Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast

A Conversation About Autism, Motherhood, and Radical Acceptance Motherness by Julie M. Green isn’t about tragedy or superpowers — just the messy, hilarious, complicated truth of being an autistic mom. Join me, Kate Lynch, on Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents, as I talk with Julie M. Green, author of Motherness: A Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical Acceptance. This conversation explores autistic motherhood, late-diagnosed autism, intergenerational neurodivergence, and the emotional labor of parenting kids who don’t fit the mold. Julie shares what it was like to discover her own autism a decade after her son’s diagnosis and reflects on masking, shame, anger, and the humor that keeps her afloat. We also dive into: -the loneliness of parenting “different” kids -why aggressive or dysregulated behaviors are so misunderstood -the pressure mothers carry in ableist systems -how self-compassion and honesty make room for joy If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child, wondering if you may be autistic, or searching for stories that make you feel less alone, Motherness is one of those rare memoirs that feels both tender and sharp — vulnerable, funny, and deeply human.“It can be hard for people to feel empathetic when a child is lashing out. But it’s all variations of the same thing: dysregulation.”If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child, wondering if you may be autistic, or searching for stories that make you feel less alone, Motherness is one of those rare memoirs that feels both tender and sharp — vulnerable, funny, and deeply human. If you’re reading Motherness or thinking about it, tell us in the comments here: https://katelynch.substack.com/p/generational-autism-radical-acceptance If you’ve had a glimmer lately, we’d love to hear that too. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:50 Julie M. Green's Writing Style 01:42 Radical Acceptance and Self-Compassion 02:47 Julie M. Green's Autism Journey 05:41 Parenting Challenges and Community 07:26 Aggression and Behavioral Challenges 10:29 Reflections on Parenting and Personal Growth 13:02 Balancing Humor and Hardship 22:16 Spontaneous Joyful Moments 24:10 Final Thoughts and Farewell

An honest look at Dr. Becky’s influence, the limits of “deeply feeling,” and why accurate labels matter for autistic and ADHD kids. When journalist E.J. Dickson published her viral article “Do Deeply Feeling Kids Really Exist?” for The Cut, it sparked an emotional debate among parents who follow Dr. Becky Kennedy’s parenting philosophy. In this conversation, E.J. joins me to share what she learned while reporting on the Deeply Feeling Kid (DFK) concept — and how it can unintentionally delay autism and ADHD evaluations for children who need support.We talk about what worked (and didn’t) when she tried Dr. Becky’s strategies with her own neurodivergent son, why highly verbal interventions often fail autistic kids, and the deeper forces at play: ableism, access barriers, and the pressure on mothers to never get it wrong.E.J. also reflects on the long history of blaming mothers for their children’s struggles, the intense pushback to her article, and why a diagnosis isn’t an ending — it’s a beginning. If you’ve ever wondered where “deeply feeling” ends and neurodivergence begins, this conversation offers clarity and community. This conversation is part of a seires inspired by The Cut’s article, “Do ‘Deeply Feeling Kids’ Really Exist?” by journalist E.J. Dickson, and by the growing movement of parents seeking inclusivity and empathy in modern parenting.Find transcript and conversation on this topic at Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Substack:https://katelynch.substack.com/p/ej-dickson-deeply-feeling-or-neurodivergentYour follow and review make it possible to reach more parents like us. Thanks in advance. A kinder future for our kids begins with kindness toward ourselves.

A conversation with Ina Chung on finding power in accurate labels, and how modeling advocacy with her autistic and allergic kids helps them feel truly seen.“Parents would tell me, ‘If I had known when my child was three instead of seven, we could have gotten so many more supports in place.’ That breaks my heart.”-Ina ChungWhy do we fear labels and diagnoses? That question has been on my mind since long before The Cut published journalist E.J. Dickson’s article about Dr. Becky Kennedy, the psychologist and parenting influencer who coined the term Deeply Feeling Kid (DFK). The DFK framework has helped countless parents feel more compassionate. But compassion alone doesn’t replace professional guidance. When well-meaning influencers dismiss “labels,” it can unintentionally reinforce the ableism many of us are still trying to unlearn.DFK describes children who experience emotions intensely and struggle to regulate them. The concept resonates with parents who value empathy and emotional awareness. But sometimes that framework isn’t enough. The piece explored whether the DFK label, while well-intentioned, might sometimes delay necessary diagnoses and supports for neurodivergent children. In the days following its release, my friend Ina Chung found herself at the center of that conversation. The DFK framework has helped countless parents feel more compassionate. But compassion alone doesn’t replace professional guidance. When well-meaning influencers dismiss “labels,” it can unintentionally reinforce the ableism many of us are still trying to unlearn.“If children are struggling, honesty and curiosity matter more than comfort.” -Kate LynchTopics We Covered In The Live Conversation:What “Deeply Feeling Kid” (DFK) means — and when it misses the markHow Dr. Becky’s messaging resonates and falls short for neurodivergent familiesWhy accurate diagnoses are not limiting but liberatingThe fear and stigma surrounding autism and other labelsHow modeling advocacy empowers kids with autism and allergies to speak upThe parallels between neurodiversity and food allergiesFinding belonging in online parenting spaces like Good InsideHow parents can hold both truths — compassion and critiqueI’ve written before about this tension: the good that comes from Dr. Becky’s work, and the harm that can arise from her “I’m not a fan of labels” stance. Like Ina, I’ve seen parents in the Good Inside community working so hard, yet blaming themselves for things that can’t be parented away.A label isn’t a limitation. It’s language. It can open doors to therapy, accommodations, self-understanding, and community. “There are a lot of us out here who feel like this world wasn’t built for our kids, But when we share stories, we feel less alone. That’s everything.”-Ina Chung,  The Asian Allergy Mom on Instagramhttps://katelynch.substack.com/p/ina-chung-good-inside-interview

A candid, courageous conversation about the messy intersections of parenting, privilege, and support for neurodivergent kids. “Fear isn’t unsafe. Discomfort isn’t unsafe. It’s where growth begins.” –Sarah | Profound Autism Mom Together, we explored:Long-form storytelling vs social media sound bytesThe myth of the “ideal child” and ambiguous griefThe tension between emotional narratives and clinical realitiesHow parents can regulate their own nervous systems and model resilienceThe line between “deeply feeling” and clinically neurodivergent, and why it mattersHow ableism, privilege, and bureaucracy shape access to support, and what we can do to fix the systems What “profound autism” means to Sarah, and how it differs from other autism presentationsFinding meaning in unexpected parenting journeysThe power of compassionate conversation in a divided cultureWhy community care and nervous system regulation are at the heart of survival for our families“There’s no hierarchy of people, only shifting needs.” –Kate Lynch Finding Compassion in the ChaosWe didn’t have a neat conclusion — and that’s the point. This conversation invites you to pause, reflect, and notice where you might sit with complexity in your parenting, your advocacy, or your own self-understanding. We can find meaning in the mess, compassion in the chaos, and presence in the unknown. When we sit with complexity, we create space for something new to emerge: creative collaborations that spark change. An emerging vision of a culture that values care, connection, and the full humanity of every child. For links and community, go to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents

Join Kate Lynch and The Autism Mums for an inspiring talk on parenting, advocacy, and community support for parents of autistic kids.I cried during this live chat with Victoria and Natalie, sisters sharing how they help parents feel less alone while raising autistic children.…“It can be quite a lonely journey...we thought, why not do a podcast, so that other people can be supported?”–NatalieTimestamps:00:00 Accessing Helpful Tips Easily04:03 Most Angel Cakes Bought07:54 Eating Habits Transformation12:27 Unclear Support for Complex Needs15:15 Challenges for Neurodivergent Parents18:42 Choosing School or Homeschool Conflict21:37 Staying with Inclusive School23:15 Reflecting on Misunderstood Panic Attacks26:34 Preschool Meltdown Comparison

A live, candid conversation with Parenting Pivot creator Patrick Weir on parenting special needs kids, ambiguous loss, and finding connection when you feel alone.When you first notice something’s different — finding connection, clarity, and compassion through community.Meet Patrick Weir, dad to a 10-year-old daughter with special needs. Patrick shares the story behind Parenting Pivot — a passion project built to help parents feel less alone through honest conversations with both caregivers and experts.We discuss the early days of realizing something was different, navigating evaluations, and the emotional terrain of ambiguous loss. Together, they explore what it means to center parents’ voices while advocating for their kids.This episode reminds us that no matter where you are in your parenting journey, you’re not alone — and community makes all the difference."Every episode, I want parents to feel seen and walk away with something useful.” — Patrick Weir"We don’t have to be perfect parents to be present ones.” — Kate LynchTopics:Why Patrick started Parenting PivotThe moment parents realize something is differentNavigating the diagnostic process and finding a neuropsychologistThe concept of ambiguous loss and redefining expectationsFinding your people: community, compassion, and support for parentsWhat it means to put parents at the center of the conversationTimestamps:[00:00] Welcome and Introductions – Kate introduces Patrick and the Parenting Pivot Podcast[02:45] Why Patrick Created Parenting Pivot – Turning pain into purpose[08:30] The Parent’s Point of View: Centering Caregivers’ Stories[13:10] From “Something’s Different” to Diagnosis: The Early Steps[20:00] Ambiguous Loss and the Power of Community[27:30] Advice for Parents of Neurodivergent KidsAll links at: Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents

Nicola Rose joined me for a live chat about her latest film, "Magnetosphere," a family comedy about a 13-year-old girl with synesthesia. It's a fun and tender look at the intersection of synesthesia and puberty. Welcome to Season 9, Episode 2 of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast! There’s an element of bullying in the film, and the difficulty of making new friends as someone who is neurodivergent. These themes are sensitively handled and child-friendly. “Magnetosphere’s connections to neurodivergence (synesthesia and otherwise) ultimately went even further. It turned out a number of the cast were neurodivergent. Shayelin Martin and Patrick McKenna both have ADHD, which I am certain influenced their performances.” -Nicola Rose Why did Nicola chose to treat this topic as a comedy? “I think there's an inherent absurdity in a lot of life, and life is a lot of highs and lows and tragedy and comedy, and it seemed silly to depict adolescence without depicting the silliness and ridiculousness that goes with that time.” -Nicola Rose Learn more here:https://katelynch.substack.com/p/nicola-rose-magnetosphere-synesthesia A kinder future for our kids begins with kindness toward ourselves.00:00 Adolescence, Identity, and Synesthesia03:55 Embracing Synesthesia's Unique Gift08:18 Dance Moms Window Watching11:58 Portraying Synesthesia and Self-Discovery16:22 Film's Core Audience: Neurodivergent Families19:36 Maggie's Subplot Character Connections21:14 Finding "Magnetosphere"

Learn about a new resource for parents of neurodivergent kids! Welcome to Season 9, Episode 1 of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast. Patrick Weir is a dad of a 10-year-old special needs daughter. He’s got a new podcast out about raising neurodivergent kids. I asked him…What's special about Parenting Pivot? “What's different about Parenting Pivot is, it's about the parent's point of view. It's not just like someone saying, this is what you have to do. It puts parents first." “I'm learning very powerful lessons from these amazing women that I have interviewed. I also get the luxury not only of having an hour to talk with them, but then in the editing process, I practically memorize everything that comes out. And that gives me a really a deep understanding of… such hard-fought wisdom from each of these experts.” “You really have to find your people, because we've been there. You don't have to say ‘I'm sorry. This thing happened. My kid did this.’ You don't have to apologize. Just say what happened. ‘Cause we've all been there. You know, we're with you. We get it. It's hard to find that group of people. If you do, hold on to them tightly. Reach out, and don't be afraid to say, I’m really having a tough time.” -Patrick Weir https://katelynch.substack.com/p/parenting-pivot-podcastA kinder future for our kids begins with kindness toward ourselves.00:00 Parenting Pivot Podcast Launch05:37 Powerful Lessons from Amazing Women07:02 Putting Parents First 12:35 Seeking The Right Diagnosis14:24 Improving Podcast Episode Content19:30 Parenting Decision Reflections

Learn how self-regulation and visualization practices can enhance your relationship with your children. Outside of crises, we can work on our relationships through meditation techniques, including guided visualization. I’m Kate Lynch (she/her), a mindful parenting teacher on a mission to create a kinder, more inclusive future.Widely known for my compassionate, nonjudgmental approach, I’ve supported thousands of highly sensitive parents internationally with self-compassion and mindfulness practices, so their families can feel more ease and joy.Emphasizing the importance of creating new neural pathways of love and connection, I'll guide you to imagine ideal scenarios with your kids, fostering a sense of support and calm. By visualizing the details of respectful interactions, you can build cooperation and trust with your neurodivergent kids. Get comfy and join in to explore these methods that will help you to strengthen parental bonds and cultivate a nurturing family environment. Read the transcript, listen to the podcast, watch the video, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: ⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠00:00 Introduction to Self-Regulation and Visualization 00:43 Creating a Safe Space for Visualization 00:54 Imagining Support and Connection 01:46 Breathing Techniques for Relaxation 02:56 Visualizing Ideal Cooperation with Your Child 04:24 Deepening the Visualization with Sensory Details 06:51 Embracing Positive Emotions and Feelings

SPOILERS: Unpacking Netflix's "Adolescence" From a Peaceful Parenting Perspective With Sarah RosensweetWhy are we scapegoating the symptom of social media when oppressive systems are the root cause of a disconnected generation? As an artist obsessed with breaking generational cycles (while raising a budding filmmaker) the series had me riveted from the opening shot. That’s why I was giddy when Sarah Rosensweet⁠ of Peaceful Parenting agreed to go live with me to talk about “Adolescence.” The insights that it raised for us both go far beyond hysteria about social media. Despite the sensational aspects of the story, the experiences depicted highlight real issues in raising and connecting with teenagers.Sarah shared why it’s crucial to engage with teens even when they seem distant and how boosting their sense of self-worth can be super protective. "What our kids need most from us is to feel lovable and worthy. Even if they're artists instead of jocks." -Sarah Rosensweet⁠ Raising Reflective RebelsIn our conversation, radical parenting felt to both of us like a glimmer of hope. This approach, influenced by Alfie Kohn, focuses on nurturing reflective rebels:“Raising kids who won't be quiet if something's not fair, and will stand up and say something when someone's being bullied. This kind of parenting… starts at home, allowing your child to question you and talk back to you. And this is their practice for going out in the world and standing up for what's right.”-⁠Sarah Rosensweet⁠ "Adolescence" serves as a powerful reflection on family dynamics and systems that perpetuate violence. Cycle-breaking and mindful parenting are the most radical things we can do right now to protect our kids from those systems. Through connection, acceptance, and supporting our children's uniqueness, we can navigate the complexities of modern parenting with hope and intention.

What Can Bluey and Lizzo Teach Us About Parenting, Burnout, and Creativity?Another insightful conversation with Ryan Rose Weaver, a writer, educator, consultant, and parent of a twice-exceptional child. In this episode, we explore the vital role of creativity as preventative care for parental burnout, especially for parents of neurodivergent kids. We discuss the importance of finding fulfillment, community support, and mindfulness practices. According to Ryan, Bluey is a show for grownups about parenting, and kids just happen to like it. She talks about an episode dedicated to creativity. Have you seen it? What’s your perspective? Where do you find inspiration within your parenting life? How do you acknowledge the moments of joy, no matter how small, amidst the chaos? Engage with us and build a supportive community as we navigate raising neurodivergent kids together. Read the full transcript, listen to the podcast, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at :Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠In Tending: https://ryanroseweaver.substack.com/Don't forget to subscribe, follow, review, and tune in every two weeks for new episodes! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:12 Connecting Creativity and Parental Burnout02:17 Navigating Parenting Challenges03:05 Rituals and Milestones in Parenting04:08 The Concept of 'Eddying Out'05:31 Balancing Self and Caregiving07:28 The Importance of Community and Support18:31 Creativity as Preventative Care20:34 Navigating Shame in Creativity21:19 The Magic of Bluey22:14 Defining Creativity and Its Forms25:08 Flow State: The Joy of Creative Process27:31 Unlearning and Embracing Interruptions35:32 The Power of Community and Support41:34 Cherishing Parenting Moments43:33 Gratitude and Joy in Everyday Life44:25 Conclusion and Farewell

I wish someone had told me the advice Ryan gives parents worried about the IEP process. When she said it in the interview, I almost cried. Follow for more mindful parenting for neurodiverse families. An honest review helps other parents find this community, and I'm grateful for yours.Ryan Rose Weaver is an educator and parent to a twice-exceptional child. In this episode, we talked about the challenges of balancing intensive caregiving seasons, and the importance of parental self-compassion. In particular, we focused on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Ryan shared her personal story of navigating her child's struggles in a Montessori school setting. offering insights into how she balanced her own self-care through creative practices like movement and writing. We also explored the importance of creating relational rituals, advocating for better communication between parents and teachers, and practical practices to maintain mental and emotional well-being. The most impactful part of the conversation for me was Ryan’s perspective as a teacher conducting IEP meetings, and her advice and strategies for stressed out parents.The episode wraps up with a guided mindfulness practice for parents, encouraging tranquility and resilience. 00:00 Introduction to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast00:43 Introduction to Ryan Rose Weaver01:47 Challenges in Early Education03:02 Discovering Sensory Integration Issues04:30 Navigating the IEP Process08:18 Creative Practices as Survival Instinct08:59 Balancing Parental Identity and Self-Care09:28 The Importance of Self-Tending10:15 Challenges in the Education System16:01 Teacher-Parent Relationships17:02 Preparing for IEP Meetings18:11 Advocating for Children in IEP Meetings25:05 Creating Rituals for Self and Relational Care27:54 Including Children in IEP Meetings34:22 Mindfulness and Support Practices41:45 Conclusion and Guest InformationFind Ryan on Substack and Instagram at Ryan Rose Weaver. Want to give back? Your reviews are always a gift!Read the full transcript, listen to the podcast, watch the video, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: ⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠

Generational Autism: A Mom's Journey of Radical Acceptance and Connection with Julie M. Green In this episode, listen in on an enlightening conversation with Julie M. Green, a writer and artist from Kingston, Canada. Julie discusses the nuances of parenting as a late-diagnosed autistic woman and the evolving narrative around autism and neurodivergence. Explore generational autism, radical acceptance, and the importance of connection over fear. Julie shares her personal parenting journey, coping mechanisms, and insights as well as the details of her autism diagnosis later in life... and how her autistic teen reacted to the news that they share a diagnosis. Read the full transcript, listen to the podcast, watch the video, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: ⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠

Balancing Joy and Sorrow: Parenting Neurodivergent Children with Shelley Karpaty. In this heartfelt episode of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents, host Kate Lynch engages in a deep conversation with Shelley Karpaty, a writer, meditation guide, and mental health advocate. Shelley shares insightful stories from her journey parenting a child diagnosed with schizophrenia, the importance of self-compassion, and the challenges and strengths of balancing multiple roles as a parent. They discuss societal expectations and how to navigate the complexities of mental health within families. The dialogue weaves through themes of unconditional love, mindfulness practices, and the value of community support. Parents of neurodivergent kids will find solace and understanding here. 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Dual Emotions00:34 The Heroine's Journey: A Mother's Struggle01:03 Welcome to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents01:44 Meet Shelly Karpati: Advocate and Author02:45 Understanding Schizophrenia and Neurodivergence05:23 Parenting Challenges and Triumphs07:16 Support Systems and Community09:20 Coping Mechanisms and Self-Care14:07 Mindfulness and Metta Practices18:03 Reflections on Parenting and Personal Growth32:26 Final Thoughts and Resources

Navigating public spaces with atypical kids, overcoming stigma, and building an inclusive future!In this powerful episode, I’m speaking with Jennifer Natalya Fink, Director of Disability Studies at Georgetown University and author of 'All Our Families: Disability Lineage and the Future of Kinship.' Enter the Book Giveaway:Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed”⁠ below this post⁠⁠. BONUS ENTRIES: ⁠Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed” ⁠below this post⁠⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Share anywhere. Comment “shared”⁠ below this post⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY!We will choose a WINNER by April 13.Jennifer shares her insights on viewing disability as an identity rather than a deficit and emphasizes the importance of community and cultural understanding for disabled individuals and their families. This episode is a must-watch for parents, educators, and advocates who are on a journey to create a kinder, more inclusive world. Timestamps:00:00 Positive Disability Identity and Community with Jennifer Natalya Fink01:21 Introduction to Jennifer Natalya Fink02:42 Understanding Disability as an Identity06:14 Exploring Disability Lineage12:29 Public Perception and Disability14:50 Building Community and Identity17:22 Empowering Disabled Children20:59 Looking Towards the Future23:39 Embracing Disability: Challenges and Acceptance24:30 Affirmations and Prepared Language27:42 Building Community and Seeking Support30:39 Creating Meaningful Connections32:17 The Importance of Routine and Commitment34:14 Cultural and Social Identity 36:12 Personal Growth and Enlightenment38:08 Legacy and Parenting Memories40:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

Self-compassion helps parents and their neurodivergent children to feel more resilient. In this episode of Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast, I’m interviewing Jamie Lynn Tatera, a mindfulness and self-compassion teacher and author of 'Mindfulness and Self Compassion Workbook for Kids’. (As an amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)3 Ways To Enter the Book Giveaway:Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed”⁠below this post⁠. BONUS ENTRY: ⁠Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed”⁠below this post⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Share anywhere. Comment “shared”⁠below this post⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY!We discuss the importance of self-compassion for both parents and their neurodivergent children, sharing personal stories and practical strategies. The conversation delves into resilience habits, some of the ups and downs we’ve had raising our neurodivergent kids, and the role of mindfulness in navigating the challenges. Jamie Lynn shares breathing exercises and introduces animal characters to help children and parents recognize and manage emotions. The episode will encourage you to grow your mindfulness and self-compassion skills yourself, while showing you fun and relatable ways to share them with your kids.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Resilience Habits00:22 Welcome to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast00:59 Meet Jamie Lynn Teterra02:29 Discovering Self-Compassion03:36 Parenting Neurodivergent Children05:00 The Role of Self-Compassion in Parenting09:51 Practical Self-Compassion Techniques12:44 Empathic Distress Breath Practice for Highly Sensitive Kids 16:55 Using Animals to Teach Kids Mindfulness23:00 Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses31:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Exciting New Season of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast!Introducing the highly anticipated eighth season of the Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast! Discover new episodes featuring insightful discussions with experts like: Dr. Matt Zakreski, Jamie Lynn Tatera, Jennifer Natalya Fink, Shelley Karpati, Julie M. Green, and Ryan Rose Weaver. Learn about book giveaways, resilience practices, positive disability identity, mental health, and self-compassion. Engage with us and build a supportive community as we navigate raising neurodivergent kids together. Don't forget to subscribe, review, and tune in every two weeks for new episodes!00:00 Introduction to the New Podcast Season 02:48 Upcoming Guests and Topics04:07 Mid-Season Highlights05:18 Engaging with the Community07:29 Breathing Exercise and ConclusionThanks for listening to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast!

Essential skills for parenting neurodivergent children, from managing expectations to dealing with discomfort. In this episode, I’m talking with Dr. Matt Zakreski, a clinical psychologist, founder of the Neurodiversity Collective, and co-host of the Nerding Out on Neurodiversity Podcast. We’re sharing personal stories and expert advice on managing expectations and finding community support. Dr. Matt introduces his book, 'The Neurodiversity Playbook,' aimed at helping parents and neurodivergent individuals navigate a neurotypical world. 3 Ways To Enter the Book Giveaway: Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed” ⁠below this post⁠⁠. BONUS ENTRY: ⁠Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed”⁠ below this post⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Share anywhere. Comment “shared” below this post⁠⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY! We will choose a WINNER by March 16. Timestamps:00:00 Understanding the Brain's Default to Self-Blame00:35 Introduction to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast01:18 Meet Dr. Matt: Expert in Neurodiversity02:12 Challenges of Parenting Neurodivergent Children05:49 The Importance of Community and Support08:24 Curiosity Over Fury: A Parenting Strategy12:19 The Role of Mindfulness in Parenting19:52 Giftedness and Neurodiversity: Definitions and Misconceptions24:59 The Pressure of Perfectionism25:38 Gifted Kids and Society's Expectations26:05 A Personal Story of Burnout and Happiness27:19 Introducing the Book: Theory and Practice28:22 Understanding Neurodivergence29:40 The Flash and Neurodivergent Kids33:17 Helping a Dad Connect with His Son39:05 Core Values and Parenting41:36 Sensory Needs and Authentic Parenting42:50 Conclusion

Listen in on an intimate conversation between myself and one of my beloved private parent coaching clients. She's building confidence and compassion while raising her neurodivergent kid. Learn how self-compassion plays a crucial role in mindful parenting. Building Confidence in Parenting: Strategies and Support for Neurodiverse Families Discover: -the power of a judgment-free coaching relationship. -the simplicity of self-regulation techniques. -the value of connecting deeply with your child. Mindfully Parenting Atypical Kids podcast helps parents feel less alone. Kate interviews parents and experts who share her mission to co-create a more inclusive future. Join us in this insightful interview where we're discussing parenting with compassion, empathy, and boundary-setting. This episode delves into my client's goals, including safety, mindful spending, balancing screen time, fostering open communication, and developing self-compassion as a parent. Read the full transcript, listen to the podcast, watch the video, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠⁠ Witness the transformation and growth in a parent-child bond through practical exercises and mutual understanding. 00:00 Introduction to Mindful Parenting 00:55 Starting the Coaching Journey 02:02 Setting Boundaries and Expectations 02:58 Self-Regulation and Empathy 04:55 Screen Time and Activities 09:58 Building Confidence and Self-Compassion 11:42 Collaborative Problem Solving 12:18 Celebrating Wins and Bonding 13:25 Final Reflections and Gratitude Explore the 3 ways I offer coaching: ⁠⁠Private Parent Coaching Package of 6 Sessions⁠⁠ $445. ⁠⁠Founding Supporter 1-1 Voxer Coaching⁠⁠ 3 months $150. ⁠⁠Community Monthly Mindful Parent Coaching⁠⁠ for all paid Substack subscribers, starting at $5/month.

How to Balance Support and Independence in Neurodivergent Teens Raising neurodivergent teens requires us to walk the razor's edge between offering support and encouraging independence... ...it's a balance that can sometimes feel elusive. I'm Kate Lynch, and the other day I discussed this with Dr. Emily W. King, a child psychologist with a wealth of experience working with neurodivergent kids. Before she became a parent, Dr. Emily was a licensed psychologist. Despite all her academic knowledge and training, having her own kids and working with her clients provided the real education. Nothing prepares you for the emotional experience of parenting. Knowledge helps, but understanding how our brains and bodies work together—in vastly different ways—comes from lived experience. As Dr. Emily put it, “Lived experience is just as valuable as any letters we have behind our name.” Every child is different, and each family figures out what work best for them. For instance, my son is now comfortable taking the subway to school, although that journey had its challenges. He has navigated train disruptions, struggled with confusion, and yet persisted, growing more independent over time.  Dr. Emily noted that our kids are on their own timelines, and traditional age-based developmental milestones don’t apply to neurodivergent kids. Trusting the process, allowing for those inevitable challenges, and seeing them as growth opportunities are critical. Understanding and accepting this can alleviate some parental anxiety. Sometimes, teens might feel they no longer need certain therapies, even when their parents think otherwise. Emily suggested a collaborative approach: understanding the child’s perspective, discussing their goals, and finding compromises that respect their feelings while ensuring they get the support they need.  One particularly touching moment Dr. Emily recalled was when her son unexpectedly grabbed her hand in a crowd, a simple yet profound reminder that there’s a last time for everything—we just don’t know when it will be. By sharing experiences and learning from each other, we can help our neurodivergent kids feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. Join the Movement! Come Together to Create a More Inclusive World for Our Kids, One Parent at a Time... If you’re anything like other parents I talk to, you’re seeking 3 things: Connection with other parents who get it. Support, empathy and guidance through the rough spots. Resources to help your children. I’m committed to providing all three for you here at ⁠⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents⁠⁠! Get access to monthly Mindful Parent Community Coaching by subscribing at any paid tier. Starts at only $5 a month! +PLUS: “Founding Supporter” tier members will have access to 3 months of my 1-1 asynchronous parent coaching pilot program!  "Kate did a great job creating a safe space and bringing relevant topics to the group." ⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/p/back-to-school-support-special⁠