In this episode, Dr. Lana Ferris shares her personal journey of self-discovery following her recent autism diagnosis and how it has significantly impacted her approach to parenting. This candid discussion sheds light on the challenges and triumphs she faces as she navigates parenthood with newfound understanding and acceptance of her neurodiversity.

Key Takeaways:

1. **Letting Go of Shame and Guilt:**

- Understanding the root causes of feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated.

- Accepting that needing alone time is not a personal failure but a necessity for her well-being.

2. **Advocating for Needs:**

- The importance of sensory regulation through proprioceptive and vestibular input.

- Communicating and setting routines with family members to ensure personal sensory needs are met.

3. **Changing the Environment:**

- Implementing changes such as using noise-canceling headphones, adjusting the thermostat, and decluttering spaces.

- Building an environment that supports her neurology to reduce sensory overload.

4. **Setting Realistic Expectations:**

- Recognizing and accepting her limitations, such as avoiding overstimulating environments and large social gatherings.

- Establishing simple, repetitive routines to prevent overwhelm and enjoy parenting more.

5. **Explaining to Family:**

- Educating family members about her autism to foster understanding and avoid unjustified expectations or criticism.

6. **Understanding Parenting Challenges:**

- Viewing parenting difficulties through the correct lens to alleviate self-blame.

- Implementing structured limits to maintain well-being and enjoy quality time with her daughter.

7. **Saying No and Setting Boundaries:**

- Learning to prioritize events and activities that align with her bandwidth and energy levels.

- Balancing social opportunities for her daughter with her personal need for rest and downtime.

Additional Resources:

Download our Red light/Yellow light/Green light printable at parentingwhileautistic.com

Contact Information:

- Email: podcastingwhileautistic@gmail.com

- Social Media: Facebook page "Parenting While Autistic"

Instagram @parenting_while_autistic

- Website: podcastingwhileautistic.com

If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future episodes, please reach out to Dr. Lana Ferris using the contact information provided in the show notes. Your feedback is invaluable in guiding the direction of the podcast.