Just Needs: parenting children with disabilities

Nothing's sure but… well, you know the end of that sentence. If your family includes a child or adult with a disability, here are 5 important things to know before you file your 2024 taxes.Resources mentioned in this episode5 Things to Know Before Filing Taxes for People with DisabilitiesABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountsSpecial Needs Alliance: Attorneys for Special Needs PlanningTax Help for People with DisabilitiesLiving and Working with Disabilities (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): free tax preparation help for taxpayers who qualifyWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

This week, Christina chats with Dr. Nilong Vyas of Sleepless in NOLA, on the importance of sleep in early childhood. They'll answer questions like, “Why is sleep important?” and “My child is a terrible sleeper. Is it me or something else?” Listen along for helpful information and tips and tricks around sleep. Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is a sleep consultant and how do they help families?Sleep Disorders in ChildrenAutism Awareness & SleepMelatonin for Kids: A Guide for Parents and CaregiversSleepless in NOLADr. Vyas' Bedtime ChecklistThank you Dr. Vyas for offering our families a discount on your services! For a 10% discount use code: INEEDSLEEP10Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Nothing's sure but… well, you know the end of that sentence. If your family includes a child or adult with a disability, here are 5 important things to know before you file your taxes in 2022.Resources mentioned in this episode5 Things to Know Before Filing Taxes for People with DisabilitiesABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountsSpecial Needs Alliance: Attorneys for Special Needs PlanningTax Help for People with DisabilitiesLiving and Working with Disabilities (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): free tax preparation help for taxpayers who qualifyWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Flying with kids with disabilities can be stressful and overwhelming. This week's podcast episode has 5 tips to make the trip easier for you and your child.Resources mentioned in this episodeBetter parenting using self-regulationWhat is self-regulation and how can it help me be a better parent?¿Qué es la autorregulación y cómo puede ayudarme a ser un mejor padre?Co-regulation: Your secret tool for managing meltdownsHow can co-regulation help my child's behavior? Strategies for parenting children with disabilities¿Cómo puede ayudarle a mi hijo la corregulación? Estrategias para ser padre de niños con discapacidadesUS Department of Transportation; Wheelchairs and Other Assistive DevicesDisabilities and Medical ConditionsWhat is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?Wings for Autism / Wings for AllTSA Notification CardWhat To Do When an Airline Damages Your WheelchairWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

In this bonus episode, Christina discusses doing a pediatric sleep study with her son and his sensory needs.  Resources mentioned in this episodeThe importance of sleep in early childhood with Dr. Nilong VyasSleepless in NOLAOur Lady of the Lake Sleep MedicineWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

This week, Christina chats with Dr. Nilong Vyas of Sleepless in NOLA, on the importance of sleep in early childhood. They'll answer questions like, “Why is sleep important?” and “My child is a terrible sleeper. Is it me or something else?” Listen along for helpful information and tips and tricks around sleep. Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is a sleep consultant and how do they help families?Sleep Disorders in ChildrenAutism Awareness & SleepMelatonin for Kids: A Guide for Parents and CaregiversSleepless in NOLADr. Vyas' Bedtime ChecklistThank you Dr. Vyas for offering our families a discount on your services! For a 10% discount use code: INEEDSLEEP10Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

What do you do if you just found out your child has medically complex needs? Do you know how to be a great health care advocate for your complex kid? Christina gets helpful information and insight from Julia Roberts, parent and long-time advocate, in this week's episode. Resources mentioned in this episodeJulia RobertsChildren with Medical ComplexityHealth Insurance for a Child With Disabilities: Easily Navigate Coverage and ServicesHow to get medical insurance for a child with a disabilityHow to get the most out of health insurance for your child with disabilitiesFrequently Asked Questions about Health InsuranceWhat happens when a child with a disability turns 18?If you are undocumented (don't have papers), you can get care at a Federally Qualified Health Center.Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Speech Apraxia vs Autism: Are they related? If a child is speech delayed what can you do? Christina gets helpful information and insight from Kacy Woodson, a speech-language pathologist, in this week's episode. Resources mentioned in this episodeWho Are Speech-Language Pathologists, and What Do They Do?Childhood Apraxia of SpeechIs my child different? Six steps to assessing your child's development.Understanding child development milestonesCDC's Developmental MilestonesIs My Child Developing OK?What are Early Intervention Services? Can they help my child?The Special Education Evaluation ProcessWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Mr. Raymond A. Jetson says, “... If our children are going to feel present and valued and able to be the best version of themselves in the world, we have to be intentional about impacting the world in a way that creates space for that to happen.” In this week's episode, Christina gets practical advice on how to build community for children with disabilities.Resources mentioned in this episodeMeet Raymond A. JetsonBuilding a Village of Support with Raymond A. Jetson (webinar)Children with disabilities need a village of support. Here are 3 ways to build that village for yours. (blog)Building a village of support: 3 ways to help children with disabilities live their best lives (podcast)Learn more about Cornelia de Lange SyndromeIntroduce your child with F-Words; it's not what you think (podcast)Back to school for kids with disabilities: Dear Teacher, meet my son. (blog)How do I partner with the school to support my child? School communication tips for parents and caregiversWhere to find Raymond A. Jetson:Raymond A. Jetson on FacebookRaymond A. Jetson on TwitterRaymond A. Jetson on ThreadsRaymond A. Jetson on InstagramRaymond A. Jetson on LinkedInWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

In this week's episode, Christina gets back-to-school tips from Julie McIsaac, Learning and Mental Health Consultant. Get some real-life tips to support your child and their teacher as we head back to school.Resources mentioned in this episodeMeet Julie McIsaac, Ph.D.Introduce your child with F-Words; it's not what you think (podcast)How Can I Prepare for My Child's Transition into School-based Services at Age 3?Is your child having behavior problems at school? Here's how to helpFellow Parents, Let's Talk About Mental Health.Mental Health and Children with Disabilities: a WebinarWhy is my child struggling in school?Individualized Education Plan (IEP)IEP (plan educativo individualizado)Better parenting using self-regulationHow to Create an Effective IEP & Build a Strong TeamBack to school for kids with disabilities: Dear Teacher, meet my son. (blog)How do I partner with the school to support my child? School communication tips for parents and caregiversJulie McIsaac, PhD on FacebookWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

In this week's episode, Christina talks with Dayna Abraham, bestselling author of Calm the Chaos: A Fail-Proof Roadmap for Parenting Even the Most Challenging Kids. They discuss supporting neurodivergent kids at home in a realistic and shame-free way.Here's some more about Dayna. As a National Board Certified educator, parent of three neurodivergent children, and an ADHD adult herself, Dayna brings a unique and out-of-the-box perspective to parents raising kids in the modern world. Through her compassionate framework, Calm the Chaos, she has helped millions of desperate parents around the world, find peace and meet their children where they're at when conventional parenting tools have failed them.Where to find Dayna AbrahamFacebookInstagram YouTubeTikTokLinkedinWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

We're back in school. Is your child with disabilities working with a new teacher? In this week's podcast learn how to introduce your child to their teacher using helpful F-words!Resources mentioned in this episodeThe ‘F-words' in childhood disability: I swear this is how we should think!Meet my Child documentFull letter by Julie McIsaac, PhD. to her son's teacherWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Resources for children with disabilities: what are they, how do I find them? If you've found yourself overwhelmed with where to start in getting support for your child with disabilities or developmental delay this podcast episode is for you. Listen along as I break down the systems of services in this week's episode. Resources mentioned in this episodeMy child was just diagnosed with a disability. Now what do I do? (Podcast)My child has a new disability diagnosis. Now what? (Blog)My child is behind on her milestones. Is she a late bloomer or is it a developmental delay?What is Medicaid and how do I apply for a family memberMedicaidWhat is a Federally Qualified Health CenterFederally Qualified Health Center locator toolDifferent health insurance plans and how to applyNew to special education? Here's what you need to knowIDEA - Special Education Terms & Acronyms: a glossaryIEP - Special Education Terms & Acronyms: a glossaryAccommodations - Special Education Terms & Acronyms: a glossaryEarly InterventionHow do I help my child transition into school services when they turn 3?EarlySteps in LouisianaFind your state's Early Intervention programOffice for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) - LouisianaDepartment of Developmental Services (DDS) - MassachusettsParent Information and Training Center (PTIC)The application process for getting SSISupplemental Security IncomeWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Flying with kids with disabilities can be stressful and overwhelming. This week's podcast episode has 5 tips to make the trip easier for you and your child.Resources mentioned in this episodeBetter parenting using self-regulationWhat is self-regulation and how can it help me be a better parent?¿Qué es la autorregulación y cómo puede ayudarme a ser un mejor padre?Co-regulation: Your secret tool for managing meltdownsHow can co-regulation help my child's behavior? Strategies for parenting children with disabilities¿Cómo puede ayudarle a mi hijo la corregulación? Estrategias para ser padre de niños con discapacidadesUS Department of Transportation; Wheelchairs and Other Assistive DevicesDisabilities and Medical ConditionsWhat is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?Wings for Autism / Wings for AllTSA Notification CardWhat To Do When an Airline Damages Your Wheelchair

Pool safety is important for everyone, more so for children with disabilities. Parents need hints for summer, some that are not always obvious. This week's podcast contains 9 quick tips for water safety and UV awareness.Resources mentioned in this episodeHow to climb out of the poolSwimsuit colors for water safetySunscreen for people of colorSunscreen application tipsAssign an adult to be Water Watcher

Self-care for caregivers: You're tired and you know you need it. But how? And why would you want one more thing to add to your to-do list? This week on the podcast, I want to share with you how some things you're already doing every day can be self-care.Resources mentioned in this episodeParents, let's talk mental health (podcast)Fellow Parents, Let's Talk About Mental HealthBetter parenting using self-regulation (podcast)"Calmness feels nice;" An interview about how tapping helped one mama's anxious child (podcast)Overloaded with Feelings: Could Tapping be the answer for your child?Self-care: What is it? Why is it so important for your health?Caring for Your Mental HealthEmotional Self-Care: What It Is and How to Make It Part of Your LifeThe Relational Dimension of Self-Care10 Spiritual Self-Care Tips To Be Happy

There is often confusion and fear and difficulty when talking about mental illness, especially when children are involved. There doesn't need to be though. This week's podcast focuses on how you can support parents of children with mental illness. Listen along as we share 3 ways to be a great friend.Resources mentioned in this episode988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineThe Trevor Project: Help for LGBTQ+ Youth in CrisisFellow Parents, Let's Talk About Mental Health (blog)Parents, Let's Talk Mental Health (podcast)About Mental IllnessImportant Teen Mental Health Statistics For ParentsChildren's Mental Health: Understanding an Ongoing Public Health ConcernChildren with disability: mental health & physical healthWhat is Sensory Processing? And can it help explain my child's behavior? (blog)¿Qué es el procesamiento sensorial? ¿Y puede ayudar a explicar la conducta de mi hijo? (blog)What are sensory processing issues? And do they explain my kid's behavior (podcast)Is your child struggling with reading? Here are 5 ways you can help at home.Parental Criticism May Worsen ADHD SymptomsDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: The BasicHow to Discipline a Child With DMDDLong waiting lists, long drives and costly care hinder many kids' access to mental health careMental illness in children: Know the signsTherapy to Improve Children's Mental HealthMental Health and Children with Disabilities (video)Take a Mental Health Test

In honor of Occuptional Therapy Month, we are re-releasing on episode on occupational therapy.If your young child has a disability or delay, you may have been referred to Occupational Therapy. But what does occupational therapy mean for a child? In this episode, we'll talk about all of the ways OT can make a difference for your child. Kim Haynes and Anne Hindrichs of the McMains Child Developmental Center explains how OT can help a child with their most important work - play.McMains Child Developmental Center (Baton Rouge, LA)What Is Occupational Therapy?Sensory Smarts: Find an Occupational TherapistKitchen Conversations: Therapies and accommodations to support young children with disabilities in school (webinar replay)One Quick Question: I thought OT was about workplace skills. Why does my child need OT if they don't work? (2-minute video)One Quick Question: "Will my young child with special needs need to do therapy forever?" (2-minute video)What are some activities for children who have difficulty accepting different foods or textures? (2-minute video)How to mix OT into summer fun (2-minute video)Am I doing enough? (2-minute video)Fellow parents: Let's talk about mental health

“There's no magic amount of knowledge.” This week I have a conversation with Nell Curran and she has some great insights into raising a neurodivergent child. Listen along as two neurodivergent moms talk about raising neurodivergent children.Resources mentioned in this episode5 things to do if your autistic child needs an ambulance (podcast)Body doubling and other parenting tips for neurodivergent adults (podcast)Neurotribes: The Legacy Of Autism And The Future Of Neurodiversity By Steve Silberman

Do you ever ask yourself, “as a neurodivergent parent, how can I teach my neurodivergent child skills that they'll need?” This week on the podcast, I want to share some skills that I have discovered work for me and my family.Resources mentioned in this episodeNeurodivergent: What Is It, Symptoms, And TypesStimming: Why It Happens And How To Manage ItThe Link Between ADHD and Object PermanenceBody Doubling for ADHD: What It Is and How It Works?Body Doubling: Not Just for ADHDBody DoublingAdult Study Hall (online group for body doubling)WorkBuddies on TikTokWorkBuddies on Discord

“It's tough and there's some really, really hard days. Just don't give up hope.” This week we talk to one parent about raising her child with disabilities. Listen along to hear some of the lessons she learned along the way.Resources mentioned in this episodeEarly Intervention (Louisiana)Early Intervention (Massachusetts)Six things you really, really don't want to say to children with disabilities (try these instead) (Podcast)Exceptional Lives on FacebookExceptional Lives on InstagramExceptional Lives on LinkedInAnne Punzak Marcus on LinkedIn

Do you know your rights under IDEA? It's the law that requires schools to provide special education services to students with disabilities. Listen to this week's podcast episode to learn more.Resources mentioned in this episodeFederal law that supports Special EducationLocate your state's Department of Education website, then search for Special EducationLocate your state's Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC)Know your rights: navigating your young child's transition into school (webinar)How to advocate for your child with a disability…and get results (blog)6 ways to be a fierce advocate for your child with disabilities (podcast)Special Education Rights Video Series by Mass Advocates for ChildrenImportant words to know and definitionsFAPE (Free and Appropriate Education)IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)Special EducationLRE (Least Restrictive Environment)IEP (Individualized Education Program)Procedural SafeguardsLouisiana ResourcesA Good IDEA for Louisiana: A Guide for Parents and Students About Special Education ServicesLouisiana's Educational Rights of Children with Disabilities: Special Education Processes and Procedural SafeguardsParent Training and Information Center: LAPTICDispute Resolution for Students with ExceptionalitiesFamilies Helping FamiliesMassachusetts ResourcesA Parent's Guide to Special Education (English)A Parent's Guide to Special Education (Spanish)Procedural Safeguards, available in English and 17 other languagesParent Training and Information Center: Family TIES of MassachusettsMass Special Education Website

When your student with a disability is ready to transition to adult life, it may feel like they are striking out on their own. But there are programs and resources that will continue to support them in this next phase of their lives. Learn more.Resources mentioned in this episodeProgram for Success Employment at Baton Rouge Community CollegeA list of Comprehensive Transition and Post-Secondary (CTP) Programs by stateSpecial Ed Terms 2 Know: Transition Plan (2-minute video)What is included in a Transition Plan?Special Ed Terms 2 Know: Vocational Programs (2-minute video)Find programs in LouisianaFind programs in MassachusettsState-by-state listing of parent support centersResources for helping your child transition to adulthood

Processing emotions takes time, patience, focus, practice, and follow-through. It's easy for anxious kids to get overloaded. In this podcast interview, Exceptional Lives Team Member Carey Luckey talks about how tapping helps her son. Resources mentioned in this episodeIs your child highly sensitive?What is tapping and how does it work?EFT tappingGorilla Thumps and Bear Hugs: a Tapping Solution Children's StoryEFT Tapping for Kids (video)Child-friendly tapping diagramsTools for managing anxiety in young children

Setting New Year's resolutions that you don't follow through with can leave you feeling defeated. Instead, focus on how amazing you are this year and share that with those around you!We'll be taking a short break from the podcast to celebrate the holidays with our families but we'll be back in your feed the first week of January.

You know that ‘bored' feeling? No? Oh right, you're a parent. These days, our devices are a source of constant entertainment, information, and connection -  but they can also increase our stress and take us away from our kids (even when we're with them). Here's the antidote. Resources mentioned in this episodeIf you give a mom a minute…Exploring Nature to find our CalmHow to Keep it Together: A Guide

Let's talk about overstimulation, especially during the holidays. Here's the interesting part though, this is about overstimulation for us parents. Here are 4 tips that have helped me a lot.Resources mentioned in this episodeOverstimulated by Life? 20 Ways to Give Your ADHD Senses a BreakStudy shows overstimulation caused by smartphones, while they promise the oppositeDigital Overload: What Is It, and How Is It Affecting Our Mental and Physical Health?Sleep and healthJust Needs: Better parenting through self-regulation Just Needs: Co-regulation: your secret tool for managing meltdowns

Holiday gatherings can be stressful. If you're welcoming a family with kids with disabilities, here are six things you can do to make sure they feel welcome.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is a developmental disability?What is sensory processing? And can it help explain my child's behavior?What are accommodations?Six Things Not to Say to Children with Disabilities (and Some Things To Say Instead)

Extra stressed during the holidays? We are too. Here are some of our favorite parenting mantras to get us through.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is self-regulation and how can it help me be a better parent?How can co-regulation help my child's behavior? Strategies for parenting children with disabilities

If you are parenting an autistic child, you know that accidents and ambulances can be particularly overwhelming. Here's what one mom did to make things easier on her child during an emergency.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is Sensory Processing? And can it help explain my child's behavior?Co-regulation: your secret tool for managing meltdownsWhat strategies can I give my child to help her be understood?How to advocate for your child with a disability… and get results

Building a village of support for our children with disabilities can help them live their best lives. Listen to our podcast for 3 steps to make that happen. Resources mentioned in this episodeWebinar: Building a Village of SupportIntroduce your child with F-Words; it's not what you thinkMetromorphosisMy child has a new disability diagnosis. Now what?

If you're parenting a child with a disability, you've probably seen the term self-regulation. In this week's podcast, learn what self-regulation is and how improving your ability to self-regulate can help you be a better parent.Resources mentioned in this episodeCenter for Parent Information and ResourcesLouisiana Resource DirectoryDirectorio de recursos en LuisianaMassachusetts Resource DirectoryDirectorio de recursos en MassachusettsShanker Self-Reg®

You can help your child with problem-solving by introducing new ideas to develop their thinking. This week's podcast discusses Scaffolding, which is a way to build problem-solving skills from the ground up.Resources mentioned in this episodeZone of proximal developmentFixed vs. Growth Mindset

It's hard to envision how your child with a disability will transition to adulthood. Let's set them up with the support they need for adult life in today's podcast!Resources mentioned in this episode and suggested reading from our LA guidesVIDEO Families & Stories - Supporting your child's transition to adulthood, with Tanja & Andy VIDEO Families & Stories— How routines help as your child becomes an adult, with Tanja & AndyMake Sure The IEP Is WorkingThink About Your Child's Future GoalsPreparing For EmploymentPreparing For CollegeSignificant Intellectual DisabilityTransition PlansWhat Is PreETS And Vocational Rehabilitation?InternshipsSupport For College Prep Courses And Entrance ExamsOutside Agencies to Help with Transition and Adult ServicesTransition to Adulthood - IntroductionStep-by-step timeline for young adults with disabilities transitioning to adult life

Response to intervention (RTI) is a system schools use to help students who are struggling. If your child has a disability, RTI could be the way to help. Find out what you should know about RTI in today's podcast. Resources mentioned in this episodeComponents of literacyReading Interventions videosHard Words: Why aren't kids being taught to read?Special Education EvaluationReasons why kids have troubleWhat the science says: effective reading interventions for kids with learning disabilitiesKinds of services your child may getKnow your rights! (What is IDEA?)Decide on interventions and monitor progressWorking with the school

What does it mean if your child is a late bloomer? Listen to our podcast as we share the stages of child development and the questions you can ask yourself about developmental delays.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat If My Child Missed Developmental Milestones?Is My Child Developing OK?March is CP Awareness Month Where to Start: Choosing the Best Supports and Therapies for Your ChildCDC's Developmental MilestonesWhy are We Obsessed with Milestones? 

An often time-consuming aspect of back-to-school for children with disabilities is paperwork! Listen in while Christina shares one parent's thoughts on those endless forms in this week's podcast.Resources mentioned in this episodeIEP annual meetingsWhat is Response to Intervention (RTI)? How can it help if my child struggles in school?If you give a mom a minuteFeeling parent stress? Us too. Here's our favorite trick to reduce stress and enjoy our kids more.

We're back in school. Is your child with disabilities working with a new teacher? In this week's podcast learn how to introduce your child to their teacher using helpful F-words!Resources mentioned in this episodeThe ‘F-words' in childhood disability: I swear this is how we should think!Meet my Child documentFull letter by Julie McIsaac, PhD. to her son's teacher

Dyslexia is the most common learning disability, but it often goes undiagnosed. In this podcast, we talk about what to watch for, what to do if you're concerned, and how to support your child.Resources mentioned in this episodeDoes my child have dyslexia?International Dyslexia organizationIf your child is struggling in school: think, observe and ask questionsAbout the student evaluationIdentify your concerns and talk to your child's teacher

Pool safety is important for everyone, more so for children with disabilities. Parents need hints for summer, some that are not always obvious. This week's podcast contains 9 quick tips for water safety and UV awareness.Resources mentioned in this episodeHow to climb out of the poolSwimsuit colors for water safetySunscreen for people of colorSunscreen application tipsAssign an adult to be Water Watcher

The transition to adulthood is hard. For kids with disabilities, it can bring extra challenges. In this podcast, we talk about how to help our kids get ready.Resources mentioned in this episodeHow do I help my teen with a disability prepare for the transition to adult life?Preparing for collegeEmployment: How to Prepare for Getting a JobSupported Living & HousingWhat is vocational rehabilitation?Internships: preparing for working lifeHow do you make sure the IEP is working for your child?Encouraging your child to be involved in their own transition1 Quick Question: How can disability services support my child when they get to college?Perspectives 4 Parents: Blogs about the transition to adult life

Parenting comes with meltdowns - it's part of the deal. But did you know that co-regulating with your child is often the fastest and most effective way to diffuse things when your child is upset? You may already be doing it, even if you've never heard of it. Learn more.Resources mentioned in this episodeIt Takes Two: The Role of Co-Regulation in Building Self-Regulation SkillsCo-regulating with children of all agesHow Co-regulation with Parents Develops into Self-Regulation in Children

Advocating for your child with a disability can be hard. Here are 6 practical tips to help you make sure they get what they need.Resources mentioned in this episodeIndividuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)Solving disagreements with the schoolFind your state's parent training and information centerThe Impact of Racism on Discipline for Students of Color with Disabilities(video)Helping your child with behavior challenges

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. But what does mental health look like for those of us caring for children with disabilities? How can we support our children while still tending to our own needs? Here are a few ideas for you.Resources mentioned in this episodeMentalHealth.gov Psychology Today: find a therapist

One of the best ways to support children with disabilities is to support their families. But how? Exceptional Lives offers our 3 favorite tips.Resources mentioned in this episodeMA resource directory (English)MA resource directory (Spanish)LA resource directory (English)LA resource directory (Spanish)Exceptional Lives on FacebookELI Massachusetts parents groupELI Louisiana parents groupExceptional Lives on InstagramWhat is the Difference Between an IEP and a 504 Plan?What is Sensory Processing? And can it help explain my child's behavior?My child has a new disability diagnosis. Now what?

A tribute to mamas and people filling those mama shoes this Mother's Day…. If you give a mom a minute, she'll try to fill it with “just one more thing”...Resources mentioned in this episodeIf You Give a Mouse a Cookie

DIR Floortime is an approach to supporting autistic children, yet many parents of autistic children only know about ABA therapy.  In this podcast, Julie McIsaac, Learning and Mental Health Consultant, talks about her experience as a certified DIR Floortime provider.Resources mentioned in this episode ICDL: Home of DIR FloortimeKeeping calm: mastering the art of self-regulation in 3 simple stepsWhat strategies can I give my child to help her be understood?Autism resources for families - Exceptional LivesLanguage and communication differences in non-speaking AutisticsI have an autistic child. What can I learn from autistic adults?Find DIR Floortime providers worldwideAffect Autism

If you have the chance to learn more about what it is like to walk in your child's shoes, why not take it? One of the best ways parents of autistic kids can understand our children's experience is to listen to autistic adults. Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is identity-first language and what does it have to do with autism… and my child?Autistic Self-Advocacy NetworkHow listening to autistic adults helped me understand and support my son.Why Autistic People Are Using #Actuallyautistic on Social MediaDiary of a Mom (Facebook)Autistic Truth (Facebook)NeuroClastic (Facebook)Autistic Ally (Facebook)

Autistic child? Child with autism? It feels like the language is always changing. But identity-first language is a powerful way of shifting the conversation - and reflects so much of what we want to teach our children. Resources mentioned in this episodeAutistic child or child with autism? Why identity-first language matters. ¿Qué es el lenguaje “primero la identidad”? Exceptional Lives valuesPerson First and Identity First Language (From Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion)Identity-First Language (From Autistic Self-Advocacy Network)LeMondre Pough, CEO of Billion StrongWhat does it mean to listen to #ActuallyAutistic voices?Exceptional Lives mission and vision

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that interferes with a person's ability to express their ideas in writing. But you may not even know what it is. Here's what to look for and what to do if your child is struggling.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is dysgraphia? Kitchen Conversations: Therapies and Accommodations to Support Children in School (35-minute video with English and Spanish captions)What are accommodations? (45-second video)Kitchen Conversations: Occupational Therapy at Home (27-minute video with English and Spanish captions) What is sensory processing? And can it help explain my child's behavior? (Blog)What are sensory processing issues? And do they explain my kid's behavior? (Podcast) Activities to improve handwritingFind resources to support your child with dysgraphia (Louisiana)Find resources to support your child with dysgraphia (Massachusetts)My child is struggling with reading… could it be dyslexia?

Nothing's sure but… well, you know the end of that sentence. If your family includes a child or adult with a disability, here are 5 important things to know before you file your taxes in 2022.Resources mentioned in this episodeABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountsSpecial Needs Alliance: Attorneys for Special Needs PlanningTax Help for People with DisabilitiesLiving and Working with Disabilities (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): free tax preparation help for taxpayers who qualify