Raising Autistic Disciples

Join Collin and Larah as they discuss the question "why does life have to be so hard?" Why is the journey of raising an autistic kid have its challenges? What verse in the Bible explains "why is this life so hard?"Join the conversation!

Join Collin and Larah as they describe the Christmas adventures their family went on and what they learned from it that includes breaking out in hives, goldfish, snot, and blessing the Lord at all times.

Join Collin and Larah as they describe the Christmas adventures their family went on and what they learned from it that includes breaking out in hives, goldfish, snot, and blessing the Lord at all times.

In this special episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we're joined by author JJ Levan, a passionate advocate and parent of an autistic son. Together, we explore the unique challenges and blessings of preparing your family—siblings, grandparents, and even close friends—to embrace and celebrate your autistic child's God-given design.JJ shares heartfelt stories from her own journey, practical wisdom, and biblical encouragement for fostering understanding and unity within your family. From navigating tricky conversations to creating a home where every member feels seen and loved, this episode is packed with insights to equip your family to reflect Christ's love.Join us for a conversation full of grace, hope, and actionable steps to prepare your family to thrive together!JJ's book: He Meant You to Be Youhttp://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHPT7YN6

In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we explore the powerful truth that "Emmanuel"—God with us—is enough for every season of parenting. Whether you're navigating meltdowns, advocating for your child, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the weight of it all, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical insights to remind you that God's presence is sufficient.Join Larah as she unpacks how trusting in Emmanuel equips us to embrace both the challenges and joys of raising autistic disciples, leaning on His strength instead of our own. Tune in and be encouraged—you're not in this alone!

In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we will share practical insights for navigating holiday anxiety that often affects autistic children and their families. The holiday season can bring a whirlwind of sensory overload, unexpected changes, and social pressures. We'll discuss effective strategies for preparing your child (and yourself!) for these challenges, with tips on maintaining peace, setting gentle boundaries, and keeping Christ at the center of your celebrations. Together, let's create a holiday season that honors both your child's unique needs and the joyful meaning of this time of year.

Join Collin and Larah as they look back over season one and offer a few regrets, wishes, and even more excitement for what is to come!DM Larah on Instagram @RaisingAutisticDisciples to give us some ideas on what topics you'd like to hear going forward!

Join Collin & Larah as they discuss the final stage of the autism diagnosis for the Christ-following parent: Education & Advocacy. You can find their book, "How to Advocate & Stay Christian," on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3SpITcb

Join Collin as he has a conversation with Pastor Wayne about the New Normal after a child's autism diagnosis.

Join host Larah and guest Katie White as they talk about the stage of Grief & Acceptance that is a part of the Autism Diagnosis for the Christ-following parent.BIG News! We've launched RaisingAutisticDisciples.com! We are also launching an online support group for parents and caregivers who are raising autistic disciples. Sign up today!

Join Larah and guest Katie White as they talk about the second stage of the Five Stages of the Autism Diagnosis for the Christ-following parent. BIG News! We've launched RaisingAutisticDisciples.com! We are also launching an online support group for parents and caregivers who are raising autistic disciples. Sign up today!

This is the first conversation of five episodes discussing the five stages of discovering autism for the Christ-following parent. Larah talks with guest Lizzie Mears, a speech therapist and a friend that guided her during a hard season of denial. Though these stages and phases will look different for every family, it is our hope that the next series of episodes be ones to help identify, encourage and offer practical and gospel hope to take the next step forward on the autism journey.Connect with us:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/raisingautisticdisciples Facebook: https://facebook.com/raisingautisticdisciplesEmail: raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com

Ever wondered how your journey raising an autistic child as a Christ-following parent can bring glory to God?Join us as we explore "The Five Stages of Discovering Autism: For the Christ-following Parent." Have you experienced denial before or after receiving your child's autism diagnosis? Did you face grief and eventually come to acceptance? How did you navigate changing family dynamics to this new normal? What is your life like now as you learn more and advocate for your autistic child? These are the stages that we walked through as parents of an autistic child. In this episode, we'll dive deep into each stage, sharing relatable stories, insights, and point each other to the truth of the gospel.Discover how God's purpose and glory are intricately woven into your unique path of raising autistic disciples. Whether you're seasoned or new to this journey, this series will equip you with the tools and perspective to raise autistic disciples for God's Kingdom.

Larah is joined by Pastor Connor Bales, who serves as the Prestonwood Baptist Church North Campus Pastor. Connor is the author of “Counted Worthy: A Father's Perspective on the Theology of Suffering.” He is married to Mary and has five sweet kiddos. Pastor Connor has a heart for special needs ministry and is committed to serving and sharing the Gospel with families affected by disabilities.Counted Worthy available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.Connect with Connor:connorbales.com/Connect with us:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/raisingautisticdisciples

Drawing from the concept of the imago Dei, or image of God, Collin and Larah talk about how God's character and attributes are uniquely on display in and through autism. Every person is an image-bearer of the living God, created by Him with inherent value and worth as His creation.This episode is essential for those who are parenting, caring for, and supporting those who are autistic. Remembering that God created autism for His glory enables us as parents to take up the mantle of discipleship in our home. 1 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.We would love to connect with you and hear your story. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to email us at raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com.

Hey there! Are you a parent, caregiver, or friend of someone on the autistic spectrum? Do you also desire to steward, raise, and encourage them to love and follow Jesus? If so, you're in the right place!We believe that the gospel is for everyone, including our neurodiverse children. We know that raising children on the spectrum comes with its unique challenges and that discipleship methods may need to look different. That's why we're here to equip and encourage you on your journey to raising autistic disciples who know, love, and follow Jesus.We would love to connect with you and hear your story. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to email us at raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com.