In our final Best Of Summer Series episode, your host, Shannon Urquiola dives into a critical issue that many parents and caregivers face: the impact of electronics on our kids and the risk of screen addiction. This topic is especially relevant for families raising children on the autism spectrum, who can be particularly vulnerable to the negative aspects of excessive screen time.

Have you ever questioned the effects of social media, YouTube videos, and video games on your child's overall well-being? Do you find yourself encouraging them to go outside or read, only to see them choose screens over everything else? You're not alone. Shannon explores these common concerns, emphasizing that while electronics and the internet can be valuable tools, offering learning opportunities, connections, and entertainment, they also come with significant downsides.

In this episode, Shannon discusses the pros and cons of screen time, highlighting how some families have discovered that the benefits of unplugging far outweigh the challenges. She addresses the issue of children, especially those on the spectrum, getting lost in a never-ending rabbit hole of screen time, missing out on real-life experiences.

Shannon shares practical strategies and tools to help parents manage their children's screen time effectively, creating a healthier balance. This episode serves as a guide to understanding the impact of electronics on kids and offers actionable advice for fostering better habits.

Additional Resources:

• Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement on FB
• Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on upcoming Community Collective events: Not Your Average Autism Mom on Facebook
• For specific topic suggestions, email us at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com

Don't miss these related episodes:

• Episode 7: Electronics and the Benefits of Screen Time Limits
• Episode 72: Ripping the Band-Aid Off on Electronics

Tune in to gain insights on managing screen time and creating a supportive environment for your child's unique needs.

In this episode, host Shannon Urquiola, Life and Parent Coach, goes deep into the unique dynamics parents face when raising autistic children, especially when their parenting styles don't align. Parenthood is often described as a rollercoaster of emotions, and it takes a unique turn when partners find themselves on opposite ends of the parenting spectrum.

Are your differences in parenting currently a source of negativity and conflict in your relationship? Shannon explores this common scenario, where one parent often takes the lead in research and advocacy, while the other may have different perspectives on their child's behavior. Emphasizing the importance of unity in parenting, Shannon discusses the three main parenting styles: authoritarian, permissive, and authoritative.

Recognizing and embracing each partner's parenting style is key. Shannon highlights the power of self-awareness and the willingness to adapt, noting that meaningful change starts with oneself. She also addresses how childhood experiences impact parenting styles, discussing how parents may unconsciously recreate or react against their upbringing.

Listeners will gain practical strategies and actionable goals for fostering a healthy relationship between parents, including effective communication, private discussions, and avoiding disagreements in front of children. This episode serves as a guide for parents raising autistic children, offering a roadmap to navigate challenges, promote unity, and create a supportive environment for their child's unique needs.

Additional Resources:

• Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on Facebook if you're a mom or female caregiver.
• Check out these episodes for more insights:

115. Judgment and Parent Shaming

89. Calming Down BIG Emotions

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to get over and get registered for our FREE Webinar, Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

⁠⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠

Got a specific topic you want us to discuss? Email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com

In this Best Of Summer Series episode, we tackle the complex topic of societal expectations and social norms, particularly how they affect families raising children on the autism spectrum. Our society often values conformity and can overlook individual differences, which can be challenging for our kids.

Social norms are the unwritten rules that dictate appropriate behavior in interactions. Neurotypical children usually pick up these norms naturally through observation, but for children on the spectrum, these social cues can be confusing and overwhelming. Understanding personal space, appropriate touch, and suitable conversation topics can be particularly difficult, leading to misunderstandings and sometimes negative perceptions from others.

These societal expectations can take a toll on families like ours, causing emotional, mental, and even physical strain. Striving to meet these norms can leave parents feeling anxious, isolated, and worried that their child may be judged or excluded.

But there's hope. By shifting our perspective and advocating for awareness, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding world. Challenging societal expectations and promoting acceptance is crucial. As parents, we have the power to shape the lives of our children and unlock their fullest potential with unwavering belief in their abilities.

If you're looking for strategies and tools to improve your life on this autism parenting journey, consider joining Not Your Average Autism Mom. We offer the best online resources for moms raising autistic children, including training on Special Education, live Zoom calls with advocates, and a private community for connection and support.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to register for our FREE Webinar, Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

⁠⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠⁠

Additional Resources:⁠Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠

⁠145. Differently Wired; A Glimpse Into Autism Parenting

⁠109. Why Waiting is So Difficult⁠

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com

Visit www.notyouraverageautismmom.com to learn more about all the benefits available to you when you become Not Your Average Autism Mom.

Together, we can build a more compassionate and inclusive society for our children.

In this episode of our Best Of Summer Series, your host, Shannon Urquiola discusses processing speed and how it impacts our children on the autism spectrum. Processing speed is the time it takes for someone to take in information, make sense of it, and respond. This can be visual, auditory, or related to motor planning.

For many of our children, processing speed can be a significant challenge. They might struggle with tasks that seem simple to others, like reading, listening, or physical activities such as tying their shoes. It's important to understand that slow processing speed isn't about intelligence. In fact, many very intelligent people process information slowly. It's just the way their brains work.

Unfortunately, slow processing can affect many areas of their lives, including social interactions and school performance. People might mistakenly think that our kids are unmotivated, lazy, or unfocused, but that's usually not the case.

In this episode, we'll explore how to support our kids by slowing down and adopting a less rushed approach to life. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is allow them to be themselves and move at their own pace. This understanding can make a huge difference in their confidence and overall well-being.

Tune in to learn more about how we can create a supportive environment for our children and help them thrive.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to register for our FREE Webinar, Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

⁠⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠⁠

Additional Resources:⁠ Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠

93. When Your Autistic Child Isn't Your Only Child

⁠139. Summer Survival; Successfully Navigating Summer

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠

If you want to change your life and become Not Your Average Autism Mom, get all the details at ⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠

We would love to walk alongside you on your unique autism parenting journey.

In this "Best of Summer Series" episode, host Shannon Urquiola talks about the common challenge of perseveration in children on the autism spectrum.

Perseveration, or getting stuck on a particular behavior, activity, or thought, can be a source of frustration for both parents and children.

Shannon explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, emphasizing the weak executive functions in the frontal cortex of the brain that often contribute to the difficulty in shifting focus.

Drawing from personal experiences and expert advice, the episode provides practical strategies for parents. From using warnings and visual timers to creating concrete endings and incorporating oneself into the child's activity, Shannon shares actionable tips for easing transitions.

The episode highlights the importance of understanding that perseveration is a neurological challenge, requiring gentle assistance rather than demanding an immediate stop.

Furthermore, Shannon addresses the emotional toll perseveration can take on parents and offers self-care strategies.

The episode closes with a message of support, reminding listeners that they are not alone in facing these challenges and encouraging a sense of community strength.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to get over and get registered for our FREE Webinar, Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠

Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement

158. Navigating Hygiene Struggles; Path to Cleanliness

109. Why Waiting is So Difficult

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com

If you want to change your life and become Not Your Average Autism Mom, get all the details at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com

We would love to walk alongside you on your unique autism parenting journey.

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon talks about a topic that is often confusing and sometimes problematic, labels of "high functioning" and "low functioning" autism. She explains why these terms can be misleading and shares practical strategies for parents to support their children regardless of these labels.

Shannon begins by encouraging parents of young children showing developmental delays to seek support immediately, without waiting for a formal diagnosis. She emphasizes that the label "autism" alone doesn't provide a complete picture of a child's abilities or challenges.

The episode highlights common scenarios, such as the variability in functioning labels among school-aged children and the misunderstandings that can arise from them. Shannon shares stories of children who are labeled "high functioning" yet face severe autistic traits and those labeled "low functioning" who possess remarkable cognitive abilities once given the right communication tools.

Listeners are reminded of the importance of assuming competence in their children and focusing on their unique needs and strengths. Shannon also discusses the daily variability in autism and provides strategies for managing these fluctuations.

Tune in for an insightful discussion that challenges common misconceptions about autism and offers practical advice for supporting your child's growth and development. Whether your child is labeled "high functioning" or "low functioning," this episode will inspire you to see beyond the labels and believe in your child's potential.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

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Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

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Join Shannon as she uncovers (3) hidden truths you need along this parenting journey you weren't prepared for.

Additional Resources:

⁠40. The Impact of Mind Blindness⁠

⁠109. Why Waiting is So Difficult⁠

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠ ⁠

If you want to change your life and become Not Your Average Autism Mom, get all the details at ⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠

We would love to walk alongside you on your unique autism parenting journey.

In episode 189 of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon tackles the challenging topic of explosive behavior as a form of escape behavior in children with autism. She explains why these behaviors often occur due to frustration, sensory overload, or discomfort and highlights the importance of understanding why your children feel the need to escape.

Shannon shares practical strategies for managing these behaviors, including lowering demands, providing support, and teaching alternative communication, such as using words or hand signals to indicate the need for a break or help. She emphasizes the importance of matching interaction styles to the child's needs and reinforcing new, appropriate behaviors through consistent practice and positive reinforcement.

By adjusting the environment and reinforcing appropriate behaviors, you can help your children feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Shannon emphasizes the need for patience and consistency, reminding listeners that progress takes time and consistency, but reassures you that you are doing amazing on this sometimes challenging journey.

Tune in to learn effective ways to navigate and manage explosive behaviors while supporting your child's unique needs.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Are you registered for our FREE Webinar?

Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

REGISTER NOW

⁠⁠⁠⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/webinar ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Together we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to get over and join the WAITLIST for our Private Membership.

⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠

Additional Resources:

Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom MOVEMENT group on FB

⁠If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com

Episode 168. Navigating the Autistic Brain; A Complex Journey⁠

⁠Episode 165. Confidence in Uncertainty; Finding Strength in the Unknown

In this episode of Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon tackles a common challenge for many families raising children on the autism spectrum: going out in public. Feeling confined to the safety of home is a familiar struggle, but Shannon shares practical strategies to make outings not only possible but also enjoyable.

Key topics include:

• Sensory Considerations: Use tools like iPods, fidget toys, and strategic seating to minimize sensory overload.
• Special Arrangements: Plan seating and physical space to ensure your child’s comfort.
• Handling Waiting Times: Bring activities to occupy your child and reduce wait times by planning ahead.
• Clarify and Verify: Use visual supports and clear communication to explain the outing's steps.
• Preview and Review: Create picture stories to prepare and review outings with your child.
• Giving a Sense of Control: Involve your child in the outing process to reduce anxiety.
• Preparing for Overwhelm: Develop a proactive plan to handle overwhelming situations.
• Reaction Strategies: Have a plan for addressing unanticipated behavior challenges.
• Graded Exposure: Gradually increase the complexity of outings to build confidence and success.

Join Shannon as she shares these valuable insights and encourages families to take small, manageable steps toward successful community integration.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Are you registered for our FREE Webinar?

Finding Strength & Resilience; A Mom's Guide to Autism Parenting

REGISTER NOW

Together we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to get over and join the WAITLIST for our Private Membership.

⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠

Additional Resources:

Join the Movement on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/groups/thenotyouraverageautismmommovement⁠

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠

⁠Episode 96. Our Parenting Journey is Different⁠

⁠Episode 74. You Cannot Fix All the Things All the Time⁠