EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

are you constantly wondering if you’re doing too much… or not enough… for your autistic child?in autism parenting, it can feel like every decision is high stakes. you hear “lower demands.” you hear “do exposure.” you hear “presume competence.” you hear autistic voices sharing lived experience. and somehow, you’re still left wondering what actually applies to your child.this episode won’t give you a black-and-white formula. but it will help you understand how to think through this question in a grounded, regulated way — and how to navigate the tension between accommodation and over accommodation without swinging to extremes.in this episode, you’ll hear:why nothing in autism parenting is black and whitehow to filter research, professional advice, and autistic voiceswhat accommodation vs overaccommodation actually meanswhy overaccommodating anxiety can unintentionally reinforce ithow “low demand” can slide into eggshell parentingwhen to gently peel back support to presume competencehow to use trial and error without turning it into self-blametimestamps00:00 the importance of nuance in autism parenting03:05 navigating accommodation vs over accommodation11:29 understanding exposure therapy and its nuances16:08 balancing structure and flexibility in parenting23:08 empowering autonomy and self-advocacy in childrenresources⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership and be live for the upcoming masterclass on this topic (March 2026)⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services⚡️ follow me oninstagram → @the.dr.taytiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇screen time doesn’t have to be all or nothing.in this episode, Dr. Tay sits down with Ash Brandin, @thegamereducator and author of Power On, to talk about balancing technology in a way that feels realistic, empowering, and aligned with your child’s brain, especially in neurodivergent children.this conversation moves beyond fear-based messaging and into nuance — exploring regulation, accommodations, executive functioning, transitions, and digital safety through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.in this episode:why screen time is morally neutral and why that mattershow video games can support executive functioning and skill buildingusing screen time as data about how your child’s brain workswhy some content is more dysregulating than otherspractical strategies for transitions off screenshow to scaffold digital safety over timetimestamps00:00 introduction and today’s topic: screen time and technology00:37 meet Ash Brandin02:47 Ash’s journey to educating parents on technology04:50 the importance of neutrality in technology use06:10 balancing screen time: practical tips and insights18:18 teaching technology skills: a lifelong approach22:40 the benefits of screen time for autistic children25:15 video games as accommodating environments27:22 observing and learning from kids’ screen time27:44 addressing hesitancy in using accommodations29:58 engaging with kids through screen time30:40 the importance of digital safety31:48 exploring the book’s structure and key concepts32:13 understanding access, behavior, and content in screen time36:28 strategies for managing screen time transitions40:04 final thoughts and resources RESOURCES⚡️ follow Ash on Instagram and on Substack⚡️ order Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family⚡️ join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning. dive into the included masterclass to dive deeper into navigating screen time and its benefits for autistic kids⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇in this special episode, Dr. Tay shares a live coaching session with Winter, a mom of a 6-year-old autistic boy. listeners are invited inside a real, unscripted coaching conversation — one that mirrors the questions, emotions, and uncertainty so many parents carry quietly. together, Dr. Tay and Winter explore what it’s like to sit with grief and acceptance at the same time, to question whether current supports are actually helping, and to feel the pressure to “do enough” while also wanting space to breathe. Dr. Tay helps Winter slow things down, name what’s coming up beneath the urgency, and reflect on what alignment, confidence, and quality of life could look like for her family. this episode offers a window into how parent coaching can help you:feel less alone in the emotional weight of an autism diagnosisuntangle urgency from what truly matters right nowexperiment with supports without shame or fear of “getting it wrong”build confidence in your instincts as your child’s parentreconnect with yourself while still showing up for your childif you’ve ever wondered what parent coaching actually sounds like — or wished for a space to talk things through out loud with someone who truly gets it — this episode is for you. TIMESTAMPS00:00 introduction and episode overview00:06 meet winter and her journey02:52 navigating early diagnosis and initial support04:02 challenges, grief, and emotional struggles11:57 finding the right support and community20:30 navigating autism as a first-time parent20:43 the pressure of early intervention21:53 the impact of how diagnoses are delivered23:04 support systems and clinical care23:47 parenting with confidence and love27:09 concerns about the future33:33 advocating for disability needs in public spaces37:25 building community and self-advocacy39:54 closing reflections and resources RESOURCES⚡️ Connect with Winter @aspectrumfueledpurpose ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey, with the option to add on a 1:1 coaching session like this⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + other services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 if you’ve recently received an autism diagnosis — or you’re pretty sure one is coming — this episode is for you. many parents expect to feel relief after a diagnosis. sometimes that happens briefly. but more often, things actually feel heavier, more confusing, and more urgent. in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down why that happens, names the “trap of urgency” so many families fall into, and explains what actually helps in this early post-diagnosis phase. want more support? the You Got The Diagnosis. Now What? program was designed for you! a four-week, neurodiversity-affirming program designed to support families in the space between diagnosis and action — focused on clarity, self-trust, and sustainable next steps.LEARN MORE HERE: https://drtay.thrivecart.com/you-got-the-diagnosis-now-what CHAPTERS00:00 navigating the autism diagnosis journey02:26 understanding why diagnosis can create more questions12:41 clarity over urgency: slowing down without falling behind23:59 introducing support for families in the post-diagnosis phase RESOURCES⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and other serviceshttps://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 this episode marks a big milestone — 200 episodes — and a very human return after an unplanned pause. Dr. Tay shares openly about what led to stepping back, including grief, perfectionism, and the pressure she felt to make the “right” episode for this moment. from there, the conversation widens into something deeper: how personal values, neurodiversity-affirming care, and what’s happening in our country are deeply intertwined. this is an episode about alignment — as a parent, as a clinician, and as a human — and why staying silent doesn’t feel like an option when your values are at stake. CHAPTERS00:00 return from hiatus and celebrating 200 episodes05:48 navigating personal challenges, caregiving, and grief12:19 the intersection of personal beliefs and professional practice20:37 the importance of human connection in parenting26:23 values, advocacy, and human rights33:05 core values in clinical practice36:38 affirming neurodivergence through collaboration40:15 integrity, repair, and whole-family healing44:00 living in alignment with your values49:43 reflecting on privilege and responsibility in advocacy RESOURCES⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership: a space for questions, community, and neurodiversity-affirming guidancehttps://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and current serviceshttps://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

this week’s episode was inspired directly by a diagnostic feedback session inside dr. tay’s clinical practice. one parent asked a question that so many others wonder: “should i be teaching social skills to my autistic child… and if so, how?” in this episode, dr. tay breaks down why traditional social skills approaches often miss the mark, how they can unintentionally promote masking, and what a neurodiversity-affirming approach looks like instead. you’ll learn: why “social skills” often = neurotypical normswhat actually helps autistic kids build authentic connectionpractical ways to support social growth at home, without scripts or forcinghow to understand what your child needs based on their motivation, interests, and neurotype TIMESTAMPS00:00 introduction and episode inspiration00:21 diagnostic feedback and recommendations01:57 therapeutic approaches and parent coaching04:34 addressing social skills in autistic children05:52 neurodiversity affirming approaches08:00 practical strategies and role-playing12:04 real-life situations and empathy building16:16 parental involvement and social skills groups23:03 conclusion and next steps  RESOURCES ⚡️need more support navigating this? Join EVOLVE the membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space to ask YOUR questions. ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services, including her small group therapy model, at drtaylorday.com⚡️ keep learningInstagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in the autistic journey. Joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom and coach for parents of autistic children, they discuss the role of parents as primary co-regulators for their children as well as strategies for staying regulated, building self-trust, and supporting their children's behaviors. They also explore systemic issues, coping mechanisms, and the need for a holistic approach that includes listening to autistic voices. Despite the focus on parents, the core message underscores the importance of a balanced support system for the entire family unit.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:28 Lisa Candera's Background and Passion00:45 The Role of Parents in Autism Support01:28 Podcast Introduction and Disclaimer02:30 Lisa's Journey as a Single Mom05:25 Challenges and Early Diagnosis06:48 Navigating Resources and Support Systems08:27 The Importance of Parental Education16:04 Understanding OCD and Autism22:59 Coaching and Self-Regulation28:21 Understanding the Distinctness of OCD28:30 The Complexity of Compulsions29:01 Parental Instincts and Fix-It Mode29:31 The Illogical Nature of OCD30:06 OCD and Autism: The Just Right Feeling31:22 Building Acceptance in Parenting32:22 The Psychological Definition of Acceptance33:46 Behavioral Issues and Parental Pressure35:05 Supporting Parents: Tips and Strategies37:24 Validating Experiences Before Problem Solving38:01 Common Challenges and Seeking Support39:21 Navigating Grief and Acceptance40:02 Ambiguous Grief and GOMO41:17 Being the Safe Person and Self-Advocacy44:31 Parental Regulation and Child's Behavior46:36 Building a Well-Rounded Support Team48:29 The Power of Tone and Voice52:12 Conclusion and Resources  RESOURCES⚡️ Continue learning from Lisa Candera at theautismmomcoach.com/ and @theautismmomcoach on Instagram and Facebook⚡️ Download the Meltdown Action Plan⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses impulse control for autistic children and offers proactive strategies to develop this skill without inducing shame. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of a regulated state for teaching impulse control and using fun, engaging games like Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says. The episode also answers questions from parents, such as managing inappropriate comments and excessive affectionate behaviors. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:24 Inspiration Behind the Episode01:30 Understanding Impulse Control in Autistic Children03:02 Proactive Skill Building Strategies03:53 Engaging Activities to Teach Impulse Control06:29 Addressing Common Questions from Parents15:36 Impulse Control vs. Other Behavioral Issues17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts RESOURCES⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ Continue learning + suggest topics for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the often overlooked yet crucial concept of interoception and its importance in supporting autistic children. Joined by guest Kelly Mahler, an experienced occupational therapist specializing in this area, they dive into what interoception is, how it impacts autistic children, and actionable strategies to improve interoceptive awareness. The conversation also touches on the significance of adult modeling, school-based interventions, and a comprehensive approach to sensory regulation. Additionally, they explore the connection between interoception and autistic burnout, providing valuable insights and resources for parents and educators.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview02:04 Guest Introduction: Kelly Mahler02:11 Kelly's Journey into Interoception04:17 Understanding Interoception08:57 Interoception in Autistic Individuals14:44 Building Interoceptive Awareness in Kids23:16 Challenges and Advocacy in Schools25:25 Understanding Interoception and Compliance26:01 Adult Modeling and Focus Area Experiments28:59 Sequential Process: Body, Emotion, Action32:18 Challenges in School-Based OT and Sensory Regulation38:47 Autistic Burnout and Interoception46:52 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ check out all of Kelly’s resources → www.kelly-mahler.com ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇dr. tay dives deep into perfectionism — how it shows up in autism parenting, in clinical work, and even in content creation. she shares personal reflections, a powerful story from her group therapy model, and a reminder that perfectionism can hide behind our best intentions to help.this episode explores:the fine line between accommodation and over-accommodationperfectionism as a form of rigidity and how it sneaks into parentinglearning to release shame and accept imperfection as part of growthTIMESTAMPS00:00 introduction: what perfectionism looks like in parenting00:54 reflections from clinical practice and lived experience01:33 perfectionism behind the scenes of podcasting and social media02:36 when “doing it right” becomes doing too much12:46 finding the balance between accommodation and over-accommodation21:17 learning to release control and practice repair over perfection25:15 a group reflection on perfectionism and shared growth35:42 closing encouragement and ways to stay connectedRESOURCES⚡️ join evolve: the membership — a space for parents to reflect, connect, and grow through their autism journey.⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach and current clinical services at drtaylorday.com.⚡️ continue learning from me and submit questions (they may be featured on a future episode!)instagram → @the.dr.taytiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay sits down with Jessie Caraway, creator of the If You Know One Project, to talk about her family’s journey, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how the project grew out of a desire to build community and awareness.They reflect on the long road to an autism diagnosis, reframing “high support needs,” and the importance of seeing each autistic child through a lens of humanity rather than fear or deficit. Jessie shares how her journey with her daughter, Eliza, inspired her to create the If You Know One Project — a space that celebrates individuality and connection through neurodiversity-affirming awareness, apparel, and storytelling.Together, Dr. Tay and Jessie explore what it means to move forward with compassion, to hold complexity in parenting, and to remind families that every story — every one — matters.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement00:29 Host’s Background and Podcast Purpose01:31 Guest Introduction and Family Background02:01 Starting the If You Know One Project03:29 Community Engagement and Resource Sharing06:50 Challenges in the Diagnosis Journey11:36 Navigating the Healthcare System18:23 The If You Know One Project’s Mission and Future Goals22:59 Navigating the Journey Together23:22 Support for Families24:04 Community and Connection24:33 Understanding High Support Needs25:22 The Value of Individuality26:20 Perspective Shifts and Humanity28:24 Building Trust and Communication32:19 Sharing Stories and Advocacy36:12 Encouragement for Parents38:56 Final Thoughts and Resources💛 RESOURCES⚡️ Connect with Jessie Caraway + The If You Know One Project:Instagram → @jess_ifyouknowoneEtsy Shop → If You Know One⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:Instagram → @the.dr.tayTikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇this episode is a replay of my instagram live q+a, where we processed the recent press conference linking autism and tylenol. i shared reflections on research, stigma, and neurodiversity-affirming care, and answered parent questions in real time. we covered the nuance of research, medication conversations, ableism and stigma, and most importantly — how parents can ground themselves and their families. a special thank you to sam marion, lcsw (@sammarioncounseling) for moderating the live chat and helping to hold respectful space for this conversation.THE JUST ONE THING CHALLENGEtoward the end of this episode, i introduce the just one thing challenge—a free 7-day practice designed to help parents slow down, ground themselves, and notice one small glimmer in the middle of daily overwhelm.  join the just one thing challenge starting monday, october 6th, 2025 – on instagram: follow @the.dr.tay and message JOTCHALLENGE – not on instagram? sign up here TIMESTAMPS00:00 introduction + intent of the live 01:46 introducing sam marion 03:51 processing the press conference 06:20 what neurodiversity affirming care really means 07:50 dr. tay’s background + perspective 09:52 making sense of autism research 12:36 diving into parent questions 24:05 responding to the administration’s narrative 39:54 fda-approved medications + leucovorin discussion 41:51 understanding pda + affirming supports 44:15 debunking tylenol + autism myths 45:56 confronting stigma + ableism 48:58 concerns about government policies 51:54 supporting autistic kids + families 01:10:51 the just one thing challenge 01:15:34 closing reflections + resourcesRESOURCES⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to find community + support in your parenting journey⚡️ learn more about dr. tay's whole family approach + current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com⚡️ continue learning from me + submit questions that may be featured on a future episode >> instagram @the.dr.tay tiktok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this mini, spontaneous episode, Dr. Tay addresses the recent press conference where the administration linked autism to Tylenol, causing guilt and anxiety among parents. She emphasizes the importance of taking time to process emotions, the prevalence of misinformation, and the need for compassion. Dr. Tay reassures listeners that it's okay to take a pause, mute social media, and focus on emotional processing rather than seeking immediate answers. She encourages parents to embrace their current reality with their autistic child and highlights the complexity of autism's causes.00:00 Introduction 00:19 Addressing the Press Conference on Autism and Tylenol00:52 Processing and Community Feedback02:25 Neurodiversity and Emotional Support05:08 Clarifying Misconceptions about Autism Causes06:38 Encouragement and Self-Care Tips09:47 Final Thoughts and Outro   RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here to have a community support you during these trying times ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this mini episode, Dr. Tay shares a sneak peek into a training within EVOLVE the memberhsip. Sh dives into the concept of low demand parenting, particularly for families with children who resonate with the PDA profile. Dr. Tay introduces and explains the "3 Bucket Approach" to help parents manage demands and boundaries effectively. The episode also outlines the benefits of joining the membership where deeper guidance, resources, and community support are provided. Additionally, Dr. Tay highlights the importance of understanding family values and giving children autonomy, while maintaining necessary non-negotiable boundaries for safety and key family values.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:36 Membership Insights and Podcast Differences01:15 Introducing a New Resource02:22 Understanding Low Demand Parenting06:21 The Three Bucket Approach06:55 Non-Negotiables and Key Family Values08:41 The Shoulds: Dropping Unnecessary Demands11:01 The Ideal or Yet Bucket11:57 Practical Examples and Applications15:48 Conclusion and Membership Invitation18:00 Episode Wrap-Up and Future Content RESOURCES⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist and parental coach specializing in neurodiversity affirming care, explores the concept of jealousy and why it is a valid and normal emotion. Dr. Tay discusses the importance of experiencing and processing jealousy, rather than suppressing it, and how this can impact personal growth and well-being. The episode also addresses the complexity of co-existing emotions like hope and jealousy, and provides insights on how to navigate these feelings as a parent of an autistic child. Dr. Tay shares personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice on emotion regulation to help parents better support themselves and their families.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:05 Understanding Jealousy as a Valid Emotion01:15 The Impact of Suppressing Emotions04:06 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Processing12:06 Real-Life Applications and Parental Support18:27 Affirmation and Momentum18:42 Understanding Jealousy19:06 Balancing Emotions19:31 Validating Emotions20:53 Navigating Jealousy and Hope21:39 Seeking Support24:00 Embracing Jealousy26:38 Reflecting on Jealousy33:15 Final Thoughts and Resources  RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here and listen to my glimmers training that helps you to better understand progress  ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered. visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

 ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay delves into the underexplored topic of couples therapy within the autism community, emphasizing its proactive rather than reactive use. Joined by Dr. Ali Perkinson, a neurodiverse couples therapist and licensed psychologist, the discussion covers how couples therapy can support harmonious family dynamics, understanding neurodiverse communication styles, and breaking down stigmas around couples therapy. Dr. Ali shares insights from her practice, highlighting the importance of co-regulation between parents and addressing executive functioning differences. The episode also offers practical tools such as the emotion wheel and the significance of sensory management, aiming to equip parents with strategies that can foster a more neuro-inclusive household.00:00 Introduction to Couples Therapy in Autism Parenting00:50 Meet Dr. Ali: Neurodiverse Couples Therapist02:22 Understanding Neurodiverse Relationships03:13 Communication Challenges in Neurodiverse Couples07:15 Common Reasons Couples Seek Therapy08:25 Proactive vs. Crisis Couples Therapy10:56 Navigating New Autism Diagnoses as a Family20:28 Tools and Tips for Neurodiverse Families22:44 The Importance of Venting in Relationships22:56 The Fixer Mentality: Strengths and Pitfalls23:45 Alternative Date Night Ideas for Neurodiverse Couples24:21 Co-Regulation and Physical Activities24:54 Therapeutic Modalities for Couples26:20 Exploring Psychedelic Therapy30:32 Addressing Executive Dysfunction in Relationships34:18 Understanding Neurodiverse Love Languages38:01 The Value of Couples Therapy40:14 Final Thoughts and Resources  RESOURCES⚡️ connect with Dr. Ali on Instagram @connectingwithali and learn more about her practice Connection Squared ⚡️ resource to find a neurodiverse couples therapist or coach  ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the chaos surrounding the start of a new school year, especially for families of autistic kids. Sharing insights and practical advice from her extensive experience, she addresses anticipatory anxiety, the challenges of advocating within educational systems, and the importance of psychological safety for children. The episode also provides resources on using tools like AI for understanding your rights and articulating your thoughts and emphasizes the power of collaboration with educators and advocates. Tune in for strategies to ensure your child's smooth transition into the school year.00:00 Introduction to the Chaos of Starting School02:02 Navigating the Chaos of School Starting02:49 Anticipatory Anxiety and Its Impact04:56 Advocating for Your Child in the School System16:50 The Importance of Psychological Safety at School21:57 Final Thoughts and Resources25:51 Conclusion and Ways to Connect  RESOURCES⚡️check out episodes 53, 57, 115, and 142 to learn more about educational rights and advocacy  ⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇this week, i’m giving you a behind-the-scenes listen into a question from inside EVOLVE the membership — my neurodiversity-affirming space for parents of autistic children. in our private weekly q&a, a parent asked how to explain their child’s autism diagnosis to other adults in a way that’s both clear and affirming. in this episode, you’ll hear my full response, with approaches you can start using right away — from choosing identity-first language to framing your child’s strengths and support needs when talking with educators, family, and friends. you’ll also get a feel for what it’s like inside EVOLVE the membership, where members can bring their real-life questions instead of turning to Google, ChatGPT, or social media, and get thoughtful, personalized guidance. 00:00 introduction 00:25 welcome to this parenting space01:34 why EVOLVE the membership?03:59 behind the scenes of EVOLVE the membership06:37 this week’s Q&A11:01 neuroaffirming language explained22:29 conclusion and membership invitation  RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay addresses a commonly asked question: Is the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) necessary for an autism diagnosis? Dr. Tay explains what the ADOS-2 is, its role in autism evaluations, and clarifies that while it is a widely respected tool, it is not required for diagnosing autism. The episode emphasizes the importance of using multiple assessment tools and clinical judgment in making an autism diagnosis. Dr. Tay also offers guidance for parents on how to advocate for their children, including questions to ask clinicians. Finally, Dr. Tay highlights the importance of neurodiversity affirming practices and discusses the role of other evaluation tools and telehealth assessments.00:00 Introduction and Common Questions00:31 Understanding the ADOS-201:02 Training Levels and Misconceptions02:09 Clinical vs. Research Use04:07 Sensitivity, Specificity, and Misuse06:50 Neurodiversity Movement and High Masking10:26 Alternative Tools and Insurance Challenges12:26 Challenges with Insurance-Mandated Assessments12:45 Telehealth Evaluations: Validity and Tools13:20 Alternative Assessment Tools for Autism15:58 Key Questions to Ask Your Clinician19:28 Understanding Autism Traits: Quantity vs. Quality20:59 Free Resource Guide and Final Thoughts RESOURCES ⚡️Download the Autism Traits Guide ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here ⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this solo episode, Dr. Tay dives into the concept of perfectionism in autism parenting, sharing insights from her own journey and the experiences of parents she works with. Dr. Tay discusses the challenges of striving for perfection, the importance of being present, and the benefits of responding to feedback. She offers tips for navigating the autism parenting journey, including the value of collaboration, reflection, and admitting mistakes. Using the metaphor of golf, Dr. Tay illustrates the importance of analyzing and adapting to each situation as it arises. She encourages parents to embrace continuous growth and be adaptable, reassuring them that it's okay to not have everything figured out.00:00 Introduction and Episode Inspiration00:12 Perfectionism in Autism Parenting01:14 Building a Supportive Community04:20 Golf as a Metaphor for Parenting06:12 Reflecting and Adapting in Parenting07:56 Admitting Mistakes and Validating Your Child08:49 Group Therapy and Support Options09:28 Understanding the Transition to School09:43 Dealing with Uncertainty and Burnout10:14 The Power of Flexibility and Collaboration11:39 Challenging Perfectionism in Parenting13:02 Navigating the Transition Together13:22 Golf Analogy: Embracing the Process14:56 Partnering with Your Child and Yourself17:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership here ⚡️ LEARN more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current clinical services offered as well as her new educational membership? visit drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay