Autistic and ADHD Kids Parenting Strategies: Every Brain is Different

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren continue their discussion on managing the mental load experienced by moms. They address the difficulties of delegating household responsibilities and provide practical steps to shift tasks to family members or others to alleviate stress.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the importance of accepting different methods of task completion, trusting the process, and providing clear instructions and ownership of tasks.They also offer valuable advice on involving children in household responsibilities in age-appropriate ways, all aimed at reducing burnout and creating a more balanced family dynamic. 00:00 Introduction00:43 Continuing the Conversation on Mental Load00:59 Shifting Responsibilities to Reduce Mental Load01:24 Overcoming Blocks in Delegation04:42 Steps to Effective Delegation16:35 Involving Kids in Household Responsibilities23:27 Scripts for Effective Communication Join the Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the mental load carried by moms, marking the beginning of a three-week series on the topic. They explore the often-overwhelming responsibilities that mothers juggle daily, from managing household chores to coordinating children's schedules.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the significance of self-care and provide practical advice on managing sensory input, making micro-decisions, and employing positive self-talk methods to alleviate stress and prevent burnout.A structured approach for recognizing and managing different stages of overwhelm is introduced. 00:00 Introduction to Every Brain Is Different Podcast00:43 The Mental Load of Moms01:51 Strategies for Offloading Responsibilities03:44 Understanding the Mental Load of Motherhood08:05 Stages of Overwhelm: Whisper, Talk, Shout13:32 Practical Tips for Managing Overwhelm14:49 Parenting Power Hour Invitation23:52 Daily Check-ins and Reset Strategies27:40 Recommended Self-Care App: Finch29:05 Conclusion and Support Resources Finch App: https://finchcare.com/ Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). They explain that ARFID is a recognized eating disorder, different from simple picky eating, characterized by extreme avoidance or restriction of food, leading to nutritional, growth, or emotional problems.The disorder is often misunderstood, with myths such as it being due to bad parenting or something children will grow out of.Samantha and Lauren discuss sensory sensitivities, negative food experiences, interoception challenges, and anxiety as key factors contributing to ARFID, particularly in children with autism and ADHD.They also share their personal experiences and emphasize the importance of patience, understanding, and professional help in managing ARFID.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:52 Understanding ARFID: Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder03:50 Common Signs and Symptoms of ARFID05:01 Challenges and Myths Surrounding ARFID05:46 Causes and Triggers of ARFID12:39 Impact on Family Dynamics17:35 Support and Professional Help18:40 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membershipHarkla Link: https://harkla.co/?rfsn=8804907.29f26d5  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss the challenges and methods of handling food aversions in autistic children.They share personal experiences and emphasize that forcing children to eat can be counterproductive. Instead, they recommend engaging the help of a feeding therapist and employing assent-based strategies.Steps include gradually introducing the disliked food by first placing it nearby, then on the plate, and finally encouraging the child to touch, smell, and play with the food before tasting it.Samantha and Lauren stress the importance of patience and allowing children to progress at their own pace, while also highlighting the benefits of involving children in meal preparation and planning. 00:40 Feeding Therapy for Neurodivergent Kids01:12 Personal Stories and Challenges with Food Aversions04:35 Steps to Help Kids Try New Foods05:43 The Importance of Feeding Therapy and Exposure Therapy14:22 Final Tips and Encouragement19:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: The Neurodivergent Parenting Community | Every Brain is DifferentHarkla Link: Harkla - Special Needs Products for Happier and Healthier Families  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the challenges and changes families face when children transition back to school.They provide practical advice on managing children's after-school meltdowns and emphasize the importance of establishing coping skills, ensuring children are well-fed and hydrated, and maintaining a consistent routine to help children adjust.They also discuss the benefits of positive reinforcement and the effectiveness of switching caregivers to avoid power struggles, showcasing various strategies to create a supportive environment for neurodivergent kids. 00:51 Back to School Transitions02:58 Understanding Meltdowns and Masking05:24 Coping Skills and Sensory Processing07:34 Practical Tips for Parents17:53 Positive Reinforcement Strategies20:28 Handling Power Struggles21:48 Parent Communication23:25 Conclusion and Wrap-Up Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode Samantha and Lauren share practical advice for a smoother transition back to school. They discuss the excitement and challenges of children starting school, emphasizing the importance of planning and coping strategies.Samantha and Lauren share tips such as creating a balanced schedule, managing anxiety, building excitement about school, and practicing practical skills like eating lunch within a limited time. They also highlight the significance of attending school events and ensuring kids can handle their supplies independently. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:39 Back to School Excitement and Challenges04:13 Managing Summer Activities and Nervous Systems07:02 Preparing Kids for School: Practical Tips14:21 Lunch Preparation and School Events21:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, we welcome back Karen Kassow, a writer, certified master life coach, and founder of AI-Powered Homeschool.As a neurodivergent parent raising two autistic children, Karen shares her journey and dedicated advocacy within the neurodivergent community.She discusses the challenges faced by families in navigating special education services, especially with the potential removal of crucial programs like the family-paid caregiving waiver. Karen emphasizes the importance of making educated voting choices to support these programs and shares the heartbreaking stories of families that rely on them.Karen talks about homeschooling as a viable, flexible alternative for neurodivergent families, offering various strategies and resources that cater to the unique needs of these children.Listeners are encouraged to get involved in local disability resources and make their voices heard to enact change and support for families in similar situations. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:40 Meet Karen Caso: Life Coach and Advocate01:57 Challenges in the Neurodivergent Community02:29 The Importance of Educated Voting09:31 Homeschooling for Neurodivergent Kids16:18 Flexibility and Support in Homeschooling19:34 Homeschooling Standards and Regulations20:59 Idaho Homeschooling Regulations21:47 Standardized Testing Concerns24:43 Personal Homeschooling Experiences26:09 Flexibility in Homeschooling28:37 Challenges in Public Schooling32:00 Homeschooling Resources and Support35:16 Final Thoughts and Reflections Connect with Karen: Website: https://www.karenkossow.com/Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss summer burnout experienced by both parents and neurodivergent children.They share personal stories and offer practical tips for recognizing signs of burnout, such as emotional dysregulation and behavioral changes.Samantha and Lauren emphasize the importance of creating a balanced routine that includes adequate downtime and sensory-friendly spaces to help children self-regulate and recover from overstimulation.They also discuss their own experiences and strategies for managing burnout and encourage listeners to share their own tips for overcoming burnout. 00:00 Introduction to Summer Burnout00:38 Personal Experiences with Burnout02:09 Recognizing Burnout Symptoms06:11 Managing Burnout in Kids09:01 Self-Regulation Strategies10:29 Host's Personal Burnout10:58 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha shares practical tips for implementing language shifts and going from telling kids what not to do using "don't" to telling what to do.She emphasizes redirecting behavior with clear and positive alternatives, keeping instructions simple and specific, and being consistent in using positive language. 00:00 Introduction to Positive Language00:55 Understanding the Impact of Negative Language01:15 Shifting to Positive Instructions02:10 Practical Examples and Tips03:32 Consistency and Final Thoughts04:17 Upcoming Events and Sign-Off Parenting Power Hour: 2nd Thursday of the month from 12:45-1:45 PM MDT. Sign up at www.everybrainisdifferent.com  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode Samantha and Lauren speak with Janet Elliot, author of 'The Alien Savant,' a poignant exploration of her autistic brother's journey through a neurotypical world.Janet recounts the challenges faced by her family in the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting the lack of understanding and resources for children with developmental disabilities during that time.She discusses the evolution of special education and family advocacy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing strengths and fighting for appropriate educational and social services for neurodivergent individuals.The conversation also touches on the ongoing need for societal acceptance and support for adults with disabilities, along with practical advice and valuable resources for parents and caregivers. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:43 Janet's Involvement in the Neurodivergent Community01:23 Challenges and Advocacy in the 1960s and 1970s05:08 Michael's Education Journey08:31 Michael's Adult Life and Continued Advocacy12:30 Advice for Parents of Neurodivergent Children14:40 Resources for Adults with Disabilities18:57 Janet's Book and Where to Find It21:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Janet:Website: https://www.myguidedpen.com/Buy the Book, The Alien Savant: https://www.bookshop.org/Connect with Sweet Zola's: https://sweetzolascandy.com/  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Rachel Forrester, an Idaho real estate broker and founder of the support group Idaho Autism Moms, shares her expertise in assisting families with special needs children in finding suitable homes in and around Boise, Idaho.She discusses various considerations when buying a house, such as proximity to therapy services, neighborhood safety, and the importance of functional spaces like sensory rooms.Rachel also addresses the challenges of moving with special needs children and offers strategies to make the process as smooth as possible, including the usefulness of video walkthroughs and conducting thorough neighborhood research. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:18 Rachel's Involvement in the Neurodivergent Community01:11 Housing Needs for Families with Special Needs02:30 Considerations for Home Features and Safety07:25 Importance of Proximity to Resources13:05 Navigating Neighborhood Safety and Community19:21 Rachel's Free Guide and Final Thoughts21:00 Conclusion and Highlights Parenting Power Hour: www.everybrainisdifferent.com Get Rachel's Guide:tinyurl.com/rachelinboise Connect with Rachel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.208.rachel?igsh=MXA1Z2t4YWtxanQxaQ  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha Foote narrates a personal story about her son's meltdown during a family trip. She recounts the events leading up to the meltdown, the meltdown itself, and what they did after.Samantha shares what she did well in managing the situation, , and also reflects on what she could have done better.She emphasizes the importance of helping children return to a self-regulated state during meltdowns and discusses the plans they made to ensure her son had personal space and ways to calm himself for the rest of the trip. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:10 The Meltdown02:41 Understanding the Meltdown03:17 Reflecting on the Response04:52 Moving Forward: Strategies and Plans05:39 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Connect with Us: www.everybrainisdifferent.com Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk with Dana Kay, a board-certified health practitioner, and two-time international bestselling author.Dana shares her extensive experience working with families across the US through her company, ADHD Thrive Institute, where she helps parents reduce ADHD symptoms naturally by focusing on biological triggers like diet, gut health, and inflammation.She emphasizes the importance of supporting a child's biology rather than 'fixing' them, and discusses the profound impact of the gut-brain connection on overall health and behavior, providing insights into how gut health can influence ADHD symptoms and other disorders. 00:00 Introduction to Donna Kay00:34 Donna's Work with Neurodivergent Families02:14 The Gut-Brain Connection04:15 Impact of Antibiotics on Gut Health08:17 The Role of the Vagus Nerve10:14 Strategies for Supporting Gut Health20:16 Addressing Picky Eating21:41 Donna's Personal Life and Interests23:10 Conclusion and Resources Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Connect with Dana:Website: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adhdthriveinstituteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ADHDThriveInstitute  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha Foote discusses effective strategies for managing transitions for neurodivergent children. Understanding that transitions can trigger anxiety, resistance, or meltdowns, she emphasizes the importance of preparation and planning.Suggestions include using visual schedules, musical cues, and countdowns to create predictability and ease anxiety.Additionally, she highlights the need for consistent daily routines, transitional objects, positive reinforcement, sensory considerations, and supportive communication as vital tools for smooth transitions. 00:00 Introduction to Managing Transitions00:10 Understanding Transitions and Their Challenges00:32 Preparation and Planning for Smooth Transitions00:43 Using Visual Schedules and Musical Cues01:44 Creating Predictability with Consistent Routines02:20 Utilizing Transition Objects for Comfort02:47 Countdowns and Timers for Effective Transitions03:03 Positive Reinforcement and Encouragement03:43 Sensory Considerations for Transitions04:42 Supportive Communication Strategies05:39 Key Strategies Recap and Conclusion Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Lauren and Samantha discuss strategies for managing multiple children with different sensory needs. They share personal experiences and provide initial tips, such as understanding individual sensory profiles, creating dedicated sensory spaces, establishing predictable routines, incorporating sensory breaks, and adapting communication strategies.Practical advice is offered for accommodating sensory avoiders who prefer quiet spaces and sensory seekers who crave constant stimulation. The episode concludes with a promotion for their neurodivergent parenting community, where listeners can seek further support and advice. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:43 Understanding Differing Sensory Needs02:12 Tips for Managing Sensory Differences04:06 Creating Individual Sensory Spaces10:08 Establishing Predictable Routines13:43 Incorporating Sensory Breaks17:26 Communication Strategies for Sensory Needs23:31 Conclusion and Community Support Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode Samantha discusses Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and its significance in supporting the neurodivergent community.She explains ABA as a scientific method aimed at improving socially significant behaviors such as communication, self-help skills, emotional regulation, and social interactions through individualized goals, data collection, positive reinforcement, and environmental modifications.Samantha highlights the importance of client-centered care, where the preferences and consent of the individuals are prioritized, and discusses the controversial beginnings of ABA, emphasizing the need for programs that respect and empower individuals rather than solely focusing on behavior modification to appear neurotypical.She also advises on selecting an appropriate ABA program, stressing the involvement of parents and caregivers in the process, and warns against programs that do not respect the insights and expertise of families regarding their own children. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:02 Understanding Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)00:41 Key Elements of ABA01:16 Controversies and Personal Experiences with ABA02:36 Choosing the Right ABA Program03:49 Parental Involvement and Final Thoughts05:22 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with me: www.everybrainisdifferent.com  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Amanda Trisdel and her daughter Leta Rundell join the discussion to talk about their journey in the neurodivergent community and the founding of the Autistic Wings Dance Company.Amanda, the CEO, and Leta, who has been a dedicated dancer since a young age, talk about the struggles faced in traditional dance studios, leading them to establish a safe and accommodating space for neurodivergent dancers.The conversation also touches on the detailed approach towards developing dance IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) for their students, the challenges of dealing with misconceptions about neurodivergence, and the importance of patience and understanding from dance instructors.This episode highlights the importance of specialized programs that go beyond adaptive dance, aiming to provide serious and skill-focused dance education to neurodivergent individuals. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:39 Meet Amanda and Lita: The Story Behind Autistic Wings Dance Company01:58 Challenges in Traditional Dance Studios04:37 Creating a Neurodiverse-Friendly Dance Curriculum05:40 The Importance of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)07:14 Hiring the Right Teachers for Neurodiverse Students11:00 Overcoming Misconceptions and Building a Supportive Community22:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts25:31 Parenting Power Hour: Join Us!26:15 Highlights and Reflections Get the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child: www.everybrainisdifferent.com/ultimate-guideConnect with Amanda and Leta: Website: https://www.letatapstyles.com/ | https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstylesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/@antrisdale | https://www.instagram.com/@letatapstyles | https://www.instagram.com/@autisticwingsdancecompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/autisticwingsdance  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode, Samantha talks about the importance of emotional self-regulation, particularly the effective technique of stepping away.She discusses the significance of managing one's emotions to support both oneself and one’s child, and how stepping away during a moment of escalating emotions can help maintain composure and prevent further escalation.Samantha provides actionable steps on how to ensure a child's safety before taking a break, using breathing and grounding techniques to regain calmness, and returning to the situation with a composed demeanor.She underscores that taking a break is a healthy and necessary part of parenting, and emphasizes the importance of reflecting on triggers and seeking support when needed.The episode also highlights the role of modeling appropriate behavior for children and the value of practicing self-care to manage overwhelming situations effectively. 00:00 Introduction to Self-Regulation00:11 Understanding Emotional Regulation00:41 When to Step Away01:36 Techniques to Regain Composure02:21 Returning to Your Child02:53 Dealing with Meltdowns03:52 Reflecting and Planning Ahead04:55 Seeking Support05:48 Final Thoughts and Resources Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: The Neurodivergent Parenting Community | Every Brain is Different  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

Samantha and Lauren speak with Robert Delena who discusses the journey he and his son Ryan have navigated through various therapeutic schools and a diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder.Robert highlights the challenges of overdiagnosis and misdiagnosis, emphasizing the importance of parental instinct and finding appropriate support. A pivotal moment arrives when Ryan, initially labeled and restrained by the system, discovers skiing, an activity that reshapes his confidence and self-worth.Through their shared experience, Robert underscores the significance of recognizing a child's unique strengths and interests. He recalls how skiing, an unexpected outlet, brought substantial improvement to Ryan's overall well-being.This episode provides insights into parenting neurodivergent children, the potential difficulties with the current educational and medical systems, and the need for perseverance in seeking what genuinely benefits one's child.Samantha, Lauren, and Robert also talk about Robert and Ryan's book, 'Without Restraint, chronicling their remarkable journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:40 Meet Robert Delena01:20 Ryan's Diagnosis Journey02:18 Challenges with the System10:38 Skiing: A Life-Changing Discovery18:33 Encouraging Curiosity and Passion in Children19:20 Ryan's Journey: From Skiing to Rock Climbing20:58 The Impact of College and Certifications22:58 Ryan's Online Presence and Sponsorships24:44 Reflections on Parenting and Finding the Right Path27:00 Connecting with the Audience and Final Thoughts31:16 Parenting Power Hour: Join the Community Connect with Robert and Ryan:www.robertdelena.comwww.without-restraint-book.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/extreme_ryan_delenawww.instagram.com/robert.delena Join the Parenting Power Hour: www.everybrainisdifferent.com  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

In this episode Samantha discusses strategies for responding to children who speak disrespectfully, particularly focusing on neurodivergent children such as those with ADHD and autism.She emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect and firmness in responses, highlighting how these children may face unique communication challenges and may not always understand social norms.Samantha shares practical tips for setting clear expectations, modeling respectful communication, and avoiding impulsive reactions to foster better understanding and cooperation within the family.Listeners are invited to attend the next Parenting Power Hour for further discussion and brainstorming on this topic. 00:00 Introduction to Responding to Disrespectful Kids00:22 Understanding Neurodivergent Communication Challenges01:15 Setting Clear Expectations and Consequences01:42 Modeling Respectful Communication01:57 The True Meaning of Discipline02:08 Conclusion and Invitation to Parenting Power Hour Parenting Power Hour:Website: www.everybrainisdifferent.com  Connect with Samantha Foote!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferentYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent