Writing IEPs Together: Empowering Neurodiverse Students Through Collaboration
Support the show via my Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AspergersStudioHave you ever heard these myths about teaching neurodivergent students? Myth 1: Special education is the only option for neurodivergent students. Myth 2: Neurodivergent students can't excel in creative activities. Myth 3: ADHD students need to be constantly calm in the classroom. I'll share the truth behind these myths, but let's dive deeper into the strategies for teaching neurodivergent students.My special guest is Rebecca EngleRebecca Engle, a special education teacher and author, brings a unique perspective to the learning environment. Her passion for supporting neurodivergent children is evident in her work as a poet and knitter, which influences her teaching methods. With two authored books and ten co-authored ones, she strives to provide relatable resources for young readers with autism, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and understanding. Rebecca's personal experiences and commitment to her students make her a valuable advocate in the special education community.I don't have to keep my kids calm ever? And I mean that in the best way. I have fidgets. This is a dragonite fidget. My ADHD kids absolutely love this one. It's literally a giant dragon. - Rebecca EngelThe resources mentioned in this episode are:To connect with Rebecca Engel, you can find her on Facebook under the name Rebbeca Engel or Stitches and Stanzas.You can also find her on Instagram with the handle re0.2.20 or Stitches, Stanzas.For further engagement and to learn more about her work, you can reach out to her through these social media platforms.Stay updated on her latest projects, insights, and content by following her on Facebook and Instagram.Engage with Rebecca Engel's creative work and stay connected with her through her social media profiles.Contact me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudiohttps://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudiohttps://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://aspergersstudio.com/https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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Shawnee's Story of Resilience and Growth
Shawnee spent years feeling out of sync with the world, grappling with the sense of always being on the outskirts of conversations. It wasn't until her dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD later in life that the pieces of her life's puzzle began to fit. Join us as Shawnee opens up about the whirlwind journey to her diagnosis, how she navigates the dual complexities of autism and ADHD, and the profound sense of understanding it brought her. She shares how her busy brain finds solace through journaling, exercise, and a balanced diet, weaving hope into the challenges of her daily life.In a candid conversation, Shawnee dismantles the myth of ADHD as a "superpower" and shares her personal insight into the stigma and misinformation that surround these conditions. We explore the sharp focus that ADHD can bring to topics of interest and the struggle to maintain concentration elsewhere. Shawnee's story shines a light on the importance of perspective, the reality of managing sensory issues, and the strategies she's developed to cope — from earplugs to noise-cancelling headphones.Shawnee's passion for podcasting becomes a beacon of personal growth and social connection, serving as a creative outlet and a bridge out of isolation. Her reflections on loss, mortality, and stepping outside her comfort zone offer a deeply personal look into her world. From the heartbreak of losing loved ones to cancer and suicide to the resilience found in European travels and confronting existential thoughts, Shawnee's journey is a testament to embracing life's challenges and continuously seeking positive experiences.The diagnosis gave me an answer for many things that I'd been questioning. But actually what I didn't anticipate was that it would give me more questions as well." Shawnee on her dual diagnosis of autism and ADHD.Resoureces:https://www.facebook.com/people/Shawnee-Farrell/61573593207271/https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-whats-the-latest-with-shaw-272885354/Contact me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudiohttps://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudiohttps://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://aspergersstudio.com/https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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Empowering Autism: Embracing Relationships and Transformative Support with Nancy Gillette
Navigating the world through the lens of autism can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Nancy Gillette, a dedicated RDI consultant, joined us to unravel the unique ways the autistic brain experiences life, often with heightened intensity and challenges. Her journey from traditional ABA methods to Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) therapy was sparked by a personal moment of clarity and commitment to fostering meaningful connections rather than mere task completion. Nancy’s transformative experiences offer a refreshing perspective on how shifting focus can lead to empowerment and a richer quality of life for those on the spectrum.We explored the often-overlooked role of relationships in supporting autistic individuals and their families. Nancy shared heartfelt stories from her early career, including a turning point that redirected her approach to autism support. Her insights into the world of neurodiversity underscore the importance of understanding behavior as communication and the need for realistic expectations. With RDI, Nancy advocates for environments where autistic individuals feel both seen and heard, allowing them to thrive through experience-based learning and genuine engagement.For parents seeking support, Nancy offers practical advice on emotional regulation and building a community of understanding. Her 12-week program empowers families to navigate the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent children, focusing on reducing the intensity of challenging behaviors. Through inspiring success stories, including that of a transformed teenager, she paints a hopeful picture of the potential for positive change. Join us as we celebrate the joy, authenticity, and small but significant milestones that make the autistic experience both unique and enriching.Resources:https://www.nancygilette.com/https://www.facebook.com/p/Nancy-Gilette-RDI-Consultant-100071633396949/https://www.instagram.com/nancygilettecoaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-gilette-595873115/?originalSubdomain=caContact me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudiohttps://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudiohttps://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://aspergersstudio.com/https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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The Unique Challenges of ADHD in Older Adults
What happens when the diagnosis of ADHD reshapes not just your understanding of yourself, but your entire family's narrative? Join us as we bring you the compelling story of Jamie Shapiro, who uncovered her own ADHD while supporting her non-binary child, Will. Jamie's journey, enriched by her brother's childhood experience and her mother's misdiagnosis, spurred her mission to highlight ADHD in seniors through the "Grandma has ADHD" podcast. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of awareness and the healing that comes with self-acceptance and understanding.Explore with us the intriguing intersections of ADHD with justice and environmental consciousness. Jamie shares how these connections influence decluttering and sustainable practices, a focal point of her company, Silver Linings Transitions. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, Jamie navigates the challenges of time blindness, disorganization, and relationships, offering listeners insights into managing ADHD effectively. Our discussion also introduces the National Association of Senior Move Managers as a go-to resource for specialized senior move services.From managing ADHD symptoms in daily life to the societal shifts in recognizing neurodivergent conditions, we cover it all. Jamie provides practical strategies for productivity and calming racing thoughts, emphasizing the importance of diet and the potential benefits of CBD for better sleep. We delve into the generational differences in acknowledging conditions like ADHD, shedding light on the stigmatization and biases that can impact personal relationships. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the nuances of living with ADHD, the journey toward self-awareness, and the importance of empathy and understanding within families.Resources:Grandma has ADHD" podcast: Created by Jamie Shapiro, this podcast brings attention to ADHD in seniors, a group often overlooked when discussing this conditionSilver Linings Transitions: A San Diego-based company founded by Jamie Shapiro that assists seniors in managing moves and decluttering. It provides insights into the connection between ADHD and a strong sense of justice. National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM): Highlighted in the podcast as a resource for people needing assistance with senior moves across the nation and beyond. Institute for Challenging Disorganization: Jamie Shapiro is a member of this institute. The institute provides resources and training for professionals assisting individuals challenged by chronic disorganization.Contact Me:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudiohttps://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudiohttps://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://aspergersstudio.com/https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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Empowerment and Advocacy for Neurodivergent Voices
Leila Farshchian, a trailblazer in behavior analysis and co-creator of the ABA Toolbox, joins us to share her transformative journey from a babysitter of children on the autism spectrum to a leading figure in neurodivergent support. Her personal struggles with educational challenges and bullying fueled a passion for helping others with similar experiences. Lila's innovative approach in developing supportive programs for autistic individuals emphasizes the importance of collaboration among therapists and the collective journey of overcoming fear to build confidence.Communication is at the heart of our conversation, as we explore the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals, especially nonverbal clients. Highlighting the power of AAC devices and personalized methodologies, we underscore the necessity of a unified therapeutic approach involving diverse expertise from occupational and speech therapists. Lila introduces the ABA Toolbox, a resource crafted to cater to the distinct needs of autistic individuals, aiding them in reaching their fullest potential while fostering a more inclusive environment.Our discussion also branches into the realm of education and technology, where we look at how automated tools and AI are closing the gaps in support services. Lila passionately shares ABA Toolbox's mission to enhance educational experiences, the role of technology in nonverbal communication, and the vital need for self-advocacy in higher education. We wrap up with an honest dialogue on mental health, resilience, and the importance of building connections, giving listeners a heartfelt reminder of the power of hope and collaboration in navigating life's challenges.Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-farshchian-33974335/https://www.abatoolbox.com/Contact Me:https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudiohttps://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudiohttps://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnectionhttps://aspergersstudio.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Chats with people who deal with ASD and ADHD. I talk to those in the profession like therapist or even chats with mothers who have kids on the spectrum. Just honest chats with questions thrown in. Where two people can sit and share thoughts on the spectrum Come join us we I talk with people from all over the ASD and ADHD field.
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