evolve with dr. tay | real conversations designed for autism parents

evolve with dr. tay | real conversations designed for autism parents

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welcome to a parenting space actually designed for YOU! where you can get answers about navigating a life that includes autism. I’m Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist and parental coach specializing in autism and neurodivergent affirming care. I have supported 100s of autistic children and their families and have been in the autism field for over a decade. on this podcast, we focus on supporting your autistic child AND your whole family, including you! every topic is on the table, and your questions (which you can submit through my social media) inspire the episodes created. I share some of my personal stories growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age as well as feature other families' stories so you know you are not navigating this journey alone. this is a space for you to be SEEN. HEARD. SUPPORTED. and get reputable and reliable information about autism instead of searching Google endlessly for hours. I am so dang grateful that you are here. ***disclaimer: not clinical advice, for educational purposes only*** join the evolve Facebook community >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism for continued conversations about the podcast. AND subscribe to this podcast by hitting the plus or follow button so you don't miss an episode.

Dr. Taylor Day


    • Apr 30, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 35m AVG DURATION
    • 171 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from evolve with dr. tay | real conversations designed for autism parents

    170 | let's chat shame, language, and autism research

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 30:27


    169 | from navigating a medical condition and developmental disabilities to advocacy with Camille Joy

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 40:43


    168 | what therapies are families ACTUALLY doing?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 12:37


    167 | declarative language with Linda Murphy: from introduction to in-depth application

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 49:57


    166 | the power of noticing wins in autism parenting (without toxic positivity!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 15:47


    165 | the fight for equal opportunity and inclusion with Lo Farmer

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 40:52


    164 | 5 key reasons to seek an autism evaluation NOW

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 15:03


    ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources)

    163 | "Autism Handbooks": understanding autism in today's world with Andi Putt @mrsspeechiep

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 47:38


    162 | preparing for Autism "Awareness" Month

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 13:01


    160 | is there an intersection between evidence-based practice and neurodiversity affirming care?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 13:32


    159 | understanding apraxia and its connections to autism with Jordan LeVan @fightingformyvoice

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 62:55


    158 | unshaming neurodivergence: a deep dive into parenting and self-discovery with Isabeau Korylak @neurofriendlybeau

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 33:28


    157 | A Kid's Book about Neurodiversity: celebrating the 2nd edition release with Laura Petix @theotbutterfly

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2025 37:13


    156 | SPECIAL EPISODE education laws under siege: what it means for your autistic child

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2025 69:49


    155 | autism, ARFID, and parental advocacy with Mercedes Palermo @autismoutloud

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 38:30


    154 | sex education for autistic youth with Dr. Michelle Fardella

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 42:17


    152 | how US policy updates impact the neurodiversity movement

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 43:15


    ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources)

    151 | school vs. clinical: autism diagnosis and eligibility differences with Briana Drimmer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 62:16


    150 | unlocking the world of sign language with Marissa Ramos @riseandsigntherapies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 40:13


    149 | the EF toolkit: supporting autistic children with navigating life in a neuroaffirming way with Iris Wong

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2025 50:35


    148 | Counting Down the Top 10 Episodes in Autism and Parenting for 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 23:15


    147 | my epic fail and where to go from here

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 27:06


    146 | a mindset shift to presume competence in her autistic adult son with Betsy Hicks

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2024 55:28


    145 | seclusion rooms exposed: the need for awareness and advocacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2024 19:06


    In this heartfelt mini-episode, Dr. Tay sheds light on the disturbing practice of using seclusion rooms for dysregulated children, often presented under names like 'calm down rooms' or 'regulation rooms.' Highlighting the traumatic impact of these practices, Dr. Tay empowers parents with information on how to identify and advocate against the use of these rooms. The episode includes practical tips for parents on educating themselves about state laws, inquiring about school policies in IEP meetings, and proposing proactive, humane solutions. Dr. Tay calls for community unity in advocating for neurodiversity-affirming care and ensuring autistic children are treated with dignity and respect.00:00 Introduction to a Difficult Topic00:29 Understanding Seclusion Rooms01:42 Real-Life Stories and Impact02:56 Advocating for Change08:32 Proactive Strategies and Solutions15:35 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionRESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

    144 | REPLAY of “preparing for the holiday season: mindful approaches and tips for families with autistic children”

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024 30:29


    143 | an episode for family + friends: supporting your autistic loved one this holiday season

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2024 35:00


    In this special mini-episode Dr. Tay, a child psychologist specializing in autism, discusses how extended family members can better support parents of autistic children during the holiday season. Drawing on over a decade of experience and direct feedback from parents, Dr. Tay shares practical advice, such as understanding triggers, recognizing the effort parents put into preparing for events, and ways to offer meaningful help. This episode is what your loved one wants you to know! A special thank you to the parents who submitted their insights and are featured on this episode. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:12 Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity02:21 Holiday Support for Autistic Children03:29 Parental Insights and Requests06:38 Common Misunderstandings and Challenges15:07 Sensory and Social Considerations18:38 Creating a Supportive Environment for Neurodivergent Children19:05 Offering Help and Dropping Judgment20:21 Understanding Meltdowns and Neurodivergence21:11 Challenges in Getting Diagnoses and Support21:51 Validating Parents' Efforts and Experiences23:23 Navigating Family Traditions and Accommodations27:18 Grief and Emotional Complexity in Parenting32:08 Final Thoughts and EncouragementRESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

    142 | navigating your autistic child's educational rights (including due process) with special education attorney Ashley Barlow

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 45:06


    In this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes back Ashley Barlow, a special education attorney and advocate, for her third appearance. The discussion dives into the complexities of special education disputes, specifically focusing on mediation, due process, and parental rights. They explore the challenges parents face with school systems, legal options available, and the importance of advocacy and negotiation. Essential resources and strategies for navigating these situations are also shared, providing parents with valuable insights to better support their children's education.00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction00:33 Overview of Today's Topic01:18 Host and Guest Backgrounds02:43 Challenges in Special Education03:59 Navigating Special Education Law05:21 Advocacy and Negotiation Strategies10:36 Understanding Due Process23:32 Legal Counteractions in School Disputes24:05 Understanding Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE)24:43 Financial Considerations and Attorney Fees26:24 The Role of Due Process in Special Education28:50 Navigating 504 Plans and Anti-Discrimination Laws36:44 Alternative Approaches to Due Process41:32 Final Thoughts and Resources for Parents44:08 Wrap-Up and Next StepsRESOURCES⚡️ listen to episodes 53 and 57 for more information about special education from Ashley as well as her podcast The Collaborative IEP⚡️ see all that Ashley has to offer here, including her newly launched IEP Guru Academy ⚡️ follow Ashley on Instagram @thecollaborativeiep⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

    141 | building inclusive and sensory-friendly classrooms to promote regulation and learning

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2024 53:52


    In this episode, Dr. Tay invites Alyssa Campbell of Seed & Sew to discuss the importance of supporting autistic students at a classroom-wide level, particularly focusing on their nervous system and sensory regulation. Alyssa, with her extensive background in early childhood education and emotional development, shares insights and practical strategies for creating sensory-friendly environments and understanding individual sensory profiles. They explore the benefits of proactive versus reactive strategies in educational settings, the vital role of teachers and parents in advocating for proper supports, and the importance of normalizing neurodiverse needs to foster inclusive learning spaces for all students. The episode is filled with actionable insights that are beneficial for educators, parents, and anyone involved in the care and development of autistic children.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:48 Meet Alyssa Campbell: Expert in Emotional Development01:58 Dr. Tay's Background and Mission03:33 Alyssa's Journey and Collaborative Emotion Processing Method04:12 Understanding Sensory Regulation and Nervous System18:00 Practical Applications in the Classroom20:34 Supporting Sensory Needs in Education25:19 Parental and Teacher Collaboration25:58 Understanding Early Childhood Sensory Responses27:17 Proactive Strategies in Schools35:13 Supporting Teachers and Parents38:32 Managing Diverse Needs in the Classroom45:55 The Role of Occupational Therapy49:26 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️check out Alyssa and her parent-friendly resources, including the sensory quiz here: https://www.seedandsew.org/parents⚡️check out her resources for teachers and schools, including her certification here: https://www.seedandsew.org/seedcertificationteachers⚡️follow her on Instagram @seed.and.sew and listen to her podcast Voices of Your Village⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

    140 | creating more than toys: Solobo Toys' mission to support every child

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 47:49


    In this episode, Dr. Tay speaks with Courtney Peebles, co-founder of Solobo Toys, which designs educational toys with neurodivergent children in mind. Courtney shares personal stories about her diagnoses, launching the company, and navigating a neurodiverse household. Courtney designs toys for all ability levels. They discuss how parents can select toys that promote children's learning and interests. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement01:23 Meet Dr. Tay: Your Host02:25 Courtney's Journey and Family Background03:09 The Diagnosis Journey09:41 Starting Solobo Toys13:36 Challenges and Triumphs in Business23:03 The Story Behind the Emotional Baggage Toy23:55 Changing the Narrative in Parenting24:52 Navigating Autism and Family Support25:32 Self-Advocacy and Permission26:58 Modeling Behavior for Kids27:43 Challenging Unrealistic Expectations28:22 Teaching Self-Advocacy Early29:31 Creating a Safe Space at Home32:50 Exploring and Setting Boundaries36:11 Designing Inclusive Toys41:53 Balancing Business and Accessibility46:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ shop Solobo Toys and check out their sensory guide⚡️ follow @solobotoys on Instagram⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

    139 | all things psychiatry: a follow-up Q+A with Dr. Arielle Rubin

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2024 44:47


    138 | 7 themes I'm seeing for autistic kids as a child psychologist

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 40:52


    137 | understanding trauma-informed care with Rachel Archambault @ptsd.slp

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2024 60:52


    ⚠️ DISCLAIMER >> this episode dives into trauma-informed care but highly sensitive topics are discussed, including Rachel's personal experiences with a nationally publicized traumatic event while working at a school in 2018ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources)

    135 | discovering your neurodivergence: autism and ADHD diagnosis in adults with Dr. Salena Justice

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2024 32:02


    ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources)

    134 | the real meaning behind child-led therapy with Nicole Casey @connectionsspeechpathology

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 51:56


    ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources)

    133 | PDA and ODD: clarifying the differences

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 16:08


    In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses the distinction between Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Inspired by conversations with parents in her group therapy program, she delves into the complexities and overlaps between the two diagnoses. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of understanding PDA within the framework of anxiety and highlights the stigmas associated with ODD, especially in racialized communities. She also touches on the limitations of behavioral approaches and the significance of adopting neurodiversity-affirming practices.00:00 Introduction and Life Updates00:45 Exploring PDA and ODD02:03 Nuances and Misconceptions02:49 Clinical Perspectives and Research05:33 Therapeutic Approaches and Stigma09:52 Evidence-Based Practices14:46 Conclusion and Future Episodes*PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email admin@drtaylorday.com if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

    132 | unlocking communication: an introduction to Spell to Communicate with Kaley Stymeist

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 48:07


    In this episode, Dr. Tay interviews Kaley Stymeist about "Spell to Communicate" (S2C), a method used to support non-speaking autistic children in expressing themselves. Kaley shares her journey with her son Hudson, who is progressing his communication through S2C after language regression. The discussion covers the methodology of S2C, emphasizing its neurodiversity-affirming approach and the importance of motor planning. Kaley also addresses common misconceptions and the need for structured training. Listeners learn where to find S2C practitioners and how to get started.00:00 Introduction to Spell to Communicate00:42 Meet Kaley Stymeist01:03 Dr. Tay's Background and Podcast Mission02:20 Kaley's Family and Autism Journey03:07 Hudson's Birth and Early Challenges06:49 Discovering Spell to Communicate15:38 Hudson's Progress and Motor Planning25:32 Starting with Presuming Competence25:50 Introduction to Three Letter Boards26:16 Transition to 26 Letter Boards26:54 The Importance of Prompting28:32 Building Motor Control and Accuracy30:08 Progressing to Open Communication33:18 The Goal of Spell to Communicate39:09 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions44:50 Finding a Practitioner and Training47:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Kaley on Instagram @kaley_and_3 and learn more about her S2C practice @autismsoulspeak ⚡️ find a local S2C practitioner >> https://i-asc.org/⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

    131 | the privilege of choice: nuanced discussion around ABA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2024 17:28


    Dr. Tay shares a mini-episode where she dives into the complexities and controversies surrounding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in the autism field. She presents a balanced perspective on ABA, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and considering the diverse needs and privileges of families. Dr. Tay also highlights different neurodiversity affirming modalities under the ABA umbrella, upcoming podcast guests, and her own experiences, urging the need for more nuanced conversations in the field.00:00 Introduction and Personal Update00:52 Welcome to the Parenting Space01:05 Diving into ABA Therapy01:22 Controversies and Perspectives on ABA01:41 Upcoming Podcast Guests and Topics04:55 Informed Decision-Making for Families05:42 Advocating for Neurodiversity Affirming Practices07:06 Changing the Field from the Inside Out08:55 Accessibility Issues in Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy09:18 Challenges in Child Care for Working Parents10:02 Intersectionality and Racial Perspectives in ABA11:05 Safety and Compliance for Non-White Children12:08 Balancing Family Needs and Therapy Approaches12:43 Open Dialogue and Future Conversations13:34 Supporting Families Through Free Resources and Memberships14:47 Encouraging Informed Consent and Advocacy15:37 Conclusion and Future EpisodesRESOURCES⚡️ listen to episodes 26, 59, and 128, which further discuss ABA and varying approaches. and check out the Making the Shift episode on ABA that inspired this episode!⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email admin@drtaylorday.com if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

    129 | from diagnosis to adulthood: author Carrie Cariello's insights

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2024 50:04


    126 | AAC part 2 with speech therapist Rachel Madel

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 49:36


    125 | AAC Part 1 with Lilly's Voice

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 47:42


    124 | navigating social media, research, and BIPOC representation in the autistic community with Kaligirwa @blackspectrumscholar

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 55:43


    123 | nurturing yourself: self-compassion and self-care with Emily Hamblin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 33:51


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