The Special Needs Parent Podcast

In this conversation, David Kaufer shares his journey as aspecial needs parent, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of raising his son, Stone, who was a non-speaking autistic teen when David got support to start a new approach to help Stone to communicate more easily. He discusses howmotor skills were found to be critical in helping Stone’s communication abilities advance quickly.The discussion highlights the importance of hope, thediscovery of effective communication methodologies, and the systemic biases faced by families in the special needs community. David emphasizes the joy and lessons learned from his son, encouraging other parents to remain hopeful and connected. Chapters00:00 Finding Hope in Darkness06:01 The Journey of Communication11:05 Unspoken Connections15:42 The Power of Advocacy20:49 Breaking Barriers in Education32:26 The Journey to Education and Self-Discovery35:40 Breaking Down Barriers: Communication and Understanding37:43 Challenging Assumptions: The Power of IndividualPotential40:09 Creative Expression: Unleashing Hidden Talents43:07 Navigating Medical Challenges: The Importance ofAdvocacy45:34 Exploring New Therapies: Hope for the Future50:35 Living with Seizures: The Ongoing Battle54:26 Words of Wisdom: Encouragement for Special NeedsParents About the podcast guest: David Kaufer is a writer, speaker, and advocate—and mostimportantly, the proud father of 19-year-old twin boys, including his non-speaking autistic son, Stone. He says his journey with Stone has transformed how he sees communication, connection, and what it truly means to be understood.Through David’s work at KDMC Marketing and his podcast The Lighter Side of the Spectrum, David helps families, educators, and healthcare providers reimagine neurodiversity and unlock new tools for support—especiallythrough AI and nontraditional communication methods.  Check out this free resource from David: it is one of hismost personal blog posts—about how spelling changed everything for his son and what it revealed about the brilliance inside: https://davidkaufer.com/2023/01/31/stone-found-his-voice-through-spelling/Connect with David on his website at https://davidkaufer.com and on Instagram/Facebookat the handle @DavidKauferTune in to The Lighter Side of the Spectrum podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-kaufer-podcast-the-lighter-side-of-the-spectrum/id1779167029 About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach,special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Get your free copy of Marcia’s Trigger Mapping Worksheethere, to help you recognize patterns that lead to your child’s meltdowns, and develop approaches that could calm the storm: https://marcianb.com/free-trigger-mapping-worksheet-org/Join the Special Needs Parent Space (her free community,including many supportive resources) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, Samantha Wittenberg discusses the vital role of empathy in the lives of special needs parents. She shares her personal journey, the challenges faced, and the importance of emotional processing and resilience.The discussion explores the need for clear communication,understanding neurodivergence, and the power of naming feelings to foster healing and connection. Samantha also provides practical advice for parents on how to seek support and build a community around them. Chapters00:00 The Importance of Empathy in Special Needs Parenting04:32 Samantha's Journey: From Lawyer to Advocate07:48 Understanding Neurodiversity and Its Impact10:51 The Role of Community and Support13:38 Empathy as a Tool for Healing16:38 Naming Feelings and Processing Emotions19:44 The Power of Requests vs. Demands22:34 Building Emotional Resilience25:44 Connecting with Needs for Better Communication28:54 Finding Your Emotional Vocabulary31:56 Empathy in Action: Practical Steps for Parents34:33 Final Thoughts and Advice for Special Needs Parents About the podcast guest: Samantha Wittenberg’s coaching and speaking business supports parents and carers of special needs children. Her journey began when her teenage child’s sudden aggression and possessiveness led her to understand Autism and its challenges. Samantha empowers parents, who are often navigating constant crises, to break free from self-limiting beliefs and create a life of purpose. Using a blend of somatic practices, empathy, and mindset coaching, Samantha guides her clients toward rediscovering their authentic selves, creating lives filled with strength, connection, and abundance.  Reach out to Samantha on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/misty.mountain.96558/Book your free Clarity and Connection Call with her here: https://tidycal.com/samanthawittenberg/clarityconnection About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Get your free copy of Marcia’s Trigger Mapping Worksheethere, to help you recognize patterns that lead to your child’s meltdowns, and develop approaches that could calm the storm: https://marcianb.com/free-trigger-mapping-worksheet-org/Join the Special Needs Parent Space (her free community,including many supportive resources) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this conversation, Laurie White shares her journey as aspecial needs parent and coach, discussing the emotional challenges, the importance of community support, and the tools she has developed for mindfulness and grounding. She emphasizes the significance of acceptance in decision-making and offers practical advice for parents navigating similar paths. Laurie's insights highlight the duality of grief and gratitude in the parenting experience, and she provides resources for those seeking support. Areas covered in this episode include:Introduction to Laurie White and Her JourneyNavigating Special Needs ParentingThe Emotional Journey of a Special Needs ParentMental Health and Self-CompassionIsolation and Community SupportFamily Dynamics and Sibling RelationshipsTransforming Professional Practice Through PersonalExperienceThe Importance of Being Seen and HeardMindfulness Techniques for GroundingUnderstanding Emotions and Physical SensationsThe Journey of Grief and AcceptanceTools for Special Needs ParentsConnecting with Supportive Communities About the podcast guest: Laurie White is a clinical therapist with over 20years of experience in the mental health field. She’s also a busy wife and mom of two—Kenzie and Kash. Kenzie has special needs, and becoming her mom was the turning point that sparked Laurie’s journey with anxiety and ultimately inspired the specialized work she does today. After working through her own struggles, she now helps women—especially fellow moms—manage anxiety, perfectionism, and overwhelm. Laurie’s been married for 11 years, loves country music, and says she’s obsessed with everything about fall weather.  Find more about Laurie and her work at www.LaurieWhiteCounseling.com Find Laurie’s free facebook group and get access to her freeresource to manage your anxiety at https://www.facebook.com/groups/lauriewhitecoachingAbout the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Get your free copy of Marcia’s Trigger Mapping Worksheethere, to help you recognize patterns that lead to your child’s meltdowns, and develop approaches that could calm the storm: https://marcianb.com/free-trigger-mapping-worksheet-org/Join the Special Needs Parent Space (her free community,including many supportive resources) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find many other resources and connect with Marcia directly here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ARX67913U/

In this episode, Inga Ogas shares her journey as a special needs parent, focusing on her experiences with her autistic son and the decision to homeschool him.She discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating theeducation system, the importance of communication, and the strategies she employs to foster independence and resilience in her child, and to help him to move from being non-verbal to speaking.Inga emphasizes the need for patience, understanding, andself-care for parents, while also providing valuable insights for other parents in similar situations. Chapters00:00Navigating the Special Needs Education System06:05The Impact of Schooling on Learning10:54Finding Independence in Learning15:01Balancing Self-Contained and Mainstream Classes18:26Navigating Learning Challenges19:25Resilience in the Face of Failure20:38Fostering Independence and Routine22:50Innovative Teaching Approaches24:13Maintaining Motivation and Energy27:19Self-Care for Caregivers29:30Overcoming Parental Struggles30:53Understanding Autism and Diagnosis33:15Sibling Relationships and Dynamics34:37Navigating Parenting Challenges36:01The Benefits of Homeschooling37:57Exploring Nature and Socialization39:39Understanding Animal Interactions40:50Future Planning for Education42:41Balancing Family and Relationship Time46:10Advice for Special Needs Parents About the podcast guest: Inga Ogas is the mom to two children, the younger ofwhom is autistic. Inga worked with him at home to support him to learn to speak and, during the pandemic, her family made the decision to shift to homeschooling, in order to give him more support in familiar circumstances, and to allow her to give personal encouragement and assistance when needed. Inga strongly believes in the power parents have to supporttheir children’s development by observing them, adapting approaches to support and teach them, and simply loving and accepting them. She encourages other parents and celebrates others’ journeys through Our Autism Journeys, her YouTube Podcast, which is available here: https://www.youtube.com/@OurAutismJourneysPodcast You can connect with Inga on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/inga.ogas/About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Get your free copy of Marcia’s Trigger Mapping Worksheethere, to help you recognize patterns that lead to your child’s meltdowns, and develop approaches that could calm the storm: https://marcianb.com/free-trigger-mapping-worksheet-org/Join the Special Needs Parent Space (her free community,including many supportive resources) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, Beth Silver Pilchik talks about the multifaceted journey of special needs parenting, emphasizing the intersection of neurodiversity and entrepreneurship. Together with the host, she discussesthe importance of community support, the impact of labels, and the empowerment that comes from understanding and navigating these challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of celebrating small victories, transitioning to adulthood for neurodivergent children, and building businesses that cater to diverse needs. Ultimately, the speakers convey a message of hope, resilience, and the importance of connection among parents and caregivers.Beth’s links and resources are shared below. In addition,the host offers access to a Trigger-Mapping Worksheet to assist with identifying environmental and other patterns that lead to meltdowns in our children. The link is available below.  Chapters00:00Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Parenting03:17Beth Silver: A Journey of Marketing and Parenting05:46Navigating Neurodiversity: Insights from Special Needs Parenting08:27The Importance of Labels and Understanding10:51Supporting Each Other: The Community of Special Needs Parents13:18Finding Humor and Connection in Parenting15:56The Unique Perspectives of Our Children17:48Understanding Autism: Layers and Challenges20:19Using Labels as Learning Opportunities23:21Empowerment Through Language and Diagnosis26:10The Importance of Community and Support28:17Reflections on Family and Legacy30:03A Journey of Growth and Transition32:49Trusting the Process of Development33:40Preparing Special Needs Children for College35:20Building Foundations for Independence36:39The Importance of Community and Support37:52Navigating Family Relationships39:36Understanding and Accepting Differences43:07Supporting Neurodivergent Clients in Business About the podcast guest: Beth Silver Pilchik is a longtime advocate for the special needs and neurodivergent community, known by families and professionals as someone who helps connect the dots—whether that’s finding the right resources, building inclusive opportunities, or creating strategic visibility for businesses that support children with diverse needs. Beth is the founder of Doubet Consulting, where she advisesmission-driven entrepreneurs, educators, and creatives on marketing, PR, and community engagement. As a special needs parent herself, Beth brings personal insight and purpose-driven passion to every project. You can connect with her at www.doubetconsulting.com, on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/bethsilver, or on Instagram @BethWouldKnow. About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get your free Trigger-Mapping Worksheet here: https://marcianb.com/free-trigger-mapping-worksheet-org/to help you identify what leads to your child’s meltdowns and recognize some shifts you could make to help life feel more manageable for your child and for you.Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, Crystal Griffith shares her journey as a medical mom warrior, discussing the complexities of caring for children with medical needs. She emphasizes the importance of self-care for caregivers, the power of community support, and the need for advocacy. Crystal also introduces her initiative to create a shared database for medical moms to share their experiences and resources, highlighting the significance of hope and healing stories in their journeys. The discussion touches on the challenges ofnavigating medical systems, the value of educational dreams, and the vision for co-living models to support young adults with special needs. Chapters00:00Introduction to Medical Mom Warriors06:24The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers11:30Leveraging Community and Shared Experiences16:37Overcoming Medical Challenges and Misdiagnoses19:18Celebrating Small Victories and Individual Journeys20:53Living Legacy and Purpose21:49Journey Through Adversity24:27Health Challenges and Advocacy27:14Understanding Medical Misdiagnosis29:49Connecting the Dots: Diagnosis and Healing32:27The Role of Intuition in Healthcare34:59Miracles and Medical Journeys37:28Empowerment Through Shared Stories39:56Launching the Resilience Roadmap41:32Building Community and Resources for Special NeedsParents44:24Innovative Co-Living Solutions for Independence46:59Connecting with Resources and Support Networks49:44The Emotional Toll of Caregiving53:14Finding Humor and Resilience in Challenges58:58The Loneliness of Parenting a Special Needs Child01:00:03The Depth of Parental Pain01:00:31Navigating Multiple Diagnoses01:01:33The Reality of Outliving Your Child01:02:07The Importance of Community Support01:03:26The Role of Siblings in Caregiving01:04:34The Burden of Caregiving01:05:58Aspirations and Scholarships for the Future01:07:52Finding Hope Through Music and Community01:09:05Advice for Special Needs Parents About the podcast guest: K Crystal Griffith is a Jesus-loving, sweet tea-drinking, renaissance woman empowering Medical Mom Warriors with health, healing, and hope, advocating for them and their medically complex kids to thrive.  Crystal walks with clients through deployments,life-threatening allergies, autoimmune diseases, cancer, traumatic brain injuries, concussions, marriage difficulties, abuse, PTSD, reactive attachment disorders, generational traumas, spectrum disorders, and all the things that gobump in the night. These and more have influenced Crystal's life directly as well.  She is a Certified Heart Healing Practitioner, BusinessCoach, and Medical Advocate supporting medical mommas to advance their reach through their personal experiences. Crystal, her beautifully creative, humorous, horse-loving daughter, and her service dog Otter, recently flew thecoop from the Rockies to the Virginia Coastline. With them, there’s always an adventure waiting just around the bend. For a free gift, bring your tea and visit with her at https://linktr.ee/kcrystalgriffith.com or https://stan.store/MedicalMomWarriors About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please let her know topics you'd like the podcast to address.Join the free Special Needs Parent Space at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. She shares resources and trainings through her Facebookprofile and group, and you'd be welcome to come join.

In this conversation, Valerie Arbeau discusses the journeyof creating a forever home for her special needs child as she transitioned into adulthood. She shares her personal experiences as a parent of children with special needs, emphasizing the importance of self-care, recognizing triggers, and the need for effective communication. Valerie also highlights the possibility and value ofplanning for a separate living arrangement for children with special needs and offers coaching support for parents navigating this journey. She gives encouragement for parents to be authentically themselves and not only dare todream for their children's futures, but their own personal futures as well.KeywordsSpecial needs, forever home, empowerment coaching,parenting, self-care, communication, transition, planning, support, mental health Chapters00:00 Navigating Independence for Special Needs Children03:34 Valerie's Journey and Motivation06:07 Recognizing Overwhelm and Self-Care08:50 Identifying Triggers and Building Awareness11:33 The Importance of Communication and Apologies14:23 Planning for a Forever Home17:04 Creating a Safe Space for Special Needs Children20:04 Empowering Parents to Create Futures for TheirChildren24:13 Creating a Community for Melody Anne25:57 Smooth Transitions and Communication27:32 Empowerment Through Independence30:00 Supporting Special Needs Parents30:57 Planning for the Future33:02 Designing the Forever Home37:21 The Balance of Caregiving and Motherhood39:28 Offering Support to Parents42:31 Authenticity in Parenting About the podcast guest:Valerie Anne Arbeau is a physiotherapist as well as a certified health and life coach dedicated to empowering moms of children with disabilities. Valerie has been married to Scott for over 30 years and they have two children, one with visible disabilities and the other with invisible disabilities. With over 22 years of personal and professional experience, Valerie is dedicated to empowering and supporting parents of children with disabilities. As a Health Life Coach since 2021, Valerie's mission is to guide families in creating a "forever home" for their children, providing a nurturing environment where they can thrive.Valerie is also an author (The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The Special Needs Mom's path to Strength, Hope and happiness), podcaster and speaker. She enjoys being a guest on podcasts, conferences and summits, where she encourages moms of kids with disabilities to live with intention, to embrace their journey and to S.H.I.N.E. Valerie has a bi-monthly podcast “Forever Home for our kids with disabilities” where she shares aspects to consider for creating a forever home for your child with disabilities. Tune in here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2227173Connect further with Valerie via her website here: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/, and do remember to book you free call to explore some of the possibilities for your child's forever home. About the podcast host: Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, specialneeds parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requestsabout topics you'd like the podcast to address.Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free communityforparents like us) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your specialneeds parenting journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. She shares resources and trainings through her Facebookprofile and group, and you'd be welcome to come join.

In this podcast episode, Karaleigh Garrison shares her journey as a special needs parent, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, finding one's superpower, and the transformative power of creativity. She also discusses how to identify and nurture the unique superpowers of her children while navigating the challenges of parenting. Karaleigh highlights the significance of authenticity andcommunity support, encouraging parents to adapt their environments to better suit their needs and those of their children. Through her experiences, she inspires others to embrace their individuality and prioritize self-care.  Chapters00:00 Introduction to Carolee Garrison03:11 Finding Your Superpower06:00 The Journey of Self-Acceptance08:53 The Importance of Authenticity11:40 Identifying Superpowers in Special Needs Parenting14:40 Perspective Shift: From Struggles to Strengths17:24 Adapting the World to Fit You20:15 Creative Outlets for Self-Care22:56 Navigating Overwhelm in Special Needs Parenting25:40 Practical Tips for Special Needs Parents About the podcast guest:Karaleigh Garrison is a dynamic motivational speaker, aclassically trained vocalist, and the host of the internationally renowned podcast “Be the Dream.” Karaleigh has three children and enjoys teaching in the Theater Department at Brigham Young University. She coaches privately on confidence, podcasting, and public speaking. You can find more from her on her website, www.karaleighgarrison.com Here is the link to her album on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/album/0JqR0m7KFTR5D61nTbvglX?si=d8ikZ-1pSK-tA1JCXkuUbA Here is the link to her album on Bandcamp: https://karaleighgarrison.bandcamp.com/album/seeking-sunshine?t=2About the podcast host:Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach,special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community forparents like us) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your specialneeds parenting journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. She shares resources and trainings through her Facebook profile and group, and you'd be welcome to come join.

This episode delves into the profound experiences of grief faced by parents of special needs children, particularly focusing on the journey of a father who lost his son. It explores the complexities of grief, the societal expectations placed on men, and the importance of community support in the healing process. The discussion highlights the creation of a legacy through grief, the unique grieving processes of fathers, and the impact of loss on family dynamics. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the need for open conversations about grief and the importance of emotional expression.Chapters:00:00 The Grief Journey of Special Needs Parents03:21 Creating a Community for Grieving Dads10:52 The Role of Counseling in Grief16:39 Authenticity in Grief Expression22:09 Understanding Male Grief Dynamics28:50 Navigating Grief: The Initial Response29:50 Zachary's Journey: Understanding His Condition38:52 Impact on Family: Coping with Loss43:58 Different Paths of Grief: A Family's Experience51:19 Advice for the Newly Bereaved: Embracing Grief53:32 Building a Community: Support for Grieving ParentsAbout the podcast guest:Jason Tuttle is a married father of two kids with multiple mental and physical disabilities (some rare). He was a Stay at Home Dad for 12 years until his son suddenly and unexpectedly passed away from issues related to his needs on 01/28/22. Since the day his son passed, Jason has created a website, FB blog, and community (Letters To Zachary) that details his raw, unfiltered and open grief journey from a male's/father's perspective. His focus is to make it a place where men can feel vulnerable enough to share their emotion, empower women to help the grieving men in their lives and see that is OK to share vulnerability through his example.  Jason's community is open to all grievers and you can connect with him through the following platforms.Website: www.LettersToZachary.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552174684952Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letters2zachary/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@letters2zacharyAbout the podcast host:Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to help special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Please subscribe, and send in your requests about topics you'd like the podcast to address.Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. Every month, she runs a free training session through her profile, and you'd be welcome to attend.

This episode explores the challenges parents face in supporting their children's development, particularly those with special needs.Phoebe discusses the concept of neuro movement, a practice that emphasizes connecting with children rather than fixing them, and the importance of creating a nurturing environment for brain development. The role of music, emotional connection, and the need for flexible goals in parenting are also highlighted, along with the significance of self-care for parents.About the podcast guest:Canadian-American Anat Baniel Method® NeuroMovement® Practitioner, Phoebe MacRae, has always been interested in the amazing power and complexity of the human brain. With gentle, respectful, brain-building movement she works with children with disabilities who need extra support to reach developmental milestones.Combining music with ABMNM® is her speciality! Her Simple Songs & Gentle Moves online Class is a great way to build brains and boost community.Phoebe’s practice is based in Portland, OR and she also travels to work with clients. Get Phoebe's free gift, "4 Steps to Connect (with Your Child's Brain) here: https://phoebemacrae.com/4-steps-sign-upFind her on Instagram here: @brilliant.movementHer website is here: www.brilliantmovement.netAbout the podcast host:Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. Every month, she runs a free training session through her profile, and you'd be welcome to attend.Did you know The Special Needs Parent Podcast has now been ranked among the top podcasts for Special Needs Parents? There are 100 episodes covering almost every topic you might be needing insights about so be sure to search our past episodes and recommend us to your friends!See the list of popular podcasts for parents like us here: https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon speaks with Kristina Heagh-Avritt, an experienced educator and homeschool coach, about the intricacies of homeschooling, particularly for families with special needs children. They discuss common myths surrounding homeschooling, the importance of tailored education, and the resources available for parents. Kristina emphasizes the role of parents as primary educators and advocates for their children, encouraging them to trust their instincts and seek support when needed. The conversation also touches on the transition from homeschooling to public schooling and the preparation for college and career paths.Chapters00:00Introduction to Homeschooling and Special Needs03:26Myths Surrounding Homeschooling06:36Curriculum and Resources for Homeschooling09:12Socialization and Extracurricular Activities12:31Addressing Special Needs in Homeschooling15:17Transitioning from Homeschool to Public School18:10Parental Support and Resources20:10Career Counseling and College Preparation23:00Internships and Work Experience25:43Challenges in Homeschooling Special Needs Children28:36Final Thoughts and EncouragementAbout the podcast guest:Kristina Heagh-Avritt is the founder of Vibrant Family Education and host of the Bringing Education Home podcast. She brings 27 years of teaching experience to empower parents in providing a holistic education. Her service fosters academic skills, compassion, and a growth mindset through homeschooling to help children embrace their strengths and unique learning styles to reach their full potential.Find Kristina and access ger gifts and services here:Website - https://www.vibrantfamilyeducation.com. Be sure to pick up her free gift for families, an e-book titled "Education at Home in 10 Simple Steps" on the home page of her website!Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kristina.heaghavritt LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-heagh-avritt Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kristinaheaghavritt/www.vibrantfamilyeducation.comAbout the podcast host:Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace⁠Get Marcia's Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney. Every month, she runs a free training session through her profile, and you'd be welcome to attend.

The daily thoughts of every special needs parent likely focus to a large degree on how to best support their special needs child to connect, communicate, and learn as well as possible. Regardless of their diagnosis, we want the best for them.This was the focus of today's guest, Jennifer Briggs, when she set about learning how to use the "Sonrise Program" and then began implementing it for her 4 1/2 year old autistic daughter.Her actions and her daughter's outcomes were so shocking and heartwarming, intense and hope-inducing that I stayed in a state of awe for most of the episode, and even started crying at a couple of points.This is the kind of insight we all can benefit from, and there is much to sit with as you revisit your own beliefs and philosophy regarding your child's situation and propects, as well as whether there may be some elements you want to take away from Jennifer's wise shares.Jennifer also speaks about her recently-launched book, Watching Sarah Rise. Both book and blog show more facets of the processs applied and her family's experiences, to help you along your way.Chapters00:00Introduction to Jennifer and Her Family03:55The Role of Touch in Connection06:49Exploring the Sunrise Program09:50Building a Support Network12:48The Impact of the Sunrise Program15:50Creative Expression and Imagination18:35The Journey of Learning and Growth21:21Finding Volunteers and Community Support24:12The Emotional Journey of Asking for Help34:53Healing Through Connection35:49Empowering Volunteers in Autism Support39:27Session Dynamics and Volunteer Training41:28Building Relationships with Volunteers44:33The Journey of Writing a Book45:34Watching Sarah Rise: The Book's Purpose47:57Navigating Education and Support Systems49:43Documenting Progress and Insights52:32The Emotional Journey of Parenting59:24Universal Emotions in Special Needs Parenting01:02:14Book Launch and Community EngagementAbout the podcast guest:Jennifer Celeste Briggs is a bubbly, never-give-up, and heart-centred special needs mom. She lives in Pittsburgh, PA with her husband and two daughters. Her older daughter, Sarah, has a genetic anomaly and autism. When Sarah was four, Jenny got Son-Rise training at the Autism Treatment Centre of America and began working with Sarah to help her connect socially, verbally, and through increased eye contact. Now, Jenny shares the story of this phenomenal journey, in her blog and a new book (links below). Jenny wants to help parents feel understood and to spread the word about the Son-Rise Program. She hopes that her words bring comfort, joy, and inspiration to readers whatever their journeys may be.https://www.watchingsarahrise.comhttps://bookshop.org/p/books/watching-sarah-rise-a-journey-of-thriving-with-autism-jennifer-celeste-briggs/21608437https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1647428246https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/watching-sarah-rise-jennifer-celeste-briggs/1145900741Watching Sarah Rise by Jennifer Celeste BriggsYou can also find the Watching Sarah Rise Blog here: https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/category/sarah-rise-weekly-updates/About the podcast host:Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, andspecial needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourneyJoin the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsparentspace

In this conversation, Beth shares her journey as a parent of a special needs daughter, Hannah, who is nonverbal and has various disabilities. She discusses the challenges and dynamics of family life, the transition from being a teacher to exploring energy work, and the importance of self-care and emotional health for parents. Beth emphasizes the significance of intuition, acceptance, and finding hope in the journey of parenting a child with special needs. She also reflects on her personal growth and the lessons learned through her experiences with Hannah.Chapters00:00Introduction to Special Needs Parenting and Career Evolution02:44The Journey from Teaching to Energy Work05:27Navigating Emotions and Intuition08:03Understanding Energy and Vibrations11:04The Importance of Emotional Release13:51Connecting with Higher Self and Spirit Guides16:27Manifesting Positive Outcomes19:36The Role of Beliefs in Shaping Reality22:14Writing as a Healing Process24:54Lessons Learned and Moving Forward34:24Releasing Emotions: The Journey Within37:30The Importance of Self-Care and Reflection39:52Navigating Single Parenthood: A Personal Journey43:08Embracing Non-Traditional Roles in Parenting46:57Finding Balance: Masculine and Feminine Energies49:58The Power of Laughter and Emotional Release52:57Hope and Acceptance in Special Needs Parenting56:24Grieving Expectations: The Journey of Acceptance01:04:32The Hats We Wear: Navigating Multiple Roles01:07:05Supporting Growth: The Role of a ParentAbout the podcast guestBeth Iaciofano is the mom of a non-verbal daughter with learning disabilities who is 25. With a career that evolved from lab technician to science teacher following her child's diagnosis, Beth is now a certified energetic alignment and mindset coach and intuitive medium. As a life coach, she supports individuals in transforming their lives by identifying and releasing limiting beliefs, patterns, and old programming that no longer serve them. She also helps them understand how to align the energetic vibration of their thoughts, words, and emotions to manifest their desires.As a medium, she connects clients with their loved ones who have passed, as well as their spirit guides, delivering messages that offer guidance, comfort, and a deeper sense of connection.Connect with Beth, and find the link to her podcast, The Hats We Wear, on her website at https://www.riseuptotransform.com/About the podcast hostDr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, andspecial needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourneyJoin the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode features a conversation with Danielle, a single parent of a child with special needs. They explore the unique challenges faced by single parents in the special needs community, including feelings of isolation, the importance of advocacy, and the emotional and financial strains that come with raising a child with varying needs.Danielle shares her journey of acceptance, the role of faith in her life, and the significance of community support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding balance while navigating the complexities of special needs parenting.Chapters00:00The Journey of a Single Special Needs Parent03:32Navigating Diagnosis and Initial Reactions06:44Adapting Life to New Realities09:27The Financial Strain of Special Needs Parenting12:42Finding Community and Support15:30The Role of Faith in Parenting18:19Coping with Challenges and Emotional Struggles21:27Understanding the Impact of Special Needs on Family Dynamics24:13Finding Purpose and Perspective in the Journey26:24The Value of Life and Love27:21Hope and Resilience in Parenting29:15Dreams and Expectations of Education31:22Redefining Worth and Value34:21The Reality of Healing and Acceptance37:34Self-Care for Special Needs Parents38:44Learning to Say No42:15Finding Joy in Everyday Moments45:06Building Community and Support48:23Creating Inclusive SpacesAbout the podcast guest Danielle Ross is a certified life coach that wears many hats, from entrepreneur to being a Christian single mom to her daughter that has special needs. She understands firsthand the ups and downs of raising a child with special needs.Danielle has a passion to love on and encourage others by sharing her faith, experiences, and by turning her pain into a purpose. She is the founder of Hope’s Legacy Grief Support, a virtual life coaching business that helps people to process grief during the most difficult seasons in their lives.Danielle enjoys helping and supporting people on their journey of healing, especially during times of loss. She wants to help people feel less alone and remind people of God's love for them and provision after painful and life changing events.Reach out to Danielle at movforwardcs@gmail.comAbout the podcast hostDr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, andspecial needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia (and many resources to support your special needs parenting journey) on Facebook at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourneyJoin the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this heartfelt conversation, Amanda Sullivan shares her journey as a mother of a special needs child, discussing the challenges and triumphs of parenting, the importance of writing for healing, and the impact on family dynamics and relationships. The discussion emphasizes the need for community support, acceptance of reality, and the significance of self-care for parents navigating the complexities of raising a child with special needs. Takeaways Every parent has a unique story to share. Writing can be a powerful tool for healing. Mourning the loss of expectations is essential. Finding joy in small moments is crucial. Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary. Siblings of special needs children need attention too. Marriage can be strained but love remains. Community support is vital for special needs parents. It's okay to feel overwhelmed and seek help. You are not alone in your journey. Navigating the Journey of Special Needs Parenting The Healing Journey Through Writing Chapters 00:00Introduction to Amanda's Journey 09:11The Emotional Journey of Special Needs Parenting 16:15Life with Andrew: A Glimpse into His World 24:01Impact on Siblings: The Family Dynamic 24:48Navigating Family Dynamics During Crisis 32:03The Impact of Special Needs on Marriage 39:55Finding Community and Support 44:41Nurturing Relationships Amidst Challenges Amanda Sullivan has been a wife for 24 years, mom for 21 years and caretaker for 18 years! She says, "Our family has been through a lot as our youngest has significant medical needs. Despite the roller coaster we love, laugh and forgive each other on the daily!" Amanda's favourite episode on the podcast she runs is called "The Date Night Dilemma", about finding time for a date as a special needs parent. Listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1dKowUIFDaBO27aMkzoGqP?si=1J_Ugup2Q-qCVQ_CoF3Lpg About the podcast host Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, and special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Find Marcia on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney Join the Special Needs Parent Space (a free community for parents like us) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This episode’s conversation with guest, Laura Escayg, focuses on what special needs parents may be challenged by and how they can feel more supported and cope better with the heaviness they may be experiencing as a special needs parent. Laura also shares about some events experienced in her own and her son, Isaiah's life. Marcia shares some from hers and her daughter, Emma's as well.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura Escayg and Her Journey 02:47 The Birth of Disability Activism 05:27 Founding Cause and Effect 07:47 Media and INtersetionality in Disability Advocacy 12:21 Personal Reflections on Motherhood and Activism 14:56 The Shift in Perspective as a Parent 17:08 The Importance of Storytelling 19:51 The Impact of Loss of Expectations 22:16 Isaiah's Journey and Challenges 24:32 The Power of Empathy and Community 42:55 Navigating the Diagnosis Journey 44:16 Isaiah's Progress and Family Dynamics 48:59 The Emotional Landscape of Parenting Special Needs 01:02:56 Advice for New and Experienced Parents 01:07:55 Exploring the Spiritual Journey of Caregiving   About our guest Laura Escayg is a singer/songwriter and disability activist who released her first album twenty years ago to audiences in the region and Europe. After the birth of her son, Isaiah, who is severely intellectually challenged, she made the choice to give up her pursuit of her music career to meet his needs and was thrust into the world of disability activism. She is the co-founder of two NGOs, CKFTO and Cause An Effect. Alongside her husband Francis and their three children, she has poured her talents as an artist, writer and performer into Cause An Effect, and set out to create stories that humanize people with disabilities and celebrate their right to live their best life.   Their website link: ⁠www.causeaneffect.co⁠    Their social media pages: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/1WEuAD1yHz/⁠ ⁠https://youtu.be/E3Ri8PK6QWg?si=g19KBg_tv6HVNeEz⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/causeaneffectorg?igsh=MXh2NW05cGFiZmRibQ==⁠   About the podcast host Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a speaker, coach, and special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Find Marcia on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney Join the FREE Lighting the Path Community for Special Needs Parents at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

(* See Content Warning at end)Stress has a profound impact on eating disorders, including in the context of special needs parenting. Stressors may come from others' heavy expectations, our own judgments, and our life situation. Food may play a part in how we manage that stress. Sometimes, it's by choice and sometimes it may not be so much inour control.In this episode, Sammie Lee shares her personal journey of endurance and recovery through eating disorders (ED), emphasizing the importance of self-love, forgiveness, and the need for better communication between parents and children.Sammie and Marcia explore the complexities of eating disorders, the role of emotional trauma, and the necessity of building awareness and understanding in order to foster healthier relationships with food and oneself.It's an episode that will change lives for some of our audience, so please share if you know others who needsome support. Chapters00:00The Impact of Stress on Eating Disorders03:57Sammie's Journey Through Eating Disorders06:36The Role of Support in Recovery09:04Understanding Forgiveness and Self-Love12:12The Complexity of Eating Disorders14:41Recognizing Signs of Eating Disorders17:20The Importance of Communication in Prevention19:59Generational Trauma and Eating Disorders32:27The Impact of Eating Disorders on Family Dynamics36:56Finding Time for Self-Care as a Parent43:02Understanding Stress and Its Effects on Eating Habits46:25Building a Healthy Relationship with Food53:58The Importance of Self-Acceptance and Forgiveness01:03:47The Power of Connection and Support in HealingKeywordseating disorders, special needs parenting,mental health, recovery, forgiveness, self-love, communication, awareness,stress management, body imageAbout our guestSammie Lee is a dedicated eating disorder specialist and coach, guiding individuals and families toward healing and recovery with a deeply compassionate, trauma-informed and holistic approach. Sammie's free workbook, to develop a stronger relationship with yourself/your body is here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MWqxFU1Zxpk7OFiA-zRAzYRRsuQPBoGV/view?usp=drive_linkFollow Sammie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sammie.lee.71Sammie's Support group "BE ED FREE~ PARENTS EDITION" is here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/3Yhg9dL6K7fQFJ3R/?mibextid=lOuIewAbout the podcast hostDr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoonis a speaker, coach, and special needs parent, podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported.Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find Marcia on Facebook at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourneyJoin the FREE Lighting the Path Community for Special Needs Parents at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CONTENT WARNING:This episode of the Special Needs Parent Podcast explores challenging emotional and mental themes, mentions sexual assault and includes a few swear words that can be challenging for listeners. It may be a lot to take in, so if you need to take a break a tough part, please take a breather, and then come back in.

In this interview, Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon speaks with Mary Bostwick, a wellness entrepreneur and special needs parent to a 13-year old daughter. She shares about the importance of a solution mindset, self-care, and building community support for parents of special needs children. Mary shares her personal journey, including the challenges she faces as a single parent and the significance of open communication with her daughter. They also explore the concept of neurodiversity and the role of breath work in managing stress. Mary emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and the creation of her wellness center, Rebel Flow Wellness, as a safe space for families. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Mary Bostwick's Journey 03:25Embracing a Solution Mindset 10:03The Importance of Self-Care 20:06Navigating Single Parenthood with Special Needs 27:33Building Community and Support Networks 35:27Understanding Neurodiversity and Emotional Responses 42:15The Vision for Rebel Flow Wellness Keywords: special needs, parenting, wellness, solution mindset, self-care, community support, neurodiversity, breath work, mental health, Rebel Flow Wellness About our guest Mary Bostwick is the CEO and founder of Rebel Flow Wellness, and has a background in education. In addition, she is a single parent to a 13 yer-old daughter with special needs. All of her parenting, educational, and business experience combine to make her a heart-centred and effective supporter to the special needs community and others facing challenges. Rebel Flow Wellness is located in New Jersey, and offers in-person office sessions, home sessions as well as online sessions focused on personal as well as family support, and coaching sessions. Special request: Mary would love to receive your messages with suggestions and insights about the services you'd like to see at her wellness centre. Connect with Mary here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebelflowwellness_cheerbreath Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryDBostwick/ About the podcast host Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a special needs parent and coach to parents, a podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Find Marcia on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney Join the FREE Lighting the Path Community for Special Needs Parents at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon speaks with Michelle Steiner, who shares her personal journey of living with learning disabilities from childhood to adulthood. Michelle discusses the challenges she faced in school, the importance of supportive adults, and how she found her voice through writing. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, acceptance, and advocacy for children with learning disabilities, as well as the role of parents and educators in fostering resilience and confidence in these children. Takeaways: Understanding a child's perspective is crucial for parents. Early diagnosis and support can significantly impact a child's development. Building confidence through acceptance is essential for children with disabilities. Advocacy is key in navigating educational challenges. Positive reinforcement helps children recognize their strengths. Representation matters; children need to see others like them succeed. Parents should be open about their struggles to foster understanding. Success can come in unexpected forms; it's important to redefine it. Supportive adults can make a significant difference in a child's life. Encouraging self-advocacy in children prepares them for the future. Keywords: learning disabilities, child development, parental support, education, resilience, advocacy, acceptance, empowerment, representation, communitysummary About our guest Michelle Steiner is a writer, speaker photographer, and para educator. She was diagnosed with a learning disability, which is an invisible disability, in kindergarten. From the start many people have told her she could not go to college, get her bachelor’s degree, get published or have the job she wanted. She has been able to do all of that and more. Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Programing. She has articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready. She works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats. Connect with Michelle here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100013356902200 Michelle's Website, with her blog, photos, and more: www.mrsmichellesmission.com About the podcast host Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a special needs parent and coach to parents, a podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Find Marcia on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney Join the FREE Lighting the Path Community for Special Needs Parents at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this conversation, Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon and Lena Suarez-Angelino explore the challenges and emotional toll of being a special needs parent. They discuss the journey of seeking a diagnosis for children with special needs, the importance of support systems, and the struggles of medical advocacy. The conversation highlights the need for self-care, community connection, and understanding from society. They emphasize the importance of maintaining relationships and creating a vision for the future while navigating the complexities of parenting a child with special needs. Keywords special needs parenting, diagnosis, support systems, medical advocacy, emotional toll, community, self-care, public spaces, relationships, advocacy, understanding, acceptance, hopesummary Chapters 00:00Introduction to Special Needs Parenting 02:32Navigating the Darkness of Special Needs Parenting 05:00Lena's Journey: From Social Worker to Special Needs Parent 07:47The Search for Diagnosis: Challenges and Frustrations 10:16The Impact of Medical Professionals on Parenting 12:44The Struggles of Inclusion and Support 15:34The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences 18:11The Role of Self-Care in Parenting 20:34Zach's Personality and Joyful Moments 23:17Emotional Challenges and Coping Mechanisms 25:48Advice for Special Needs Parents 28:25The Importance of Advocacy and Support 31:05The Role of Partners in Special Needs Parenting 33:46Finding Joy Amidst the Struggles 36:38The Journey of Acceptance and Growth 38:49Conclusion and Resources for Parents About our guest Lena Suarez-Angelino is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, speaker, and special needs parent. She has been tirelessly seeking a diagnosis for her son, but he is six and the diagnosis remains elusive. Lena is the author of a workbook to help moms work through their anger and reconnect with calm. Connect with Lena here: https://www.facebook.com/lenasuarez Pick up a copy of her Anger Management Workbook for Moms here: https://www.amazon.com/Anger-Management-Workbook-Moms-Practical/dp/1638074755 About the podcast host Dr. Marcia Nathai-Balkissoon is a special needs parent and coach to parents, a podcaster, author, and strategy lecturer. She runs the Special Needs Parent Podcast because she aims to make special needs parents feel valued, connected, and supported. Get her Amazon bestselling book, Lighting the Path, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/lightingthepath⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Find Marcia on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/MarciaNB8/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on Instagram @specialneedsparentjourney Join the FREE Lighting the Path Community for Special Needs Parents at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/jG6JEHafR3TWTyqG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠