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

In this episode, Dr. Tay invites Alyssa Campbell of Seed & Sew to discuss the importance of supporting autistic students at a classroom-wide level, particularly focusing on their nervous system and sensory regulation. Alyssa, with her extensive background in early childhood education and emotional development, shares insights and practical strategies for creating sensory-friendly environments and understanding individual sensory profiles. They explore the benefits of proactive versus reactive strategies in educational settings, the vital role of teachers and parents in advocating for proper supports, and the importance of normalizing neurodiverse needs to foster inclusive learning spaces for all students. The episode is filled with actionable insights that are beneficial for educators, parents, and anyone involved in the care and development of autistic children.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:48 Meet Alyssa Campbell: Expert in Emotional Development01:58 Dr. Tay's Background and Mission03:33 Alyssa's Journey and Collaborative Emotion Processing Method04:12 Understanding Sensory Regulation and Nervous System18:00 Practical Applications in the Classroom20:34 Supporting Sensory Needs in Education25:19 Parental and Teacher Collaboration25:58 Understanding Early Childhood Sensory Responses27:17 Proactive Strategies in Schools35:13 Supporting Teachers and Parents38:32 Managing Diverse Needs in the Classroom45:55 The Role of Occupational Therapy49:26 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️check out Alyssa and her parent-friendly resources, including the sensory quiz here: https://www.seedandsew.org/parents⚡️check out her resources for teachers and schools, including her certification here: https://www.seedandsew.org/seedcertificationteachers⚡️follow her on Instagram @seed.and.sew and listen to her podcast Voices of Your Village⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

In this episode, Dr. Tay speaks with Courtney Peebles, co-founder of Solobo Toys, which designs educational toys with neurodivergent children in mind. Courtney shares personal stories about her diagnoses, launching the company, and navigating a neurodiverse household. Courtney designs toys for all ability levels. They discuss how parents can select toys that promote children's learning and interests. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement01:23 Meet Dr. Tay: Your Host02:25 Courtney's Journey and Family Background03:09 The Diagnosis Journey09:41 Starting Solobo Toys13:36 Challenges and Triumphs in Business23:03 The Story Behind the Emotional Baggage Toy23:55 Changing the Narrative in Parenting24:52 Navigating Autism and Family Support25:32 Self-Advocacy and Permission26:58 Modeling Behavior for Kids27:43 Challenging Unrealistic Expectations28:22 Teaching Self-Advocacy Early29:31 Creating a Safe Space at Home32:50 Exploring and Setting Boundaries36:11 Designing Inclusive Toys41:53 Balancing Business and Accessibility46:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ shop Solobo Toys and check out their sensory guide⚡️ follow @solobotoys on Instagram⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this podcast episode, Dr. Tay welcomes back Dr. Arielle Rubin, a triple board certified psychiatrist, to discuss the role of psychiatry for autistic children with co-occurring mental health conditions. This is a follow-up to episode 94, where Dr. Rubin answers parent-submitted questions. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:15 Recap of Episode 9400:53 Challenges in Psychiatry01:12 Disclaimer and Podcast Purpose02:25 Welcome Dr. Arielle Rubin02:38 Dr. Arielle Rubin's Background03:57 Breaking the Status Quo in Psychiatry04:22 Community Support for Families06:18 Diving into Parent Questions06:51 Stimulant Medication for ADHD11:11 Alternatives to Atypical Antipsychotics14:55 When to Consider Psychiatry20:08 Tips for Discussing PDA with Psychiatry23:24 Genesight Testing for Kids27:42 Considering Mental Health Programs29:09 Inpatient Psychiatry: When and Why30:53 Residential Treatment Centers32:04 Intensive Outpatient Programs and Partial Hospitalization35:19 Medications for Rumination and Aggression39:36 Medications to Avoid and Supplement Interactions42:53 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRESOURCES⚡️ listen to episode 94 on Apple or Spotify⚡️ follow Dr. Rubin on Instagram, join the Autism Roadmaps Community, and sign-up for her newsletter ⚡️ download the Supplement Guide for Autism and Mental Health referenced in the episode⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: 1) in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.2) PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge...

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the key themes she is seeing in clinical practice. Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist specializing in neurodiversity affirming care and shares insights regarding common referral questions as well as what many families in her group therapy program are navigating. 00:00 Introduction to Common Themes in Clinical Practice01:21 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)03:19 Challenges Faced by Parents and Families04:41 The Role of Clinical Care vs. Social Media07:12 The Importance of Tailored Clinical Approaches16:23 Second Opinion Evaluations and Autism Diagnosis20:52 Navigating the Broken System21:27 Scholarships and Financial Aid21:50 Late Autism Diagnoses in Children23:02 Parents Exploring Their Own Neurodiversity24:54 Parents' Mental Health Matters29:46 Advocacy as a Skill32:43 Challenges in Schools with Neurodiversity Affirming Care36:41 Conclusion and Community SupportRESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

⚠️ DISCLAIMER >> this episode dives into trauma-informed care but highly sensitive topics are discussed, including Rachel’s personal experiences with a nationally publicized traumatic event while working at a school in 2018ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this podcast episode, Dr. Tay hosts Rachel Archambault, a speech-language pathologist specializing in trauma informed practices. They delve into the definition of trauma informed care, its importance in neurodiversity affirming practices, and how trauma can impact autistic individuals and their families. Rachel shares her personal experience with trauma, highlighting how professionals and parents can proactively adopt trauma informed approaches. The episode also covers practical tips for discussing traumatic events with children and ensuring that care providers are sensitive to trauma. Resources like the NASP guidelines and social stories are recommended for further support.00:00 Introduction and Theme Overview02:41 Guest Introduction: Rachel Archambault03:41 Rachel's Traumatic Experience07:03 Impact and Aftermath of Trauma10:42 Trauma Informed Care in Schools14:17 Supporting Children Through Trauma16:48 Collaborative Efforts and Resources23:26 Drills and Trauma: A Delicate Balance31:00 Big T vs Little T Trauma32:17 Understanding PTSD and Trauma Symptoms33:31 Personal Experiences with Trauma33:54 Listening and Validating Trauma35:02 Trauma in Autism and Communication Challenges36:03 Bodily Autonomy and Abuse Risks38:54 Trauma Informed Care: Key Elements47:49 Recognizing and Preventing Trauma54:22 Proactive Trauma Informed Approaches57:04 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with RachelInstagram @ptsd.slp Facebook @ptsd.slp LinkedIn @rachel-archambault Website: www.ptsdslp.comEmail: rachel@ptsdslp.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: 1) in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.2) PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to...

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay explores obsessive traits in autistic children, inspired by a conversation with Katherine @theneurodiversitymom. The discussion focuses on distinguishing between autism-related behaviors and potential co-occurring conditions like OCD. The episode highlights the need for diagnostic clarity and continuous reassessment of children's behaviors to identify effective support strategies. Dr. Tay also shares personal insights from a recent business retreat, emphasizing the importance of self-care for parents. Additionally, Dr. Tay discusses updates to her new educational membership platform aimed at empowering parents globally to advocate for their autistic children and providing tools for better support strategies. 00:00 Introduction to Obsessive Traits in Autistic Kids 00:07 Inspiration Behind the Episode 01:47 Personal Life Updates and Reflections 08:54 The Importance of Diagnostic Clarity 09:20 Understanding Obsessive Traits and OCD 12:11 Strategies for Supporting Kids with Obsessive Traits 16:58 The Role of Medication and Therapy 20:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 25:29 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesRESOURCES⚡️learn more about the membership: drtaylorday.com/membership⚡️learn more about group therapy: drtaylorday.com/therapy⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay explores the topic of neurodivergence in adults, particularly parents, with guest Dr. Salena Justice, a psychologist specializing in late diagnoses of autism and ADHD. They discuss the indicators of neurodivergence, the evaluation process, and the differences between self-diagnosis and formal diagnosis. The conversation also addresses common issues faced by neurodivergent adults, the therapy approaches that can be beneficial, and the importance of finding the right therapist.00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence in Parenting00:37 Guest Introduction: Dr. Salena Justice00:50 Understanding Late Diagnoses in Adults01:35 Host's Background and Podcast Purpose02:44 Challenges in Diagnosing Autism in Adults07:35 Evaluation Process for Adults12:21 Common Presentations of Autism in Adults15:14 ADHD in Adults: Common Presentations and Challenges17:45 Discussing Autism Diagnoses and Common Misdiagnoses19:08 Evaluating Autism and ADHD in Women23:15 Therapy Approaches for Autism and ADHD26:52 Finding the Right Therapist28:40 Connecting with Dr. Salena Justice31:04 Conclusion and Next StepsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Dr. Salena on Instagram @@psychologywithsalena and check out her website⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses child-led therapy with Nicole Casey, a speech-language pathologist known for her work with gestalt language processing. The conversation delves into the importance of child-led approaches, how they differ from traditional methods, and what parents should look for in therapy sessions. They also touch on the misconceptions around play-based therapy, the challenges and benefits of truly child-led sessions, and the significance of honoring all forms of communication. Nicole shares her experience of growing her practice and social media presence, advocating for child-centered methods, and collaborating within the field to offer authentic support for neurodivergent children.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic00:21 Meet Nicole Casey: Speech Therapist and Advocate01:59 Nicole's Journey and Social Media Impact09:03 Defining Child-Led Therapy11:18 Balancing Therapy Goals with Child-Led Approaches15:56 The Importance of Play in Therapy27:31 Communication Beyond Spoken Language32:11 Kids Taking Initiative32:29 Recognizing Progress in Therapy33:38 Mindset Shifts for Parents34:55 Child-Led Therapy in Practice38:05 Navigating Real-World Challenges40:07 Balancing Boundaries and Freedom45:34 Adapting Child-Led Approaches in Different Settings49:22 Conclusion and ResourcesRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Nicole Casey on Instagram @connectionsspeechpathology and her website www.greatlanguagepartner.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses the distinction between Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Inspired by conversations with parents in her group therapy program, she delves into the complexities and overlaps between the two diagnoses. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of understanding PDA within the framework of anxiety and highlights the stigmas associated with ODD, especially in racialized communities. She also touches on the limitations of behavioral approaches and the significance of adopting neurodiversity-affirming practices.00:00 Introduction and Life Updates00:45 Exploring PDA and ODD02:03 Nuances and Misconceptions02:49 Clinical Perspectives and Research05:33 Therapeutic Approaches and Stigma09:52 Evidence-Based Practices14:46 Conclusion and Future Episodes*PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110RESOURCES⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email admin@drtaylorday.com if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

In this episode, Dr. Tay interviews Kaley Stymeist about "Spell to Communicate" (S2C), a method used to support non-speaking autistic children in expressing themselves. Kaley shares her journey with her son Hudson, who is progressing his communication through S2C after language regression. The discussion covers the methodology of S2C, emphasizing its neurodiversity-affirming approach and the importance of motor planning. Kaley also addresses common misconceptions and the need for structured training. Listeners learn where to find S2C practitioners and how to get started.00:00 Introduction to Spell to Communicate00:42 Meet Kaley Stymeist01:03 Dr. Tay's Background and Podcast Mission02:20 Kaley's Family and Autism Journey03:07 Hudson's Birth and Early Challenges06:49 Discovering Spell to Communicate15:38 Hudson's Progress and Motor Planning25:32 Starting with Presuming Competence25:50 Introduction to Three Letter Boards26:16 Transition to 26 Letter Boards26:54 The Importance of Prompting28:32 Building Motor Control and Accuracy30:08 Progressing to Open Communication33:18 The Goal of Spell to Communicate39:09 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions44:50 Finding a Practitioner and Training47:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Kaley on Instagram @kaley_and_3 and learn more about her S2C practice @autismsoulspeak ⚡️ find a local S2C practitioner >> https://i-asc.org/⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

Dr. Tay shares a mini-episode where she dives into the complexities and controversies surrounding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in the autism field. She presents a balanced perspective on ABA, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and considering the diverse needs and privileges of families. Dr. Tay also highlights different neurodiversity affirming modalities under the ABA umbrella, upcoming podcast guests, and her own experiences, urging the need for more nuanced conversations in the field.00:00 Introduction and Personal Update00:52 Welcome to the Parenting Space01:05 Diving into ABA Therapy01:22 Controversies and Perspectives on ABA01:41 Upcoming Podcast Guests and Topics04:55 Informed Decision-Making for Families05:42 Advocating for Neurodiversity Affirming Practices07:06 Changing the Field from the Inside Out08:55 Accessibility Issues in Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy09:18 Challenges in Child Care for Working Parents10:02 Intersectionality and Racial Perspectives in ABA11:05 Safety and Compliance for Non-White Children12:08 Balancing Family Needs and Therapy Approaches12:43 Open Dialogue and Future Conversations13:34 Supporting Families Through Free Resources and Memberships14:47 Encouraging Informed Consent and Advocacy15:37 Conclusion and Future EpisodesRESOURCES⚡️ listen to episodes 26, 59, and 128, which further discuss ABA and varying approaches. and check out the Making the Shift episode on ABA that inspired this episode!⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email admin@drtaylorday.com if you have questions.DISCLAIMER >> anything shared on this podcast should not be considered clinical advice, and you should consult with your team of medical, mental health, and developmental providers if you need support.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Rob Gorski, known as The Autism Dad on social media, to discuss his experience as a father raising three autistic children. They explore the unique challenges and opportunities of fatherhood in the autism community, the grief process associated with diagnoses, and the importance of leaning into emotions. Rob shares his journey of starting a blog, the evolving support needs of his children, and the importance of self-care and mental health for parents. They also discuss the societal expectations for dads and the need for more inclusive and supportive conversations around fatherhood and autism.00:00 Introduction and Today's Special Guest00:58 Dr. Tay's Background and Podcast Mission02:01 Rob Gorski's Family and Autism Journey03:22 Challenges and Insights on Autism Diagnoses08:48 Support Needs and Progress of Rob's Children12:42 Navigating Parenting and Personal Challenges13:39 The Role of Dads in Autism Parenting18:05 Emotional Struggles and Mental Health28:38 Understanding the Impact of Parental Emotions29:34 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting31:10 Navigating Social Media and External Judgments32:54 The Importance of Repair and Recovery34:50 Challenging Parenting Norms and Expectations39:03 Advocating for Your Child's Needs44:06 The Power of Vulnerability and Self-Care48:33 Final Thoughts and EncouragementRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Rob on Instagram @theautismdad and on his website⚡️ listen to our recent episode on Rob's podcast about autism in girls ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language they have been exposed to the most.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay speaks with Carrie Cariello, a mother of five, including an autistic young adult. Carrie shares her family's journey, advocacy work, and the unique challenges and triumphs of raising an autistic child. They discuss practical strategies for fostering independence, the importance of community, navigating the education system, and marital dynamics. Carrie also shares insights into the transition to young adulthood, including finding supportive college programs. This episode offers hope, practical advice, and a reminder that families are not alone in their journey.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview02:09 Meet Carrie Cariello: A Journey Through Autism03:00 Carrie's Family and Early Diagnosis04:07 From Writing to Advocacy06:40 Navigating Challenges and Safety Concerns08:59 Parenting Strategies and Splinter Skills17:50 Redefining Family Dynamics27:48 Parenting Challenges and Triumphs28:41 Navigating Discomfort and Fix-It Mode29:16 Dinner Time Dilemmas31:28 College Program Search36:24 Balancing Marriage and Parenting40:12 Encouraging Independence45:48 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Carrie >>Instagram @carrie_cariello Facebook @whatcolorismondayWebsite Link: https://carriecariello.substack.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tay*please note: in this episode, many terminologies and phrases are used to describe autism. Dr. Tay honors what each child and family prefers, and intentionally chooses to use affirming and identity-first language after listening to autistic adults and their preferences. various guests on the podcast are likely to use the language that they have been exposed to the most.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay hosts Maggie of Unfurling Littles and explores Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lens. They discuss how to incorporate neurodiversity-affirming practices into ABA to create a compassionate, child-led approach. Maggie shares her journey into the field, her own lived experience as an autistic individual, and practical examples of how ACT principles can be applied within ABA for the benefit of both children and their families. The episode also addresses common concerns about traditional ABA and offers insights on fostering mindful play and regulation.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:46 Guest Introduction: Maggie from Unfurling Littles02:33 Maggie's Journey into Early Childhood Special Education03:43 Challenges and Criticisms of ABA06:28 Maggie's Personal Neurodivergence Story08:29 Founding Unfurling Littles and Professional Challenges10:59 Navigating ABA and Neurodiversity Affirming Practices14:38 Introduction to ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)16:39 Implementing ACT in Family and Child Goals21:26 Balancing Family and Child Values in Therapy27:08 Practical Applications of ACT in Therapy29:25 Measuring Engagement and Joy in Child Interactions29:59 Integrating Child-Led Approaches in Therapy30:27 Present Moment Awareness and Neurodiversity Affirming Practices32:04 Mindfulness in Neurodiversity Affirming Care34:16 Handling Dysregulation with ACT Principles36:32 The Importance of Validating Emotions40:41 Healing Through Neurodiversity Affirming Practices44:33 The Evolution and Future of ABA50:49 Connecting with Families and Resources52:45 Final Thoughts and Next StepsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Maggie on Instagram @unfurling_littles and her website https://www.unfurlinglittles.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayNote: PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

👉🏼 ENROLL NOW >> http://drtaylorday.com/membershipIf you find value in this podcast and want even more support, tune in to learn about “EVOLVE the membership.” This new membership offers a lower-cost, flexible alternative to traditional clinical services, designed to provide accessible support and education for autism families. I share personal insights about my journey from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges faced in balancing multiple roles, and the motivation behind creating this membership. Making this launch happen even while I’m in Europe (and truthfully it feels quite sentimental!). What’s included in the membership: ⚡️a comprehensive video library⚡️community support⚡️expert masterclasses⚡️ resources⚡️and if you’re a founding member, you get the opportunity to shape what’s in the membership and what I create. 👉🏼 MORE DETAIL HERE + ENROLL NOW >> http://drtaylorday.com/membership00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:32 Launching a New Membership02:24 Personal Journey and Professional Growth04:42 Challenges and Expanding Services06:51 The Evolve Membership Details09:46 Balancing Personal and Professional Life12:02 Advocacy and Real-Life Stories18:03 Membership Benefits and Pricing31:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts