Autism Parenting Secrets

We interviewed Patty Lemer about her step-by-step plan for parents to help their child - the key point is that the order you do things really matters. It’s important to lay a strong foundation so therapies that address speech and language will be most beneficial.Patty believes that the first step parents should take is to remove the bad and add in the good. The bad can be anything from environmental factors to toxic relationships, while the good can be noticing that your child responds well to a specific diet or that they seem engaged when you’re at church on Sunday. It all starts with being that detective for your child and gaining confidence that you are the best fit for the job!Next, parents have to look at the structural foundations to truly understand their place today. Maybe your child dealt with some sort of birth trauma or other circumstance that disrupted the natural attachment process. So many of the answers we’re looking for start as far back as the planning stages of bringing a child into the world. The key here is to leave no stone unturned.Patty then tackles sensory issues with the understanding that so many of these “issues” are actually symptoms of an agitated nervous system. A solution may just be around the corner with a fix to your child’s diet or environment!Many parents feel that the biggest red flags are behavior or relational. Sometimes, we jump the gun and try to address stimming or lack of verbalization when really we need to focus on those first three steps.  Lastly, Patty encourages parents to look to the future. It’s never too late to begin a path of healing, and it’s never too early to have a hopeful vision of what your child’s future may look like!Key TakeawaysThe power of sequencing (03:50)Step one is to remove the bad and add the good (07:05)Look at the structural foundations (09:18)Thirdly, address the sensory issues (16:10)What it means to have a vision (22:48)Why the vestibular system is so important (29:41)The first three steps must be addressed before tacking talking, relating, and behaving (31:30)Stage five is looking to the future (33:20)Why Patty’s books are a must-read (39:50)Additional ResourcesBooks By Patty LemerOutsmarting AutismTo learn more about Patty Lemer, here’s her website Patty’s Podcast The Autism DetectivesLearn more about Epidemic Answers hereAre You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len  on InstagramCheck it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

This week, we are joined by Beth Lambert, founder and executive director of Epidemic Answers, a non-profit organization whose vision is a world where parents and professionals are empowered with the knowledge, resources, and support essential to raising healthy and vibrant children in today’s world.In this episode, we discuss the importance of looking back at the entirety of your child’s life (as far back as pre-conception) for clues or as Beth mentions bread crumbs  that help bring awareness on what might be currently going on.  By knowing the past you can make informed decisions for the present and the future. We also cover why parents must adopt an “I got this” attitude and embrace forgiveness.  Forgiveness is such an important process.  This helps you move from being stuck to being powerful.   Beth guides us through that process and illustrates how it opens the doors to be more observant as a parent and, as a result, helps us get to the root cause of whatever issue you're facing. Key TakeawaysThe power of looking back (03:40)Adopt an “I got this” attitude (07:50)How guilt and shame paralyzes us and how to prevent it (11:15)How to promote the concept of forgiveness (20:30)Why being observant is how you discover some of the root causes (27:20)The research project, Documenting Hope (29:00)Why anecdotal evidence needs to be combined with scientific research (36:10)Additional ResourcesBooks by Beth:A Compromised Generation: The Epidemic of Chronic Illness in America's Children by Beth LambertBrain Under Attack by Beth Lambert and Maria Rickert HongLearn more about Epidemic Answers hereLearn more about Documenting Hope hereLearn more about The Documenting Hope CHIRP Study  hereTo follow Documenting Hope on Instagram Are You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len  on InstagramCheck it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

This week, we interview Dr. Dan Peters, who conveys how a parent’s degree of awareness impacts so many aspects of parenting. And with greater awareness, so much more is possible - a stronger and happier relationship with your child.Dr. Dan walks us through how to find the courage to ask the important questions to help us show up better for our children. He explains what a child needs most from their parent and how it encapsulates what the Parent Footprint is all about. To ensure that we’re giving the right kind of attention to our children, we have to get very clear on what we want for them and ourselves. That awareness guides our steps and promotes intentional action and interaction with a child on the spectrum. And finally, a point that we always stress and Dr. Dan emphasizes is to remind parents to check in on their own wellbeing. We have to take care of ourselves before we can care for others. And at the end of the day, the most lasting impressions we make on our children is illustrated through the lens of how we treat ourselves. Key TakeawaysWhat the Parent Footprint is all about (02:05)Finding the courage to ask how we can better show up for our children (09:10)What your child needs from you most (15:50)Why you have to get clear on what you want for your child (24:05)Behaviors that promote better parent awareness (30:33)A reminder that we as parents need to check in on ourselves too (36:00)Start and end your day with intention (39:05)Additional ResourcesLearn more about Dr. Dan and Parent Footprint hereListen to The Parent Footprint Podcast With Dr. Dan Are You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

In this episode, we are joined by Bruce Kirkby, the author of the new book Blue Sky Kingdom. Blue Sky Kingdom is the epic journey he took with his family.  The journey was the ultimate unplug.  They traveled from their home in Canada to the Himalayas of Northern India where he and his family lived at a Buddhist Monastery.  Bruce shares the wisdom he learned and how acceptance and sincere attention to his child are the greatest gifts.Parents of a child with Autism are often focused on fixing their child.  What Bruce’s journey  affirmed was that the best way that we as parents can show up for our children is through the attention we give them. Bruce’s story of acceptance, the love of time together, and disconnection from distractions is filled with valuable insights that we know will help you in your own journey.Stay tuned to learn more about their exciting adventure!Key TakeawaysThe journey it took to write this book (02:11)Bruce’s lightbulb moment (04:55)Jumping into one of our dreams (09:15)Bodi’s connection to the Buddhist monastery (10:22)Explaining a Zanskar social construct (14:30)Development must go in both directions (18:32)A child’s early years are hugely impactful (23:15)Making travel a more pleasant experience for a child with sensory issues (30:30)How life has changed since this trip (37:10)Additional ResourcesBlue Sky Kingdom is available hereFor more about Bruce KirbyAre You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

This week, Dr. Stephen Cowan is back for the last episode in our three-part series and this week it’s all about the importance of curiosity.  Parents with curiosity and self-trust you will find answers over time.  You Don't Know YET but stay curious and see what happens.  Curiosity leads to understanding, and understanding is the ground floor of The Cosmic Snowman. As parents, you want to foster a sense of openness with everyone who interacts with your child. That includes practitioners, therapists, grandparents, etc. Each of these individuals plays a crucial role in the development of your child with Autism.Dr. Cowan shares some personal examples of patients he has supported where curiosity led to the answers that were right for the families he supported.  Key TakeawaysWhat keeps us from being curious (02:05)The ground floor of the snowman (04:00)Dr. Cowan’s experience with a child born at 23 weeks (07:10)Why his story illustrates the importance of staying curious (12:05)Additional ResourcesClick here to learn more about Dr. Stephen Cowan For additional information about Tournesol KidsFor more information on Dr. Cowan’s book, Fire Child, Water Child: How Understanding the Five Types of ADHD Can Help You Improve Your Child's Self-Esteem and Attention Are You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts

This week, Dr. Stephen Cowan is back and in this episode, he shares the wisdom of The Cosmic Snowman.  The Cosmic Snowman is truly a Roadmap for a greater connection for yourself and your child with autism.  He uses a model called the Cosmic Snowman which is the evolutionary design of our neurologic system. It links our mind and body's functions and how it relates to healing and true connection. Click here to download a PDF of this visual map - it will really help you follow along with the discussion.The base of the snowman is centered around the reptilian brain and its ability to sense but also function properly.  This is where we must first focus our healing efforts if we want to grow, change, and learn. It’s imperative to have a solid foundation so that we can physically connect with the world around us.    The middle circle is our limbic system or our puppy brain. This is where our excitement lives.  It is where you will find passions, instincts, and emotions and it’s where you find things like inner and outer exploring.  At the top of the snowman is the neocortex, our highest point of evolution. This is where our spiritual gifts live and where we celebrate a true sense of joy. The ultimate goal here being optimism and a sense of celebration even in times of challenge.   Dr. Cowan explains the interconnectedness between each part of the snowman and the power of using this as a guide for true connection. We discuss the symptoms of children outgrowing their diagnosis and why behaviors that are typically seen as regressive may actually be a sign of genuine connection and progress. His model of understanding children with autism empowers parents to truly connect and create better relationships with themselves and their children.Be sure to tune in to this transformational episode.   Key TakeawaysThe body’s connection to healing (02:21)A signal that a child is outgrowing their diagnosis (10:10)The three levels of the cosmic snowman (15:50)Why meeting your child where their ‘fire’ has therapeutic benefits (22:30)How to use metaphors as a healing tool (32:00)Sometimes the behaviors we categorize as regression is actually our child making a connection (36:18)Dr. Cowan’s own experience with evidence-based medicine (42:50)Additional ResourcesClick here to learn more about Dr. Stephen Cowan For additional information about Tournesol KidsFor more information on Dr. Cowan’s book, Fire Child, Water Child: How Understanding the Five Types of ADHD Can Help You Improve Your Child's Self-Esteem and Attention Are You Running On All Cylinders?  Get your FREE Warrior Parent ScoreTo learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

In this episode, Len and Cass interview Dr. Stephen Cowan and discuss the secret that your child with Autism is your teacher.Dr. Cowan talks about the importance of looking at the "how" as opposed to the "why" when supporting your child with Autism, as this allows you to focus on the unique gifts in your child. This is a cornerstone of keeping a growth mindset. On the other hand, a fixed mindset tends to isolate symptoms or takes the symptoms out of context rather than looking at them within a holistic framework.The goal here is to shift your perspective so that the parent takes on the role of student, allowing them to discover their child’s gifts.  A doctor can only offer clinical insights, but a parent taking the time to become a student of their child offers a clearer understanding of individual needs and a broader picture.This kind of student and teacher relationship empowers your child to reveal further information that will help you meet their needs and harness their gifts. It becomes an equally beneficial opportunity for the parent and child to thrive.The real warrior parents are the ones who recognize and acknowledge that they're the experts on their own child because they allow their child to teach them.Key TakeawaysLooking at the “how” as opposed to the “why” is a more practical approach when dealing with your child’s autism (2:40)Why medical professionals are sometimes causing more harm than good (5:30)Growth vs. fixed mindset (7:47)How to develop a thriving relationship with your child (9:12)What to do to become a better caregiver (11:25)Real Warrior Parents are the ones who recognize and acknowledge that they’re the experts on their own child (17:50)Additional ResourcesClick here to learn more about Dr. Stephen Cowan For additional information about Tournesol KidsFor more information on Dr Cowan’s book, Fire Child, Water Child: How Understanding the Five Types of ADHD Can Help You Improve Your Child's Self-Esteem and Attention To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

In this episode, we discuss the importance of parents remaining curious about why their child is doing what they are doing. And how it’s important to find doctors and therapists who are curious about your child as well.Raising a child with Autism is a journey of figuring out the unknowns. Parents fail to realize that finding the answers that are right for your child starts with you and the people surrounding your child being open to learning and adapting to their unique needs. Instead of becoming consumed with questions such as, "why isn't my child hitting certain milestones?" or succumbing to the pressure and stress triggered by your child's confusing behaviors, focus on figuring out the 'why'. You won't make progress if your entire perspective centers around what your child can't do. You must put on your detective hat and open your mind to the curiosities and complexities that make your child unique. That mindset opens up a window for learning and understanding your child better, putting you into a much better position to figure out what might be helpful.In addition to that, it puts you in your child's shoes. The behaviors you once thought were so strange may suddenly start to make sense, and you provide the opportunity for an even more profound connection with your child.We can't stress enough how significant this mindset shift is! Listen to this week's episode to learn how it completely changed our lives for the better.Key TakeawaysLack of curiosity leads to stress (2:00)How to better understand your child’s perspective (4:37)It’s not going to work unless you’re curious (6:30)Find doctors and other healthcare professionals that are driven to know your child (14:40)Creating the space to becoming more present (16:30)Your curiosity will bring clarity to traits and behaviors that you don’t understand (21:18)Additional ResourcesTo learn more, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

In this episode, Cass discusses creative ways to help parents get high quality, nourishing food into even stubborn, picky eaters.We know how challenging it can be to feed your picky eaters, but we wanted to take the time and offer some hope that it is completely possible to feed your child with Autism healthy and nutrient-dense food that will help them thrive.The key here is becoming a detective for your child, and that is what we’re discussing today. It’s essential to first discuss the food goals you have for your child. Maybe you’re just trying to get them to eat, and that is completely valid. Or maybe you’re struggling to find foods that don’t further upset your child’s allergies. It’s likely that if you have a child with Autism, the game of playing detective becomes much more difficult. Perhaps, they have issues with texture or having their food touch. We’ll cover how to deal with those scenarios in this episode too. We hope to help get you to a point where you’re feeding nourishing foods that are diverse and complementary to your child’s palette. A diverse diet is so important, and we are continually looking for new ways to incorporate and rotate different foods in our child’s diet.We developed a course called WTF Picky Eaters that will help you navigate the challenge of feeding your child wholesome foods that they enjoy. Because we have so much success with our clients, we are confident that some of this advice will add significant value to your journey. Tune into this episode and check out the links below for the next steps you can take to nourish your child’s body so they can operate at their best!Key TakeawaysOur experience with a picky eater (1:44)The night and day change one of our client’s had when they changed their child’s diet (6:05)How to feed your picky eater (8:47)Why you need the right appliances in your kitchen (11:30)Play detective for your child (13:52)Focus on diversity when it comes to feeding your child (15:26)The course we created around this topic (18:15)Additional ResourcesTo learn more, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comTo take our new WTF Your Picky Eater Course, visit https://app.mastermind.com/masterminds/6582To download your copy of our WPC Chicken Nuggets Recipe, visit www.warriorparentbootcamp.com/chickennuggetsrecipeBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/

In this episode, We talk about how children with Autism are drawn to nature. Nature doesn't judge. Nature accepts everyone as they are and it’s a place to feel safe and loved. It’s so important for parents with their child to get outside more and tap the power of nature.The secret is that we all thrive in nature, especially children. We first discovered this while living in NYC. Whenever we took our son out to local parks, he would just become totally immersed in his environment. He was a completely different kid.  His favorite place was a local community garden where he would stand inside the plants.  He was completely happy and calm.  Nature is so powerful and is fully accepting. This was such an important concept for us to learn because, at the time, we were so focused on "fixing" our son. That mindset came from a place of judgment, and once we let it go, we really began to see a miraculous change in him.Now we spend as much time as possible grounding or earthing, it’s as simple as standing on grass or sand in bare feet.  It acts as a total reset for the mind and body.  It is an immediate stress reliever and truly a reset. This is especially important as we navigate the current times with remote learning and increased screen time. The goal is to spend as much time in nature as you can.  Unplug from our lives and reconnect. Plant a garden or make a daily walk part of your routine.  We can't wait to hear what you'll be doing in the great outdoors! Enjoy!Key TakeawaysToday’s secret (1:12)The reason I jump (4:04)Why nature should be a part of every day (6:40)The more you're in a natural environment, the more natural connection can occur (11:30)How this connection to earth can help picky eaters (14:50)Grounding helps parents too (17:40)Additional ResourcesThe Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida To learn more, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warriorparentcoaching/Check it out...Autism Parenting Secrets is number 12 on the Top 20 Autism Podcasts by Feedspot👉  https://blog.feedspot.com/autism_podcasts/