Neurodiversity and Entrepreneurship

Being a neurodiverse person can bring on so many different struggles. 

Now add being neurodiverse with becoming an entrepreneur, running and growing a business can feel like an uphill climb. Today on the show I am chatting with Kara Laws. She is an entrepreneur who was diagnosed with ADHD later in her career. Her diagnosis has not stopped her from growing a successful business. Now she's taken what she's learned personally about being a person with ADHD and supports others in their careers. 

On the show, she shares her experiences as an entrepreneur and a mother with the ups and downs of learning about how our brain works. 

Books that Kara suggests:

• The Compound Effect (this is the one I couldn't remember) 

• Five Secret Fears of Failing in Business 

• Clockwork

Want to learn about Kara and her work? Check out her web page Launched

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Advocating and undersatnding

Please note - There are some technical difficulties with the sound on this episode. It does not impact the ability the hear the full episode.

Never underestimate the power of your gut feel. When you have a child who is struggling at school and you feel it as a parent you act. Sometimes the system can say "it's OK they'll catch up", or "don't worry yet, it's early". 

Today's podcast is all about this very story. Today I speak with Philipa, she is a mom of two boys living in the UK. She felt early on that one of her children was really struggling but kept being told everything was fine. The Pandemic in 2020 gave her, even more, clarity on the situation when she began to see what a day of schooling was for her children.

This episode explores:

- How to ask questions
- What signs to look for
- How to support your child through hard times
- Supporting your child in understanding their learning

Philipa has taken her own personal life experience and what she has learned from supporting her children and becoming a life coach. She can be found at www.safeandsupported.co.uk.

If you are in the UK and looking for information on Dyslexia, check out British Dyslexia Association.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Neurodiversity and Mindfulness

Being mindful is not always easy. When we are neurodiverse or have children in our lives who are neurodiverse finding ways to slow down and be present can be difficult. Today on the show I have a conversation with Dr. Rabia Subhani about her journey through mindfulness with a neurodiverse child. The conversation explores how we as parents and educators can support young learners in being more intentional and mindful.

In the episode:

- What is mindfulness?
- How can parents support a more mindful environment
- When is a good time to start teaching mindfulness to children
- How educators and schools can help support
- How mindfulness can support the neurodiverse community

Make sure you check out her web page Dr. Rabia Subhani to learn more about her the work she does in supporting mindfulness and neurodiversity. Check out her social media on Instagram @mindful.living.llc

Make sure to check out www.drrabia.com/podcast and get your free Mindful workbook. 

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Physiotherapy and Neurodiversity

When you think about physiotherapy what comes to mind? After injury recovery perhaps. Supporting you after surgery to regain strength perhaps. 

Did you know that physiotherapy can support our students and children who are neurodiverse? Did you know there is a group of therapists who specialize in children? 

On today's show, a conversation with Jennifer Halfin. She is the clinic owner of Toronto Kids Physiotherapy and together we talk about how this type of therapy often gets overlooked and how it can support our neurodiverse children.

Highlights:
- What physiotherapy (PT) is and how it's different from occupational therapy
- When to consider connecting with a PT
- Examples of how PT supports different children
- Why seeing an expert in children is important
- Connection between education/school and supporting the body

Links:
Toronto Kids Physio - 2 locations in the GTA Leaside and Midtown
canchild.ca - McMaster Hospital's webpage provides information about child development
Instagram - @torontokisphysio

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Starting on the Right Track

As students move through elementary to high school we begin to start looking to the future. Though it always feels too soon it's never too early to start exploring the options for post-secondary school.

For students who are neurodivergent knowing which paths to take early is so important. As schools adjust to few supports in guiding students as they move through their educational career we as parents have to take that task on. That's where people just like Jane Kristoffy come into play. She is a former educator and owner of Right Track Educational Services. 

Highlights from our conversation:

- Transitions to high school
- Working with the schools for students with Individual Education Plans
- For Ontario Students Myblueprint
- Course Codes
- When to start considering your path beyond high school
- Support in choosing Secondary School

Links:

- The Self Drive Child by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
- Grit by Angela Duckworth

- Transition Resource Guide - LINK
- Canadian Gap Year Association - LINK

- Right Track Educational Services - LINK
- @jane_right_track

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Exploring Private Schools and Neurodiversity

When we as parents start thinking about which school our child will go to we always think it's easy, they go to the local school. But if you have a child who is neurodiverse or requires more support than can be found in the public education system picking a private school might be something you explore.

But where do you start? Where do you look? What is the difference between a private school and an independent school? Today's episode is a conversation with Paige Walker of Renew Education. Together we explore the options.

Highlights:

- Difference between private and independent school
- How to apply
- When to apply
- Pros and Cons of private VS public system
- Where to find more information about school options

Links:

Paige Walker - Renew Education 

Find Paige on Instagram @reneweducation

Our Kids - Ourkids.net

Apple Financial Services - LINK

Canadian Accredited Independent Schools - LINK

For transcripts of this episode and more check out the Access2Education podcast web page.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Organizing Through Diversity

When you have a household with people who are neurodiverse staying organized can be tough. Constantly losing items, misplacing and generally causing stress to the household.

Today on the show a conversation with Dennise Conforti. She is a certified professional organizer and works with the neurodiverse community. Our conversation centers around the ups and downs of family life with those with ADHD and self-regulation challenges. We talk about some easy things to do around the house to keep things organized, but also about how a personal organizer can help you to create a calm and happy space.

In our conversation she mentions the following resources:

www.caddac.ca

www.additudemag.com

Leslie Josel- www.orderoutofchaos.com

Also, make sure you check her out at Organized MD

For transcripts of this episode and more check out the Access2Education podcast web page.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Navigating Blended Families and Neurodiversity

When families go through changes finding ways to support those with learning challenges can prove to be even more difficult. When parents go through a divorce it can be hard for your neurodiverse children to understand.

Today on the show Danielle chats with me about her experience. We talk about how different family members can see things differently. The pressure to keep things as 'normal' as possible while still working through absent parents. Then when you begin to blend another family into the one you already have it can be hard. Danielle opens up about her experience and how she navigated a hard road.

Want to learn more about Danielle and her work? Check her out on Instagram @octanedesigns or on her website at lexoctane.com.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Supporting our Children Through Big Emotions

Our neurodiverse children sure do go through some big emotions. My own children go through some major ups and downs and there's not always a good reason for the change. 

In this episode, I chat with Rachel Bailey. She is a Clinical Psychologist but before working with families she was an ADHD coach and psychotherapist for children, adolescents and adults. Now her work allows her to work with families in supporting their children's emotions. Through her programs, she supports families at all stages.

Make sure to check out her web page - RACHEL BAILEY

Please check out her offer to listeners - Diffuse Drama Quickly - It is FREE

To find the transcript for this episode please check out my web page at Access2education

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Cooking Dickie’s Cooking School

Everyone needs to eat which means we all need to learn how to cook. For some it's easy, you read a receipt, you follow the directions and you have your meal.

However, for some in the neurodiverse community, it's not as easy as that. There may be physical or mental barriers which make it hard. Simple things such as cutting, reading or understanding the dangers of the kitchen.

On the podcast today I speak with Lisa Dickie of Dickie's Cooking School. Lisa is a former school Home Economics teacher, she took her love of cooking and teaching to create her unique program. In our conversation today we about her program, how it came to be and why it's so important to support the neurodiverse community.

Follow Lisa:

dickiescookingschool.com

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram @Dickiescooking

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Occasional Teachers Supporting Learners

Not only are Homeroom Teachers key to student success but so too are occasional teachers. Over the course of time in any school, students will encounter occasional teachers be it for a day or for a longer term.

The question is as a parent how do you build a relationship with that teacher? As that occasional teacher, how can you support neurodiverse learners?

Today on the podcast I speak to Amanda Yuill. She is a long-time occasional teacher with experience supporting students of many abilities. We talk about how parents can build a relationship with both parents and students. The other thing we discuss is how the occasional teacher can build relationships with families, students and the school staff.

Book Recommendations:
Substitute Teaching By Amanda Yuill
Reaching and Teaching Them All By Amanda Yuill
You're Going to Love This Kid - Paula Kluth
Just Give Them the Whale - Paula Kluth
Born on a Blue Day - Daniel Temmet

Web Pages to Visit:
wrongplanet.net Elementary Teaching Federation of Ontario

Learn more about Amanda by going to:
amandayuill.com

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Understanding Psychoeducational Assessments

Being a parent to a child who is struggling in school can be hard. When you start wondering how to support your child you might come across the word "Psychoeducational Assessment". 

But what is that? How does it influence the understanding of your child? Where do you go to get this type of assessment done? What does it offer you?

As a parent and a person who has been through this testing, I can tell you it's a game-changer. But you don't need to take it from me.

Listen to this episode where I chat with Melissa Cait, owner and founder of Cornerstone Psychological Services in Thornhill Ontario. 

Our conversations explores:

- What is a psycho-educational assessment
- How do you get one of these assessments done
- What do consider in finding a psychologist
- How to share that information with your school team

Web page Melissa speaks about:

Learning Disability Association of Ontario (LDAO)

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Emotions with Cam and Leo’s Emotion School

Finding access to resources around children and self-regulation can be difficult. Often there are long waiting lists to see practitioner or therapist!

Well there's a new program that's just come out to help support families while they wait. It's called Cam and Leo's Emotion School. It was created by Jenny Hazan out of need for her own children. Together with help of Dr. Avi Gordon and a consulting educator Talia Oziel they created Cam and Leo's Emotion School.

Highlights from the episode:

• Reason for creating

• What is Cam and Leo’s

• Personal story of overcoming family difficulties

This is not at all meant to replace outside support, but rather as a bridge while families wait or as an add on to what families are already doing.

To learn more check out Cam and Leo’s Emotion School

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Get outside and play with jane pilskalnietis

How often do your children play, and by play I don't mean on their screens. How often do your children get outside, run, climb and play without you watching? Without someone saying "be careful" without worrying about how messy they get?

Today on the show, a conversation with Jane Pilskalnietis about all things play and more importantly outdoor play.

Highlights from the show:

• The need for outdoor natural spaces - How to create opportunities for play

• The need for the adults to get out of the way of children's play

• The importance of play and how it supports children in learning both academics and social skills

• Different types of play - How teachers can incorporate play in different ways

Book Recommendations
Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom
Free to Learn by Peter Gray

Web pages
Children and Nature Network
Play Wales
Canadian Public Health Association

Want to learn more about Jane and her work? Check out her web page Wild and Bright Play. You can also find her on Instagram @janepilskalnietis, on Twitter @janepilsky, and LinkedIn @Janepilskalnietis.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access2Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access2Education is here to support you.

Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Parenting — Wish I Had a Manual

Parenting is the one job or task where there really is no training. I mean you can babysit, be a camp counselor or a teacher all you want, but until those children are your flesh and blood, you don't really know what you're in for.

Today’s show introduces Allan Robinson — a parent expert with a keen understanding of young children and their development. She works with families in her Uncommon Sense parenting programs to help them understand their child's behaviour.

Highlights from the show:

• Understanding self-regulation

• The limbic system and how it affects behaviour

• How we as parents can impact our child's behaviour

• Societal view of behaviour and our parenting

• Sensory overload

• Co-regulation VS compensation 

Book Recommendations:

Self-Regulation by Stuart Shanker
Co-Regulation by Linda K Murphy
Beyond Behaviours by Mona Delahooke
The Explosive Child by Dr. Ross Greene

Web Pages:
Lessonpix
Dr. Ross Greene

Want to learn more about Allana, what she does, and work with her? Check out her webpage Uncommon Sense Parenting. Find her on Instagram @parentingposse, on Facebook Uncommon Sense Parenting, on Pinterest @parentingposse, and on YouTube @UncommonSenseParenting.

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out our services at Access to Education to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guiding you through the process, Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Motherhood — Advocacy and Love

I’ve hosted a few podcast episodes with moms in the past year. This episode features Julie Cole, the founder of Mable's Labels. Yes, you know the labels that we all need that keep track of kids’ (and sometimes our own) belongings!

Today on the show, Julie joins me to talk about her neurodiverse children, who are also neurotypical, and how she advocated for them. We also talk about how motherhood started and how she's managed the changes.

Highlights from the show:

• Her journey in understanding each of her children

• The need for support from family and friends

• Not taking NO for an answer

• The importance of finding the right school and teachers

• Encouraging children to be independent, even with challenges

Want to learn more about Julie and her work? Check her out at https://mabelslabels.ca/en_CA/juliecole, @juliecoleinc on Instagram, @juliecole on Twitter, and @Julie Cole on Facebook.

Emotions Through Books

Do you know how you can support how your child understands their emotions through the books you have at home? 

I didn't until I sat down to chat with Tara about her work supporting families through the use of books. From picture books to chapters, Tara talks about how families can use those nighttime stores to build an understanding about emotions.

Highlights from the show:

• Using everyday books to talk about our emotions

• Making time to sit with your kids to talk about their feelings

• The importance of social-emotional intelligence

• What society tells us about showing emotion

Want to learn more about Tara? Check out her web page www.taragratto.ca or find her on Instagram @raisingresilientchildren

Journey Through Autism

Parenting is never easy. We are forever coming up with new routines and learnings about our children.

Today on the podcast, I’m speaking with Alex Leech about her journey with her children with Autism and learning challenges. Alex and I speak openly about her challenges, our desire for our child to be successful and how we as moms have banded together to support them. It's a really open and honest window into the life of a mom working hard to ensure their success.

Highlights from the show:

• Journey to motherhood

• The need for family and community

• The search for treatment and resources

• Mom guilt

• Finding the right school

• How she supports families through coaching

Want to learn more about Alex and what she does? Check out her web page www.alexleech.ca, @alexleechcoaching on Facebook, and @alexleechcoaching on Instagram.

Our Unique Children

Every child is different and so too is their behaviour.

This week’s episode features a conversation with Marlene Spencer of Cornerstone Family Services.

In our conversation, we talk about behaviour as communication, as a way to test us as parents. But, most of all, we talk about how to deal with the ups and downs. In her line of work, Marlene works with all families at different stages.

On the show, we talk about

• Behavioural ups and downs

• How to understand the difference between consequence and punishment

• Exploring behaviour as something that bothers us as parents or something we need to redirect

• How we can work with our child's school to support our work at home

• Ideas on how to see what behaviours are happening and what they might connect too

• Setting limits and boundaries

Do you want to learn more about Marlene and how she supports families? Check out her web page below:

Cornerstone Family Services 

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guidance through the process, Access to Education is here to support you. Check out my services at Access to Education to see how I help families navigate through this challenging time.

Coaching Resilience

Watching our children struggle can be really hard. As parents, we know that struggling is sometimes part of life. Still, the realization doesn't make it easy. 

Today’s show hosts a conversation with Leah Davidson. Lean is the co-owner of H and L Life Coach. Together, with her partner, Leah helps people understand their strengths and how they can be resilient. 

On the show Leah and I discuss

• The importance of perseverance

• Defining resilience

• How to foster confidence

• The importance of making mistakes

• The importance of accepting emotions

• How teachers can support building resilience

Book recommendations:

Big Life Journal
Mindset by Carol Dwecks
Permission to Feel by Mark Brackett

To learn more about Leah and her life coaching, check out her web page

https://leahdavidsonlifecoaching.com/

She also has a podcast where she talks about all things resilience — The Building Resilience Podcast

French Immersion and Reading

Learning to read is not as easy as just diving in. Reading requires practice, work, and the learning of sounds. Adding a second language can seem to make learning to read even harder.

Today on the show, I talk to Kim about her experience and practice with teaching children to read in French Immersion. It's not impossible and, as you'll hear, the strategies we use for one child can work for many children.

Key point:

• Reading means learning sounds

• The skill can be transferred

• Using structured literacy is key

• Recommended resources

• History of reading theories

Make sure to check out the recommended resources:
Web Pages:
International Dyslexia Association
Decoding Dyslexia Ontario

Books:
Reading is Rock Science by Louise Moats
Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic School Board Parents Guild to Special Education in FI

Are you looking for help and support for your child with learning needs? Check out Access to Education for our services to see how we help families navigate through this challenging time. From in-depth work on your child's Individual Education Plan to guide you through the process, Access to Education is here to support you. Check out our SERVICES page to book a call now!

Judgement and Fear — An open conversation

When you have a child who is Neurodiverse, you need to find a group. You need to find those people who will support you and lift you up in the moments when everything just seems so hard.

On this episode of the podcast, I speak to Megan, host and creator of On the Hard Days.

We met in a Clubhouse chat room that allowed other people to talk about their struggles with their children. In the group, we talked about our highs and lows. There was a feeling of no judgment. Megan and I have since gone on to lean on one another for support when the tough is tough, but also to celebrate when there's something to celebrate!

On the show, we talk about

• Finding your support group

• Megan's journey to understand her kids

• Being in a tough place as a mom and teacher

• Building your community

• That it's OK to mess up

• The fear of judgment

A Mother’s Journey — Crystal and Kate

Never give up! Never take NO for answer.
This week’s episode is a story of never giving up — of asking and continuing to ask for more from the school system.

This week, mom Crystal and daughter Katie come to us to share their journey. They open up about their story so that others can know they are not alone. It's a story of a mom who never gave up and a child who knew she could do more.

Don't ever let anyone tell you your child is not worth it. Don't let anyone tell you to give up!

Vision Therapy

Have you ever heard of Vision Therapy? Has it been something you’ve considered?

I’ve heard of it and, honestly, I was never really sure it was a true thing. How can someone fix my child's reading just by having them work out their eyes?

In this week’s podcast, I have a deep conversation with Fabian Tai. He is a graduate of the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and has grown his practice to now support Vision Therapy in the west end of Toronto.

As a parent of two children with learning differences, I’m always looking for resources and therapies that might help support my child. After chatting with my child's eye doctor, she encouraged me to look into the process. I have taken it one step further and also had a conversation with Dr. Fabian Tai about the broader idea of eyes and how vision therapy can support my kids and even my own dyslexia.

Highlights from the show:

• What is Vision Therapy?

• How do know if it's a fit for you?

• Where did Vision Therapy start?

• What to look for in a therapist

• The controversies about Vision Therapy

• How the brain and eyes work together

To learn more about Dr. Fabian Tai and his practice, check out his web page:
Dr. Fabian Tai and Associates

Epilepsy — A Life-Long Journey

Today on the show, I had a conversation with Cassidy. Cassidy is Epileptic and has learned to grow up around the diagnosis while still being herself and enjoying life.

Epilepsy affects 139,200 people in Canada, but I feel like it's like one of the lesser thought-of neurodiversity. On the show, Cassidy talks openly about her diagnosis, how her parents advocated to gain answers, and what young people can do to advocate for themselves.

Highlights from the show:

• Her diagnosis

• Maintaining friendships when different

• How educators can help support students

• The medication journey

• How to advocate for oneself

Cassidy also suggests the following links to learn more:
Epilepsy Canada — A web page dedicated to supporting families to learn and understand their diagnosis.

Communication Through the Life Stages — Stuttering

Stuttering or speech disfluency can feel debilitating and make any individual feel embarrassed.

As parents, we so look forward to the moment their voice for the first time. But, sometimes that voice doesn't come out as smooth as other kids’ voices. How do you help a child who’s struggling with speech? What can others around them do?

In my conversation with Angie, we talk about stuttering and speech disfluency to help others understand how to support and better empathize with that person or child.

Highlights from the show:

• Her story of growing up with a stutter

• How to support that child or person

• Tips to help deal with moments where stuttering might be worse

• How she, as a parent, supports her child to overcome their stutter

A Conversation About ADHD

Having a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming and it came seem hard to know where to turn. Today on the show a conversation with Cris Brady who is a neurodivergent coach. She works with families, schools and work places to support those with ADHD.

In our conversation, we dig deep into how it feels when your child is first diagnosed, how to support families and children affected, and address how stigmas affect persons with ADHD.
Some highlights from our conversation:

• The need for supportive inclusion

• Ideas for developing strategies to support learners

• Breaking down stereotypes

• Different views in different countries

• Barriers to success and how to break them

• What parents can do

• Services in Post Secondary School

• How schools can support learners

To learn more about Cris and what she does check out the links below:

Cris Brady: visit her web page for opportunities to learn more

Follow her on Instagram and Facebook and LinkedIn

Here We Go Again….

I've shared my story, my eldest’s story, and, today, I share a bit about my middle child.

His journey is not the same; it’s not common. Like all things with the brain, he was different. He didn't take the same road of learning as his brother. At some points, I felt that I'd dropped the ball for him — that I was so busy looking after what his older brother needed that I missed the signs.

Listen to hear about how we got to the other side and how we're still working on the journey.

In the episode, I talk about

• The challenges and success

• His diagnosis

• How I missed the flags

• His school experience

• Where we started

• The challenges my husband and I faced and our differences in option

• Our Medication journey

• Tutoring support

Follow me on Instagram and Facebook so you can witness my journey and learn how I support families like yours.

Inclusion in the Workplace — A conversation with Kelly Johnson

Supporting people’s understanding of autism is not always easy. It can be hard for outsiders to understand what Autistic people or families need.

Today on the show, I have a conversation with Kelly Johnson. She has autism and didn’t get a diagnosis until one of her children was diagnosed. She has since become a fierce advocate for the inclusion of neurodiverse people in the workplace. Additionally, Kelly is an author, supporting workplaces through writing.

In this episode, we talk about

• Kelly's late-in-life diagnosis and how it made sense to her

• We talk about biases and barriers within workplaces for those who are neurodiverse

• Advocating for yourself within the workspace

• Advice for parents of neurodiverse children and helping them get into the workplace

• Inclusion in schools

• Her book — How to Parent Like an Autistic

Want to learn more about Kelly and her work? Check her out at the links below:
Completely Inclusive BLOG - "Creating Completely Inclusive workplaces and society, one person at a time."
Completely Inclusive Business Page - Here connect with Kelly about she can support you in the workplace.
Autistic Entrepreneurs Network - A membership program supporting Autistic entrepreneurs.
Kelly Bron Johnson - On Linked In

Forest for the Trees

Over the past while, I've hosted lots of interviews with experts and other parents. This episode is a chance for me to tell you a bit about my family’s journey and share some things with you. While working with families over the past few years, I've come to understand some important things.

I want to empower families to clear away the darkness and see the light of what is possible. This journey is not an easy one and comes with some dark spots.

In this episode, I talk about

• How to see through the darkness

• The importance of finding a group, a friend, or a family member who can help support you and your child through this journey

• Where to start for support

• Trusting your gut

• A little about my story

• A reminder that you, as the parent, know your child best

Autism Edit — A conversation with Kathy

I’ve said it many times that no child comes with a manual. No child comes with a how-to when they arrive and we, as parents, fumble around trying to figure out how to parent our child so they feel loved, safe, and successful. But, when you have a child whose brain is wired differently, your parenting has to be different as well.

Today on the show, I'm talking with Kathy Heath. Kathy is a mom of three, a coffee addict like myself, and a socially anxious extrovert who has a child with autism. Her child was diagnosed in 2016. Since then, she has created the Autism Edit Community. The community is hosted on a website and social media space where she shares her experiences and perspectives about parenting a child with ASD. Her goal is to allow other families traveling a similar journey to feel less alone.

Vision Support

Being blind or having less-than-normal vision can affect the classroom experience in so many different ways. Today on the show a conversation about how vision can affect people in their day-to-day lives.

There are so many different types of vision-related exceptionalities. There are neurological, physical , or even undiagnosed vision challenges. Today on the show, I’m hosting Jason. Jason runs a tech company that helps support accessible technology called A.T. Guys. He also runs a podcast and is an author.

Jason believes that products and services should be accessible — no matter a person’s ability. Jason has worked with companies and agencies all over the world, promoting accessibility with a focus on technology.

Join us to learn how parents, educators, and the community can help support those how are blind or have low vision.

Check out his webpage for more information:
A.T. Guys

Stages of Sleep

Sleep is one of those things that as parents we all seek. From the minute our children arrive to us, sleep becomes so important.

When we consider children with learning needs or neurodiverse, sleep becomes even more important. The brain can only rest during sleep. To grow and create those connections stimulated by learning, the brain needs rest. With our neurodiverse children, sleep doesn’t always come easily. For example, maybe it’s because they’re on medication for ADHD, which keeps their brain running. Maybe it’s because they’re anxious or worried about something.

In this podcast, I host a conversation with Rosalee from Baby Sleep Love. She works with families to help support positive sleep habits. Together we discuss how we, as parents, can help our children get better sleep and, in turn, get the whole family sleeping better.

To learn more about Rosalee and her work, check out her webpage, Baby Sleep Love.

Check out the episode to learn more!

Reading With Watermelon Works Sleep is one of those things that as parents we all seek. Supporting French Readers

Learning to read isn’t an easy thing to do and sure requires lots of support and structure. Learning to read in a second language can be all the more difficult.

Today on the podcast, I have a conversation with Jenny Gray. Through her understanding of linguistics, Jenny has created a literacy program for French Language readers that supports the directed teaching of sounds and syllables.

Are you wondering how her program Watermelonworks might support your child? Check our conversation where she dives into why she started her program, how she built it, who's using her program, and how you can access this resource!

Highlights:

• Understanding the code for reading

• How to support readers

• A program that focuses on allowing students to understand the code

Check out her webpage to learn more.
https://www.watermelon-works.com/?lang=en

Mom of a Super Feeler — One mother’s journey to understand

Being a parent of a child who is neurodiverse can feel so overwhelming. Waiting for answers plus constant uncertainty can be hard. It's never easy to feel as though something is going on and have to wait to be sure. Waiting is sometimes part of a family’s journey to understanding their child.

Today on the show, I have a conversation with a mother who had a sense that something wasn't right. Her daughter seemed to be a little needier than the average child. As they started their journey together as a family, things came to light. Understanding those differences lead to a deeper understanding of her daughter and what she needed.

Listen to hear about

• How parenting a child with a neuro-difference can be a gift

• Success and challenges of parenthood

• The importance of taking time to understand and seek support

If you'd like to learn more about Adrienne and her journey, check out her Instagram page @mom_of_a_superfeeler. She shares her daughter’s journey there as well.

The Brain Gut Connect with Dr. Michelle Pobega ND

Did you know that the gut and the brain are connected? Did you know that sometimes behaviour can be linked the something going on elsewhere in the body?

This week, Dr. Michelle and I talk all about how naturopathic doctors can help support neurodiverse thinking in different ways. Sometimes, to support learners, it’s best to think outside the box.

Listen to the podcast to learn

• How the brain and gut are connected

• How diet and supplements can support positive behavioural changes

• The importance of understanding how mood can be affected by the gut

To learn more about Dr. Michelle, check out her IG @dr.michelle_nd

Highs and Lows — A Story of Gifts and Challenges

When we think of students with learning differences, we often don't consider students who are deemed to be “gifted.” These students tend to fall under an umbrella of “Special Education” where the education system assumes they can be successful, no matter where we “place” them in schools.

Today on the show, I talk with Emily Edwards, owner of The Good Birth Co. Together, we talk about what school was like for her. Emily talks openly about what she wishes teachers and peers saw. She had a need to learn to lead a group, rather than just be smart. She did find support in teachers who challenged her to lead big and small things. These experiences shaped who she is today.

In our conversation, Emily also opens up about one of her children who struggled to begin speaking. As a mother, she wasn’t always ready for the outcome. She has gained strength from her knowledge and supports her child through their journey.

To learn more about Emily and her work with pregnancy and beyond, check out her web page
The Good Birth Co.

Supporting Students with Hearing Impairment

Schools can be loud. Typically, students need to hear what’s going on in the classroom, which can be tough when hearing impairments are a factor.

Today on the show, I talk to Rhonda Tepper, a teacher and member of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Rhonda has spent much of her teaching career supporting students with hearing impairment.

Together, we discuss how parents, teachers, and other professionals can be learners in the classroom.

Nutrition and the Brain

As you know, what we eat can affect our development and how we function while trying to learn. In this episode, we talk to nutritionist Nishta Saxton about all things food.

From reading labels to talking about vitamins, we cover it all.

What’s your greatest issue with food and your children? It's never easy to ensure we’re always doing the right thing. Have a listen to what Nishta feels is important when it comes to food.

Want to contact Nishta? Check out her web page:
https://www.simplyvibrantnutrition.com/

Music Therapy

Do you know how music therapy can help support a neurodiverse child? This week on the podcast, I have a conversation with Cheryl-Lee Campbell, a music therapist in East Toronto. She’s the owner of East Toronto Music Therapy. Cheryl-Lee works with children with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other learning challenges. In her work, she helps her clients work on specific goals.

Takeaways from our conversation:

• Music therapy helps reach goals that are not music related

• Music can help children learn and seek engagement

• Music therapy sessions can strengthen listening and self-regulation goals

• Therapists can work with both verbal and nonverbal children

Want to learn more about Cheryl-Lee and her work? Check out her webpage:
East Toronto Music Therapy

Journey Through LOVE!

In this episode, I have a conversation with Amina about her family’s struggle to understand her daughter’s needs. After waiting for the adoption system, persevering through highs and lows, Amina and her husband were finally given a gift": A daughter.

Key topics:

• Listen to your gut

• Always ask questions

• Never give up

• About adoption

This gift came with unforeseen challenges. Throughout it all, Amina and her family learned and grew. As parents, we learn how to advocate for our children and their needs. This story reminds us that life can reach its darkest hours before there’s light. Never give up and always trust your gut.

The Spark - Book by Kristine Barnett

Jeff Noble - FASD advocate and speaker

Listen to hear how Amina and her family came to understand her daughter’s ADHD, FASD, and Anxiety Disorder.

Fabulous Playrooms - Accessible Play for All

This week’s episode is all about children and play! As parents, we all know how important play is to our children. From imagination to motor skill development, it all has an impact.

But, how is your play space organized? Does it cater to your child and their needs?

In this episode, ‘am talking to Connie, a teacher and playroom expert. Together, we talk about play from engagement to developing play skills. Play isn't just about being a part of an activity and playing — it's about so much more.

Key Concepts:

• Ideas of how to set up a play space

• Play is for all children — no matter their ability

• The ideas of different play items create growth and learning opportunities

To learn about Connie and what she does check her web page:

Connie Huson Playroom Consultant

Book recommendations:

Simplicity Parenting - Raise Calmer, Happier, and more Secure Kids - By Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross

Ted Talk:

Sir Ken Robinson - Do Schools Kill Creativity

Communication Skills Difficulty

Does your child struggle to communicate their thoughts or ideas? Are you unsure of how to support your child with a learning difference to understand social cues?

In today's episode, I am talking to Allie, a Speech and Language Pathologist. Allie works with families to support their understanding of communication skills and how to better support their children’s own skills.

The biggest takeaway from the episode is how Speech-Language Pathologists can work with children from birth. Also, they don't just help support speaking, they can help support everything to do with communication, both verbal and non-verbal.

You can find out more about working with Allie by checking out the following links below:

Her personal webpage: Express Yourself Speech