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.
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In this episode, Dr. Tay is joined by guest Amanda Moses, a neurodivergent psychologist from Australia, who specializes in autism identification in those with complex and highly masked presentations. They discuss the differences in how autism presents in females versus males, the concept of masking, and the unique social challenges that often lead to delayed diagnoses. Amanda offers practical advice for parents and clinicians on how to better recognize and support autistic children and adults. The episode emphasizes the importance of specialized training for clinicians and the need for more self-compassion and understanding among those exploring their own neurodivergent traits.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:28 Autism Diagnostic Criteria and Episode Reference01:10 Amanda's Background and Passion for Autism01:38 Dr. Tay's Background and Podcast Purpose02:40 Amanda's Journey and PhD Focus04:07 Challenges in Autism Assessment Tools10:22 Importance of Self-Identification and Formal Diagnosis14:46 Challenges in Diagnosing Girls with Autism26:51 Key Transitional Points for Diagnosing Autism in Girls31:44 Recognizing Emotional Dysregulation in Children32:26 Perfectionism and Cognitive Rigidity33:10 The Role of Savvy Parents33:31 The Importance of Content Creation35:37 Exploring Masking in Autism38:16 Personal Experiences with Masking41:11 Helping Children Understand Their Energy Levels44:25 The Complexities of Masking and Mental Health46:40 Finding Safe Spaces for Authenticity53:49 Social Connections Among Neurodivergent Individuals56:35 Resources for Understanding Masking01:00:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement RESOURCES ⚡️ continue learning from Amanda Moses on Instagram @amandamosespsychology and via her website ⚡️paid resource on masking mentioned in the episode ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay
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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
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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
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
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
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
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⚠️ 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)
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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.
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.
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.
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