Complex Kids, Simple Solutions

George, the Witch, and the Christmas Story Parents Won't ForgetA mischievous witch, a snowy Christmas Eve, and a story that teaches kids to see the world differently—this episode is a warm, thoughtful conversation about George's Snowy Christmas Eve Ride and the childhood story that inspired it.Michelle Choairy sits down with author Leigh Crawshaw, who shares how a tale told by her grandmother nearly 60 years ago became a 44-page children's book, now being released through Miriam Laundry Publishing with illustrations by Fernando Lopez Juarez. Leigh reveals why George is a “happy witch,” how the character’s name came from Georgetta, and why this story is just as much about perspective, preferences, and self-acceptance as it is about Christmas magic.You'll discover:
How a bedtime story from childhood grew into a published children's book decades later
Why George's love of darkness and dislike of bright Christmas lights gives the story its spark
What Leigh learned from working with an illustrator who brought George to life exactly as she imagined
Why the book is being released in both English and Spanish
How the story connects to bigger lessons about listening to children and honoring what they need
Michelle also connects the story to her own family, Christmas traditions, and the way kids—especially complex kids—often respond to the world in their own unique ways. Leigh expands on that idea with a powerful reminder for parents: children grow up, their interests change, and the real work is learning how to support their independence without forcing them into a mold that doesn't fit.This conversation is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who loves children's books that do more than entertain. If you want a holiday story with heart, humor, and a deeper message about seeing people for who they are, George is waiting for you.
Guest Credibility:Leigh Crawshaw is the author of George's Snowy Christmas Eve Ride, a new children's book rooted in a story she has carried since childhood. Her work blends playful storytelling with lessons about identity, perspective, and meeting children where they are.

When the brain is given the right kind of break, it can change faster than most parents have been told.Kim from Mendability reveals why simple sensory enrichment can unlock neuroplasticity, reduce meltdowns, and create real gains for kids with autism and other neurological differences—without relying on endless hours of pressure-filled therapy.

Michelle Choairy brings the real-world parenting perspective, sharing what she has tried with her own son and the questions every parent eventually asks: What actually helps? What is too much? And how do you support growth without burning a child out?

Kim explains how Mendability’s approach, developed with his mother, starts with two of the brain’s most fundamental sensory systems: smell and touch. He breaks down why pairing them can trigger an elevated state of neuroplasticity, how the program is measured on a simple zero-to-five scale, and why families often see meaningful progress within months when the routine is done consistently.

You’ll discover:
Why a short daily sensory routine can matter more than hours of repetitive intervention
How smell, touch, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine work together to prime the brain for change
Why older kids may sometimes progress faster than younger ones
What families can expect from Mendability’s assessment and therapy process
How the team is preparing a University of Wisconsin study to look for structural brain changes on MRI and EEG
Kim also shares a powerful reminder for overwhelmed parents: the brain grows during breaks, not only during constant intervention. That idea reframes everything for families balancing school, therapy, work, and real life—especially when they are trying to help a child who needs support without making every moment feel like work.

If you are parenting a child with autism, apraxia, sensory challenges, or complex developmental needs, this conversation offers a fresh lens on what progress can look like when connection, pleasure, and recovery are built into the process. Essential listening if you want practical hope, not just more advice.

A new season of Complex Kids Simple Solutions starts with a personal reset, a bigger mission, and a sharper focus on what families of complex and rare kids need most right now.

Michelle opens up about her medical leave, why she created the show in the first place, and how this season will go deeper into science, rare disease, autism, IEPs, and real-world parent support. After 58 episodes and a top 5% podcast ranking, Michelle is steering the show into a more specific, more practical direction. Expect conversations with scientists, providers, and most importantly, moms who are living it every day—parents who will share their stories and then work through the next right steps for school supports, diagnoses, and treatment decisions.

You’ll hear why “simple” does not mean easy, how Michelle thinks about labels like “complex kids,” and why parents of rare and ultra-rare children deserve to be heard. She also explains what’s changing this season, why the episodes will stay short and conversational, and how the show will keep delivering clear, actionable guidance without the fluff.Michelle also makes an important reminder for parents in the first weeks of school: the things you’re noticing at home, at drop-off, and in the classroom matter.

If something feels off, it’s information, not overreacting—and this season is designed to help you act on it with confidence.

If you’re navigating an IEP, searching for the right team, wondering what to do next after a diagnosis, or trying to make sense of a child’s behavior, this season is for you.

Join Michelle for candid conversations, practical support, and a new set of episodes built to make the complex feel a little more clear.

Unlock the secrets to effective homeschooling for children with special needs—without burning out or sacrificing social skills. If you're feeling overwhelmed at the thought of teaching your complex kiddo, this episode is your game-changer.

Katelyn Deville, a seasoned homeschooling specialist, shares her insider tips on how to tailor education at home that works for your child's unique needs. Whether you're worried about losing services like speech therapy or concerned about socialization, she offers practical solutions grounded in real-world experience.

From navigating state requirements to customizing curriculums that meet your child's challenges, Katelyn breaks down exactly how to make homeschooling a sustainable and enriching option.

You'll discover:
The key signs that signal homeschooling might be the best choice for your family
How to incorporate therapies like ABA, speech, and OT into a flexible, home-based schedule
Strategies to teach children with ADHD, autism, and other complex needs without becoming overwhelmed
The truth about socialization and how homeschooling can actually foster better life skills
How to adapt your child's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for home learning

This episode isn’t just about education—it’s about empowerment. Taking control of your child's learning journey can open doors to personalized growth and discovery, but it requires understanding both the challenges and the unique opportunities homeschooling offers.

If you’re a parent of a special needs child contemplating your options, Katelyn’s insights will give you confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of possibility. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and advocates considering homeschooling, especially those navigating the complexities of special needs education.

Don’t miss the upcoming free workshop and the three-step framework that Caitlin unveils to help you decide if homeschooling is right for your family.

Remember, you are more capable than you think—you've been your child's best advocate from day one. And now, you can unlock their full potential with tailored, compassionate education at home. For more resources and a free consultation, visit homebasedmethod.com.

Most parents of kids with speech delays feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn—until now.

Speech therapist Kira Howard shares her proven strategies for supporting children with apraxia and other Speech Disorders, revealing how her innovative techniques can accelerate progress—even when traditional therapy feels slow or frustrating.

Imagine understanding exactly how to boost your child's speech at home, even if you're not a therapist. Kira's practical, fun methods—like movement-based prompts and play-inspired exercises—are designed to fit effortlessly into your busy life.

You’ll discover her favorite hands-on cues for helping kids self-correct, how movement can unlock speech blocks, and why early intervention is shaping the future of children with complex communication needs.

In this episode, we break down:
The real reasons diagnosis takes so long, and what parents can do while waiting
How to identify early signs of apraxia in your young child and avoid costly delays
Why some children thrive with less traditional approaches like movement and play
The crucial role of parent advocacy and asking the right questions in therapy
Why the best providers often don't take insurance—plus tips to find specialists you trust

If you're a parent navigating speech challenges, or a caregiver seeking fresh ideas, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Kira’s heartfelt stories and expert advice will empower you to become your child's strongest advocate—making therapy more effective and less stressful.

Don't miss this chance to learn how movement, play, and persistence can truly transform your child's communication journey.
Kira Howard is a licensed speech-language pathologist based in Utah, specializing in childhood apraxia and autism. Her passion is turning complex therapy techniques into simple, effective tools for parents and caregivers.
Perfect for parents of young children, speech therapy students, and anyone eager to support speech growth in a fun, natural way. Tune in to hear why early, movement-based interventions could change everything—and how you can start today.