SEND Parenting Podcast

Episode 99Amanda Ashy's inspiring journey from television producer to a champion for neurodiverse children offers a unique perspective on parenting. Join us as Amanda, a clinical nutritionist, mindfulness expert, and yoga teacher, shares how she transformed her life and career to focus on family regulation, connection, and resilience. Get ready to uncover the profound impact of mindfulness and somatics in nurturing behaviour patterns and resilience, as Amanda highlights the importance of understanding the whole body, including emotions and nutrition, for achieving well-being.This episode navigates the emotional complexities faced by neurodivergent children and the phenomenon of masking in school settings. Amanda provides insights into how these challenges often manifest at home, offering practical tools to decode children's behaviour and map out their unique experiences. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, we explore the evolution of parenting styles and how connecting with oneself can foster a loving environment for children. Amanda introduces the Parent Reset Program, a transformative initiative guiding parents from fear-based to love-based discipline to nurture deep connections and harmonious relationships.As we journey through the multifaceted world of parenting, discover empowering strategies for self-care and boundary-setting. Learn how to maintain calm during challenging conversations and the art of co-regulation. Amanda emphasises the significance of fostering an environment where neurodiverse children can thrive, offering tips on sensory management, dietary adjustments, and soothing routines. We conclude with a heartfelt call to choose love over fear, celebrate the power of community and invite listeners to join our private Send Parenting WhatsApp community for support and shared wisdom.Amanda Ashy Instagram LinkJoin the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp. Either click here or send a message to +447856915105  , and I will personally add you to the private group, where we can connect and support each other.www.sendparenting.com

Click here for a link to sign up for the event.Hello, Neuro Nurturers,I am beyond excited to share this incredible milestone with you—the 100th episode of the SEND Parenting Podcast!🎙 This journey has been one of connection, learning, and empowerment, and I could not have done it without you. Your stories, your resilience, and your love for your children have been the heart of everything we do here.To celebrate, we have planned something truly special—a week-long event series featuring some of the podcast's most beloved guests. These amazing experts and advocates are returning to share what they have been working on since we last spoke, all with the goal of supporting and uplifting neurodiverse families like yours.Signing up is quick and easy. Just click the link below to secure your spot for one, two, or all of the sessions. These events are pre-recorded but include a live chat, so you can ask questions, share insights, and connect with me, our guests, and other parents throughout.Based on feedback from our SEND Parenting Community, we have included a mix of evening and lunchtime sessions to suit your schedules. Whether you prefer to join us after the kids are in bed or during your lunch break, we have got you covered. 🗓 Event Schedule:Monday, 2nd December, 8 PM: Nutrition and Neurodiversity with Dr. Lucinda MillerTuesday, 3rd December, 12 PM: Disengaged with Education with Dr. Chris BagleyWednesday, 4th December, 8 PM: Dealing with Conflict at Home with Sarah FischerThursday, 5th December, 8 PM: How Not to Screw Up Your Kids with Dr. MaryhanFriday, 6th December, 12 PM: Navigate SEND in Education with Chrissa Wadlow and Kelly JarvisHere is what makes this celebration so special:Real-Time Connection: During each event, you can join the live chat to ask questions, share your thoughts, or simply connect with other parents who truly understand.Actionable Insights: Every guest will bring fresh perspectives and practical tips that you can use to make life easier and more meaningful for you and your family.Community Celebration: This is not just a celebration of the podcast but a celebration of you—our incredible community of warriors who advocate fiercely for your children and their unique needs.This week is about honouring how far we have come together while looking ahead to all the possibilities that await. I cannot wait to celebrate this special moment with all of you. So, please mark your calendars, RSVP for the events, and get ready to connect, learn, and celebrate with us.RSVP HereThank you for being part of this journey. You have made the SEND Parenting Podcast what it is today—a safe, empowering space for parents navigating the neurodiverse parenting journey.See you there! Warmly, Dr. Oliviawww.sendparenting.com

Episode 98Unlock the secrets of gestalt language processing as we sit down with Kathy Schilling, a leading speech and language therapist and the visionary behind the Speech Den. Cathy unravels the intricacies of this unique form of communication, especially prevalent among neurodiverse children, and how it contrasts with traditional language development. Dive into the world of echolalia, where children’s repeated phrases hold profound meaning, serving as more than just mimicry. We explore the pioneering works of Anne Peters and Dr. Barry Prizant, along with Marge Blanc's influential study, which laid the groundwork for the natural language acquisition framework.Discover how to become an astute detective in recognising and supporting gestalt language processors (GLPs). Cathy and I shed light on identifying early signs like echolalia, where children's echoed phrases from media and interactions are meaningful communicative attempts. We emphasise the role of parents in interpreting these signals, which sometimes include non-verbal cues like replaying media clips. Learn strategies to nurture these unique communication styles, enhancing understanding neurodiverse children’s distinct language paths.This episode is a guide to fostering a supportive learning environment tailored to the individual needs of GLPs. Cathy shares stories and practical insights on the significance of intrinsic motivation, challenging traditional literacy methods, and embracing child-led learning. Hear compelling narratives that illustrate how understanding gestalt thinking can transform educational approaches, especially in the face of cognitive disruptions. We wrap up with actionable advice for parents who suspect their child might be a GLP, stressing the importance of observation, patience, and professional consultation in supporting their unique communicative journey.Key Recommendations and ResourcesBooksNatural Language Acquisition on the Autism Spectrum: The Journey from Echolalia to Self-Generated Language by Marge Blanc (available soon at the Speech Den).Additional handouts and resources on GLP at Natural Communication Center.Webinars and CoursesFree one-hour webinar by Alexandria Zakos on GLP through Meaningful Speech.Parent and professional training programs offered by Cathy’s team at the Speech Den.Social Media and BlogsFollow these experts for strategies, insights, and affirming practices:Alexandria Zakos (@MeaningfulSpeech)Rachel Dorsey, SLP (@RachelDorseySLP)Crescendo Communication (@CrescendoComm)Happy Chatters (Autism-specific after-school support in London)Additional InsightsCathy recommends checking out Learn Play Thrive’s podcast episode featuring Alexandria Zakos on GLPs.Occupational Therapy by Kelsey Olds focuses on regulation and sensory-based play.Activities like music therapy and sensory engagement can help children regulate and communicate effectively.For Further ExplorationVisit The Speech Den for Cathy’s courses and resources.Explore Instagram for practical daily tips from experts like @HappyChatters and @MeaningfulSpeech.Investigate your child’s unique sensory preferences and play preferences to better support their communication.Join the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp. Either click here or send a message to +447856915105  , and I will personally add you to the private group, where we can cwww.sendparenting.com

Episode 97Unlock the secrets of effective communication in neurodiverse families with invaluable insights from Dr. Kahn, a clinical psychologist and ADHD advocate. Discover how emotional regulation plays a pivotal role in shaping interactions between parents and children, and even between partners themselves. Dr. Kahn shares her personal journey with ADHD, diagnosed at the age of 33, and provides practical strategies for navigating familial tensions, particularly when one parent is hesitant about seeking an ADHD evaluation for their child.Navigate the complex world of parenting within neurodiverse families and learn how to tackle the unique challenges that come with it. From understanding the dynamics when both or just one parent is neurodivergent, to the hurdles faced by single parents, particularly mothers, in advocating for their children, our conversation offers a deep dive into these intricacies. We also explore how neurodivergent individuals often find a more forgiving and supportive environment among each other, fostering stronger family bonds.Gain insights into managing emotional dysregulation with effective strategies, such as the use of visual aids and rewards in therapy, and uncover the misunderstood power of extrinsic motivation. Dr. Kahn discusses the unique challenges of emotional regulation for children and adolescents with ADHD and autism, advocating for a compassionate approach that understands the root causes of emotional outbursts. Finally, we explore the profound impact of hormonal changes on neurodiversity, particularly in women experiencing menopause or perimenopause, emphasising the importance of compassion and understanding within family dynamics.Join the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp. Either click here or send a message to +447856915105  , and I will personally add you to the private group, where we can connect and support each other.Click here for more Dr Gilly Kahnwww.sendparenting.com