Exploring Neurodiversity with Adina Levy from Play. Learn. Chat

Being neurodiversity affirming doesn't mean avoiding challenge. It doesn't mean staying where you are, only doing what's easy or comfortable. We can do hard things. We can learn new stuff, try new stuff, stretch ourselves – and we absolutely should. The key is doing the right hard things, for the right reasons, with the right support, at the right time. That's how growth happens without stress, burnout, or disconnection from who we really are. “You get to define what the hard thing is in any one moment. If it feels hard, it is hard. That's a valid, real experience.” - Adina Levy   In this crossover episode with my Differently Aligned Podcast, I share: • Why doing hard things is not at odds with a neurodiversity affirming approach • My powerful framework to help neurodivergent folks of all ages to take on the right hard things with less stress and more support • Examples of how my framework looks for an Autistic boy learning to read, and for an ADHDer business owner working on changing up her chaotic non-systems. LINKS & MORE SUPPORT • FREE WEBINAR: Shift Your Business from Burnout to Boundless – for neurodivergent business owners, live on 19 May 2025 – https://ndbusiness.co/free-webinar-burnout-to-boundless/ • Neurodivergent Business Collective – my membership for neurodivergent service-based business owners – https://ndbusiness.co/neurodivergent-business-collective/ • New webinar for Allied Health Practice Owners (including and especially for sole traders!) - Diversifying Revenue Streams – webinar on innovative business models – https://playlearnchat.com/webinar-diversifying-revenue-streams/ • Blog post + visual model of my “You can do hard things” framework – https://playlearnchat.com/podcast-56    Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932  Website: www.playlearnchat.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat   

What looks like “bad behaviour” is usually a nervous system asking for help. In this episode, we explore what regulation really is, why it's really, really hard for kids to self-regulate, and what adults can do instead. From brain development to fidgets, co-regulation to Disney characters, we cover the real stuff that helps kids feel safe and supported. “A caregiver's regulation is the very first exposure a child has to what regulation is.” - Cheri Strecker, Occupational Therapist from Learn and Grow OT Cheri and I would both love to hear your feedback and thoughts, so feel free to email me hi@playlearnchat.com or get in touch with us on Instagram – @learn.grow.ot and @play.learn.chat CONNECT WITH CHERI • @learn.grow.ot – Cheri's Instagram account • @chargeyourmindprogram – updates and resources for Charge Your Mind Program • Learn and Grow OT – Cheri's website, including her parent programs – https://www.learnandgrowot.com.au/programs • Regulation Rescue & other free downloadable guides and tools – https://www.learnandgrowot.com.au/free-resources LINKS • Watch this chat on YouTube: https://youtu.be/54HUN0lo7kw • The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson – book recommendation – https://www.amazon.com.au/Whole-Brain-Child-Revolutionary-Strategies-Developing/dp/0553386697 • Neurodivergent Business Coaching & Consulting – my other business supporting neurodivergent business owners – https://ndbusiness.co         Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

If your gut says “this test isn't showing the full story,” trust it – especially when working with Autistic children.   I'm sharing a live Q&A on Instagram (@play.learn.chat) every day Mon–Fri this week (31st March–4th April) – share a Q by DM or email me! Ask Qs about Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy support for Autistic Children, or Qs about my course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children!   “We communicate in a different way. It's not wrong. But standardised assessments will often make it seem like it is.” – Adina Levy   Answering Qs and sharing thoughts about: • why standardised assessments often fail to capture an Autistic child's communication • what to do instead: connection-first approaches and the CPIE assessment framework • how a custom AI tool can help reframe your report language to be more affirming   To get deeper and more actionable support around these topics and more, join me in my course! The Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course is NOW OPEN for enrolments! Doors close on Friday 4th April, 1pm Sydney time (AEDT) All the info is here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/

This Q&A chat is all about how to work alongside other professionals when your approaches to supporting an Autistic child don't quite align.   I'm sharing a live Q&A on Instagram (@play.learn.chat) every day Mon-Fri this week (31st March - 4th April) - share a Q by DM or email me! Ask Qs about Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy support for Autistic Children, or Qs about my course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children!   “There is no point just telling people stuff, talking at them, when you know you're disagreeing... You may not actually be meeting them where they are or answering the questions or the fears that they actually have, or teaching them in the way that they actually learn.” - Adina Levy   Answering Qs and sharing thoughts about: • What to do when another therapist on the child's team isn't affirming • How to approach sticky collaboration conversations with curiosity, not judgement • My PLAN framework for preparing, listening, adding your insights and finding next steps   To get deeper and more actionable support around these topics and more, join me in my course!  The Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course is NOW OPEN for enrollments! Doors close on Friday 4th April, 1pm Sydney time (AEDT) All the info is here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/      

Today's Q&As are on the topic of ALL COMMUNICATION IS VALID! Talking about PECS, and Artic therapy considerations   I'm sharing a live Q&A on Instagram (@play.learn.chat) every day Mon-Fri this week (31st March - 4th April) - share a Q by DM or email me! Ask Qs about Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy support for Autistic Children, or Qs about my course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children!   “Speech, mouth words, are not the only valid way to communicate. If it's not that person's best form of communication in that moment, it's not the best form of communication, full stop.”   Answering Qs and sharing thoughts about: • When speech sound/artic therapy fits a ND approach (and when it really doesn't) • Why PECS is not ND affirming, but using visuals as a communication method or support IS ND affirming • How my custom AI tools help busy Speech Therapist take affirming concepts into practice, fast!   To get deeper and more actionable support around these topics and more, join me in my course!  The Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course is NOW OPEN for enrollments! Doors close on Friday 4th April, 1pm Sydney time (AEDT) All the info is here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/    

Curious how to support autistic kids in speech therapy without trying to change how they play? This 17 min episode is for you!   “Play and genuine playfulness—that is the context where learning, engagement and all the other things happen.”   I'm sharing a live Q&A on Instagram (@play.learn.chat) every day Mon-Fri this week (31st March - 4th April) - share a Q by DM or email me! Ask Qs about Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy support for Autistic Children, or Qs about my course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children!   In this session I'm answering Qs and sharing thoughts and examples about: • Why writing goals about changing a child's play is missing the point, and what to do instead • What Neurodiversity Affirming play support really looks like, including examples of better goal wording • Why adult goals should be part of kids' therapy plans, and how we can write progress notes that align with affirming practice   To get deeper and more actionable support around these topics and more, join me in my course!  The Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course is NOW OPEN for enrollments! Doors close on Friday 4th April, 1pm Sydney time (AEDT) All the info is here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/  

Want to better support the Neurodivergent kids in your life, without falling for outdated myths? This episode is a must-listen.   “When a child is in distress, it is not the time to try and enforce boundaries and teach them a lesson... it's only going to lead to trauma, shame, and withdrawal.” Adina Levy   In this episode I cover: • Three common myths about neurodiversity affirming practice, and why they just don't hold up • How to rethink structure, evidence, and communication in a way that truly centres the child • Why honouring all forms of communication, not just speech, is a radical and essential shift   Links and Resources mentioned: Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course - open until 4th April 2025! (or check out the link if you're peeping after that date to see when we're open next! https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Free Turning Affirming Webinar - Recording available until until 4th April 2025! https://playlearnchat.com/free-speechie-webinar/  Evolve your Affirming Practice Free Podcast-Based Mini Course for Speech Therapists - https://playlearnchat.com/evolve-your-affirming-practice-free-training/

YOU'RE INVITED! Free webinar 'Turning Affirming: Neurodiversity Affirming Practice in Action' on 14th March 2025 (Recording available for 2 weeks after). A practical, myth-busting deep dive into key Neurodiversity Affirming Practice principles and tools you can implement immediately to better support your Autistic clients and students.   Learn more and register here: https://playlearnchat.com/free-speechie-webinar/

In this episode, we are mythbusting ND affirming practice. I hear too often phrases from people who don't quite get what neurodiversity affirming practice is, like ‘If we just let kids do whatever they want and don't extend them, they won't learn essential life skills'. Join me as I discuss what it means to support neurodivergent children and explore how affirming practices don't just allow children to do whatever they want but rather guide them in extending their abilities in a supportive environment. We'll explore different approaches to challenging situations, like swimming lessons for an autistic child, and how a truly affirming approach differs from traditional and passive methods. We'll also discuss the importance of safety, connection, and respect in learning environments, and how meeting these fundamental needs allows children to learn new skills effectively. Free Webinar For Professionals who Support Neurodivergent Children - Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart: 3 Actionable Tips to Do Today - Register here Free Webinar for Speech Therapists (Live on 14th March 2025): Turning Affirming - Register here Free podcast training for Speech Therapists: Evolve Your Affirming Practice - Register here Course for Speech Therapists - Affirming Communication for Autistic Children  https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Doors opening soon! Get on the waitlist now to get the best offer when we're open for registrations!   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, we're unpacking some of the nuances behind behavioural strategies when supporting autistic children. I discuss how neurodiversity-affirming approaches can look in practice, focusing on connection over compliance and the need to find the deep reason behind a behaviour. I also touch on how behavioural approaches show up in our work and why it's crucial to think deeply about whether these approaches truly serve the best interests of the child.   Links and resources mentioned:   FREE CHEATSHEET Neurodiversity Affirming Approaches to Supporting Behaviour - Download here Webinar: Affirming Approach to Understanding and Supporting Behaviour (Use code POD10 for 10% OFF) - Learn more here   Free podcast training for Speech Therapists: Evolve Your Affirming Practice - Register for free here Course for Speech Therapists - Affirming Communication for Autistic Children - https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Doors opening soon! Get on the waitlist now to get the best offer when we're open for registrations!   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In today's episode, I chat with the fabulous Alex Zachos from Meaningful Speech, a senior speech language pathologist with 20 years of experience. Alex specialises in Gestalt Language Processing and has revolutionised how we understand and support language development using Marge Blanc's Natural Language Acquisition framework.  Alex shares practical tips for putting these theories into action when you connect with children who are GLPs, including how to support GLPs who are AAC users. Alex and I would both love to hear your feedback and thoughts, so feel free to email me hi@playlearnchat.com or get in touch with us on Instagram – Alex is @meaningfulspeech and I'm @play.learn.chat   Connect with Alex: https://www.instagram.com/meaningfulspeech/ http://meaningfulspeech.com/   Links and resources discussed: Podcast episode 44, with Marge Blanc - Gestalt Language Processing, Natural Language Acquisition & the State of Research  - https://playlearnchat.com/podcast-44/  Free resource from Alex: Gestalt Detective GLP Handbook (2nd Edition) - Click here More free Resources (inlcuding the Free Masterclass we talked about) from Meaningful Speech - https://www.meaningfulspeech.com/free-resources  Self-paced Courses from Meaningful Speech (Use the code ‘ADINA' for 5% OFF)- https://www.meaningfulspeech.com/Self-Paced-Courses  Adina's course for Speech Therapists - Affirming Communication for Autistic Children - https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/

In this episode, I want to thank you for listening to the podcast over the last year or however long you've been here. It has been such a joy, delivering these thoughts and ideas to your magical ears. I'm always open to feedback, questions, suggestions, what you'd like me to cover in the next year. As we wrap up the year, I invite you to revisit earlier episodes and if you are an allied health practitioner and you own a private practice, join my free mini-course, Streamline Your Practice. This course will help you streamline your processes and make your services more neurodiversity-affirming and accessible. I'll share a sneak peek of what's inside the course, like setting communication preferences that respect both your needs and your clients'.   Links:  Join Streamline Your Practice here: https://playlearnchat.kit.com/streamline-your-practice-course Contact me with feedback suggestions for the podcast for 2025: hi@playlearnchat.com     Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat  

  In this episode, we're redefining what 'evidence' means in the context of disability support and questioning who gets to decide what counts as valid. I'll also share updates about Australia's National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), including changes related to art and music therapy. The NDIS is meant to fund and support disabled people to access what they need for a decent quality of life, but there are challenges worth discussing.   Language warning! I get a little bit sweary in this episode because I feel strongly about these topics. If you're listening with kids nearby, you might want to pop on some headphones!     Links:   Eye Contact Survey Results - www.playlearnchat.com/eye-contact Podcast Episode 43 - https://playlearnchat.com/podcast-43/   Making Groups Happen - https://playlearnchat.com/making-groups-happen-webinar/   Your Streamlined Practice - http://ndbusiness.co/your-streamlined-practice-workshop   Podcast Guest Invitation - https://playlearnchat.com/contact/   Business Support for Neurodivergent Business Owners - https://ndbusiness.co/   Contact us at hi@playlearnchat.com   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

With the end of the year coming in fast, many of us are experiencing a lot of change at the moment. For my family, this is a house move, and my daughter starting school soon. We're all about saying “yes” as much as possible, to help us feel okay and connected during this busy and potentially tricky time. In this episode, I share the 5 types of “yes” that you can consider, to support neurodivergent kids and adults, and anyone at all of course, through change: Sensory Yes Activity Yes Control Yes Relationship Yes Flexibility Yes Listen in to hear examples of what these kinds of "yes" can look like, to support yourself, your family, or a kid in your world through a time of flux. I shared 2 exciting things coming up! Black Friday Deals Week - Get on the waitlist now and get an extra 10% off everything! Deals run 25th - 29th November 2024 https://playlearnchat.com/deals-week/ My upcoming Your Streamlined Practice live Workshop - limited to just 11 spots and running, in person in Sydney on Friday 10th & 17th January 2025. More info on the Deals Week page! Doors will be open for this on Wednesday 27th November (with earlybird pricing AND extra 10% off if you're on the Black Friday waitlist!) Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

  In this episode, I had the absolute joy of chatting with Marge Blanc about Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and Natural Language Acquisition (NLA). Marge has spent over 50 years supporting children's language development, and her openness and curiosity have shaped so much of what we know today. We discuss how paying close attention to children's unique communication and interactions can inform how we support them.   We cover these areas and more:   Key terms - Marge defines GLP, ALP, and NLA History and shifts in our understanding of GLP and NLA The state of research and the various forms that our 'evidence' can and should take Research gaps and future directions Responding to critics of NLA and GLP Simple and deeply important strategies to support Autistic children - for parents and professionals   This episode is an insightful overview of 'where we've been and where we're going'... and my deep overt admiration for Marge's work! Whether you're a speech therapist, educator, or parent, you'll come away inspired to support Neurodivergent children in meaningful, individualised ways.   Marge and I would both love to hear your feedback and thoughts, so feel free to email me hi@playlearnchat.com or get in touch with us on Instagram - Marge is @blancmarge and I'm @play.learn.chat   Links and resources discussed: The Communication Development Center: https://communicationdevelopmentcenter.com/ The Speech Den Gestalt Language Processors Conference: https://register.glpconference.co.uk/gestalt-language-processors-2024-conference Barry Prizant's articles about Echolalia: https://barryprizant.com/resources/downloads/echolalia-articles/ Marge Blanc's article 'Finding the Words to tell the "whole" story - Natural Language Acquisition on the Autism Spectrum(2005) https://communicationdevelopmentcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Finding-the-words-to-tell-the-whole-story.pdf Uniquely Human Podcast Episode 114 - Marge Blanc and Alex Zachos speaking with Barry Prizant - https://uniquelyhuman.com/2024/09/13/gestalt-language-processing-and-natural-language-acquisition-marge-blanc-alex-zachos/ Marge's training through AGOSCI - What's Good About Echolalia? It's Language Development! https://www.agosci.org.au/event-4909602 Facebook Group: Gestalt language processor - natural language acquisition https://www.facebook.com/groups/997863334533291   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I share the results of a recent survey I ran where almost 40 Autistic people shared their perspectives and experiences with eye contact. I created this survey and am sharing the responses to address the question of 'WHY eye contact is no longer an OK goal for Autistic people'. Listen in to hear the surprising and diverse insights that came through!   Read the full responses from all the participants here: www.playlearnchat.com/eye-contact   I hope that you will share this podcast episode and that blog post as resources to support other people in your life to understand just some of the differing perspectives and experiences that Autistic folks have around eye contact.   I'm keeping this survey open for more responses, so if you're Autistic or you support an Autistic person please feel free to share insights here: www.playlearnchat.com/eye-contact   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

What a fabulously important (and fun!) chat with Christina Schmidt as she shared perspectives as a Black AuDHDer, Speech Therapist and deep thinker. Join us for some fabulous metaphors, and stay for the essential intersectional and cultural competency discussions.   Connect with Christina Schmidt: https://www.freetobemespeech.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/freetobeme.speech/ https://www.facebook.com/freetobemespeech 2024 Autism in Black Women and Girl's Summit - https://funnel.autisminblack.org/black-autistic-girls-and-womens-summit?aff=Christina-Schmidt Christina's free tool: Improving Cultural Competency: A Practical Resource for SLPs and Teachers - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Improving-Cultural-Competency-A-Practical-Resource-for-SLPs-and-Teachers-12056756?st=2b5e1be4ea72a0105eb2bee56eef321c   Other resources and Black advocates/content creators/educators that we discussed" Article: Is neurodiversity a Global Northern White paradigm? (Nair, V. K., Farah, W., & Boveda, M. (2024). https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/13623613241280835   Other Black AuDHDers: Khadija Gbla Chenai Mupotsa-Russell Alina Gene-Lee Decolonising resources:  Decolonising therapy - Dr Jennifer Mullan  Deconstructing Neuro - T Jamaica Pogue Pat Radical Therapist - Patricia Check Your Privilege - Myisha T Hill  Other resources: Autism in Black Autistic - Autism While Black Instagram: Black and Neurodiverse Instagram: Divine Design Australia Books: ‘Afrotistic' and ‘Autistic and Black - Our Experiences of Growth, Progress and Empowerment' by Kala Allen Omeiza       Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

Today I'm sharing some of the ways that being an ADHDer is a strength for me as a business owner, and a few ways it makes things challenging.   If you're listening on my Exploring Neurodiversity Podcast, and you'd like to learn more from me in my 'other hat' where I support Neurodivergent Business owners, here's how you can find me: Subscribe to the Differently Aligned Podcast Follow me on Instagram @neurodivergent.business Through Play. Learn. Chat., my course for Speech Therapists 'Affirming Communication for Autistic Children': https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Grab 20% off my already-low-cost workbook - The Aligned Business Workbook for Neurodivergent Business Owners. Use code POD20 here: https://courses.ndbusiness.co/offers/kdZKBFa3?coupon_code=POD20

Today I'm sharing some of the ways that being Autistic is a strength for me as a business owner, and a few ways it makes things challenging. I first shared this episode on my podcast for Neurodivergent Business Owners - Differently Aligned. I feel like this will be useful for anyone supporting ND children to see 1 version (my own experience) of how an ND human might create a work/business life for themselves that fits their neurotype and strengths.   If you're listening on my Exploring Neurodiversity Podcast, and you'd like to learn more from me in my 'other hat' where I support Neurodivergent Business owners, here's how you can find me: Subscribe to the Differently Aligned Podcast Follow me on Instagram @neurodivergent.business Grab 20% off my already-low-cost workbook - The Aligned Business Workbook for Neurodivergent Business Owners. Use code POD20 here: https://courses.ndbusiness.co/offers/kdZKBFa3?coupon_code=POD20

In this episode, I had the joy of chatting with Dr. Katherine Sanchez, a speech pathologist, science communicator, and lecturer. We talk about the nuances and complexities of what ‘evidence-based practice' really is, including the importance of integrating lived experience into clinical decisions, how to assess research critically, and tools to facilitate evidence-based practices. And we go there… We talk about where the research is at for Gestalt Language Processing, a pretty hot-button topic these days!   LINKS Connect with Dr Katherine Sanchez: www.proteatherapy.com.au www.instagram.com/proteatherapy   Resources & Research Tools we discussed: ASHA Evidence-based process - https://www.asha.org/research/ebp/evidence-based-practice-process/  Natural Language Acquisition Study Group on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/NLAStudyGroup/  Hutchins et all article - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/23969415241249944  Article Katherine discussed - https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/09/magazine/reaching-my-autistic-son-through-disney.html  The Informed SLP - www.instagram.com/theinformedslp The Informed SLP summary about GLP - https://www.theinformedslp.com/review/let-s-give-them-something-to-gestalt-about   SpeechBite - http://www.speechbite.com/  ASHA Evidence Maps - https://find.asha.org/evidencemaps/      Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932  Website: www.playlearnchat.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat 

In this episode I examine the question: Is a Neurodiversity Affirming approach to behaviour support a permissive approach? We talk about whether 'permissive' is a bad word, saying yes before saving no, boundaries, and I share examples of different approaches to supporting behaviour.   LINKS Grab you FREE CHEATSHEET: Neurodiversity Affirming Approaches to Supporting Behaviour - https://playlearnchat.ck.page/7193b7c5f3   Webinar: Affirming Approach to Understanding & Supporting Behaviour - Get 20% off with code POD20 - https://courses.playlearnchat.com/offers/sy2GL5B6?coupon_code=POD20   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In today's episode, I'm keeping it short and sweet. I'm going to share eight of my biggest hopes for the kids, today and tomorrow. I'll also share a few wonderful hopes that some beautiful folks shared on Instagram. I have such desire to go deep into commenting further on each one of these hopes. Into the practical, how we get there, but I'm going to leave that for myself in future episodes. I think it's really important sometimes to pull it back and remember why we're here. What is the big dream? The big vision, the big hope.   Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course for Speech Therapists - Learn more and join the waitlist here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/    Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this bonus episode, I'm going to be sharing the audio from the Turning Affirming Webinar, where you'll learn three key neurodiversity affirming strategies that you can get started with today to support your autistic clients or students.   This episode will self destruct on 3rd July 2024!   Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course for Speech Therapists - Info here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ (Registrations open until 5th July) Register to watch the webinar recording - https://playlearnchat.com/free-speechie-webinar/ (Available also until 3rd July)   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In today's episode, I'm going to run you through five simple shifts that you can make to take your practices from what we might call old ways towards a truly neurodiversity affirming approach. We're going to cover interest based learning, accepting old play as valid, understanding and honoring sensory challenges or differences, whether we should be teaching children to learn flexibility or not, and what we should do instead of saying "use your words" to children, which is probably one of my most hated phrases. Keep learning with me! Speech Therapists - Here's how I can help you get there, make the shifts and gain confidence that you're doing Neurodiversity Affirming Practices when you support Autistic children! My course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children is open for enrolment right now! Doors are only open until 5th July. You'll get 12 months access so you can register now and participate in the course anytime you're ready in the next year! More info here ➝ https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down for a wonderful chat with Stephanie Robertson, who is a great friend colleague and really wise autistic ADHD. She's an occupational therapist and has many other identities as well. This chat that we're going to have is about the intersection between being an autistic ADHD and how it's sometimes work for us or works against us.    Keep learning with me! Speech Therapists! Affirming Communication for Autistic Children course opening very soon, join the waitlist early June if you're listening when this comes out live for the best deals! Doors open 2x a year only so check it out here ➝ playlearnchat.com/speechie-course   Connect with Steph - SGR Occupational Therapy: www.sgroccupationaltherapy.com  Instagram: @sgroccupationaltherapy Facebook: SGR Holistic and Family Focused Occupational Therapy - https://www.facebook.com/SGROccupationalTherapy  Facebook group: The Neurodiversity Empowerment Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1258437025035170  YouTube: The Spiritual OT - https://www.youtube.com/@TheSpiritualOT    Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat  

In this episode, I wanted to share with you a brief section from my recent webinar, Collaborative Connections, where I talked all about how you can actually get children involved in their collaborative teams.   I'm going to share practical suggestions about how you can actually involve children in these situations so that they can be a core part of their own journey. Their self advocacy ability can increase when you support and guide them and you're including them in their whole process. You're supporting self determination, choice making, and honouring them as a whole human by showing them the value of their own perspectives.   Keep learning with me! Register for the Communicate and Connect Webinar Series for Professionals who support Neurodivergent Children: https://playlearnchat.com/c-and-c using discount code BUNDLE25 for 25% off until midnight 12th June 2024!   Register here: https://courses.playlearnchat.com/offers/8BDd2eoH/checkout?coupon_code=BUNDLE25   The 3 webinars in the series are: Responsive Relationships: Communication Strategies for Professionals to Connect with Neurodivergent Children Collaborative Connections: Coach and Communicate with Carers & Teams of Neurodivergent Children Supportive Spaces: Creating Inclusive and Accessible Environments to Support Neurodivergent Children in their Communities Speech Therapists - get on waitlist for my Affirming Communication for Autistic Children course! Doors are opening in June and those on the waitlist get the best offers! - https://playlearnchat.com/speechie-course   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I'll share my journey to identification as an Autistic ADHDer. I recently got an email from another speech therapist who is in the neuro questioning phase. And she asked me this "As I understand you were late diagnosed. I wanted to ask you about your experience getting diagnosed and what you feel have been the benefits and drawbacks of it" and I really, really thank you for this email.   And interestingly, I think within a day I got a message on Instagram from somebody else with a very similar question. So I thought it is probably high time for me to share a bit more about my journey through AuDHD identification and diagnosis here on the podcast, because the bits that I do share always get interesting. I had a long time of questioning before I decided I wanted to seek formal identification (a.k.a. diagnosis). Here's how my journey went...   Keep learning with me! Register for the Communicate and Connect Webinar Series for Professionals who support Neurodivergent Children: https://playlearnchat.com/c-and-c using discount code POD10 for 10% off!   The 3 webinars in the series are: Responsive Relationships: Communication Strategies for Professionals to Connect with Neurodivergent Children Collaborative Connections: Coach and Communicate with Carers & Teams of Neurodivergent Children Supportive Spaces: Creating Inclusive and Accessible Environments to Support Neurodivergent Children in their Communities Born on a blue day book - Daniel Tammet: https://a.co/d/5PJefFj Yellow Ladybugs conference: https://ylbconference2024.vfairs.com/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I'm going to be sharing some practical ideas about how you can tackle a challenge that a lot of us experience. Whether you're a therapist, a teacher, a parent, or a carer of a neurodivergent child. At some point when supporting this child, you're going to be interacting with a team around them. And at some point you're going to be experiencing different approaches to how you will support that title, how you believe that child should be supported. It can be incredibly hard to navigate these different perspectives and to find that common ground and come to a productive point in how you work together to achieve solid support for this child. I'm going to share the following five strategies that can be very useful for conflict resolution, but also give you an example of what that might sound like, exactly what you might say, depending on the situation of course: 1. Build Empathy 2. Ask open-ended questions with curiosity 3. Take time to reflect and process in private 4. Assess possible outcomes 5. Collaborate to come to solutions together Keep learning with me! Episode 9 of the Exploring Neurodiversity Podcast: Collaboration & Advocacy: When others aren't aligned with your Neurodiversity Affirming approach to supporting Neurodivergent Kids: https://pod.link/1625478932/episode/248b03be6c287bbadb09dd2264a0933d Register for the Communicate and Connect Webinar Series for Professionals who support Neurodivergent Children: https://playlearnchat.com/c-and-c using discount code POD10 for 10% off!   The 3 webinars in the series are: Responsive Relationships: Communication Strategies for Professionals to Connect with Neurodivergent Children Collaborative Connections: Coach and Communicate with Carers & Teams of Neurodivergent Children Supportive Spaces: Creating Inclusive and Accessible Environments to Support Neurodivergent Children in their Communities   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I'm super excited to be talking about a topic that is just deeply embedded in my clinical practice, in my worldview and in how I support autistic children in my whole life. And that topic is Responsive relationship strategies for building connection with the autistic children in your life. We'll be outlining some of the ideas behind what forms responsive relationships. And the opposite, what forms directive relationships and why that can be quite damaging or challenging for your relationship with the autistic kids in your world.  Register for the Communicate and Connect Webinar Series for Professionals who support Neurodivergent Children: https://playlearnchat.com/c-and-c using discount code POD10 for 10% off!   The 3 webinars in the series are: Responsive Relationships: Communication Strategies for Professionals to Connect with Neurodivergent Children Collaborative Connections: Coach and Communicate with Carers & Teams of Neurodivergent Children Supportive Spaces: Creating Inclusive and Accessible Environments to Support Neurodivergent Children in their Communities   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

Self-advocacy is not as simple as just learning one skill or one isolated thing. In the neurodiversity affirming world and in the therapy world, we love talking about self-advocacy, but what is it and how do you get there?     I like to think of the components of self-advocacy is being broken up into four main sub parts: Supportive Environment & Community - Safe people and spaces that encourage, believe you, facilitate and offer support Self-awareness of Needs & Preferences - You need to be aware of what you like, need, and don't like or don't want Self-worth & Confidence - You need to believe you're worthy of support, and feel confident and secure enough to ask for what you want/need Ability to Communicate - You need to be capable of communicating your preferences, choices and protests in a way that others around you understand   In this episode, I outline what each of those parts are, why they're so important. And some ideas and examples for how this can look in practice.   Keep learning with me!   Register for the Communicate and Connect Webinar Series for Professionals who support Neurodivergent Children: https://playlearnchat.com/c-and-c   The 3 webinars in the series are: Responsive Relationships: Communication Strategies for Professionals to Connect with Neurodivergent Children Collaborative Connections: Coach and Communicate with Carers & Teams of Neurodivergent Children Supportive Spaces: Creating Inclusive and Accessible Environments to Support Neurodivergent Children in their Communities     Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I explore the reasons and impacts of masking for high-masking autistic people (who are often, but not always girls, AFAB, or non-binary folks). I talk some ways that high-masking autistic people can appear in the world, and share my hope for the future of Autistic kids and people everywhere to feel freer and more comfortable to know and be themselves!   Yellow Ladybugs Conference that I mention: https://ylbconference2024.vfairs.com/ - If you have ANY Autistic people in your life who are girls/women/AFAB/nonbinary, this is the event of the YEAR. It's 3 days online and the 3rd day is also in person, in Melbourne. I'll be there! I'm also on a panel for the 2nd year and adore this organisation and conference.   Want to learn more with me? Register for my free webinar to kickstart your ND Affirming Practice journey: https://playlearnchat.com/free-neurodiversity-webinar/     Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932  Website: www.playlearnchat.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat   

Complete the 3 minute podcast survey to help me plan 2024! playlearnchat.com/survey Neurodivergent business owners, please join me for the Aligned Business Workshop! Through my new business Neurodivergent Business Coaching & Consulting - https://ndbusiness.co/aligned-business-workshop/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

It's non-negotiable to be supporting, modelling, using, teaching multimodal communication to autistic kids. And I share why in this episode.   Here are my 5 reasons why multimodal communication is essential for autistic children: 1. We all use multimodal communication 2. It is a human right to be able to access communication in different modes 3. Speech or mouth words can be hard for many reasons. And it's not the ultimate or 'best' way of communicating 4. The most important thing about communication is that it can lead to connection 5. Many autistic children have processing challenges and sensory challenges which can lead to varying communication abilities. Multimodal communication offers a range of ways to take on and share messages to accommodate for fluctuating needs   LINKS: My Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Closes on 30th November 2023 - join now and access it any time in the next 12 months! Or add yourself to the waitlist for the next round: playlearnchat.com/acac-course   If you're a speech therapist, I hope you'll join me for my free 3-day challenge 'Evolve Your Affirming Practice'. You can find out all the info and register at playlearnchat.com/challenge.   Exploring Neurodiversity Podcast Episode 7: All Communication is Valid - Why it might be hard for an autistic child to speak - https://pod.link/1625478932/episode/55ffb7ac277b9a40deef79b6b984caa4   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

I'm sharing 3 strategies that we need to leave in the past, and 3 strategies that are more aligned with a Neurodiversity Affirming approach - let's call them 'Old way' and 'new way'!   OLD WAY: First do the boring ‘work' task, then do the fun activity NEW WAY: Use intrinsic motivation: Ensure that the ‘main' activity is motivating for the child   OLD WAY: Intrude - Insert yourself into the child's play when they're playing solo NEW WAY: Join in with the child... Sometimes. Let them play solo sometimes. Honour their sensory & social capacity   OLD WAY: Shape an Autistic child's play to look more 'normal'... More like neurotypical children's play NEW WAY: Honour & enjoy the child's individual way of playing. And sometimes add small new ideas as an offer, with no pressure   LINKS: If you're a speech therapist, you're invited to join my FREE 3-day Challenge 'Evolving your Affirming Practice' - www.playlearnchat.com/challenge   Registrations are open now (from 21st Nov - 30th Nov 2023) for my Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course for Speech Therapists! Head over here to check it out and add yourself to the waitlist if the course isn't open when you're listening, or if you're not quite ready to join this time! https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode, I'm sharing with you the ingredients that go into a Neurodiversity Affirming speech therapy assessment. We'll talk about my framework 'CPIE' — Child, Partner, Interaction, Environment — and how it frames our approach to understanding the communication skills of Autistic children within the context of their relationships & worlds.   Whether you're a speech therapist, educator, parent, or caregiver, you'll gain insights on the importance of seeing beyond the child's immediate abilities and considering their functional opportunities, important relationships, and environmental impacts. Discover why Neurodiversity Affirming, holistic assessments are vital, and how it can strengthen the support we provide to Autistic children and to the other people in their lives.     LINKS: Register for my totally FREE webinar for Speechies: Turning Affirming - for Speech Therapists Supporting Autistic Children - It's available on-demand, any time you are! Register today for the 30 minute webinar and I'll send you the link to watch: https://playlearnchat.com/free-speechie-webinar/   The Affirming Communication for Autistic Children Course is open to the waitlist right now! And opens officially for registration between 21st Nov - 30th Nov 2023. This is the last time the doors will be open this year! Learn more and join or join the waitlist here: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/   Link to view the CPIE visual: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JxrICr0qSwulkH2LFjNkwnhuDapLfkmd/view?usp=sharing   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

This episode is a very personal one where I'm going to share my experiences and insights as an autistic ADHDer who was pregnant at the time of recording, with a particular focus on the positives and negatives that I've experienced throughout the pregnancy in terms of how I've been supported (or not...) through the medical system.   I also share some points about where I think things need to improve in all of these different medical and allied health settings, to be more accessible and neurodivergent-friendly.   LINKS: Lap desk - Officeworks & Amazon My Streamline and Automate Your Private Practice Webinar - https://courses.playlearnchat.com/offers/p2PBzwLq/checkout Annie Crowe's upcoming book ‘NeuroAccessibility: How to Build Accessible Healthcare for Neurodivergent People' – https://www.amazon.com.au/NeuroAccessibility-Accessible-Healthcare-Neurodivergent-People-ebook/dp/B0BZL7HGKH   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, I delve into the world of auditory sensitivities as experienced by an autistic person... that's me! I give you a glimpse into my own personal journey with significant auditory challenges. First I discuss how I navigate and process my unique auditory experiences. Then I shed light on some effective strategies that benefit me and also my daughter. Whether you're supporting an autistic or auditory-sensitive child, or even looking for insights into your own experiences, these insights and strategies might just be what you need!   LINKS: Speech Therapists! Get yourself on the waitlist for the Affirming Communication for Autistic Children course, which is for speech therapists all around the world: https://playlearnchat.com/speechie-course Secret waitlist doors will open in November 2023 for those who are already on the waitlist - you'll get the best valued offer if you join then! (and if you're reading this after that date, join the waitlist to find out when the course is next open!)   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

SHOW NOTES: 'Naughty' and 'lazy' are two words that I can't stand, especially when it comes to describing young kids, neurodivergent kids.   I don't believe, in the vast majority of cases, neurodivergent kids are lazy or naughty. However, unfortunately, these are some of the labels that often get placed onto these kids by people who don't understand them much.   In this episode, I break down these ideas - why neurodivergent kids aren't lazy or naughty.   LINKS: My free webinar for Allied Health Professionals - available for you anytime! Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart Webinar - I share three actionable tips that you can do right away when you watch it - Register at www.playlearnchat.com/free-neurodiversity-webinar   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

Show Notes: In this episode I share my answer to this question I hear often: Is it Neuroaffirming to Work on Pretend Play Skills with Autistic Children?   And my short answer is... it depends! Tune in to hear the things you need to ask yourself and keep in mind to weigh up a more personalised answer to this question.     LINKS:  Allied Health Professionals, you're invited to my FREE on-demand webinar: Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart - Register here to kick off or clarify your next steps on your Neurodiversity Affirming Practice journey! https://playlearnchat.com/free-neurodiversity-webinar/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

Show notes:  In this episode, I chat with the amazing Hat, also known as Harriet Richardson, a significant voice in the neurodivergent community. Hat not only is an autistic ADHDer but also shines in her roles as a speech and language therapist, blogger, and public speaker. We discuss AAC, Internallised Ableism, Joy of claiming ND identity, mental health, consent for goals, and her beautiful dog Meeno.   Watch this chat on Youtube: https://youtu.be/G2QpnnR2GJ4   LINKS: Hat's Website: www.hattalks.uk Hat on IG: https://www.instagram.com/hat.talks.uk/  Hat's Etsy shop with resources including her communication cards: https://www.etsy.com/shop/hattalks/?etsrc=sdt   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

Show Notes: In this episode I share a few practical ideas of what it actually looks like to be changing the world around a child, to be most supportive and enable positive social interactions and connections for neurodivergent children. I talk about changes to the world around the child in 3 ways: • changes to other people • changes to the physical environment • changes to schedules and expectations     Links: • Get your FREE PDF DOWNLOAD -

Show Notes: In this episode I chat with the fabulous Chrissie Davies, from Chaos to Calm Consultancy and author of books including the wonderful 'Love Me Love my ADHD' and 'Love your Brain'.   We discuss all kinds of big ideas around trauma-informed practice in schools, tips for families supporting neurodivergent children, practicing radical acceptance, and building trusting relationships with children.   Watch our interview as a video on YouTube if that's your groove! https://youtu.be/OF6LG5Bqtv8     LINKS: Chrissie's website: https://www.chaostocalmconsultancy.com/ Find Chrissie on IG: https://www.instagram.com/chrissiechaostocalm/ Chrissie's book 'Love Me Love my ADHD' - https://www.chaostocalmconsultancy.com/love-me-love-my-adhd Chrissie's book 'Love your Brain' - https://www.chaostocalmconsultancy.com/product/love-your-brain  

Sharing 3 key strategies for therapists supporting Autistic children:

Today I'm sharing a shortie, practical episode - all about how you can teach neurodivergent children about self-advocacy in these 3 ways:   - Explicit teaching (this doesn't mean swear words!) - Model when you did and didn't self-advocate - Incidental teaching as natural opportunities arise   Listen in to hear some ideas for how these teaching strategies can look in action with the neurodivergent kids that you support!     LINKS: Speech Therapists! Join the waitlist for my course Affirming Communication for Autistic Children: https://playlearnchat.com/acac-course/ Doors officially open on 24th July 2023 (but if you're listening at a different date, head over there to find out when the course is open!)   And also for speechies, you're invited to my free webinar 'Turning Affirming', which is running live on Monday 24th July 2023 and the recording will be available afterwards so register any time! Here's your link ➝ https://playlearnchat.com/free-speechie-webinar/ You'll learn 3 practical, Neurodiversity Affirming strategies to support your Autistic clients.   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat      

In this episode I share my perspectives about the role that 'play' should take in speech therapy sessions for autistic children.   I also share my ideas for how you can support learning and progression towards various goals for a child, through connecting with the way they enjoy playing!     If you're a Speechie and you're keen to learn more with me, hop on the Waitlist for my upcoming course - Affirming Communication for Autistic Children! You'll be first to hear when doors open and get a bonus and discount!: https://playlearnchat.com/speechie-course/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat  

I'm sharing 8 key ways you can do Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy - You can find all of the points I discuss on the free PDF download here: Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy Practices for SLPs supporting Autistic Children: https://playlearnchat.ck.page/76b2db1d09   Here are the 8 key practices that I encourage you to do, as a Neurodiversity Affirming Therapist:   Accept all forms of communication as valid - actions, gestures, sounds, signs, AAC, visuals Plan sessions around using child's interests and motivating topics as the main activities Join the child (sometimes), playing in their way. Or let them play in their way solo Support the child to listen and attend to others in their own way Observe & use the child's sensory preferences to build engagement and support their participation at all times Assess children using holistic tools and qualitative approaches that consider child & family perspectives & quality of life Set collaborative goals that are for the child's benefit - leading to wellbeing and connectedness Set collaborative goals that are about changing the world around the child (other people, environments, expectations) to be most supportive  

In this episode I chat with the wonderful Annie Crowe. Friend, Neurodivergent Empowerment Coach and NeuroAccess Consultant who brings her lived experience as a late-identified Autistic ADHDer 2e PDAer, together with her professional experience as a human rights lawyer to help neurodivergent adults gain the skills, confidence and community needed to live their best neurodivergent life!   We go all sorts of places in our chat, including: • How healthcare settings can be more NeuroAccessible & supportive for neurodivergent people • What to do with non-affirming information that many of us learn at university • How Annie advocates for her son's needs with his childcare educators... shifting their perception of autism to a more strengths-based understanding • Some great nuggets of advice for neurodivergent parents • Using tech tools for 'knowledge management' - technology that supports our executive functioning challenges   Watch our interview as a video on YouTube if that's your groove! https://youtu.be/6IpaIvNXGL0   LINKS: Annie's Links - https://linktr.ee/anniecrowe Annie on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_anniecrowe/ Princess & the Pea Podcast - https://pod.link/1621639421 Annie's book 'NeuroAccessibility: How to Build Accessible Healthcare for Neurodivergent People' - https://www.amazon.com.au/NeuroAccessibility-Accessible-Healthcare-Neurodivergent-People-ebook/dp/B0BZL7HGKH ABC News article we mentioned - https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-21/managing-autism-in-hospital-setting/102364014     Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat    

Today I'm sharing three actionable, practical changes that you can make (or start to make) today around language, relationship strategies, and a commitment to keep learning, to support you on your Neurodiversity Affirming Practice journey.   This is an abridged version of my recent webinar (Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart: 3 Actionable Tips to do Today), where I share actions you can start doing right now to help you become more confident that your approach as a professional who supports neurodivergent kids is aligned more and more with a Neurodiversity Affirming approach.   LINKS: All the resources that I discussed and more are linked here: www.playlearnchat.com/resources   Join me so I can support you going deeper into your Neurodiversity Affirming Practice journey! 2 Hour Introductory workshop for Allied Health Professionals: https://playlearnchat.com/neurodiversity-affirming-practice-intro-workshop/ 1-Day Online Workshop for Allied Health Professionals, live on July 6th 2023: https://playlearnchat.com/neurodiversity-affirming-practice-1-day-online-workshop/

In this fabulous chat with Stephanie Robertson, Neurodivergent OT, we chat about all kinds of topics including: her journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance the impact of masking on mental health and well-being the need for systemic change and neurodiversity affirming practices to create an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent people moving away from behaviourism understanding the intergenerational nature of parenting and education promoting empathy, acceptance, and a broader version of social norms holistic ways to support neurodivergent children the need for self-care and finding personal joy in life.     Connect with Steph - SGR Occupational Therapy: www.sgroccupationaltherapy.com Instagram: @sgroccupationaltherapy Facebook: SGR Holistic and Family Focused Occupational Therapy - https://www.facebook.com/SGROccupationalTherapy Facebook group: The Neurodiversity Empowerment Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1258437025035170 YouTube: The Spiritual OT - https://www.youtube.com/@TheSpiritualOT     Learn more with Adina from Play. Learn. Chat. Allied Health Professionals and Education Professionals! You're invited to my FREE Webinar! Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart: 3 Actionable Tips to do Today https://playlearnchat.com/free-webinar/       Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

In this episode for parents and professionals who support autistic and neurodivergent children, I share my response to a very common question - What should I do when other people don't agree with my neurodiversity affirming approach to supporting autistic or neurodivergent kids?   I've got 7 ideas to share about how to collaborate and advocate when you're not aligned with the other person's approach. Here's the short list:   Build relationships - connection over compliance Regulate yourself Find their ways of learning Educate in their way Understand their barriers - get curious Go slooooow Know when to walk away   I share a lot more about these topics with parents and professionals in my webinars and workshops. Keen to learn more with me?   For Parents: Free download for you: My checklist How Neurodiversity Affirming is your Child's Team -playlearnchat.com/freebies   Webinar: Affirming Goal-Setting for Neurodivergent Children - https://courses.playlearnchat.com/offers/2E3y5pDR/checkout   For Professionals: Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Learning Hub! Available on-demand, any time, anywhere: https://courses.playlearnchat.com/offers/S8HwcApW/checkout   LIVE IN SYDNEY! Neurodiversity Affirming Practice 1-Day Workshop – Tues 11th July 2023 https://playlearnchat.com/neurodiversity-affirming-practice-1-day-sydney-workshop/   LIVE ONLINE! Neurodiversity Affirming Practice 1-Day Workshop – Thurs 6th July 2023 https://playlearnchat.com/neurodiversity-affirming-practice-1-day-sydney-workshop/   Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932 Website: www.playlearnchat.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat