Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast

Nicola Rose joined me for a 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

When you're suffering and searching for self-compassion, you may be thinking, "But I'm already feeling so vulnerable! I can't take it. I need to numb out. This is too much!!!" Right over that hill you can't quite see beyond, self-compassion is waiting for you.  The other day during a vulnerability hangover, I recorded an especially helpful audio meditation for the Compassion Club Private Podcast. I'd like to share it with my community here because I appreciate you! It's going to be especially helpful for those of you who are ready to tread the transformative path from all-out resistance and overwhelm, through vulnerability, to self-compassion. Listen now | 20 Min Meditation: Self-compassion for the days you have a vulnerability hangover. I share a bit of my personal process in this meditation to show an example of being in the mess and befriending my protective parts.  Learn the 5 steps so you can apply them to your next moment of suffering. Remember, you're not alone. Links: Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog Compassion Club Private Podcast⁠

How to Find Peace in the Mess of Parenting Neurodivergent Kids Join us as my guest Kathryn Barbash, PsyD, a mom of four and a clinical psychologist, shares her experiences and strategies for parenting neurodivergent children. Kathryn discusses the importance of flexibility, the pitfalls of striving for perfection, and the concept of resilience. Hear her personal stories, including the hilariously chaotic 'flour fiasco,' and gain insights on how to manage morning routines and emotional outbursts with kindness, creativity, and self-compassion.  This episode is a rich resource for parents seeking support, connection, and practical advice for their unique parenting experiences.  00:00 Morning Struggles and Parenting Challenges 00:43 Introduction to Mindfully Parenting Atypical Kids 01:18 Meet Kathryn Barbash: Psychologist and Mom 03:33 The Flour Fiasco: Embracing Parenting Messes 08:00 The Second Arrow: Understanding and Managing Parental Guilt 16:46 Morning Routines: Tips and Strategies for Neurodivergent Kids 22:11 Collaborative Parenting: Working with Your Kids 26:21 Core Values and Joyful Parenting Moments 29:11 Conclusion and Where to Learn More 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.  Our podcast is a baby, and it needs your love to grow. If you appreciate the strategies, connection, and support here, please help it reach other parents by leaving us a review. 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/⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Kathryn - Links:  https://open.substack.com/pub/mindfulinthemud/p/flour-fiasco-i-am-not-a-calm-mom https://mindfulinthemud.substack.com https://www.instagram.com/mindfulmominthemud/

"My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals." -Nina Sporn Nina Sporn teaches swimming and tennis to children and young adults, particularly neurodivergent individuals and children with emotional sensitivities that make athletics challenging.  She wants to make sure that people stay safe by learning basic swimming skills, and to consider swimming as a great way to be physically fit. Nina encourages kids to develop confidence through swimming and athletics. "All children are great at something...building a child's self-esteem and self-worth is crucial." "I have had students who overcame incredible fear of the water and significant sensory issues, who have found the courage to ultimately 'let go' and swim freely. It brings me joy every time!" -Nina Sporn Some of the benefits of swimming: Self esteem Safety  Strength  Stamina  Gross motor mastery  Overcome fears  Sensory soothing  Outlet for anxiety  Great exercise  Fun with friends  Contact with other children  Nina sees the opportunities for physical activity for atypical kids as woefully inadequate. "Neurodivergent kids can gain confidence and fitness through sports, and swimming is about the best skill one can have. My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals." 5 Water Safety Basics: Floating  Breath control  Blow bubbles  Get to safety  Push off the bottom  Other things we discussed: My riptide story: Why we position ourselves near lifeguards. A little fear of the ocean is a good thing. Drowning is a very quiet thing. We lose skills when we can’t practice regularly. Nothing takes the place of a parent’s attention. No one watches your child like you. Spend time with your kids in the water. Make it fun. Belly Button Blowhole Breathing Therapeutic benefits of silliness, especially after a micro trauma.  Nina's last word: "Have fun and wear sunscreen!" Connect with Nina: nsporn@nyc.rr.com Your comments, ratings and reviews mean a lot to me, and help other parents find our community.

As we approach Father's Day, I had the privilege of recording a special podcast episode with my husband, John Andrejack. This is a message of hope! John is not just the father of our amazing atypical child, Ocean, but also an educator and a Parkinson's Disease advocate. This episode delves into parenting, coping with chronic illness, and the beauty of seeing our children thrive despite obstacles. 00:29 Meet John Andrejack: Educator and Parkinson's Advocate 01:15 John's Journey with Young Onset Parkinson's Disease 02:23 Parenting Challenges and Philosophies 05:10 Memorable Parenting Moments 06:13 A Walk on Water: Surf Therapy for Ocean 10:35 Parenting Mistakes and Lessons Learned 13:52 Core Values and Reflections on Fatherhood 18:08 Final Thoughts and Father's Day Wishes

Your Neurodivergent Family = a Summer Filled With Fun and Relaxation I’ve tested this method with many neurodiverse families with totally chill results! Summer Prep For Maximum Chill! With Amy Weber, LCSW Get support and strategies to co-create a fun, relaxed summer with your unique family. This is an upcycled episode, so the workshop is over, but you can get all you need, INCLUDING FREE HANDOUTS AND UPDATED CALENDARS, HERE: https://katelynch.substack.com/p/neurodiverse-family-summer-not-awful How My Family Is Prepping for a Summer Filled With Fun and Relaxation: Call a family meeting. Grab some paper. Get curious. 1. Ask everyone, "⁠How do we want to FEEL this summer?⁠⁠" Write everything down. 2. Ask everyone, "How are we going to make these feelings happen?" Write everything down. 3. Make everyone's dreams come true. There are creative ways to do this! 4. Make it visible by posting a summer calendar. I mentioned the book Burnout: https://www.burnoutbook.net/ Amy Weber is the co-founder of Speak, Learn, & Play, an interdisciplinary pediatric therapy practice in Brooklyn, New York. She’s a clinical social worker, specializing in work with children and their families. Amy sees children for individual and group therapy sessions, and helps parents through

Planning for day camp success with your neurodivergent kid! I'm joined by Amy Weber, LCSW, to talk about practical steps you can take to sail through summer with less stress. Amy has been running a day camp for intense kids for 9 years through her interdisciplinary pediatric therapy practice in Brooklyn, New York: Speak, Learn, & Play. Learn how to navigate summer day camp with neurodivergent kids in this insightful podcast episode. From mindful parenting to creating an inclusive environment, this episode covers it all. If you're a parent looking for tips on how to support your neurodivergent child at day camp and communicate with camp leadership, this episode is a must-listen! Mindfully parenting atypical kids has never been easier with these helpful tips. Amy runs a camp for neurodivergent children every summer, so she has a unique perspective on the summer challenges of neurodiverse families. Amy also sees children for individual and group therapy sessions, and coaches parents too! https://speaklearnandplay.com/ Here are a few tips we covered: 1. Know your kid. Do they have trouble with transitions? 2. Talk with camp directors. 3. Create a cheat-sheet on your kid. Share your expertise with counselors. Partial disclosure is a great tool for summer camp advocacy. Here's a video of Dr. Stephen Shore explaining his 3-step process: https://youtu.be/TVSiJtLpMeo?t=327 1. Recognize a challenge 2. Disclose the specific need 3. Ask for an accommodation https://katelynch.substack.com/p/navigating-summer-camp-neurodivergent-kids