Dr. Hilda Ho is a registered psychologist with a practice in Child Clinical Psychology, based in Vancouver, BC. She has extensive experience with the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions and is one of the few registered psychologists in Canada who has completed post-doctoral training focused on the early identification of autism in young children (under the age of 6).

We kick things off by unpacking why there's a lack of solid research on PDA, Hilda shares her journey into the world of autism, detailing how she transformed from a law enthusiast to a psychologist, driven by a passion for helping neurodiverse kids. Throughout our chat, we emphasize the importance of getting curious about children’s behaviours instead of putting labels on them—because let’s be real, understanding the "why" behind demand avoidance can lead to better support strategies as a whole!

Timestamps:

(01:30) - Welcome

(02:32) - Meet Dr. Hilda Ho

(09:43) - What Is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

(18:10) - Research Challenges

(21:30) - Definitions and Parent Perspectives

(30:16) - PDA and Its Implications

(37:15) - Effective Strategies for Parents

(41:51) - Demand Avoidance in Neurodivergent Children

(49:13) - Understanding the Diagnostic Process

(51:15) - Collaboration in Autism Assessment

(55:44) - In Summary

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

1. Reviewing the Current Evidence on Pathological Demand Avoidance in Children and Adolescents.
2. Further Resources

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This event is all about play — and we know that play looks different for everyone, especially for children on the autism spectrum. Jamie shares the heartwarming origin story of the event and how we can all get involved. We also discuss what play can mean for all kids, emphasizing that it’s not about rigid rules or competitive spirits. Instead, it’s about joy, movement, and inclusion. Kids are encouraged to express their unique ways of participating, whether that means running around, spinning, or simply being themselves! It’s a reminder that play should be inclusive, flexible, and most importantly, fun! Join us as we get excited for the event and explore how we can all contribute to making play accessible for every child.

Timestamps:

(01:32) - Welcome

(02:27) - Introduction to Kids Play for Autismmie

(23:34) - Understanding Play and Communication in Children

(37:50) - Understanding Indicating Behaviours

(48:20) - Expanding Play Interests

Mentioned In This Episode:

About Autism Canada:

For five decades, Autism Canada has stood at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges faced by Autistic people and their support networks across the nation. Established in 1976, our organization has been unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life and well-being Autistic people. We achieve this through robust education, targeted advocacy, and steadfast support.

Learn more about Autism Canada by visiting: autismcanada.org

About Kids Play For Autism 2026:

This April, in honour of World Autism Acceptance Day (April 2nd) and Autism Canada’s 50th year, we’re inviting kids, families, and schools across Canada to take action, by doing what kids love most: play.

Kids Play for Autism Acceptance is a joyful, movement based fundraising campaign where kids get active, work toward shared goals, and raise funds to support Autistic people and their families across Canada.

Inspired by Laura, a young advocate who first launched this idea in 2024 by turning her love of the monkey bars into a powerful fundraiser, this campaign shows how play can create real impact.

Whether at school, at home, or in the community, every jump, lap, game, and challenge helps build more inclusive communities through play.

1. Kids Play toolkit: This toolkit goes over the Kids Play for Autism campaign, the story being it, fundraising ideas, and social media materials.
2. Kids Play for Autism fundraising/campaign link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/peer-to-peer/kids-play-for-autism--2026

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Martie & Megan bring over 20 years of combined experience to their practice, but the heart of their practice comes from their own life-changing shifts.

OutGrow grew out of a period of deep reflection. In 2021, while Martie was taking time to focus on her health during a battle with breast cancer, she and Megan used that time to dive into new research on brain development and sensory integration, listening to the lived experiences of the neurodiverse community, and realizing that the medical model of therapy often missed the mark. This information, paired with Megan’s own "lightbulb moments" as a mom navigating the daily realities of her neurodiverse children’s self-regulation, inspired them to build something different - a practice where clinical expertise meets the messy, beautiful reality of real-life parenting.

Timestamps:

(01:31) - Welcome

(02:21) - Meet Martie & Megan

(13:09) - The Importance of Collaboration in Therapy Practices

(25:58) - Sensory Matching in Therapy

(36:17) - Messy Fun Activities In Therapy

(53:21) - Early Intervention Scenarios

(01:01:21) - Transitions For Neurodiverse Children

(01:07:45) - Child Behavior and Collaboration in Therapy

More On The Founders of OutGrow Therapeutics::

1. Martie Goldberg: As a Speech-Language Pathologist and BCBA, Martie spent over a decade working in schools and clinics from New York to Texas. But it was her personal health journey that truly reshaped her mission. Today, she’s passionate about merging language development and behavior principles with emotional regulation to help parents move away from "managing behaviors" and toward understanding their child’s unique way of learning. She’s also a published children’s author, always looking for creative ways to empower families.
2. Megan Dore: Megan’s background in Developmental Psychology and Occupational Therapy gave her the tools, but motherhood gave her the "why." After years of working as a clinician, raising her own children taught her what the textbooks couldn't: how sensory and emotional regulation impact a family’s day-to-day life. Megan believes that play is the ultimate foundation for growth, and she uses her dual perspective as a clinician and a parent to help families build genuine rapport and connection.

Together, Martie and Megan bridge the gap between complex neurological research and the practical needs of families. Whether they are addressing ADHD, autism, or developmental delays, the core of their work is about more than just hitting milestones. They focus on helping children build the deep self-awareness they need to become their own best

Follow OutGrow Therapeutics:

1. Instagram: @outgrowtherapeutics
2. Facebook Page: OutGrow Therapeutics
3. LinkedIn: OutGrow Therapeutics

Find more information about Martie and Megan here:

1. https://www.outgrowtherapeutics.com/

Mentioned In This Episode:

Sensory course for therapists:

1. https://www.outgrowtherapeutics.com/sensorycoursefortherapists

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

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We'll discuss tackling the tough moments that can pop up during assessments or therapy sessions, even when young learners start showing some aggressive behavior. Instead of seeing these moments as setbacks, we're all about flipping the script and turning them into valuable learning opportunities. Whether you're a clinician or a parent, you'll receive some solid strategies to keep things positive and safe, and how to prepare for the unexpected. So, let’s get into some real talk about managing some of these unexpected moments!

Timestamps:

(01:36) - Welcome

(06:53) - Real Life Scenario Example

(19:40) - Behavioral Responses in Therapy

(40:10) - Bring In Help!

(45:55) - Methods That Can Make Things Worse

Mentioned In This Episode:

Any clinical examples shared in this episode have been de-identified and adapted for educational purposes. Details may be altered or combined, and the content does not reflect any single client.

In Applied behaviour Analysis (ABA), SEAT is an acronym representing the four primary functions of behaviour: Sensory, Escape, Attention, and Tangible. It is used by clinicians to identify why a behaviour occurs to develop effective, proactive intervention plans and replace challenging behaviours with more functional ones.

The Four Functions of Behaviour (SEAT):

1. Sensory (Automatic Reinforcement): The behaviour feels good or self-stimulates the senses (e.g., hand flapping, rocking, humming).
2. Escape (Avoidance): The behaviour allows the individual to avoid or delay a non-preferred task or situation (e.g., running away, tantrums during work).
3. Attention: The behaviour is used to gain social reaction from others, whether positive or negative (e.g., yelling, tapping a teacher).
4. Tangible: The behaviour is used to obtain a desired item or activity (e.g., crying for a toy, asking for candy).

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Throughout our conversation, we explore how they've created a space that’s all about accessibility and inclusion for all families. We learn about their awesome sensory-friendly evenings, new exhibits, special events, and much more! So, grab your headphones, kick back, and let’s dive into how the London Children's Museum is making play & learning accessible for all!

Timestamps:

(01:28) - Welcome

(01:54) - Meet Vanessa & Jessie

(08:55) - Accessibility and Inclusion at the museum

(16:52) - Creating Inclusive Spaces:

(20:26) - Sensory Friendly Evenings

(27:52) - Designing for Accessibility and Predictability

(32:55) - Evaluating Community Feedback and Design Improvements

(46:21) - What To Know Before Coming

Mentioned In This Episode:

Follow the London Children's Museum on Instagram: @londonchildrensmuseum

For questions about the London Children’s Museum, reach out to info@londonchildrensmuseum.ca

Special thanks to:

Mira Noordermeer, Director of Marketing & Visitor Services

Vanessa Eastmure, Director of Exhibits and Visitor Experience

Jessie Collins, Director of Education

The London Children’s Museum was designed with all types of families in mind. For more information about their quiet rooms, free sensory-friendly evenings, adventure backpacks, sensory & visual supports and more, visit: https://www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca/accessibility

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

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Julie M. Green is the author of Motherness, a memoir of generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance (ECW Press, 2025). In 2024, she was a finalist for the CBC Nonfiction Prize. Her writing has appeared in the Washington Post, Globe and Mail, HuffPost, Parents, Chatelaine, CBC, Today's Parent, and more. She also writes The Autistic Mom on Substack.

Throughout our conversation with Julie, we discuss her parenting journey to her autistic son and as a late-diagnosed autistic adult. We peel-back the complexities of parenting and the emotional rollercoaster it brings, especially when navigating both autism and motherhood. Learn all about her memoir "Motherness" - available now! - where she shares her candid reflections on the messy, often overwhelming realities of raising a neurodivergent child while wrestling with her own late diagnosis. There’s a ton of relatable wisdom packed in here, from the struggles of societal expectations to the brutal honesty of mental load that many parents carry. So, whether you’re a parent, a professional, or just someone trying to figure out this wild ride called life, buckle up - this one is for you!

Timestamps:

(01:34) - Welcome

(03:16) - Welcome Julie!

(07:35) - The Journey of Writing Motherness

(16:54) - The Complexity of Parenting a Neurodivergent Child

(24:21) - Navigating the Challenges of Autism Diagnosis and Acceptance

(28:33) - Challenges of Caregiving for Neurodivergent Children

(37:42) - Education and Support for Children with Disabilities

(44:07) - Understanding Developmental Differences in Children

(51:54) - Navigating Parental Guilt and Growth

(56:31) - Neurodiversity in Parenting

(01:06:45) - Community for Neurodivergent Teens

(01:17:41) - Parenthood During Tough Times

Mentioned In This Episode:

Where To Find Julie:

1. IG: @juliem.green
2. Substack: The Autistic Mom
3. Website: juliemgreen.ca

Julie's Book: Motherness: a Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical Acceptance

*Disclaimer: At the time of recording this episode, Julie's son Carson used he/him pronouns.

The Spoon Theory:

The Spoon Theory is a metaphor for managing limited energy, particularly for people with chronic illness, neurodivergence, or caregiving responsibilities. Each “spoon” represents a unit of energy or capacity for the day, and once your spoons are used up, you need to rest before you have more to give. The concept helps explain why individuals sometimes have to prioritize tasks, activities, or social interactions, and why energy can feel finite or quickly depleted.

Brief History of Asperger’s Syndrome:

Asperger’s syndrome was a diagnostic term used to describe individuals with persistent differences in social communication and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, without significant delays in language or cognitive development. It was named after Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger, who described a group of children with these characteristics in the 1940s.

Asperger’s syndrome was formally introduced into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) in 1994 as a diagnosis distinct from autistic disorder.

In 2013, Asperger’s syndrome was removed as a separate diagnosis with the publication of the DSM-5. The diagnostic criteria were consolidated under a single diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change reflected research showing that Asperger’s syndrome and other autism-related diagnoses shared overlapping features and did not consistently differ in ways that were reliable or clinically distinct.

Under the current diagnostic framework, individuals who would previously have received a diagnosis of Asperger’s are now diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, with specifiers used to describe support needs, language ability, and other relevant characteristics.

References:

Green, J. M. (2025). Motherness: A memoir of generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance. ECW Press.

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Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

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We kick things off by emphasizing the importance of recognizing the subtle signs that precede emotional outbursts—because there's usually a whole lot brewing before the storm hits. With a blend of our real-life moments and professional insights, we'll share our experiences as moms and clinicians dealing with emotional rollercoasters, whether it’s a joyous moment or a meltdown. We'll also highlight the need for parents and professionals to adopt a curious mindset, spotting those precursor behaviours, and using practical strategies to help kiddos navigate their emotions. If you’re a parent or working with young ones, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable tips to better support those wild emotional waves!

Timestamps:

(01:31) - Welcome

(04:39) - Inspiration For This Episode: Biting At Home

(11:43) - In The Moment Teaching

(23:38) - Strategies For Emotion Regulation

(34:45) - Understanding Big Feelings In Neurodivergent Learners

(57:22) - Coaching Strategies for Older Kids

(01:03:57) - Book: The Fantastic Elastic Brain

Mentioned In This Episode:

1. Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak - This engaging picture book introduces children to the concept of neuroplasticity, explaining how the brain can grow and change through learning and experience. It's a great resource for fostering a growth mindset and helping kids understand that mistakes are part of the learning process.
2. I Just Don't Like the Sound of NO! by Julia Cook - A part of the "Best Me I Can Be!" series, this book helps children understand the importance of accepting "no" for an answer and the value of patience and respect. It's a great tool for teaching emotional regulation in situations where children might feel frustrated or upset.
3. Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Julia Cook - This book addresses anxiety and worry in children, providing strategies for managing these emotions. It's particularly helpful for children who tend to overthink or become anxious in new or challenging situations.
4. I'm Stretched! by Julia Cook - This book discusses the feeling of being overwhelmed and provides strategies for managing stress and finding balance. It's a great resource for children who have difficulty handling multiple demands or transitions.
5. I Think I Think a Lot by Jessica Whipple (2023) - This picture book delves into the experience of overthinking, portraying it as a chaotic swirl of thoughts. It provides a metaphorical approach to understanding obsessive thoughts, making it accessible for children to grasp the concept of mental overload.
6. My Brain Is a Race Car by Nell Harris (2023) - Utilizing the metaphor of a race car, this book explains how the neurodivergent brain processes experiences differently. It offers self-regulation tools in a fun, rhyming format, aiming to open conversations about managing emotions and behaviours.
7. Flamingo Boy by Michael Morpurgo (2018) - Set during World War II, this novel follows Lorenzo, an autistic boy living on a farm in southern France. The story explores his unique perspective and experiences, providing insight into the challenges and strengths associated with autism.
8. A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll (2020) - This middle-grade novel features Addie, an autistic 11-year-old who seeks to memorialize women once tried as witches in her Scottish village. The book addresses themes of identity, advocacy, and the experience of being neurodivergent.
9. Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor (2019) - Written by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, this picture book introduces children to various disabilities, including autism, through the voices of children who experience them. It promotes understanding and acceptance of differences.

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

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Meg Raby is an autistic female, pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) and neurodivergent advocate, writer of the children's book series "My Brother Otto", and a regular contributor to "Scary Mommy". She writes about life, love, family dynamics and hustling for an inclusive world for other neurodivergent children and adults while working full-time for global leading nonprofit, KultureCity, alongside an unstoppable, diverse team of like-minded individuals.

KultureCity is all about making sure that every individual, no matter their sensory needs, feels like they belong, and Meg is leading the charge with her work there. Throughout our conversation, we discuss ground-breaking initiatives at KultureCity, Meg’s background and work as an author, and much more! Meg's insights aren't just heartwarming but also packed with practical tips for parents and communities. So, if you’re looking to shift from just awareness to real inclusion & acceptance, grab a comfy seat and tune in, because this chat is gonna spark some serious joy!

Timestamps:

(01:36) - Welcome & Life Updates

(02:16) - Today's Topic

(05:21) - Introduction To Meg

(06:43) - Meet Meg

(17:41) - The Mission of KultureCity

(27:38) - Setting The Table Of Hospitality

(36:03) - KultureCity App w/ Koji

(43:45) - KultureCity's Newest Exciting Project

(56:44) - Understanding Inclusion and Awareness

(01:08:30) - Barriers to Inclusion

Mentioned In This Episode:

Meg's Socials:

1. IG - @author.meg.raby - https://www.instagram.com/author.meg.raby/
2. FB - Author Meg Raby - https://www.facebook.com/meg.raby.5
3. LinkedIn - Meg Raby Klinghoffer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-raby-klinghoffer-934a89269/

KultureCity Socials:

1. IG - @kulturecity - https://www.instagram.com/kulturecity/
2. FB - @kulturecity - https://www.facebook.com/kulturecity

Meg’s children’s books:

1. My Brother Otto https://amzn.to/47Pzykt
2. My Brother Otto and the Birthday Party https://amzn.to/49aKYSp

Meg shared about her ASD diagnosis and the link with Ehlers-Danlos, for more information see: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/

KultureCity

KultureCity app with Koji - includes venues with sensory materials, social stories, and Koji AI AAC app

KultureCity’s Make The Nevers Possible ® Experience Program

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

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We'll break down how to identify and tackle these behaviours both at home and in clinical settings, offering practical tips for parents and professionals alike. With a mix of personal anecdotes and clinical insights, we'll highlight the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind a child's actions rather than simply labelling them as “bad.” Whether it's figuring out how to manage hitting between siblings or navigating the complexities of communication, we've got you covered with strategies that promote empathy and effective intervention. So grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to turn those challenging moments into opportunities for growth!

Timestamps:

(01:10) - Welcome

(06:50) - Unmet Needs Behind Actions

(19:53) - Friman: No Such Thing As A "Bad" Boy

(33:38) - The Importance of Skill Building and Reinforcement

(46:19) - Balancing Feedback for Neurodiverse Children

(52:00) - Tips When Dealing With "Bad" Behaviour

(01:03:51) - Creating Predictability for Children

Mentioned In This Episode:

Articles:

• Chan, C. Y. Z., Williams, K., May, T., Wan, W. H., & Brignell, A. (2023). Is language ability associated with behaviours of concern in autism? A systematic review. Autism Research, 16(2), 250–270
• Friman, P. C. (2021). There is no such thing as a bad boy: The Circumstances View of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 54(2), 703–715

Blogs:

• Fostering Positive Behaviour in Children with a "Caught Ya Being Good” Jar

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

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• X
• YouTube
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Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

In this episode, we'll share our experiences as both clinicians and mothers, breaking down the myth that if a child isn’t talking, they aren't communicating. From pointing and tantrums to those adorable first sounds, we'll explore how every little expression matters and how we can support our little ones in their unique communication journeys. Plus, we'll sprinkle in some personal stories that make it all feel relatable and real. So settle in, and let's prepare to unpack the beautiful messiness of communication together!

Timestamps:

(01:32) - Welcome

(04:30) - Introduction To Early Communication

(09:05) - One Of The Biggest Myths

(14:10) - Function & Form

(21:25) - Milestones In Communication

(35:24) - Communication In The SLP/BA Fields

(45:43) - The Importance of Connection in Communication

(50:43) - Myth Busted: "All Behaviour Is Communication"

Articles Mentioned In This Episode:

• Greer, R. D. (2005). The evolution of verbal behavior in children. Behavioral Development Bulletin, 1(1), 31–47
• Conceição, D. B., Greer, R. D., & Moschella, J. L. (2022). A general outline of the verbal behavior developmental theory. Revista Brasileira de Terapia Comportamental e Cognitiva, 24, 1–39

Resources For Parents:

• LookSee
• M-CHAT

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

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Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

She kicks things off by diving into the challenges of navigating corporate environments while being true to herself. We chat about masking, how it impacts daily life, early/late diagnoses, and the resources Autism Canada offers to support individuals and families across Canada. Jamie’s insights are authentic & valuable, especially for anyone trying to figure out the complexities of autism—whether you’re a parent, a professional, or just someone curious about the experience. So, grab a comfy seat and get ready for a heartwarming and eye-opening conversation with Jamie McCleary. This conversation reminds us that representation isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Timestamps:

(01:28) - Welcome

(02:15) - Understanding Masking in Neurodiversity & Autism

(15:24) - Late Diagnoses

(22:56) - Navigating Parenting with Neurodivergent Children

(36:01) - Autism Canada Resources for Families

(44:56) - Community Assistance Program

(59:10) - Living In a World Not Designed For The Neurodiverse

Autism Canada Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

• Literacy program
• National Support Line for the Autistic and Neurodivergent Community
• Autism Junction
• Funding (by province)
• Community Assistance Program (CAP)
• Publications

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

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Throughout our chat, you’ll hear some real talk about the difference between child-led and adult-directed play, and why following a kiddo's lead can unlock their potential in ways structured activities just can’t. Using our experiences as mothers and clinicians, we'll share practical tips and strategies that make playtime a learning opportunity, packed with joy and connection.

By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered to create playful learning opportunities that will make a lasting impact on your children’s development. So, grab your favorite toy, and let’s get into how we can turn play into a bridge for communication!

Timestamps:

(01:25) - Welcome

(01:59) - Episode Learning Objectives

(05:05) - Have Fun & Be Silly

(06:09) - "Play is anything that sparks joy"

(18:30) - Identifying Joyful Moments

(26:30) - Understanding Adult Directed vs Child Led Play

(36:57) - Understanding Social Reciprocity in Communication

(44:20) - Understanding Verbal Behaviour Development Theory

(50:34) - The Importance of Context in Learning

(59:33) - Special Guests!

Articles Mentioned In This Episode:

• Tamara Kasper (SLP + BCBA)
• Akhbari Ziegler, S., & Hadders-Algra, M. (2020). "Coaching approaches in early intervention and paediatric rehabilitation." Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14493.
• Elbeltagi, R., Al-Beltagi, M., Saeed, N. K., & Alhawamdeh, R. (2023). "Play therapy in children with autism: Its role, implications, and limitations." World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, 12(1), 1-22. DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i1.1.
• Greer, R. Douglas, Jessica Dudek, and Hung Chang. "Observation, Language Learning, and Development: The Verbal Behavior Development Theory." The Psychological Record (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s40732-024-00585-1.

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

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Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

We'll share our insights as clinicians in the field, giving you the lowdown on what to watch for, how to approach it, and how to trust your gut without jumping to conclusions. Plus, we'll provide you with practical tips and resources to help navigate this journey together. So, whether you're a parent or a professional, tune in for some great advice on recognizing those early signs and fostering connection and communication with your child.

Timestamps:

(01:25) - Welcome & Introduction

(13:05) - Understanding Autism: Communication and Interaction

(21:35) - Understanding Sensory Differences in Children

(31:28) - Looking At Earliest Months Of Life

(33:36) - Understanding Parental Gut Feelings

(35:05) - Where To Start & First Steps To Take

(37:00) - Things to Try At Home

(39:34) - Visual Support Strategies

(40:39) - Setting Up Predictable Routines

(41:25) - Our Closing Message

Mentioned In This Episode:

Kennedy Krieger Institute, Early Signs of Autism Video

Articles:

• Gale, C. M., Eikeseth, S., & Klintwall, L. (2019)1. Children with autism show atypical preference for non-social stimuli2. [Journal title, volume, issue, and page/article numbers not explicitly provided in source excerpts].
• Okoye, C., Obialo-Ibeawuchi, C. M., Obajeun, O. A., Sarwar, S., Tawfik, C., Waleed, M. S., Wasim, A. U., Mohamoud, I., Afolayan, A. Y., & Mbaezue, R. N. (2023). Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder: A review and analysis of the risks and benefits. Cureus, 15(8), e43226.
• Salgado-Cacho, J. M., Moreno-Jiménez, M. d. P., & de Diego-Otero, Y. (2021). Detection of early warning signs in autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review. Children, 8(2), 164.
• Shultz, S., Klin, A., & Jones, W. (2018)45. Neonatal transitions in social behavior and their implications for autism67. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 22(5)45, 451–46945.
• Supekar, K., Kochalka, J., Schaer, M., Wakeman, H., Qin, S., Padmanabhan, A., & Menon, V. (2018)1011. Deficits in mesolimbic reward pathway underlie social interaction impairments in children with autism12. Brain11. [Volume, issue, page numbers, and DOI not explicitly provided in source excerpts].
• Volkmar, F. R., & van der Wyk, B. (2017)13. Understanding the social nature of autism: From clinical manifestations to brain mechanisms13. In J. B. Leaf (Ed.)13, Handbook of Social Skills and Autism Spectrum Disorder13 (pp. 11–25)13. Springer International Publishing AG13.

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We dive deep into her personal experiences—navigating the joys and challenges of parenting an autistic child, the common misconceptions about autism, and the crucial importance of early diagnosis and acceptance. With a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of heart, Mercedes emphasizes how vital it is for society to shift its perspective on autism from one of stigma to one of understanding and celebration. So, grab your headphones and get ready for a conversation that’s not just enlightening but also a reminder of the beauty in neurodiversity!

Timestamps:

(01:34) - Welcome

(11:10) - Autism: The Unique Experience of Autistic Girls

(18:18) - Autism Diagnosis and Acceptance

(21:55) - Navigating Early Signs of Autism

(29:45) - Challenges of Autism

(39:36) - Empowering Perspectives on Autism and Motherhood

(43:48) - Unique Experiences in Parenting

Mentioned In This Episode:

Articles:

• What is ARFID
• Emily Oster: Is Tylenol Safe in Pregnancy? Addressing links to autism and ADHD

Book Recommendations For Kids:

• Different, A Great Thing to Be (Heather Avis)
• Wonderfully Wired (Stacey Lucas-Toumbourou)
• A Day With No Words (Tiffany Hammond)
• I'm Still Me (Mary Raso)
• All My Stripes (Shaina Rudolph)
• My Brother Otto (Meg Raby)
• Jo's Special Gifts (Mariam Shapera)

Book Recommendations For Adults:

• Poems of the Neurodivergent Experience (Jaclyn Pensiero)
• The Reason I Jump (Naoki Higashida)
• Sincerely Your Autistic Child (Edited by Emily Paige Ballou)
• Off the Spectrum (Gina Rippon)

Autistic Voices To Follow On Socials:

• @fidgets.and.fries
• @audhd_academic
• @_soundoftheforest_
• @patrick.casale
• @morgaanfoley
• @audhd.fnd_andme
• @thejumpyautist
• @theautizztichabibbaddie
• @autistic_stitch
• @nigh.functioning.autism
• @sunitatheiss
• @blackspectrumscholar 
• @autism.conmigo
• @honestlyiwasspeechless
• @autistic.mykie
• @savvylifeskills
• @theneurodiversitymom
• @aut2ask

Follow Autism Out Loud:

• Instagram: @autismoutloud
• Facebook: Autism Out Loud

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

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Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

Transitioning isn't just about changing gears; it's a whole mental gymnastics routine! In this episode, we'll discuss the various systems at play, from executive functioning to emotional regulation, highlighting that asking kids to shift their focus is a big ask, especially when they’re leaving something they love, like their favorite toy or an exciting game. We'll talk about how both parents and professionals can step in to ease these transitions with real-life strategies that are both practical and, dare we say, fun! We'll also sprinkle in some personal anecdotes and a few laughs, because hey, we’re all in this together, right? So, if you're looking to make those tricky transitions a little easier for your kiddos, you’re in the right place because this episode is all about success, not stress.

Timestamps:

(01:24) - Welcome

(03:43) - Understanding Why Transitions Can Be So Hard

(06:54) - Rich vs. Lean Conditions

(13:35) - It's Not That They're Stubborn or "Bad"

(23:34) - "Three Term Contingency"

(28:00) - Our Go-To Transition Strategies

(35:25) - Tip: Shifting The Focus To What's Next

(41:05) - Tip: Get In Early With Reinforcement

(46:43) - Tailoring Strategies To Your Child

(47:41) - Tip: Staying Connected & Calm

(51:33) - Practicing Strategies In Different Contexts

(55:22) - Get Into Your Kiddos Mindset

Mentioned In This Episode:

• Our Transition Toolkit (Summer Edition)
• Banda, D. R., & Grimmett, E. (2008). Enhancing social and transition behaviors of persons with autism through activity schedules: A review. Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, 43(3), 324–33312.
• Jessel, J., Hanley, G. P., & Ghaemmaghami, M. (2016). A translational evaluation of transitions. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 49(2), 359–37656.
• Lequia, J., Wilkerson, K. L., Kim, S., & Lyons, G. L. (2014). Improving transition behaviors in students with autism spectrum disorders: A comprehensive evaluation of interventions in educational settings. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 1, 1–1378.
• Sevin, J. A., Rieske, R. D., & Matson, J. L. (2015). A review of behavioral strategies and support considerations for assisting persons with difficulties transitioning from activity to activity. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2, 329–342910.
• Tullis, C. A., Cannella-Malone, H. I., & Payne, D. O. (2014). Literature review of interventions for between-task transitioning for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2, 91–1021112.

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
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Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

We'll dive deep into how these tools—like visual schedules, comic strips, and beyond—can help kids learn and communicate needs effectively by making expectations clear and reducing anxiety. We'll share personal tips and tricks we've used in the clinic and at home, tackling everything from first-then boards to social stories. We'll also discuss common pitfalls and how to make these strategies work while also highlighting that visual supports are not a "one-size-fits-all" solution, but rather, they should be tailored to fit your unique kiddo's needs, preferences, and understanding. So, if you’re looking to amp up your teaching game with visuals, stick around for some great advice and a few laughs along the way!

Timestamps:

(01:24) - Welcome

(08:12) - Episode Overview

(09:42) - "First-Then" Boards in Behavioural Support

(20:13) - Common Implementation Errors

(37:44) - Transitioning with Visual Schedules

(39:11) - When Visual Schedules Don't Work

(46:55) - Social Stories

(53:07) - Visuals For Executive Functioning & Self Regulation

(01:01:42) - Comic Strip Conversations

(01:08:12) - Video Modeling as a Strategy

(01:17:35) - Visuals for Goal Setting and Progress Tracking

(01:26:17) - Stop, Think, Do

(01:30:00) - Reinforcement & Reward Strategies

(01:36:46) - Closing Tips For Therapy Sessions Or The Home

Materials We Love and Use:

• Elemenoe - Summer Visual Schedule

Articles Mentioned In This Episode:

• Como, Dominique H.; Goodfellow, Margaret; Hudak, Delaney; Cermak, Sharon A. A scoping review: Social stories supporting behavior change for individuals with Autism. J Occup Ther Sch Early Interv 2024;17(1):154–175. doi:10.1080/19411243.2023.2168824
• Ganz, Jennifer B.; Earles-Vollrath, Theresa L.; Cook, Katherine E. Video Modeling A Visually Based Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Teaching Exceptional Children 2011;43(6):8-19
• Hayes, Gillian R.; Hirano, Sen; Marcu, Gabriela; Monibi, Mohamad; Nguyen, David H.; Yeganyan, Michael. Interactive visual supports for children with autism. Pers Ubiquit Comput 2010;14:663–680. doi:10.1007/s00779-010-0294-8
• Leaf, Justin B.; Ferguson, Julia L.; Cihon, Joseph H.; Milne, Christine M.; Leaf, Ronald; McEachin, John. A Critical Review of Social Narratives. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities 2019. doi:10.1007/s10882-019-09692-2.
• Meadan, Hedda; Ostrosky, Michaelene M.; Triplett, Brooke; Michna, Amanda; Fettig, Angel. Using Visual Supports With Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Teaching Exceptional Children 2011;43(6):28-35

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
• YouTube
• TikTok

Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

Throughout this episode, we'll be pulling from our own experiences as clinicians to shine a light on how our understanding of neurodiversity has evolved—and why it matters. We’ll be chatting about the importance of recognizing each individual’s unique communication style and the need for a shift from compliance-focused practices to fostering real connections. So whether you’re a parent, a pro, or just curious, tune in as we explore how to celebrate and support neurodiversity in all its wonderful forms!

Timestamps:

(01:21) - Welcome

(03:11) - Introduction to Neuro Affirming Care

(12:49) - The Shift from Medical to Social Models of Disability

(20:41) - The History and Ethics of ABA

(32:25) - Controversy and Ethical Concerns in ABA

(47:22) - Understanding Neuro-Affirming Practices

(50:35) - Shifting the Narrative in Assessment Practices

(01:01:28) - Shifting Perspectives in SLP

Articles Mentioned In This Episode:

• Breaux, C. A. (2024). Assent practices in applied behavior analysis: the correlation between self-reported changes in practices and continuing education related to assent (Doctoral dissertation, University of Missouri--Columbia).
• Ghaemmaghami, M., Ruppel, K., Cammilleri, A. P., Fiani, T., & Hanley, G. P. (2024). Toward Compassion in the Assessment and Treatment of Severe Problem Behavior. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-14.
• Gorycki, K. A., Ruppel, P. R., & Zane, T. (2020). Is long-term ABA therapy abusive: A response to Sandoval-Norton and Shkedy. Cogent Psychology, 7(1), 1823615.
• Kirby, M. S., Spencer, T. D., & Spiker, S. T. (2022). Humble behaviorism redux. Behavior and Social Issues, 31(1), 133-158.
• Lamoureux, G.; Tessier, A.; Finlay, S.; Verduyckt, I. Critical Perspectives in Speech-Language Therapy: Towards Inclusive and Empowering Language Practices. Disabilities 2024, 4, 1006–1018.
• Leadbitter, K., Buckle, K. L., Ellis, C., & Dekker, M. (2021). Autistic self-advocacy and the neurodiversity movement: Implications for autism early intervention research and practice. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 635690.
• Kapp, S. K., Steward, R., Crane, L., Elliott, D., Elphick, C., Pellicano, E., & Russell, G. (2019). ‘People should be allowed to do what they like’: Autistic adults’ views and experiences of stimming. Autism, 23(7), 1782–1792. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361319829628
• Mathur, S. K., Renz, E., & Tarbox, J. (2024). Affirming Neurodiversity within Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-15.
• Sandoval-Norton, A. H., Shkedy, G., & Shkedy, D. (2019). How much compliance is too much compliance: Is long-term ABA therapy abuse?. Cogent Psychology, 6(1), 1641258.
• Veneziano, J., & Shea, S. (2023). They have a Voice; are we Listening?. Behavior analysis in practice, 16(1), 127-144.

Neuro-Affirming IG Pages We Love:

• ABA Visualized 
• ABAspeechbyrose
• ThepsychobabbleBCBAs

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
• YouTube
• TikTok

Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

We'll be breaking down what SLP & ABA are and how these two fields can come together to create a more effective and holistic treatment approach. We’ll also tackle some misconceptions about both fields, sprinkle in some practical tips for parents and professionals, and explore how we can all work better together for the benefit of our clients and kiddos. So kick back, and let’s get our collab on!

Timestamps:

(02:41) - Introduction to ABA

(13:03) - Introductions to Speech Pathology

(22:55) - The Importance of Data

(30:39) - Scope of Practice vs. Scope of Competency

(35:40) - Barriers to Collaboration

(37:32) - Risks of Poor Collaboration

(44:22) - Practical Tips for Professionals

Our Favourite Journal Articles on Collaboration: 

• Slim, L., & Reuter-Yuill, L. M. (2021). A Behavior-Analytic Perspective on Interprofessional Collaboration. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 14(4), 1238–1248. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-021-00602-7
• Bowman, K. S., Suarez, V. D., & Weiss, M. J. (2021). Standards for Interprofessional Collaboration in the Treatment of Individuals With Autism. Behaviour Analysis in Practice, 14 (4), 1–26. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-021-00560-0
• Brodhead, M. T. (2015). Maintaining Professional Relationships in an Interdisciplinary Setting: Strategies for Navigating Nonbehavioral Treatment Recommendations for Individuals with Autism. Behaviour Analysis in Practice, 8 (1), 70–78. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-015-0042-7

Blogs We Like: 

• https://www.abainternational.org/constituents/practitioners/interprofessional-collaborative-practice.aspx
• https://asatonline.org/research-treatment/book-reviews/review-of-interprofessional-collaborative-practice/

Books We Recommend:

• Gerenser, J. E., & Koenig, M. (2019). ABA for SLPs: Interprofessional collaboration for autism support teams. Brookes Publishing.

Groups We Recommend:

• SPABA SIG https://www.facebook.com/SPABASIGofABAI 
• SLP's Against Pseudoscience https://www.facebook.com/SLPsAgainstPseudoscience

Courses We Love:

EBIC Early Behavioural Intervention Curriculum, Francesca degli Espinosa, Ph.D. | BCBA-D | CPsychol. https://abaclinic.net/behaviour-analysis-courses/

****

Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
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• X
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Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

In this episode, we delve into our motivations for establishing this podcast, emphasizing our commitment to bridging the divide between research and practical application in the realms of autism and neurodiversity. Our discussions cover our vision of fostering collaboration among professionals and providing actionable insights for parents and clinicians alike. We aspire to offer pragmatic strategies that can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines, thereby enhancing the lives of neurodiverse individuals and their families.

Join us as we embark on this journey of exploration and learning, dedicated to cultivating a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and its implications in our professional practices.

Timestamps:

(01:09) - Welcome

(04:02) - SLP & ABA: Difficulties In Working Together

(05:28) - Need For Evidence-Based Discussions

(11:40) - What To Expect From This Podcast

(15:17) - What Inspired Us To Start

(22:17) - Bridging The Gap Between SLP & ABA

(28:37) - What Brought Us Together

(30:36) - What's Next For Us

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
• YouTube
• TikTok

Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com or send us a DM on Instagram!

New Episodes every other Monday!

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Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire.

Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning.

Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info:

Follow us:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
• YouTube
• TikTok

Contact:

Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com