Wine with Wita

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down with ⁠Tash Delrosario⁠, a mum of two girls on the autism spectrum and a powerful voice for autism acceptance.Tash shares her family’s journey with honesty, from navigating diagnosis and the loneliness that can follow, to the everyday ways connection and communication are built at home.This is a conversation about autism, advocacy and letting go of expectations, but also about finding strength in the ordinary moments and caring for yourself so you can show up for your children.We talk about:💫 Navigating an autism diagnosis💫 The isolation many parents feel💫 Building communication through everyday connection💫 Advocacy, judgement, and trusting your instincts as a parent💫 Why self care matters for caregiversThis episode is for parents and carers who want to feel seen, understood and reminded that they are not alone.Follow Tash's journey ⁠here!⁠Lots of love,RitaP.S.: follow me on ⁠Instagram⁠ for more tips, insights and updates.This episode of Wine with Wita is proudly sponsored by Mindd Health and the Mindd International Forum, Australia’s leading conference for families and professionals supporting children with developmental differences. I’ll be part of the panel this year, sharing practical strategies to support communication and engagement in children.Listeners can use code SHAMOUN26 for 15% off registration. Grab your spot today via ⁠https://mif26.mindd.org/mif26-registration-community/⁠Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down for a reflective solo episode inspired by a simple walk with my daughter and a powerful reminder that parenting, while it can feel like a mission, is never impossible.​I share how a conversation with my middle daughter sparked a deeper reflection on the many transitions of parenthood. From life before children, to motherhood and then navigating the unpredictable journey of parenting a child with additional needs. The routines, the communication challenges and the constant change can often feel overwhelming.​This episode brings me back to the heart of why Wine with Wita exists. When parents are equipped with the right information, the right services and a supportive circle, what once felt impossible becomes possible. Knowledge empowers parents to advocate confidently and make informed decisions for their child.​I talk about:💫 Parenting as a mission and why it is never impossible💫 The transitions of motherhood and the challenges they bring💫 Navigating unpredictability and communication difficulties💫 The importance of surrounding yourself with the right support circle💫 Trusting your instincts as a parent, even when concerns are dismissed💫 Accessing the right services and evidence based information💫 How knowledge empowers parents to become strong advocates for their children​A grounding and hopeful reminder that while the journey may feel challenging, with the right support and guidance, it is always possible.Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, in the first episode of Season 3, I sit down withSabrina Ware, an Australian mum living in Dubai, and the incredible mother of Violet and Lily.​Sabrina shares Lily’s story with so much honesty and heart, from the early symptoms that were missed, to the moment everything changed, to the road of recovery they are still walking today.​This is a conversation about advocacy, resilience, and what itreally looks like to keep going when your life is split into “before” and “after”. Sabrina also opens up about the role gratitude has played in carrying her through, and why she chooses to believe in what is still possible, even onthe hardest days.​She also shares the beautiful reason she wrote her book, Holding Onto Our Sparkle, and how storytelling became a way to process the journey, include Lily’s big sister Violet, and connect with other families around the world.​We talk about:💫 The moment Lily’s sudden decline turned into a life-changing diagnosis.💫 The shock, guilt, and grief that can come with medical trauma, and what helped Sabrina keep moving.💫 Advocacy, instinct, and why parents have to trust their gut.💫Treatment and recovery, including their experience with proton therapy overseas.💫 The difference between surviving and thriving, and why Sabrina refuses to stop at survival.💫 Supporting siblings through big family change, and how writing a book became a bridge for connection💫 Why Sabrina comes back to one word every day: gratitude​This is a powerful episode for mums, carers, and anyone whoneeds a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, hope can still exist.Follow Sabrina and Lily's journey here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provideinformation. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,This week on Wine with Wita, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr Carlo Rinaudo, a chiropractor and clinical neuroscientist whose work in paediatric neurodevelopment is expanding how we think about brain and body connection in children.Dr Carlo brings a unique perspective to developmental care,  blending clinical neuroscience with hands-on support for children and families. In this episode, we dive into:💭 What chiropractic looks like in a paediatric, neurodevelopmental setting💭 The fascinating role of the vagus nerve in gut, brain, and emotional health.💭 How neuroplasticity supports developmental change and growth.💭 What the Melillo Method is - and why so many families are exploring it.Whether you’re a parent looking for new ways to support your child, or a professional open to learning beyond your usual scope, this episode is a beautiful invitation into curiosity, connection, and collaboration.Lots of love, RitaP.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, When you think of a dance studio, you might picture competitions, costumes, and choreography. But for Megan Jessop, Director of Dance Habit, dance is about so much more than that. It’s about belonging. Connection. Confidence. And creating a space where every child is seen, celebrated, and supported. This week on Wine with Wita, Megan shares the story behind her childhood dream turned thriving business. From teaching ballet at age 16 in New Zealand to founding one of Melbourne’s most inclusive studios, Megan has never followed the traditional path, and that’s exactly why her story is so powerful.In this episode we explore:✨How dance can support neurodivergent children beyond the stage ✨What it takes to build a values-led business (even when it means letting go of “success” as others define it) ✨The growing wave of women being diagnosed with ADHD — and how Megan’s diagnosis gave her clarity and compassion for her younger self ✨Why inclusion isn’t just about who you welcome through the doors, but how you show up for them once they’re insideIt’s warm, honest, and full of lessons for parents, educators, and anyone trying to do things differently.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast or more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week’s episode of Wine with Wita is a little different. It’s not about children. Or disability.It’s about us. Us as women. Us as mothers. Us as humans who spend so much time doing, we forget to be. I sat down with my breath-work coach and dear friend, Nicola Laye. I first met Nicola when I was deep in transition, between phases of motherhood, between who I was and who I was becoming. I didn’t know it then, but I was holding my breath through it all. In this episode, we talk about:✨ How breathing, something so simple, can feel terrifying when we finally pause ✨ The hidden grief and guilt that lives in so many of us ✨ Why slowing down isn’t lazy or indulgent: it’s essential ✨ The connection between your breath and your inner voice ✨ My own journey of falling back in love with myself: slowly, gently, breath by breathWe also talk about parenting, the kind we do for our kids, and the kind we desperately need to do for ourselves. This is not a ‘how to fix your life in five steps’ conversation. It’s raw. It’s tender. It’s honest. And it’s one of the most beautiful episodes I’ve recorded.For every mama who’s ever said "I’m fine" when you weren’t. For every woman who’s running on empty but can’t stop. This is for you. With a full heart, Rita xPS: Nicola is an angel disguised as a breathwork coach. She offers 1:1 sessions, birth and postpartum support, trauma release, and retreats, both online and on the Gold Coast. You can find her at  @nicola_laye  or  nicolalaye.com. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week’s episode is so much more than just a conversation. It’s the story that started it all - from a bottle of wine to "Wine with Wita".Episode 57 of Wine with Wita marks three beautiful, humbling, life-changing years since I opened the doors to RS Speech Pathology. And to honour that milestone, I’m sitting down with the person who made it all start: Nicky, the very first parent who took a chance on me. Her son Serge was my first client. Her phone call, filled with emotion, confusion, and gut instinct, was the push I needed to say yes to building a business that supports families navigating speech and language challenges. This episode is for every mum who’s ever felt unsure. Every parent who’s been told to “wait and see.” Every carer who knew, deep down, that something didn’t feel right.What we covered: ✨ The real story behind RS Speech Pathology, and the powerful moment that sparked it ✨ What early signs of language delay actually looked like for Serge✨ The heartbreak and hope of hearing a diagnosis ✨ How therapy looks beyond the bubble-blowing and LEGO, and why the bond between child and therapist matters ✨ Nicky’s raw, honest advice for any parent wondering “Should I be worried?” And most of all… we celebrate progress.Serge no longer presents in the delay/disorder range. He’s thriving, not just because of therapy, but because of the love, consistency, and fierce advocacy from his mum and dad. Three years in, this episode is my reminder of why I do what I do. It’s not just a job. It’s a privilege.Thank you for walking this journey with me. Whether you’ve been here since the early days or just found the podcast recently, I’m so grateful you’re part of this growing community. Here’s to three years of RS Speech Pathology, and everything still to come.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, What would you do if two of your children needed more support than the system was designed to offer? In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I sit down with Crizli Martins, a mother of four, two of whom have additional needs. What began as early signs with her son Frank evolved into years of advocacy, therapy, learning, and eventually, doing it all over again with her youngest daughter, Erica.In this episode we explore:💡 The early red flags Crizli noticed and how she trusted her instincts 🧠 What it’s like navigating two completely different neurodivergent profiles 💬 The reality of therapy - expectations vs. real life ❤️ Faith, family, guilt, and the juggle that comes with it all 🙏 The first word Erica ever spoke… and why it brought Crizli to tears.Crizli doesn’t sugar-coat the hard stuff, but she also brings the kind of optimism, humour and heart that will stay with you long after the episode ends. This one is for every parent doing their best, trusting their gut, and advocating fiercely for their kids, even when the system is slow to catch up.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on Instagram @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I don’t care what you eat, just eat something…” this episode is for you. This week on Wine with Wita, I’m joined by the incredible Rachel Zabel. She’s a PhD-qualified clinical dietitian, neuro-affirming feeding therapist, and mum of four. We’re talking all things feeding and neurodivergence. Because as Rachel explains, feeding is never just about food. It’s about your child’s nervous system, their sensory profile, and whether they feel safe enough to explore what’s on their plate. Inside the episode:What we covered: 🥦 Why your child might be stuck on a “beige diet” 🧠 How screen time and stress impact their willingness to eat 💡 What’s actually behind picky eating (and why the usual advice doesn’t work) 🤝 The power of play, co-regulation, and slowing things down at the table 👩‍👧 Rachel’s lived experience as both a mum and therapistShe’s also shared some helpful free tools to support you at home. You’ll find those in the show notes. This conversation is honest, practical and reassuring. Whether your child has ARFID, autism or just a really narrow food range, I hope this one brings you new insight and a little more ease at the dinner table. Find Rachel at @foodtherapydietitian  or funfamilyfood.com.auLots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week on Wine with Wita, I’m sharing a solo episode that’s very close to my heart.As a speech pathologist, I’ve spent the past 15 years supporting children with communication disorders. What I’ve seen, time and time again, is how often these children (and their families) are misunderstood, judged, or dismissed simply because their challenges aren’t visible. We don’t talk enough about the invisible disability that is a communication disorder.In this episode, I explore:🧠 Why society is quicker to empathise with physical disabilities than with speech or language challenges 💬 The real impact of comments like “He’ll grow out of it” or “You’re overreacting” 🤝 What families actually need from those around them, and how we can show up better 🌱 Simple ways to support children with communication needs in public spaces and social settingsSometimes, just asking “How can I support you?” is enough to change someone’s day, and their entire experience of being seen and included. Let’s talk about invisible disability with the empathy it deserves.I hope you enjoy this episode. Lots of love, RitaP.S. Don’t forget to follow the new Instagram page: @winewithwitapodcast . I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories! 🥂Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

In this surprise follow-up, Fatima Tomoum returns to share more of her powerful journey through motherhood, advocacy, and raising neurodivergent children. We delve deeper into the emotional side of parenting, navigating early diagnoses, and using your voice when it matters most.  There was more to share, and this episode holds some of the most powerful moments yet. Listen now and connect with us on Instagram @winewithwitapodcast or visit www.rsspeechpathology.com.au.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week on Wine with Wita, I sat down with Fatima Tomoum, a woman whose story crosses countries, careers, and incredible challenges. Born in New York, raised in Brisbane, and now living in the UAE, Fatima built a stellar international career across Japan, China, France, the UK, India and beyond. But behind the success, she faced a deeply personal battle: ten rounds of IVF before welcoming her boy-boy-girl triplets, born at just 26 weeks. Fatima opens up about what it took to keep going, her strong faith, the importance of community, and the realities of raising three children who defied every prediction, while living far from home. This episode is an honest look at the highs and lows of chasing dreams, building a life across borders, and surviving the hardest seasons with courage and heart.What we talked about: ❤️‍🩹 The emotional cost of infertility and premature birth ❤️‍🩹 The hard realities of life in the NICU ❤️‍🩹 Starting again in a new country without a roadmap ❤️‍🩹 Why early intervention and advocacy change livesThis episode shows just how much strength it takes for families to keep moving forward, especially when the support they need isn’t always there.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, When I first received Jenny’s email, I honestly felt like acelebrity. She found Wine With Wita after watching my BizCover grant video and reached out with a simple message: “I’d love toshare my story.” What unfolded from there felt like a love story between two women passionate about supporting families navigating the world of disability. Jenny is an Early Childhood Teacher with over 30 years of experience, a mother to three children (including twin sonswith level 3 autism), and the founder of two businesses dedicated to helping families thrive. Her lived experience is matched only by her drive to makethe path easier for others. What We Discussed:💬 Jenny’s raw, honest account of denial, grief and acceptance following her sons’ diagnosis 📘 Why she wrote Embracing Disability in Early Childhood — a must-read for both parents and educators 🤝 The importance of partnership between families and professionals 💡 Practical advice for parents navigating NDIS, communication devices, and emotional overwhelm 🌱 How Jenny helps other families through her two businesses and the Autism Families Thriving community Whether you’re a parent, teacher, allied health professional, or simply someone who cares — this episode is a gentleand deeply insightful reminder that acceptance doesn’t happen overnight… and no one should walk this road alone.🎧 Listen now: Resource links from this episode: 📘 Jenny’s book EmbracingDisability in Early Childhood — $ Availableon Amazon$  🌐 Jenny’s $ website &services$  📸 Follow Jenny on $ Instagram$ This conversation filled my heart. Jenny, thank you forbeing the fairy godmother so many families didn’t know they needed.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updates. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, What happens when you’re five years old, and your baby brother is diagnosed with autism? In this episode of Wine with Wita, I sat down with Emily Hanlon, a Clinical Psychologist, mum of three, and the proud big sister of Richard, who was diagnosed with autism as a baby.Emily shares her powerful story of growing up as a sibling to someone with high support needs, from the guilt she carried for decades, to the deep love and responsibility she still feels today.Her honesty is raw, her humour refreshing, and her message clear: we cannot support autistic children without supporting the village around them. What we covered:🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 What it’s really like growing up with an autistic sibling 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 The emotional toll on families that no one sees 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Why siblings need just as much support as the child 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 How her family helped her brother build his own businessThis episode is a powerful reminder that behind every child with a diagnosis, there’s a family learning how to cope, support, and survive.Emily’s honesty will resonate with any parent wondering how to balance their time, emotions, and energy between multiple children – especially when the support needs are different.Resources mentioned in this episode: 🍫 Emily’s brother’s chocolate business: Freckly Faces 📘 Sibling support resource: Understanding & Supporting Siblings of Neurodivergent Children📸 Follow Emily on Instagram at @theplayfulpsychologistLots of love, Rita P.S. Follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. YYou must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, In this episode of Wine with Wita, I sat down with Lynda Tran – a proud mum of two boys, both diagnosed with autism, and a former catering business owner known for her love of good food and community. Lynda shares the raw and emotional journey of steppingaway from her career to support her family, the financial and emotional challenges of navigating the NDIS system, and the ongoing stigma surrounding disability in culturally diverse communities. Her story is filled with honesty, strength, and a deep desire to help other families feel less alone.What we spoke about:☀️ The emotional weight of receiving two autism diagnoses ☀️ Why Lynda chose to leave her business and focus on her children ☀️ The hidden costs of early intervention and advocating within the NDIS system ☀️ Breaking the silence around disability in culturally diverse communities ☀️ Finding joy in food, parenting, and the small moments that matter ☀️ Advice for parents and carers learning to put themselves first without guilt ☀️ How kindness and education can shape a more inclusive futureThis episode is a beautiful reminder that being a careroften means putting others first – but it should never mean losing yourself. Lynda’s courage to speak openly about her challenges andwins will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt unseen, unheard, or unsure. Her voice offers hope, strength, and a reminder that no one should have to do thisalone.Resource links from this episode:  📸 Follow Lynda on Instagram at @lynda.tee Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updates. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, Sometimes the most meaningful support comes from someone who’s walked the same path.In this episode of Wine with Wita, I sit down with Atilio Brito, a devoted father, finance professional, and founder of Dads Speak, a support network for fathers raising children with special needs. Atilio opens up about the moment his son Alexis was diagnosed with Level 3 autism and ADHD, and how that news sent him into a dark space. Like so many fathers, Atilio felt pressure to hold everything together. He didn’t speak up. He didn’t ask for help. And it took years before he could finally say he was coping. But through this pain came purpose.What we covered: 💬 The moment Atilio received his son’s diagnosis and how it shifted everything 💬 Navigating grief and denial while trying to show up for his family 💬 How a random gaming connection led to the creation of Dads Speak 💬 The emotional toll of trying to hold it all together as a father 💬 Why support for dads is still lacking and how Dads Speak is changing that 💬 The power of community, connection, and starting with just one honest conversationThis episode is a must-listen for families, professionals, and anyone who believes dads deserve a place in the story too.Atilio’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest moments, connection and community can light the way forward. If you know a dad walking a similar path, share this episode, it might be the conversation he didn’t know he needed.Resource links from this episode: 🔗 Follow Dads Speak on $ Instagram$  🔗 Listen to the $ Dads Speak Podcast $ Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, In this episode of Wine with Wita, I sat down with Jessica Labban – a devoted mum of two, passionate teacher, and one of the most determined and warm-hearted parents I’ve had the honour of working alongside. Jessica shares her deeply personal journey navigating earlysigns of autism in her son Jacob, the trauma of his birth, and the emotional toll of seeking support when the system didn’t always make it easy.She opens up about the moment a daycare refused to accepther child, the inner conflict of being in “teacher mode” rather than fully feeling like a mum, and the grief of letting go of the childhood she once imagined for him.What we spoke about: ✨ Jacob’s early regression and the challenges of getting support ✨ The daycare rejection that changed Jessica’s perspective ✨ Why accepting the diagnosis was the hardest part ✨ The cost of therapy before NDIS and navigating the system ✨ Letting go of “teacher mode” to be fully present as a mum ✨ Her hopes for a more inclusive future for kids like JacobThis conversation is filled with love, advocacy, and a powerful message to trust your gut and never accept "that's just how it is." 📸 Follow Jessica on Instagram at $ @jess_labban$ 🧑‍🚒 How a Fire Station Visit Sparked Progress for Jacob Jessica already shared on the blog how a simple visit to a fire station became a turning point in her son Jacob’s development. It’s a powerful reminder of how the right environment can unlock confidence and growth for children with disabilities. Read the story here: $ How a Fire Station Visit Sparked Progress for Jacob$ Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updatesDisclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, In this episode of Wine with Wita, I had the absolute honour of sitting down with Ruby Storm — Australian Paralympian, medal winner, and an all-around superstar.Ruby has earned gold and silver medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. But what’s even more inspiring? She was once terrified of water.From a shy toddler afraid to get into the pool… to walking out on the world stage with Australia on her back, Ruby’s story is one of resilience, strength and pure determination.What we covered: 🏊‍♀️ Ruby’s journey from fear to the international stage 🧠 What it was like growing up with autism and how it impacted her schooling 🎯 The importance of focusing on strengths over limitations 🤝 Honest advice for parents of children with disabilities 💬 Why independence and support can go hand in hand 💡 How to empower kids to fall in love with activities like swimming — by finding joy, not pressure 📣 And her big message: “You're not defined by your disability, but by your ability.” Ruby’s humility, humour and strength shine through (even with the windy Queensland weather playing backup vocals 😅).Whether you're a parent, teacher, coach or young person living with a disability — you’ll find so much inspiration in this one.🎧 Tune in here: Resource links from this episode: 📸 Follow Ruby onInstagram — @ruby.storm🌐 Want to become a swimteacher? — swim.org.au/educationLots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, In this episode of Wine with Wita, we take a deeper dive into the story of Connor Bailey, the Swim Teacher of the Year for Learners with Disabilities, but from a new perspective—his mother, Linda. Behind every incredible success story, there’s often a pillar of strength, and for Connor, that’s his mum, Linda. She’s been his unwavering support through his diagnosis, education, and career journey—advocating, adapting, and challenging the system to ensure he had the best opportunities to thrive.What We Discussed:✅ The power of unconditional support in navigating a child’s diagnosis ✅ The challenges and triumphs of raising a neurodiverse child ✅ Why perseverance and patience matter in both parenting and teaching ✅ How Connor’s journey led him to becoming an incredible swim teacher and advocate for inclusion in swimmingLinda’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and love—andit serves as a reminder that while the road may be tough, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.You can connect with Connor here @connor_bailey_lwd  and here @dlsa_tmba🏊 Want to become a swim teacher? Visit swim.org.au/education💦 SplashSave – Helping every child access water safety education. Learnmore 🤝 SWIM It Forward – Donate to help disadvantaged families access swim lessons. Lots of love, RitaDisclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, In this episode of Wine with Wita, I had the privilege of sitting down with Natalie Flintrop-Clarke, founder of Swim 4 All. As both a dedicated swim teacher and a mother of a neurodivergent child, Natalie has built a swim school that welcomes children of all abilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn this life-saving skill.In this powerful episode, we discussed:WHAT WE DISCUSSED: ✔️ How to create swim classes that support children with disabilities ✔️ The importance of working closely with parents to build confidence and safety ✔️ Why learning to swim is a non-negotiable life skill ✔️ Heartwarming success stories of students overcoming the odds ✔️ How Natalie’s world record solo kite-surfing journey helped expand inclusive swim programsNatalie is a true asset to the industry, proving that with the right support, every child can thrive in the water.🏊 Want to become a swim teacher? Visit swim.org.au/education💦 SplashSave – Helping every child access water safety education. Learn more 🤝 SWIM It Forward – Donate to help disadvantaged families access swim lessons. Lots of love, RitaDisclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development