The Special Parent Podcast

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to having meaningful and effective conversations about sexuality with neurodivergent children in this enlightening episode. Join me as I sit down with Amy Lang, a celebrated sexuality educator with a focus on neurodiversity. Amy shares her inspiring journey from general sex education to a specialized focus, which was driven by her personal experiences and the glaring lack of resources for neurodivergent families. Together, we address the intricacies and unique challenges of discussing sexual health with neurodivergent kids, emphasizing the importance of using proper anatomical terms and fostering open, honest dialogue to ensure a safe and informed environment for young minds.We navigate the critical role parents play in supporting their children's exploration of sexuality. From understanding teenage sexuality to preparing children for sexual health responsibilities, we provide a toolkit for parents to engage in these essential conversations, encouraging a sex-positive perspective and nurturing stronger family bonds.This episode also tackles the tough subjects of STIs, pregnancy, and pornography, especially in the context of neurodivergent and disabled individuals. Learn effective communication strategies to address these sensitive topics, while empowering your children with the knowledge they need to navigate their social environments safely. With resources like Amy's book "Sex Talks with Tweens", parents will be better equipped to maintain open lines of communication and guide their children toward a healthy understanding of sexuality. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your parenting arsenal with expert advice from Amy Lang.Follow Amy:Facebook- @BirdsBeesKidsInstagram- @BirdsBeesKidsBirds & Bees & Kids - https://birdsandbeesandkids.comSupport the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textUncover the keys to helping your child conquer back-to-school anxiety with the Special Parent Podcast. Join us for an enriching conversation with Shauna Fox as we explore strategies to support children, especially those with special needs, in navigating the emotional landscape of returning to the classroom. Discover how to validate your child's feelings, while teaching them that emotions don't always equate to reality. Our discussion provides insights into addressing classroom anxiety, social stress, and personal grief, ensuring your child feels confident and understood as they face these external pressures.Empower your child's morning routine with practical tips designed to foster independence, particularly for those with ADHD. From personalized checklists to music playlists, learn how to turn chaotic mornings into seamless starts. We emphasize building resilience through controlled exposure to fear, allowing children to gain confidence and inner strength. Parents can benefit too, as we share strategies to manage the challenges along this journey. Join us in this episode for a wealth of knowledge to support your child's emotional well-being and boost their confidence for the school year ahead.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textCan anxiety really be a stepping stone to growth? Join me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast to unravel this intriguing concept, inspired by insights from Lisa DeMoor. This episode offers a heartfelt promise to equip you with the tools to empower your children in navigating their anxieties. By focusing on normalizing anxiety as an essential part of development, we delve into the art of asking open-ended questions that encourage genuine expression without fixating on fear. Discover how validating emotions and celebrating small victories can build resilience, supported by both modern psychology and timeless biblical wisdom. We then explore actionable strategies for managing anxiety, tailored especially for children. Learn how modeling positive coping mechanisms and implementing rewarding systems like mantras and visualizations can transform anxious moments into opportunities for growth. Practical techniques such as gratitude exercises, sensory experiences, and reframing negative thoughts are just some of the tools that can aid in this journey. We also shed light on tackling school-related anxiety by shifting from emotion-driven to more rational responses, providing insights that are as practical as they are empowering. Together, let's embark on this journey of understanding and support, because you're not alone—we've got this.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textDiscover the incredible potential of neurofeedback therapy with our special guest, Sheri Reichman, a seasoned neurotherapist. Together, we navigate the promising world of neurofeedback, offering hope to families seeking alternative therapies for children with special needs. This episode promises to unveil how training brainwaves can lead to remarkable transformations in behavior, cognitive function, and emotional regulation. Sheri and I share personal stories of how incorporating neurofeedback and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) into our children's routines has significantly reduced reliance on medication and brought about positive changes.Explore the unique benefits of neurofeedback therapy for nonverbal children, especially those on the autism spectrum. We dive into the science of EEG monitoring, explaining how it allows children to engage without verbal communication, often resulting in breakthroughs in emotional connections and communication. With insights from reputable institutes, we highlight how neurofeedback addresses symptoms of ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. Learn about the holistic approach involving HBOT and the importance of adaptability and healing through therapies offered by East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, which include specialty labs, genetic testing, and nutritional counseling. Join us for a transformative discussion that could just be the key to unlocking new possibilities for your child's growth and development.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textWhat if you could unlock a new world of possibilities for your child with special needs? This week on the Special Parent Podcast, we have exciting insights to share as Sheri Reichman, a board-certified neurotherapist from East Valley Naturopathic Doctors, joins us. We explore the incredible potential of neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for children with autism and ADHD. Sheri brings her wealth of experience to the table, and together, we discuss how these alternative therapies can provide results that traditional medications might not.Dive into our conversation about the personalized approach to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, where comfort and flexibility are key. We discuss how private chambers can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, making this therapy not only effective but also an enjoyable experience. From managing pressure changes to integrating screen time as a motivational tool, we cover creative strategies that make therapy sessions something children look forward to. Plus, we explore the advantages of home-use units, offering families the convenience of frequent sessions in their own space.In our exploration of comprehensive therapy options, we discover how combining HBOT with neurofeedback can amplify the benefits and support overall brain health. Trevor's story illustrates the importance of addressing underlying health issues for the best outcomes, while Sheri shares invaluable advice on maximizing insurance benefits and crafting tailored treatment plans. This episode equips you with knowledge and hope, providing you with the tools to navigate your own family's journey with confidence. Whether you're new to alternative therapies or looking to expand your options, this episode is filled with insights and encouragement. Remember, you've got this!Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textImagine standing in a bustling grocery store with a child mid-tantrum, feeling the eyes of strangers on you and wondering how to regain control with love and understanding. Join me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast as we unravel these intense moments and explore strategies to discipline children with special needs in ways that affirm their unique potential. This episode promises to equip you with practical tools to navigate the chaos with grace and patience, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.Our journey begins with the critical task of setting clear boundaries, a cornerstone of effective parenting. We delve into techniques like using quick, concise directions to help children navigate emotional turbulence, with a spotlight on strategies tailored for kids with a history of trauma. Consistency is key, and we'll discuss how building trust can lead to emotional resilience, enabling children to learn the art of self-regulation over time. Through examples and real-life anecdotes, discover how creative consequences, such as planned ignoring for attention-seeking behaviors, can lead to valuable learning moments without resorting to punitive measures.In the final segment, we tackle the daunting subject of managing public tantrums with composure. Learn how to distinguish between a typical tantrum and an emotional outburst stemming from sensory overload. With insights on implementing visual communication tools and immediate rewards, gain confidence in guiding your child towards improved behavior. Let this episode be a reminder that progress, no matter how small, is a victory, and parenting is a journey filled with love, patience, and unwavering belief in your child's ability to thrive.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textCan discipline really be a tool for growth and empowerment in children with special needs? On this follow-up to episode 22 of the Special Parent Podcast, we're tackling this profound question head-on. We'll explore the internal struggles parents often face when setting boundaries, and how these decisions can influence our children's potential to learn and thrive. Join me as I share personal stories and professional insights from therapists, respite providers, and fellow parents who have navigated these challenging yet rewarding waters.Discover the nuances of behavior modification with practical reinforcement strategies tailored to the unique needs of special children. We’ll clarify the differences between positive and negative reinforcement and emphasize the crucial role of consistency. Understanding each child's cognitive and developmental stages is key, and we’ll discuss why a unified approach among caregivers is so vital. You'll learn about the importance of community support and creative, individualized solutions to behavioral challenges.Finally, we'll highlight the indispensable role of siblings and the power of teamwork in fostering positive behaviors. From setting clear goals to implementing effective strategies, we cover it all. Plus, we emphasize the importance of self-care for parents and the magic of celebrating small victories. By creating a "wins jar," you can document and reflect on those positive moments that fuel motivation and resilience. So tune in for an empowering message: you've got this, and your child has the potential to flourish with the right discipline and support.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textCan disciplining your special needs child strengthen or strain your marriage? Join Brian and me, as we share practical insights and heartwarming stories on the Special Parent Podcast. Hear how we navigate the often challenging waters of setting consistent expectations for our children, both with and without disabilities. We promise you'll come away with new strategies for training behavior positively and managing your reactions to those tricky negative actions.Discover the keys to promoting responsibility and independence in your children without the pressure of striving for perfection. We dig into the importance of modeling accountability and the power of giving your child choices to foster a sense of autonomy. Listen as we share relatable anecdotes, like handling cell phone etiquette during family conversations, to illustrate the real-world application of effective parenting strategies.Finally, we tackle the complex issue of behavior modification, especially in the context of modern technology. Learn from our personal experiences with our oldest son on the spectrum and the delicate balance of allowing responsible phone use. Consistency is crucial, but so is patience and adaptation, and we discuss how to keep all caregivers on the same page. We close the episode with heartfelt gratitude to our listeners and supporters, underscoring how your involvement makes the Special Parent Podcast a beacon of support for parents everywhere.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textWhat if the feelings of isolation and loneliness you’ve been grappling with could be the very catalyst for a transformative journey? This week on the Special Parent Podcast, we sit down with Annie Carter, a resilient life coach and single mom, who opens up about her heartfelt experiences of raising a child with autism. From recognizing the early signs in her son, to facing initial resistance from medical professionals, and finally finding effective therapies, Annie’s journey is a testament to patience, unconditional love, and the power of advocacy. Her touching stories of navigating the highs and lows of special needs parenting will resonate deeply with anyone on a similar path.Ever wondered how a life coach can help you overcome emotional challenges, much like a soccer coach guiding their team? Annie shares invaluable insights into the practical steps life coaching offers, emphasizing the importance of thought work and the role it plays in conquering loneliness and building resilience. We also delve into the distinction between life coaching and therapy, and explore innovative tools like the Marco Polo app that provide real-time support and validation, making the process of managing emotions much more effective. Through Annie’s expertise, listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to take actionable steps towards a more fulfilling and connected life.Connecting with others on an emotional level can often feel daunting, especially when grappling with feelings of rejection and self-worth. Annie courageously shares her personal battles with depression, the pain of broken relationships, and the journey to finding self-acceptance. Together, we explore the universal nature of emotions and the power of empathy in fostering deep, meaningful connections. Drawing from her experiences as a special needs parent, Annie discusses the importance of reparenting oneself through their children and teaching them resilience. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the joys and challenges of parenting, and a reminder of the transformative power of empathy and self-love. Join us for a conversation filled with hope, healing, and the celebration of milestones that make the journey worthwhile.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textCan you imagine a world where your child views anxiety not as a debilitating foe, but as a manageable part of life? That's exactly what I aim to achieve in this episode of the Special Parent Podcast. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, we're going to demystify anxiety, normalizing it while empowering you and your children to face it head-on. In this episode, I'm sharing practical strategies and heartwarming stories, including my own son's panic attack at a festival, illustrating the importance of resilience and strategic planning in real-life situations. This conversation is a treasure trove of advice for parents who are eager to support their children through anxious moments without sheltering them from life's inevitable stressors.Join us as we explore the powerful impact of building confidence in children to face their fears. Dr. Iverson shares how to validate emotions without letting them rule decisions, using tools like role-playing and strategic approaches to foster logical and thoughtful responses. She emphasizes celebrating small victories and the value of empathy, offering insights on how to reframe thoughts to manage anxiety better. This episode is a must-listen for parents who aspire to raise resilient, confident children, equipped with the life skills they need to navigate anxiety successfully. Prepare to walk away with actionable tips and a renewed sense of hope for managing childhood anxiety.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textCan music and games really help both parents and children transition smoothly back to school? That’s exactly what we discuss with our wonderful guest, Shawna Fox, in this episode of the Special Parent Podcast. We explore practical techniques to shift from an emotional state to a logical thinking brain, making the start of the school year a little less stressful. From dancing in the car to celebrating small wins with special treats, Shawna shares personal stories that highlight how simple pleasures can lead to big improvements.Ever tried celebrating the first day of school with an ice cream outing? We delve into family traditions that ease back-to-school stress and explore the significance of simple rewards in motivating children. Tackling common challenges like school transportation for special needs children, we provide proactive strategies for smoother arrangements, such as checking bus schedules and providing comfort items. Our experiences emphasize the importance of patience and understanding, showing that even the small steps can make a significant impact.Parenthood is a rollercoaster of emotions, especially when raising differently-abled children. Shawna and I share humorous and heartfelt anecdotes, such as dealing with stubborn cowlicks on picture day or the emotional toll of school drop-offs. We emphasize resilience and the power of adapting parenting styles to meet unique needs. Through humor and celebrating small victories, we aim to bring joy and empowerment to your back-to-school journey, reminding you that it's okay to embrace the chaos and find laughter along the way.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textStruggling with back-to-school anxiety? Imagine if a simple scent could help ease your child's transition. In part two of our series on back-to-school stressors, Shawna and I share inventive ways to empower your children and reduce the stress that comes with the new school year. From establishing pre-school routines to using familiar scents like vanilla candles at bedtime, we discuss practical methods that can make this annual upheaval smoother. We also highlight the importance of supporting and listening to your kids as they navigate the complexities of new teachers, classmates, and social circles.Tune in for heartfelt stories and actionable advice! I recount my own experiences, like how I reached out to my son's new teachers before the school year started to give them a heads-up about his unique needs and vibrant sense of style. By recognizing your child's bravery in facing these transitions, you can help normalize their anxieties and boost their confidence. Don't miss out on tips that can make this school year a positive and empowering experience for your entire family. Listen and discover how to turn back-to-school stress into an opportunity for growth and resilience.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textEver wondered how to ease the back-to-school transition for your special needs child? Join us for part 1 of 3 of an enlightening conversation with Dr. Deanna Iverson and special guest, Shawna Fox, as they share their personal journeys and hard-earned wisdom. As both educators and parents of special needs children, Dr. D and Shawna dive into the common stressors parents face at the start of a new school year, from coordinating transportation and lunches to ensuring teachers are well-informed about their child's unique needs. Shawna even reveals her creative solution involving Tic Tacs, offering a fresh perspective on managing complex medical and psychological needs.We'll also explore practical strategies for managing back-to-school stress, focusing on the power of effective communication with teachers and establishing structured schedules and routines. Learn how to create positive responses to anxiety, pick the right moments to address negative behaviors, and serve as a role model for stress management. We emphasize the importance of family traditions and daily routines to provide emotional stability. Tune in for actionable tips like adjusting sleep and food schedules, using music to manage time, and incorporating sensory cues into your child's daily routine. Whether you're a seasoned parent of a special needs child or new to the journey, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help make the transition back to school smoother for everyone involved.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textHave you ever felt the weight of judgmental stares when your child's behavior is misunderstood? In today's heartfelt episode, we explore the raw and real challenges faced by parents of special needs children, seen through the lens of a profoundly moving blog by Kristen Crow. We delve into the emotional rollercoaster that parents endure, highlighting the dedication and resilience it takes to navigate public criticism and to raise these unique and wonderful children. Through Kristen's touching insights, we emphasize the necessity of patience, unconditional love, and the importance of educating the broader public on the realities of special needs parenting.Do parents have the right to a moment of peace amidst the chaos? Absolutely. In this episode, we discuss why taking time for self-care is not just a luxury but a necessity for parents of special needs children. Despite the unpredictable nature of public outings, parents must understand that they are entitled to moments of relaxation without guilt, even if their child is having a tough time. Cherish the extraordinary joy in raising your children, knowing that it’s okay to not have all the answers. Remember, you are part of a supportive community that values mutual encouragement and understanding. Join us as we promote the essential message of self-care and shared support for these incredible parents.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textHow do you teach your community to see children beyond their disabilities while acknowledging the role those disabilities play in their lives? This episode promises to empower parents and communities with actionable strategies to foster friendships and build a supportive environment for children with special needs. We explore the nuances of language and perspective shifts that are essential for helping everyone recognize the strengths and limitations of children with diverse needs.Personal stories and real-life examples breathe life into our discussion, revealing the profound impact of shared experiences and connections. From breaking down complex topics into manageable pieces to finding common ground through shared interests, we provide practical advice on nurturing inclusive relationships. Hear how a father's patience with mountain biking helped a child with autism find his tribe, underscoring the significance of supportive interactions and purposeful social activities.Our episode also delves into the critical role of modeling positive behavior and effective communication. Discover how maintaining a calm demeanor and having a game plan can empower children to navigate social situations gracefully. We explore strategies for dealing with uncomfortable interactions and the potential impact on relationships, emphasizing the importance of grace, patience, and self-compassion. Join us as we strive to build a community where every child feels valued and included, demonstrating true, undying love in special needs parenting.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textHow can you empower friendships for children with special needs and make their social interactions more enriching? On this episode of the Special Parent Podcast, Dr. Deanna Iverson guides you through the intricate journey of building meaningful relationships for special needs children. You'll learn how explaining meltdowns and unexpected behaviors in relatable terms can foster empathy and understanding among peers. Discover effective strategies to prevent fear and teasing, and how to encourage other children to seek help and view different behaviors with compassion. Your response as a parent plays a pivotal role in shaping how others perceive and interact with your child, and this episode provides actionable insights to help you navigate these challenges.Developing patience and understanding is crucial in nurturing friendships, especially when special needs are involved. Dr. Iverson discusses ways to teach children patience, such as encouraging questions and creating proactive action plans. Emphasizing the importance of respecting differences while highlighting similarities, this episode is a treasure trove of strategies to build strong, healthy relationships. We also touch upon coping mechanisms for when family and friends distance themselves, transforming this emotional journey into a learning opportunity. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation aimed at creating an inclusive environment of respect, empathy, and mutual support.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textEver wondered how to choose the best educational setting for your special needs child and navigate the often daunting world of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans? Join Dr. Deanna Iverson as she empowers you with critical insights and practical advice to make informed decisions for your child's education journey. Discover the nuances of private, charter, and public schools, and learn how to identify institutions that may attempt to limit necessary accommodations. Dr. Iverson emphasizes your pivotal role in the IEP process and demonstrates effective collaboration strategies with your educational team to ensure your child's unique strengths and challenges are fully supported.Effective communication with educators is essential for managing homework and school interactions, especially for children with special needs. Dr. Iverson shares invaluable strategies to build strong relationships with your child's school team, stressing the importance of collaboration over apologies for your child's behavior. You'll also gain insights on involving therapists and special education advocates, and understand why accommodations are not unfair advantages but essential tools for equal access to education. The power of appreciation in fostering positive relationships with educators and connecting with fellow special education parents is also highlighted, offering a supportive community to enhance your advocacy efforts. Tune in for actionable insights and heartwarming stories that will support you every step of the way.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textImagine feeling less isolated and more supported in your journey as a parent of a special needs child. That's exactly what you'll gain by listening to our latest episode of the Special Parent Podcast! Through heartfelt personal stories and practical advice, we unpack the complexities of building a balanced support system. Discover how to manage the logistical challenges of outings, set healthy boundaries, and create a social environment where your children can truly thrive. You’ll hear a touching story illustrating the transformative power of simple acts of kindness that will warm your heart and inspire you to strengthen your own community bonds.We also provide valuable strategies for teaching your child to recognize positive interactions and set necessary boundaries. Listen as we share experiences with both helpful and misguided advice, including a distressing encounter with a doctor’s bad advice. Learn the importance of connecting with fellow parents through therapies and support groups. Lastly, we emphasize fostering an inclusive and accepting community, offering insights on how to let go of what doesn't serve this purpose to build a village filled with love and acceptance. Join us for an empowering conversation aimed at creating a stronger, more understanding community for all.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textJoin me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, on the Special Parent Podcast as we unlock the secrets to effectively balancing therapy and personal time for parents of special needs children. Imagine transforming your home into a fun-centered therapy haven and watching your child make leaps in progress while still maintaining your sanity. In this episode, I share my personal journey of managing a myriad of therapies, from physical and occupational to speech and behavior, and the real impact these have on both child and parent.Ever wondered how to foster a strong therapeutic relationship between your child and their therapist without stepping on toes? I'll guide you through the intricate dance of setting boundaries, celebrating those hard-earned milestones, and knowing just when to step back to let the magic happen. Using real-life anecdotes, I reveal the challenges and rewards of creating an environment where therapy doesn't feel like a chore but rather an engaging, enjoyable experience for your child.But that's not all—learn from my missteps and victories as we discuss the critical role of clear communication with therapy providers, the pitfalls of taking breaks from therapy, and the strategies for finding and keeping excellent therapists. Discover practical tips for tracking therapy goals and why patience is your best ally on this journey. Join me for an episode filled with heartfelt insights, designed to empower you as you navigate the complex world of therapy for your special needs child.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!

Send us a textHave you ever felt overwhelmed trying to find the right doctor for your special needs child? Journey with me, Dr. Deanna Iverson, as I recount the trials and triumphs of assembling a dedicated medical team for my son. You’ll hear about the turning point when we realized our first pediatrician wasn’t suitable and the extensive search that led us to a doctor who has been invaluable for over 13 years. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you find medical professionals who truly understand and support your child’s unique healthcare needs.Ever had a specialist disregard your concerns about your child? You’re not alone. We delve into the complex dynamics of working with specialists—balancing their medical expertise with your intimate knowledge of your child. Through personal stories, like dealing with an unhelpful orthopedic surgeon and the breakthrough we found with a geneticist, I highlight the importance of preparation, persistence, and effective communication. Learn how to advocate for second opinions and share daily observations to ensure your child receives the most tailored and compassionate care.Communication is the cornerstone of effective healthcare. Discover how to keep your cool and foster positive interactions with medical staff, even when faced with distressing news. By preparing questions ahead of time, bringing a support person to challenging appointments, and obtaining clear follow-up instructions, you can strengthen your relationships with doctors and enhance the care your child receives. This episode offers practical tips and heartfelt advice to empower you in making the best decisions for your child’s well-being. Join our Special Parent Podcast community and take the first step towards building a robust medical team for your special needs child.Support the showSubscribe to our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@specialparentpodcast?sub_confirmation=1Visit www.specialparent.org and join our community for new episode alerts, show summaries, and The Special Parent Blog!Follow us: https://linkin.bio/specialparentpodcastSupport the show: https://patreon.com/TheSpecialParentPodcastYour contribution helps us to continue making new episodes and achieve our goal of reaching as many parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs as possible, to provide support, guidance, hope, and community!