In this episode of "The Autism Dad" podcast, Rob Gorski interviews Meghan Bailey, a mother of an 11-year-old son on the autism spectrum. Meghan shares her parenting journey, discussing the initial autism diagnosis, her approach to parenting a neurodiverse child, and the concept of autistic shutdowns versus meltdowns. The conversation delves into coping mechanisms and the importance of meeting children where they are in their developmental process.

- Introduction to Meghan Bailey: Meghan shares her story and her son’s late autism diagnosis in 2022.

- Grieving Process in Autism Diagnosis: Discussion on how parents may grieve the life they envisioned for their children.

- Differences between Autism Shutdowns and Meltdowns: Meghan explains her experiences with her son’s shutdowns as opposed to meltdowns in autism.

- Coping Mechanisms and Self-Regulation in Autism: Strategies Meghan employs to help her son manage sensory overload and emotional stress.

- Parenting Challenges with Neurodiverse Children: Navigating the tween years and distinguishing between typical developmental behaviors and those influenced by autism.

- Parental Advice for Managing Autism: Tips for parents on managing shutdowns and the importance of changing their approach to meet their children’s needs.

- Autism Community Support: The value of connecting with other parents for support and validation.

- Meghan Bailey on TikTok: @MeghanBailey

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About AngelSense

As the new school year approaches, AngelSense helps parents track their loved ones in real-time, ensuring safe transportation, smooth transitions, and peace of mind. It supports navigation through school breaks, lunches, classroom changes, and after-school activities. The auto-pickup speakerphone allows caregivers to address concerns instantly. This Back to School season, get a free device with every new subscription. Protect your loved ones with AngelSense, making independence and safety achievable. For more information click the link below.

Visit AngelSense

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence. For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

Visit Goally

In this episode, Rob Gorski sits down with Melissa Schiefelbein, a board-certified behavior analyst, parent of a child with autism, and Clinical Advisor at AngelSense. Melissa shares her journey from being a concerned parent to becoming a professional in behavior analysis. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with high needs and how assistive technology, like Angel Sense, has transformed their lives. This episode delves into the importance of understanding behavior principles, promoting independence, and the role of technology in enhancing safety and autonomy for children with special needs.

• Introduction to Melissa Schiefelbein: Her background and journey into behavior analysis.
• The Role of Behavior Analysis: How understanding behavior principles empowered Melissa to better support her son.
• Challenges with Traditional Schooling: The impact of her son being put on the wrong bus and subsequent safety concerns.
• Assistive Technology: How Angel Sense has provided peace of mind and independence.
• Promoting Independence: Strategies for helping children with special needs become more independent.
• Parental Empowerment: The importance of parents learning behavior principles and being involved in their child's development.
• Real-Life Applications: Everyday situations where behavior principles can be applied.
• Technology as a Bridge: How GPS tracking and other technologies can help parents feel more secure while promoting their child's independence.
• School Integration: Addressing concerns and solutions for using assistive technology in schools.

• Angel Sense: Angel Sense Website
• Support Groups: Autism Support Groups

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• Share Your Story: We’d love to hear from you. Share your experiences with us.

Melissa Schiefelbein is a board-certified behavior analyst and a dedicated parent of a child with autism. Her personal experiences have driven her to become an advocate for understanding behavior principles and using assistive technology to promote independence and safety for children with special needs. Melissa currently works with Angel Sense as a clinical advisor, helping other parents navigate the challenges of raising children with high needs.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence. For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

Visit Goally

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and

Introduction:

In this insightful episode, we welcome Dr. Suzanne Goh, a pediatric neurologist and behavior analyst, to discuss the complexities of comorbid diagnoses in children with autism. Dr. Goh shares her expertise on the role of pediatric neurology, the importance of a holistic approach, and how parents can better advocate for their children.

Guest: Dr. Suzanne Goh

Dr. Suzanne Goh is a renowned pediatric neurologist and behavior analyst based in San Diego, California. Specializing in autism, Dr. Goh leads a comprehensive practice that integrates medical, behavioral, and developmental care. As the founder of Cordica, a network of 24 centers providing autism care services nationwide, she is dedicated to improving the lives of neurodivergent children and their families. Dr. Goh is also an author, with her latest book, "Magnificent Minds," offering a holistic approach to autism care.

Key Points and Takeaways:

• Dr. Suzanne Goh’s Background: Pediatric neurologist and behavior analyst specializing in autism.
• Shortage in the Field: There is a significant shortage of professionals specializing in pediatric neurology and autism care.
• Role of Pediatric Neurologists: Diagnosis, genetic testing, metabolic testing, and epilepsy management.
• Neurobehavioral Framework: Combining neurology and behavior analysis for a customized approach to autism care.
• Common Comorbid Diagnoses:
• Medical Conditions: Genetic, metabolic disorders, epilepsy, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal issues, immune disorders, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
• Impact of Comorbid Conditions: These can significantly affect a child’s health, quality of life, learning, and well-being.
• Advocating for Your Child: The importance of looking deeper than just the autism diagnosis and finding the right medical team.

Relevant Links:

• Cordica Care
• Dr. Suzanne Goh’s Website
• Magnificent Minds Book on Amazon

Quotes and Highlights:

• "The source of behavior is the brain. So it's a natural connection. And how can we really understand behavior if we're not thinking about the brain?"
• "About 90% of autistic individuals have at least one co-occurring condition and 50% have four or more."

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.com

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and visit our website for more resources. Connect with us on social media to stay updated on future episodes.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines,...