The Autism Mums Podcast

• Navigating the Waiting Game: Essential Tips for Parents of Kids with Autism

  In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast, we discuss the challenges faced by parents navigating the waiting period for their child's autism diagnosis. We explore strategies for gathering evidence, advocating for support, and managing the differences in behaviour between home and school settings. With practical tips and personal insights, we aim to empower parents to take proactive steps during this often frustrating and isolating time.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the Waiting Game: Many parents face the challenge of navigating the waiting period for their child's autism diagnosis, often feeling isolated and unsure of the next steps.Coping at Home vs. School: Children may present differently at school compared to home, leading to discrepancies in support. It’s vital to gather evidence of behaviours at home to advocate effectively.Gathering Evidence: Documenting your child's struggles through video recordings or diaries can provide crucial evidence when communicating with schools and professionals.Utilising School Resources: Engage with schools to explore options like re-engagement sessions, youth workers, or alternative therapies that can provide support and evidence for assessments.Professional Input Matters: Involving various professionals—such as therapists, tutors, and behavioural nurses—can strengthen your case for support and diagnosis by offering diverse perspectives on your child's needs.Stay Proactive: Regularly follow up with schools and professionals regarding assessments, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your MP if you encounter significant delays in the process.Explore Alternative Routes: Consider different pathways for assessments, such as CAMHS or private assessments, which may have shorter waiting times compared to traditional routes.Community Support: Connecting with other parents and support groups can provide invaluable advice and encouragement during the challenging waiting period.Self-Care for Parents: Acknowledge the emotional toll that waiting for a diagnosis can take, and we really recommend prioritising self-care to maintain your well-being while advocating for your child.Resource Recommendations: Explore recommended books and resources that can provide further insight and support for navigating autism-related challenges.Mentioned in This EpisodeThe Explosive Child by Ross GreeneRaising The SEN-Betweeners by Lisa LloydAspergers Syndrome by Tony AttwoodThe Girl with the Curly Hair by Alis RoweConnect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmumsFollow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmumsFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmumsTranscriptNavigating the Waiting Game: Essential Tips for Parents of Kids with AutismNatalie Tealdi: [00:00:00] in this episode, we discuss the challenges faced by parents navigating the waiting period for their child's autism diagnosis. We explorestrategies for gathering evidence, advocating for support, andmanaging the differences in behavior between home and schoolsettings.Practical tips and personalinsights. We want parents to know that we get how...

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• Challenging Behaviours, A Late Autism Diagnosis and Motherness with Julie Green

  In this episode Victoria and Natalie chat with Julie Green, author of Motherness, to explore the realities of parenting through autism both as a mum to an autistic son and as a woman who discovered her own autism later in life.BiographyJulie M. Green is a Canadian writer whose work has been featured in the Washington Post, HuffPost, The Globe and Mail, Today’s Parent, and Chatelaine. She has appeared on CTV, BBC Radio, SiriusXM, and CBC Radio. She writes The Autistic Mom on Substack. For more information, visit JulieMGreen.ca.Key TakeawaysAutism in girls and women can look very different from the traditional stereotypes. Julie explains that while boys can be identified through visible traits like lining up toys or having clear special interests, girls may channel their autistic traits into more socially acceptable interestsMany girls mask their differences by copying peersThe importance of seeing challenging behaviour as communication, not defiance.How self-compassion and reframing past experiences can heal years of misunderstanding and self-blameThe need for schools and systems to replace punishment with understanding and co-regulation.Mentioned in This EpisodeMotherness: A Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical AcceptanceThe Autistic Mom Substack The Explosive Child: A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible by Ross W GreenNational Autistic SocietyConnect with Julie GreenWebsite: juliemgreen.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliem.greenSubstack: https://theautisticmom.substack.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-m-green-34bb1845/Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmumsFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmumsFollow us on TikTok

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• Essential Advocacy Tips for Parents of Neurodivergent Children with Greer Jones

  In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we welcome Greer Jones to the show.BiographyGreer Jones is a speaker, writer, and podcast host passionate about building understanding and connection in the neurodiverse world. As a mom raising an autistic and ADHD child, and part of a neurodivergent couple herself, she brings honesty, empathy, and lived experience to her work. She is the creator of The Unfinished Idea podcast and online community, where she provides encouragement, practical tools, and a reminder that no one has to walk this journey alone. Her story has been featured in podcasts, conferences, and publications, inspiring families to embrace their unique path with hope and courage.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding Neurodiversity: Greer emphasises that autism and ADHD manifest differently in each individual, highlighting the importance of recognising and valuing each child's unique strengths and challenges.Advocacy Experience: Greer shares her experience of advocating for her son, stressing the need for parents to be proactive in navigating educational and healthcare systems.Building Community: Connecting with other parents and families facing similar challenges can provide invaluable support, encouragement, and shared strategies for managing daily life.Positive Framing: Starting meetings with positive affirmations about a child helps shift the focus from deficits to strengths, fostering a more collaborative atmosphere.Partnership with Schools: Greer advocates for a partnership approach with educators, emphasising the importance of regular communication and collaboration to support a child's needs effectively.Managing Expectations: Understanding that neurodivergent children may struggle with transitions and choices allows parents to adjust their expectations and provide necessary support.Embracing Flexibility: Greer discusses the importance of adapting plans and routines according to a child's needs, especially during challenging periods, to minimise overwhelm.Creating Safe Spaces: Providing children with tools and strategies, such as sensory items or designated "fun bags," can help them navigate overwhelming situations more comfortably.Mentioned in This EpisodeThe Unfinished Idea Podcast with Greer JonesConnect with GreerWebsite – http://theunfinishedidea.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/theunfinishedidea/Connect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmumsFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmumsFollow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmumsTranscriptVictoria Bennion: Welcome to the podcast.Greer Jones: Thank you. Yeah. Thanks for having me. , I'm glad to be here.Victoria Bennion: It's great to have the chance to talk to you after meeting you at the Send RallyGreer Jones: Yeah, it was fun. I found that really just be really impactful because I got to meet so many people in person that I know online and have seen online. So yeah, it was good.Natalie Tealdi: Can you start by [00:02:00]...

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• This Week in Our World: Reflecting on Panorama, EHCPs and Everyday Struggles

  In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we're reflecting on the Panorama documentary, EHCPs and everyday struggles from socks to lunch boxes.Key TakeawaysThe reality behind EHCPs – why the process can be emotionally draining, time-consuming, and often leaves families feeling powerless.When inclusion isn’t inclusion – the difference between being in school and actually being supported to thrive.The ripple effect of sensory struggles – how something as small as socks or a change in routine can unravel a whole morning.Food battles and 'safe foods' – understanding why eating can be so complex for autistic children and why parents shouldn’t face judgment for feeding what works.Navigating seasonal changes – how weather, clothing, and sensory shifts can bring new challenges for children who rely on predictability.The need for empathy over judgment – whether it’s food, clothes, or school attendance, understanding should always come before criticism.Mentioned in This EpisodeBBC Panorama Documentary: Autism, School and Families on the Edge presented by Kellie BrightEHCP (Education, Health and Care Plans) - learn more hereARFID and sensory-based eating challenges - learn more hereConnect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmumsFollow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmumsFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmumsTranscriptThis Week in Our World:Reflecting on Panorama, EHCPs and Everyday Struggles [00:00:00] Victoria Bennion:This week we watched Kelly Bright's Panorama documentary called Autism Schooland Families on the Edge, and it was really interesting watching. So we wantedto take today to reflect on the program and chat about things in general thathave come up for us and our childrenVictoria Bennion: .so what did you think about the program? Nat.Natalie Tealdi: Ithought it was really great to give. Exposure about the issues of EHCPs. Imean, it was largely based around EHCPs, wasn't it? And it definitely broughtback lots of memories. I think it's that, that place where you are at, whereyou don't really know much about what's going on and you're kind of trying towork out how to support your child.Victoria Bennion:Yeah. Natalie Tealdi: theright environment is for them, getting them the right support, not reallyknowing what that support is or what even are the options for support.Victoria Bennion:That's right. It's a really stressful time. And I think that it, hopefully, ithighlighted that it's quite a lengthy process and that it requires quite a lotof you as...

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• Redefining Success for Families with Neurodivergent Children with Talia Zamora

  In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we welcome Talia Zamora to the show.BiographyTalia Zamora, Award-Winning Coach and bestselling co-author, encourages and uplifts women from Neurodivergent families who are struggling to find balance, clarity, and direction through bespoke one-to-one coaching. With a supportive, accepting, and inclusive approach, she helps clients reconnect with their self-worth, build confidence, and set realistic, meaningful goals that align with their lives. Drawing on both lived experience and professional expertise, Talia’s unique coaching style empowers women to take control, make progress, and redefine success on their own terms. Her work is grounded in simplicity, compassion, and the power of being truly seen and understood.Key TakeawaysAccidental Journey to Coaching: Talia’s path to becoming a coach began unexpectedly, driven by her own experiences as a parent of neurodivergent children.Identifying Common Struggles: Many neurodivergent families face challenges related to societal expectations and the pressure to conform to typical parenting norms.The Importance of Self-Compassion: Talia emphasizes the need for parents to recognize their unique family dynamics and to approach parenting with kindness toward themselves.Momentum vs. Balance: Talia discusses the concept of prioritizing momentum over traditional work-life balance, focusing on maintaining progress rather than achieving a perfect equilibrium.Breakthrough Moments: Clients often experience significant breakthroughs when they learn to communicate their needs and establish boundaries in both personal and professional contexts.Creating a Supportive Environment: Talia highlights the value of creating a nurturing atmosphere at home that accommodates the unique needs of neurodivergent children.Practical Tools for Change: The episode offers actionable strategies for parents, including the idea of a "done list" to celebrate achievements and the importance of questioning societal norms in parenting.Mentioned in This EpisodeTalia's 101 Neurodivergent Traits download is available here: https://www.taliazamora.com/Talia's Wellness Day:Unmask & UnwindA Neurodivergent-Friendly Wellness Day on Saturday 19th October 2025 for Women Who Want to Thrive. If you’ve been craving a day to slow down, breathe, and refill your cup this is your invitation.Find out more here: https://www.taliazamora.com/wellnessdayConnect with [email protected] www.taliazamora.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/taliazamora/ https://www.facebook.com/TaliaZamoraBusinessandFamilyCoachConnect with The Autism MumsWebsite – https://theautismmums.com/Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmumsFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmumsFollow us on...

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