Together Through the Storms

Carer Reset Retreat Sat 13th June 12.30-3.30pmBrisbane, Ashgrove@Unplugged YogaWhen we rest, we rise.More info and tickets here:https://events.humanitix.com/the-carer-reset-retreat-for-parents-and-carers-of-neurodivergent-children-or-children-with-additional-needsIn this episode, Leonie Laukkanen and Niina Jaakkola discuss the importance of self-care, neurodiversity, and community support through retreats and workshops for women, especially those caring for neurodivergent children. They share personal journeys, practical strategies, and the transformative power of rest and connection.

Want to learn more about Niina´s and Sarah´s special carer events for 2026? Sign up for our priority list from the link below and be the first one to receive more information!https://www.togetherthroughthestorms.com.au/join-the-january-priority-list/In this episode, Niina and Sarah discuss the challenges that families with neurodivergent children face during the Christmas season. They explore the importance of creating neurodivergent-friendly traditions, advocating for children's needs, and managing family expectations. Sarah emphasizes the significance of self-care for parents and offers practical strategies for navigating the holiday season successfully. Ultimately, the conversation encourages families to prioritize connection over tradition and to create a Christmas experience that is safe and enjoyable for everyone.Niina:https://www.instagram.com/togetherthroughthestorms/Sarah:https://www.instagram.com/mama_slayden/https://www.sarahhayden.com.au/

Join the priority list: https://niina.mykajabi.com/joinprioritylistIn this episode, Niina shares her personal journey as a parent of two daughters with additional needs, discussing the challenges and triumphs they face. She reflects on her experiences with her daughters' education, the emotional journey of understanding their needs, and her own pursuit of learning Auslan. Niina also announces her plans to create asupportive community and course for parents navigating similar challenges, inviting listeners to contribute their ideas for the season.

Register to get access for my free Happy Days Advent Calendar:   https://niina.mykajabi.com/pl/2148584825   In this final episode of the season, Niina reflects on the challenges and transitions faced at the end of the year, particularly for caregivers of children with additional needs. She discusses the importance of setting intentions for the new year. Niina emphasizes the need for balance in life yet discusses how she struggles with it herself, and encourages listeners to engage in reflective practices as they move into the new year.   Inspirational quotes: @vexking   Reflective questions for the end of the year:   What I was successful with? What I was unsuccessful with? What do I want to let go of? What would I love to invite for next year and how would I like to feel?

Register to get access for my free Happy Days Advent Calendar: https://niina.mykajabi.com/pl/2148584825   In this episode, Niina and Bec Godycki delve into the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation. They discuss the importance of incorporating mindfulness into daily life, especially for parents, and explore various meditation techniques that can be adapted to fit individual needs. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about meditation, emphasizing that it doesn't have to be a rigid practice. Instead, it can be fluid and integrated into everyday activities. The episode concludes with practical tips for embracing mindfulness amidst the chaos of life.   Where to find Bec? - IG: @becgodycki   - Free meditation app: https://insighttimer.com/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY: - receive a free guide, "Communication tips for connecting with your child" and - fortnightly community letter   Simply click the link to register: https://niina.mykajabi.com/pl/2148584825   In this episode, Niina shares her personal experiences with anxiety, particularly in the context of caring for children with additional needs. She discusses the impact of anxiety on her life and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting these feelings. Niina offers various coping strategies that have helped her manage anxiety, including self-care practices and mindfulness techniques. The conversation highlights the significance of tuning into one's body and understanding individual needs for better emotional well-being. Please look after yourself. Here are some free services that you can connect with if you feel like talking to a professional: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ https://www.mindspot.org.au/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY: - receive a free guide, "Communication tips for connecting with your child" And - fortnightly community letter   Simply click the link and register:   https://niina.mykajabi.com/pl/2148584825   In this episode, Niina discusses the profound grief experienced by parents of children with disabilities. She shares her personal journey and insights from other parents, emphasizing the importance of community support, acknowledging the grief, and developing coping strategies. The conversation highlights the emotional challenges faced by these families and the societal perceptions that often complicate their experiences.

In this episode, Niina speaks with Rachel, a play therapist who has Master's degree in Child Play Therapy and is currently completing Master of Autism. She also has two children with additional needs and has been diagnosed with additional needs herself. In this episode, Rachel highlights the significance of play therapy for children, especially those with additional needs. She also explores the therapeutic techniques used in play therapy, its impact on emotional and mental health, and the importance of understanding children's needs through play. Rachel shares insights from her experiences, highlighting the value of play therapy for families and children alike. You can find Rachel from: https://blossomingmindsplaytherapy.com.au/ IG: @blossomingminds_pt

In this episode Niina welcomes an inspirational guest, Rachel. Rachel is a Play Therapist, a mother of two autistic / ADHD children and is also neurodivergent herself. Rachel shares about her journey with her children, the early signs of additional needs, long process of getting a diagnosis and the process regarding her own diagnoses. She discusses topics such as parental guilt, self-regulation and reducing expectations. You can find Rachel from: IG: @blossomingminds_pt https://blossomingmindsplaytherapy.com.au/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY: - receive a fortnightly community letter AND - get a free guide, "Communication tips for connecting with your child" Simply click the link and register: https://niina.mykajabi.com/pl/2148584825 In this episode, Niina discusses the theme of driving change, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and inclusive attitudes. She shares insights on how small actions can create significant ripples of change, inspired by a quote from Mother Teresa. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their roles in fostering inclusivity and personal growth within their communities.

In this episode, Niina introduces inspirational guest Chrissie, a mum to two boys. Chrissie shares about receiving a devastating diagnosis for her son and the personal journey and growth that followed. This conversation explores how life's storms shape our experiences and the depth of emotions we encounter along the way. Chrissie talks about connection, about asking the questions, about our own responsibility even during the darkest time and how gratitude can transform our perspective on life. This episode also mentions losing a child. If you find this episode triggering, please make sure you reach out for some support for yourself. Below you can find couple of free services that you can approach. Please look after yourself. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

In this episode, Niina welcomes an inspiring guest, Renee, who shares her profound journey from contracting meningococcal meningitis at 19, which led to her becoming profoundly deaf, to finding her path and identity through challenges and change. Renee discusses her life now and her passion for Auslan (Australian Sign Language), which plays a significant role in her life and career. She reflects on the importance of self-care, family support, and building a new community connection through Auslan. Renee's journey resulted in her authoring the book 'Time to Soar, When Loss Becomes New Beginnings' and starting her business 'First Hand Auslan', aimed at fostering community connections and providing language support. This episode highlights the importance of adaptability, the influence of change, and how signing can benefit everyone.   Here is how you can connect with Renee: IG: @reneedoffay FB: Renee d´Offay website: https://www.firsthandauslan.com.au/

In this episode, Niina discusses the different levels of advocating and how advocacy can be seen as a skill that you develop along the journey. Niina shares some examples of her own advocacy journey with her two deaf children.

In this episode, Niina and her husband Jude share their personal journey of parenting two children with hearing loss. Jude discusses the lessons he has learned through various challenges, the importance of communication, and the support systems they found along the way. The conversation highlights the emotional rollercoaster of navigating surgeries, isolation, and the joy of seeing their children develop and adapt to their environment. Jude emphasizes the significance of community and the positive aspects of their journey, despite the difficulties faced.

In this episode, Niina shares some of her learning and strategies that may be helpful when navigating the initial diagnosis phase. She discusses the importance of acceptance, building a supportive community, and the challenges of advocacy. Niina emphasizes the need for open conversations about disabilities and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with parenting children with special needs. She also offers insights on managing worries and finding empowerment in advocacy.

In this episode, Niina shares her emotional journey regarding receiving the initial diagnosis for her girls. She discusses the initial struggles with acceptance, the diagnostic process, and the emotional challenges faced as a parent. Niina reflects on her hopes and fears for her daughter's future, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the unknowns in their journey.   If this episode feels triggering to you and you feel like you need to talk to someone, here are links to services that provide free support:   https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ https://www.lifeline.org.au/

In this episode Niina introduces guest Hannah, a speech pathologist with over 17 years of experience, who shares her holistic approach to early childhood intervention. Hannah emphasizes the importance of communication support, connection within families, and community integration. She also discusses her challenges with balancing professional passion and business management. The episode ends with practical advice for families considering speech therapy and encourages them to explore available resources. Hannah´s website: https://www.littlelionheart.com.au/

In this episode, Niina introduces Hannah, a mother of three children and a nurse. Hannah shares about her journey with her beautiful son who has additional needs. She talks about embracing the challenges, finding pleasure in mundane, creating community and building connections. If you want to know how resilience sounds like, this episode is for you!

In the episode Niina responds to the questions herself that she asks from her guests. Niina reflects the personal journey, the most challenging times during the journey, the most precious memories and the valuable lessons she has learned. She discusses her mindset shift, the importance of managing expectations, and the power of seeking help. She emphasizes the significance of letting go of control and embracing uncertainty. The conversation highlights the special relationship between Niina's daughters and the progress they have made in communication.

In this episode, Niina introduces her podcast and shares her nervousness and excitement. She starts with an inspirational quote about meeting children where they are. She mentions her children as her inspiration and talks about the journey of raising them. Niina reads parts of the poem 'Welcome to Holland' to illustrate the experience of having a child with unique needs. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting parents in this journey. Niina also reflects on the challenges of balancing multiple roles and expectations. Related links: Welcome to Holland poem: https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com/welcome-to-holland Too Peas in A Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/546vUOvknocYKxS3QD9Z7b?si=feca1050c516422c