Ep. 121 - Neurodivergent and Raising a Child with Autism with Meagan

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidahwelcomes Meagan, a special education teacher and mother of an autistic daughter, to share her family's journey with neurodivergence. They discuss the importance of early autism diagnosis, Meagan's personal and professionalexperience navigating the educational system and how understanding her own neurodivergence has impacted her life. Meagan also talks about her nonprofit, Love Over Labels Advocacy, which focuses on IEP support, community outreach,and training law enforcement to better understand disabilities. This episode highlights the value of self-discovery, understanding neurodivergent traits, and fostering supportive communities for autistic individuals and their families. In this episode, we talk about:00:00 Introduction to Autism for Badass Moms00:43 Meet Megan: A Neurodivergent Mom's Journey01:25 Early Diagnosis and Family Realizations03:55 Navigating the Education System05:23 Challenges and Emotional Struggles07:03 The Importance of Community and Support08:57 Balancing Family Dynamics20:54 Advocacy and Nonprofit Work26:10 Innovative Teaching Approaches30:32 Challenges in Psychiatric Emergency Rooms31:30 Transformative Urgent Care Experience32:34 AAC Boards in Parks Initiative37:17 Love Over Labels: IEP Advocacy and Community Outreach38:32 Blue Envelope Program for Police Interactions44:49 Managing ADHD and Personal Well-being50:09 Encouragement for Moms Seeking Diagnosis55:21 Conclusion and Call to ActionConnect with Meagan:Website: Love Over Labels Advocacy | special needs advocacyInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/loveoverlabelsadvocacyhttps://www.instagram.com/meaganadvocates Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/loveoverlabels Threads:https://www.threads.com/@loveoverlabelsadvocacy If this episode resonated with you:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastTik Tok: autismforbadassmomsYouTube: autismforbadassmoms