THIS Is Preventing More SPEECH

Jul 22, 2025

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Welcome to Episode 265 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

If you want to help your child speak more clearly—or begin speaking at all—this episode is a must-listen. I’m joined once again by Dr. Robert Melillo, a world-renowned expert in brain health, especially childhood and adult neurological disorders. He’s the creator of the Melillo Method and supports families directly through his New York locations in Long Island and Manhattan. This is his third appearance on the show, and it may be our most revealing conversation yet.

In Episode 133, we explored why the focus must be on correcting imbalances first. In Episode 170, we went deeper into horizontal and vertical brain integration. And today, we shine light on one of the most common—and overlooked—reasons why speech doesn’t emerge or improve the way it should.

Dr. Melillo is constantly doing research to better serve these kids. His passion is unmatched, and the third edition of his landmark book, Disconnected Kids, was just released.

This conversation will challenge your assumptions and give you clarity on what might be standing in your child’s way.

✅ The secret this week is…

THIS Is Preventing More SPEECH

You'll Discover:

The Overlooked Question That Guided Dr. Melillo’s Research (6:16)
What Interoception Is and Why It Matters For Speech (11:02)
Why Many Kids Don’t Feel Their Tongue, Face, or Even Body (15:20)
The Shocking Revelation From a Child Who’d Never Heard His Own Voice (22:03)
How Retained Primitive Reflexes Block Brain Development (28:11)
The Connection Between a Leaky Gut and Immature Brainstem (32:40)
Why Your Child IS Taking It All In, Even If They Seem Disconnected (38:00)

About Our Guest:

Dr. Robert Melillo is one of the world’s leading experts in developmental neurological conditions such as ADHD, autism, OCD, tics, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression. With over 30 years of experience as a clinician, professor, brain researcher, and bestselling author, he has helped thousands of patients of all ages. Dr. Melillo holds multiple graduate and postgraduate degrees and certifications, including a PhD in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience. He is the creator of The Melillo Method®, a multimodal approach that targets brain, behavior, and immune health. He operates The Melillo Center for Developing Minds in Long Island and Manhattan, directs the National Institute for Brain and Rehabilitation Sciences, and hosts The Melillo Method Podcast: Everything Brain. His bestselling book Disconnected Kids (now in its 3rd edition) has been translated into 16 languages and remains one of the most impactful resources for parents navigating neurological challenges.

Dr. Melillo’s Book: Disconnected Kids (3rd Edition)

Website: DrRobertMelillo.com

Instagram: @drrobertmelillo

References In This Episode:

Additional Resources:

To learn more about personalized 1:1 support, go to www.elevatehowyounavigate.com
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