolving the podcast to meet those needs. We have received a lot of feedback from our listeners, and we hear you loud and clear! Changes are coming.

In this episode of Embracing Autism IRL, we sit down with Adelle Starin, Owner of Baby's on Broadway – a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Center providing parents of autistic children with pediatric ambulatory devices, the Wonderfold Wagons. Join us as Adelle answers all our questions on how to apply for a medically necessary wagon through your insurance provider as well as alternative options if your request is denied. To watch this video interview and others like it, subscribe to youtube.com/@AutismWish.

Many autistic children become attached to so-called “childish interests” that remain in adulthood and are often stigmatized for them. We explore these interests and share why it's okay to embrace one's inner child.

Today we touch on the surprising relationship between sleep and autism and discuss why your child may be struggling to fall or stay asleep at night and how to help them get some rest.

Today we discuss the unique challenges autistic individuals face within the workforce and education system.  We share insights as to what your child may experience as well as what they can do to make this transition easier.

We peer behind the mask and explore what it means to disguise one's authentic self and discuss how masking can negatively impact your autistic child.

Today we tackle the topic of autistic communication, how challenges in this area can cause miscommunications or misperceptions, and what you as a parent can do to ease the frustration for your child. 

What exactly is a sensory diet and how can it help prevent sensory overload? Tune in as we share how to meet your child's sensory needs through this stress-reducing technique. [Use bonus promo code AutismWish15 for 15% off of sensory merch at Lakikid.com]

What exactly is stimming? What does it feel like to stim? And how does stimming impact my autistic child? Join us as we define stimming and share insights on its benefits and disadvantages from an autistic perspective.

Do you ever wonder how your autistic child may sense the world? Today, we discuss what it feels like to experience sensory overload and how the sensory system differs for our children from an autistic perspective.