Autistic and ADHD Kids Parenting Strategies: Every Brain is Different
Samantha Foote & Lauren Ross | Parenting Neurodiverse Kids 180 episodes Nov 9, 2026
This podcast offers practical parenting strategies for raising children with Autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions. It features expert insights and real-life stories that highlight the strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. The show aims to connect parents with a supportive community and provide tools to help their children thrive. Each episode celebrates the unique ways every brain works.
Episodes
What to do When Your Child's Sensory Needs Are Opposite of Yours
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Download the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Samantha and Lauren discuss parenting when a parent’s sensory profile conflicts with a child’s, emphasizing that both nervous systems matter and t
The Power of Apologizing to Your Neurodivergent Child
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Ultimate Guide to Raising Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Samantha and Lauren discuss what to do when you mess up as a parent, emphasizing that apologizing is not weakness but modeling accountability, empathy, a
Why Can My Kid Do It One Day and Not the Next? (Part 2)
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Babble with Brooke: https://www.babblewithbrooke.com/ Samantha and Lauren share strategies for when a child can complete tasks one day but struggles the next. They encourage parents to track patterns (sleep, routine changes, sensory environm
Why Can My Kid Do It One Day and Not the Next? (Part 1)
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Download the Ultimate Guide to Raising Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Samantha and Lauren discuss why children may struggle with tasks they seemed able to do the day before (like getting dressed, brushing teeth, or doing homework) and how parents can respond without assuming laziness or defiance.They emphasize a
What is Interoception and How Does it Affect Autism?
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Ultimate Guide to Raising Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Samantha and Lauren discuss Samantha’s son’s years-long struggle with chronic, debilitating pain (legs, back, migraines) and how a pain clinic evaluation led to a new explanation: sensory processing disorder with heightened interoception. After ext
Raising Neurodivergent Kids Without Losing Your Marriage with Susan Minor
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Free Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/membershipConnect with Susan: https://www.LoveBridgecoaching.com Samantha and Lauren interview Susan Minor, a certified relationship coach trained in t
What to do When You're Autistic Raising Autistic Kids with Dalisse Sequeiros
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Free Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/membershipConnect with Dalisse:Instagram: https://instagram.com/lovingpiecesbooks LinkedIn at LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sequeirosdalisse Samantha and
Out of the Box Parenting: How to Teach Your Neurodivergent Child to Cook | Ep. 184
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Samantha and Lauren discuss out-of-the-box ways to teach neurodivergent kids kitchen skills. They share practical strategies to include kids without ov
What to do When You Face Judgement With Your ADHD/Autistic Child | Ep. 183
Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Get the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Samantha and Lauren discuss Samantha’s weekend camping trip with extended family and how a recent change in her son’s ADHD medication affected his behavior. Her son had previously thrived on stimulant medication, describing a “quiet” brain
How to Make Sensory Friendly Hygiene Routines for Your Neurodiverse Child | Ep. 182
Get the Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/Connect with Samantha: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Samantha and Lauren discuss sensory-friendly hygiene routines for neurodivergent kids, emphasizing that hygiene is a health skill, not a test of compliance, and the goal is a safe, sustainable routine that supports autonomy and sensory needs.They re
How to Talk to Your Autistic Boys About Puberty | Ep. 181
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Samantha and Lauren discuss how to support autistic boys through puberty. They emphasize that physical puberty changes are generally typical, but sensory sensitivities, uncertainty, social rules, and indirect language can make the experi
Why Your PDA Child Isn’t Being Defiant and How to Support Them (Ep. 143 Rerun)
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss strategies for effectively parenting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). They emphasize the importance of collaboration over direct demands to help children feel more in control and safe, which mitigates reactive behaviors.
They explain how giving children choices and involving them in decision-making can prevent the activation of their p
What are Non-Traditional Therapies? | Ep. 179
Samantha and Lauren discuss non-traditional, child-led approaches to therapy for kids diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and related needs, contrasting them with more compliance-based, clinical models and emphasizing that therapy should match the child.
They highlight alternatives that can complement traditional services like OT, speech, and PT, including equine-assisted services, animal-assisted interv
What to Expect When Your Child Needs an Evaluation (ADHD, Autism, and More) | Ep. 178
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Samantha and Lauren explain the child evaluation process for concerns like ADHD, autism, anxiety, and learning differences. They normalize parents’ nervousness about labels and judgment, emphasizing that evaluations don’t change a child but provide ba
Embracing Your Different Ability with Katey Fortun | Ep. 177
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Connect with Katey:
Website: https://yourdifferentability.com/
Book: https://yourdifferentability.com/book
Book Preview (Katey made this free for this podcast's listeners!): https://yourdifferentability.com/welcome
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kateyfortun
Personal Website: https://kateyfortun.com/
Samantha and Lauren welcome back dis
What is the Third Thing to do After Your Child Gets an Autism Diagnosis? | Ep. 176
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Samantha and Lauren discuss the third step after a child is diagnosed with autism: building a support system. They recap the first two steps—learning about autism by getting curious about your own child and connecting with autistic adults and other p
What is the Second Thing to do After Getting an Autism Diagnosis? | Ep. 175
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Samantha and Lauren continue their discussion on what to do when you suspect or receive an autism diagnosis, revisiting the idea of “being a detective” to learn what makes your child tick while also debating the line between respecting boundaries and pushing
What is the Number 1 Thing To Do After Your Child Gets Diagnosed With Autism? | Ep. 174
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Suzanne Jabour Episode About Grief: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/is-it-normal-to-grieve-after-your-childs-autism-or/id1697406719?i=1000750957793
Samantha and Lauren discuss the number one thing they would do after getting an autism diagnosis
How to Build a Supportive Mental Health Network | Ep. 173
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Samantha and Lauren discuss why building a supportive network matters for mental health and how to do it, drawing from Samantha’s postpartum psychosis and br
Why Your Child Falls Apart After Vacation (And What to Do About It) | Ep. 172
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Atomic Habits: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Samantha and Lauren discuss how returning home from vacation can be dysregulating for neurodivergent kids due to transitions and delayed stress responses from masking, sensory input, uncertainty, and social demands.
They recommend not scheduling extra
Why Family Vacations Feel Hard with Autistic and ADHD Kids (And What Actually Helps) | Ep. 171
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Samantha and Lauren discuss how to help vacations go more smoothly for neurodivergent kids by prioritizing safety, predictability, and regulation over nonstop activities.
They explain how vacations disrupt routine, sensory input, and expectations (
Dance as Self-Care for Parents with Annett Bone | Ep. 170
Samantha and Lauren welcome dance artist and creative coach Annett Bone to discuss dance as self-care—especially for stressed parents raising neurodivergent kids.
Annett shares that returning to dance at 43 after a 20-plus year hiatus helped her heal and that dance can be expression, creativity, processing, release, or a way to get out of your head. She encourages starting with the end in mind, th
The Neurodivergent Family Road Trip Survival Guide | Ep. 169
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Samantha and Lauren introduce a multi-part series on road tripping, focusing in this episode on strategies for smoother car travel, especially for kids with autism.
They explain why road trips are hard-loss of routine and predictability, sensory
How to Help Your Child With Dyslexia and Dysgraphia with Daniela Feldhausen | Ep. 168
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Samantha and Lauren interview Daniella Feldhausen, a former DC attorney who founded Kids Up Reading Tutors after earning a master’s in special education and focusing on helping children with reading and spelling challenges, including dyslexia and
Why Good Kids Get Bad Grades: Becoming Your Child’s Ally with Linda Silbert | Ep. 167
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Samantha and Lauren interviews Dr. Linda Silbert of Strong Learning Incorporated about supporting neurodivergent learners and reframing bad grades as symptoms rather than reasons for punishment.
Dr. Silbert urges parents to stop blaming childre
Why Your Child Holds It Together at School, Then Explodes at Home (And How Masking Plays a Role) | Ep. 166
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Samantha and Lauren discuss how neurodivergent children may mask at school or other settings: suppressing stims, sensory distress, and authentic behavior to appear “typical” and then have meltdowns at home because home feels safest, a pattern also described as after-school restraint collapse.
They emphasize
Why Your Child ‘Falls Apart’ at Home (But Not at School) | Ep. 165
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Samantha and Lauren open by discussing mom guilt and the importance of giving yourself grace when you miss commitments, lose your cool, or have hard parenting moments, emphasizing that apologies and tomorrow-as-a-reset matter.
They then explain m
How to Handle Finances When You Have ADHD with Julian Kohlbrand | Ep. 164
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Samantha and Lauren interview Julianne Kohlbrand, an ADHD financial coach who became debt-free after $107,000 in consumer debt and a later-in-life ADHD diagnosis at 42, and now helps neurodivergent families simplify money management.
Julianne sha
Why are Neurodivergent People Literal Thinkers? | Ep. 163
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Samantha and Lauren discuss why many neurodivergent people may interpret language literally and communicate more directly, which neurotypical people can misread as rude.
They define literal thinking as interpreting exact words rather than implied meaning, sarcasm, or social context, and share examples such as misunderstandings
What is the difference between ADHD and Auditory Processing Disorder? | Ep. 162
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Episode 18 with Dr. Tosha Strickland: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/18-dr-tosha-strickland-and-central-auditory/id1697406719?i=1000636604839
Samantha and Lauren discuss how ADHD and Central Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) can look similar, distractibility, not following directions, zoning out, school struggles, but
What is the Difference Between Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism? | Ep. 161
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Samantha and Lauren discuss sensory processing disorder (SPD) versus autism spectrum disorder, explaining what SPD is, where it overlaps with autism, and why sensory challenges alone do not mean autism; they note ADHD can also include sensory differences.
They define SPD as difficulty detecting, modulat
What to Know About Women and ADHD with Dr. Gilly Kahn | Ep. 160
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Samantha welcomes back psychologist, mom, and writer Dr. Gilly Khan to discuss her book Allow Me to Interrupt, which focuses on emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) in females with ADHD.
Dr. Kahn explains how she approaches families seeking or newly receiving an ADHD diagn
What is the Difference Between a 504 and an IEP? | Ep. 159
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Samantha and Lauren explain key differences between 504 accommodation plans and IEPs to help parents know what to request when a child struggles at school. They describe how unsupported neurodivergent kids may be mislabeled as misbehaving, defiant, lazy, or unmotivated, and emphasize that children need
Why Are Autistic Kids Labeled as Rigid? (Part 2) | Ep. 158
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Samantha and Lauren continue their discussion on why autistic and ADHD kids may seem like rigid thinkers, focusing on their need for clear rules and consistent expectations to feel regulated and safe.
They explain how inconsistent enforcement or differing rules across households can create confusion, dysregulation, and even meltdowns, a
Why are Autistic Kids Labeled as Rigid? (Part 1) | Ep. 157
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Samantha and Lauren begin a two-part discussion on why autistic people are often labeled “rigid.” They argue the label frequently reflects a neurotypical expectation that others should do things “the correct way,” while autistic people may rely on predictability for clar
Is Medication Right for Your Autistic/ADHD Child? | Ep. 156
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about one of the most common and controversial questions parents ask when raising neurodivergent kids: whether children with ADHD, anxiety, or executive functioning challenges should take medication. They discuss why medication decisions can feel so heavy for parents and emphasize that every brain is different, so what works for one child may not work for
How Does Connection Change Behavior for Autistic and ADHD Kids? | Ep. 155
Samantha and Lauren share Samantha’s experience competing for Mrs. Idaho to encourage parents, especially those raising neurodivergent kids, not to feel guilty for doing something for themselves with the right support.
They then discuss choosing “real connection” with a child over society’s idea of “right connection,” emphasizing that behavior improves when children feel connected, safe, and under
Is It Normal to Grieve After Your Child’s Autism or ADHD Diagnosis? | Ep. 154 with Suzanne Jabour
Samantha and Lauren welcome certified grief educator and coach Suzanne Jabour to the podcast to discuss grief beyond bereavement, particularly the grief parents may feel after a child’s diagnosis. They explore how grieving the loss of an imagined future does not reflect a lack of love for a child, and how acknowledging emotions can help parents more fully accept and support their kids. Suzanne sha
How Can Clothing Support Emotional Regulation in Kids? | Ep. 153
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss strategies for parenting neurodivergent children, particularly focusing on issues related to clothing. They share personal anecdotes and emphasize the importance of giving children autonomy over their clothing choices. This can help build their identity, confidence, and ability to navigate the world more successfully.Samantha and Lauren provide practica
Why Do Neurodivergent Kids Ignore New Clothes? | Ep. 152
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the patterns of clothing preferences in children with autism and ADHD. They discuss common scenarios where children suddenly favor previously ignored clothes and share insights from an occupational therapist on managing these behaviors.The conversation encompasses practical strategies from other parents, the importance of sensory safety, and the impa
Can Simple Sensory Inputs Interrupt an Anxiety Spiral? (Featuring our Guest: Ryan Miele and Turbobo!) | Ep. 151
Samantha and Lauren talk with Ryan Miele, the creator of the Tubrbobo Relief. Ryan describes how Turbobo features five clinically-proven elements to reduce anxiety by targeting physiological symptoms, including a weighted body, fidget tail, tactile ear patches, and customizable sensory inserts.The conversation highlights the product's success in over 400 schools across the US and positive testimon
Shoving the Shoulds We Carry as Neurodivergent Parents with Jessica Frew | Ep. 150
Jessica Frew is back with her book, 'Shove Your Shoulds,' focusing on the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent parents.Samantha, Lauren, and Jessica discuss the emotional struggles of navigating family dynamics and the societal expectations of parenting.Jessica introduces the concept of 'mini grief' and the importance of acknowledging and processing these emotions without guilt. Emphasizing t
Being Specific with Dr. Temple Grandin (Ep. 64 Rerun) | Ep. 149
Dr. Temple Grandin is a renowned animal behaviorist, autism advocate, and professor of animal science at Colorado State University. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, she has used her unique perspective to revolutionize livestock handling systems, designing humane facilities that are used worldwide. Dr. Grandin is also a best-selling author and a leading voice in the neurodiversity movement, ad
The Feedback Mistake That’s Crushing Your Neurodivergent Kid's Confidence | Ep. 148
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren continue their discussion on how to communicate positively with neurodivergent children, ensuring your child receives more positive than negative feedback.They explore various strategies such as praising effort over outcome, naming invisible skills like regulation and flexibility, and using descriptive feedback instead of generic praise to help neurodivergent k
Why Encouragement Matters More Than You Think for Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 147
Samantha and Lauren discuss the negative impact of constant corrective feedback and emphasize the importance of recognizing children's efforts rather than just their outcomes.They share personal experiences and research findings that show how neurodivergent kids often receive more negative feedback than their neurotypical peers. They highlight the importance of creating a supportive home environme
Building a Sustainable New Year for Your Neurodivergent Family | Ep. 146
In this final episode of the year, Samantha and Lauren discuss the societal pressures of New Year's resolutions and advocate for a more realistic approach, especially for neurodivergent individuals and parents of neurodivergent children.They highlight the overwhelming nature of setting too many goals and emphasize the importance of focusing on one or two manageable objectives at a time to avoid bu
Why Autistic and ADHD Kids Need Rest During the Holidays | Ep. 145
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the importance of taking a break during the holiday season, particularly for families with neurodivergent members.They discuss the challenges that arise from the busy holiday schedules and emphasize the necessity of rest for mental health and overall well-being.Samantha and Lauren share personal experiences and provide insights on how to manage holid
Anneke Elmhirst and Emotional Regulation Tips for Parents and Kids (Ep. 70 Rerun)
Anneke (pronounced UH-nuh-kuh) is a coach with a background in both corporate and clinical settings, having worked as a clinical director, supervisor, and behavior analyst. Based in Pittsburgh, PA, she supports clients worldwide through phone and video conferencing. Anneke specializes in coaching professionals with ADHD, autism, and related neurodivergent experiences. She brings personal insight t
Why Your PDA Child Isn’t Being Defiant and How to Support Them | Ep. 143
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss strategies for effectively parenting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). They emphasize the importance of collaboration over direct demands to help children feel more in control and safe, which mitigates reactive behaviors.They explain how giving children choices and involving them in decision-making can prevent the activation of their pa
Shove Your Shoulds with Jessica Frew | Ep. 142
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren engage in a compelling conversation with Jessica Frew, the author of 'Shove Your Shoulds,' a pivotal book aimed at helping ambitious women shed societal conditioning and make bold decisions without guilt or fear. Throughout the discussion, Jessica shares insights into the importance of setting personal boundaries, trusting one's intuition, and the role of paren
Autistic Burnout and What You Can Do About It | Ep. 141
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss autistic burnout, especially prevalent during the holiday season. They explain the difference between stress and burnout, and share personal experiences to illustrate the impact of prolonged masking and sensory overload on neurodivergent children.Samantha and Lauren provide detailed signs of burnout, including increased irritability, emotional outbursts
Using Gratitude to Shift Out of Meltdown Mode | Ep. 140
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren dive talk about of gratitude. They share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into daily life, especially for parents of neurodivergent children.The discussion covers how gratitude can serve as a tool for self-regulation, helping both parents and kids navigate challenging moments by shifting focus from problems to solutions.Ad
Why Play Is the Best Way to Teach Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 139
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the significant role that play has in children's development. They discuss how play is not only about having fun, but it actually changes brain structure and function, aiding in the learning process. They explain that play releases dopamine, helping with motivation, focus, and learning, especially for children with ADHD.Samantha and Lauren highlight
Rethinking ADHD and Autism Treatment with Functional Medicine Expert Yana Kleyman | Ep. 138
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren interview Yana Kleyman, a functional medicine health consultant. Yana shares her personal journey from traditional healthcare as a pharmacist to discovering the transformative power of functional medicine.This transition was inspired by her own health crisis at age 33, which led her to explore root cause medicine. Today, Yana is dedicated to helping children wi
Go Touch Grass: Why Nature Is the Ultimate Regulation Tool | Ep. 137
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the positive impacts of spending time in nature on mental health. They explore how outdoor activities activate the parasympathetic nervous system, decreasing cortisol levels, lowering heart rates, and improving sensory integration and attention.Using personal anecdotes and scientific explanations, Samantha and Lauren highlight nature's ability to provid
Halloween Overwhelm in Kids with Autism and ADHD | Ep. 136
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about Halloween and the sensory challenges that can come with it. They discuss the sensory overload issues related to costumes, decorations, loud noises, and changes in routine.To help parents navigate these challenges, they offer practical advice on practicing with costumes, managing trick-or-treating expectations, and choosing sensory-friendly environmen
Supporting Kids Who Stutter with Jason Heffler | Ep. 135
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren welcome Jason Heffler, author of 'Tongue Tied'. Jason shares his personal journey of growing up with a stutter and the challenges he faced, including bullying. His book is designed to help children with speech disorders gain confidence and understand that their speech does not define them.Jason discusses the importance of representation in literature and offers
Following Your Child’s Lead: Redefining Autism Support with Jennifer Celeste Briggs | Ep. 134
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren interview Jennifer Celeste Briggs, a mother who shares her transformative experience with the Sunrise program. Jennifer talks about how the program, which she tailored for her daughter, significantly improved her language and social skills.We explore the importance of meeting children where they are, the collaborative effort between parents and professionals, a
Tools for Moms in Burnout Part 3: Self-Regulation Strategies | Ep. 133
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the conclusion of their conversation on managing mom's mental load.They provide five practical strategies to help moms regulate stress and manage interruptions, including the one-minute reset, setting interruption boundaries, sensory swaps, a decision diet, and maintaining a daily white space block.Additionally, they discuss the importance of co-regulat
Tools for Moms in Burnout Part 2: Delegation and Ownership | Ep. 132
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren continue their discussion on managing the mental load experienced by moms. They address the difficulties of delegating household responsibilities and provide practical steps to shift tasks to family members or others to alleviate stress.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the importance of accepting different methods of task completion, trusting the process, and prov
Tools for Moms in Burnout: Boundaries, Breaks, and Resets | Ep. 131
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the mental load carried by moms, marking the beginning of a three-week series on the topic. They explore the often-overwhelming responsibilities that mothers juggle daily, from managing household chores to coordinating children's schedules.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the significance of self-care and provide practical advice on managing sensory input,
Mealtime Struggles and ARFID in Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 130
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). They explain that ARFID is a recognized eating disorder, different from simple picky eating, characterized by extreme avoidance or restriction of food, leading to nutritional, growth, or emotional problems.The disorder is often misunderstood, with myths such as it being due to bad parenting or someth
How to Reduce Mealtime Battles With Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 129
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the challenges and methods of handling food aversions in autistic children.They share personal experiences and emphasize that forcing children to eat can be counterproductive. Instead, they recommend engaging the help of a feeding therapist and employing assent-based strategies.Steps include gradually introducing the disliked food by first placing it ne
Tips for Neurodivergent Kids After a Long School Day | Ep. 128
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the challenges and changes families face when children transition back to school.They provide practical advice on managing children's after-school meltdowns and emphasize the importance of establishing coping skills, ensuring children are well-fed and hydrated, and maintaining a consistent routine to help children adjust.They also discuss the benefit
Back-to-School Tips for Neurodivergent Kids and Their Parents | Ep. 127
In this episode Samantha and Lauren share practical advice for a smoother transition back to school. They discuss the excitement and challenges of children starting school, emphasizing the importance of planning and coping strategies.Samantha and Lauren share tips such as creating a balanced schedule, managing anxiety, building excitement about school, and practicing practical skills like eating l
Why Homeschooling Works for Autistic and ADHD Kids With Karen Kossow | Ep. 126
In this episode, we welcome back Karen Kassow, a writer, certified master life coach, and founder of AI-Powered Homeschool.As a neurodivergent parent raising two autistic children, Karen shares her journey and dedicated advocacy within the neurodivergent community.She discusses the challenges faced by families in navigating special education services, especially with the potential removal of cruci
Summer Burnout in Neurodivergent Families | Ep. 125
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss summer burnout experienced by both parents and neurodivergent children.They share personal stories and offer practical tips for recognizing signs of burnout, such as emotional dysregulation and behavioral changes.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the importance of creating a balanced routine that includes adequate downtime and sensory-friendly spaces to hel
What Kids Really Hear When You Say “Don’t” | Ep. 124
In this episode, Samantha shares practical tips for implementing language shifts and going from telling kids what not to do using "don't" to telling what to do.She emphasizes redirecting behavior with clear and positive alternatives, keeping instructions simple and specific, and being consistent in using positive language. 00:00 Introduction to Positive Language00:55 Understanding the Impact of Ne
Advocating Before Autism Had a Name With Janet Elliott | Ep. 123
In this episode Samantha and Lauren speak with Janet Elliot, author of 'The Alien Savant,' a poignant exploration of her autistic brother's journey through a neurotypical world.Janet recounts the challenges faced by her family in the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting the lack of understanding and resources for children with developmental disabilities during that time.She discusses the evolution of spe
Navigating Housing Decisions for Kids With Disabilities with Rachel Forrester | Ep. 122
In this episode, Rachel Forrester, an Idaho real estate broker and founder of the support group Idaho Autism Moms, shares her expertise in assisting families with special needs children in finding suitable homes in and around Boise, Idaho.She discusses various considerations when buying a house, such as proximity to therapy services, neighborhood safety, and the importance of functional spaces lik
What to do When Your Neurodivergent Child's Meltdown Comes out of Nowhere | Ep. 121
In this episode, Samantha Foote narrates a personal story about her son's meltdown during a family trip. She recounts the events leading up to the meltdown, the meltdown itself, and what they did after.Samantha shares what she did well in managing the situation, , and also reflects on what she could have done better.She emphasizes the importance of helping children return to a self-regulated state
The Gut-Brain Connection and it's Effect on ADHD Symptoms with Dana Kay | Ep. 120
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk with Dana Kay, a board-certified health practitioner, and two-time international bestselling author.Dana shares her extensive experience working with families across the US through her company, ADHD Thrive Institute, where she helps parents reduce ADHD symptoms naturally by focusing on biological triggers like diet, gut health, and inflammation.She emphasi
Mastering Transitions Without Meltdowns in Your ADHD/Autistic Kid | Ep. 119
In this episode, Samantha Foote discusses effective strategies for managing transitions for neurodivergent children. Understanding that transitions can trigger anxiety, resistance, or meltdowns, she emphasizes the importance of preparation and planning.Suggestions include using visual schedules, musical cues, and countdowns to create predictability and ease anxiety.Additionally, she highlights the
Parenting Sensory Seekers and Avoiders Under One Roof (Part 1) | Ep. 118
In this episode, Lauren and Samantha discuss strategies for managing multiple children with different sensory needs. They share personal experiences and provide initial tips, such as understanding individual sensory profiles, creating dedicated sensory spaces, establishing predictable routines, incorporating sensory breaks, and adapting communication strategies.Practical advice is offered for acco
What to Look for in a Modern ABA Program | Ep. 117
In this episode Samantha discusses Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and its significance in supporting the neurodivergent community.She explains ABA as a scientific method aimed at improving socially significant behaviors such as communication, self-help skills, emotional regulation, and social interactions through individualized goals, data collection, positive reinforcement, and environmental m
Creating Space for Autistic Dancers with Amanda Trisdale & Leta Rundell | Ep. 116
In this episode, Amanda Trisdel and her daughter Leta Rundell join the discussion to talk about their journey in the neurodivergent community and the founding of the Autistic Wings Dance Company.Amanda, the CEO, and Leta, who has been a dedicated dancer since a young age, talk about the struggles faced in traditional dance studios, leading them to establish a safe and accommodating space for neuro
Mastering Self-Regulation When Your Child Is Escalating | Ep. 115
In this episode, Samantha talks about the importance of emotional self-regulation, particularly the effective technique of stepping away.She discusses the significance of managing one's emotions to support both oneself and one’s child, and how stepping away during a moment of escalating emotions can help maintain composure and prevent further escalation.Samantha provides actionable steps on how to
Trusting Your Gut Over the Experts While Raising a Neurodivergent Child with Robert Delena | Ep. 114
Samantha and Lauren speak with Robert Delena who discusses the journey he and his son Ryan have navigated through various therapeutic schools and a diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder.Robert highlights the challenges of overdiagnosis and misdiagnosis, emphasizing the importance of parental instinct and finding appropriate support. A pivotal moment arrives when Ryan, initially labeled and
Backtalk or Miscommunication? Communicating With Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 113
In this episode Samantha discusses strategies for responding to children who speak disrespectfully, particularly focusing on neurodivergent children such as those with ADHD and autism.She emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect and firmness in responses, highlighting how these children may face unique communication challenges and may not always understand social norms.Samantha shares prac
Navigating School Challenges with Curiosity and Collaboration with Scotti Weintraub | Ep. 112
In this episode, Samantha and Lauren speak with Scotti Weintraub and discuss the importance of parents paying attention to the struggles their children face in school, collaborating with teachers and professionals, and advocating effectively during school meetings.Scotti emphasizes leading with curiosity, gathering information, and building solid relationships with educators to create a supportive
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