Autism Family Resource

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Dr. Jonathan Chism, father, educator, and founder of the Autism Dad Social Club. Dr. Chism shares how his own parenting journey led him to create a space where fathers of autistic children could connect, recharge, share resources, and build real community. Together, Brian and Dr. Chism discuss why dads can sometimes feel isolated, why support matters for fathers as much as it does for children, and how community can help families feel less alone. Dr. Chism also explains how the Autism Dad Social Club creates social opportunities for dads, children, and families through meetups, family events, resource sharing, and virtual connection. This conversation is a warm reminder that parenting does not have to happen in isolation. When fathers find community, they can support one another, share wisdom, and help create a wider circle of care for their children. Topics Covered Why Dr. Chism started the Autism Dad Social Club The importance of community for fathers of autistic children How dads can support each other through shared experiences Creating social opportunities for autistic children and families Why respite and connection matter for parents How dads outside of Houston can begin finding or building community Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:41 What is the Autism Dad Social Club? 02:12 Why Dr. Chism started the club 05:43 Challenges that led him to seek community 13:12 What dads can expect at a meetup 20:11 Advice for dads who do not have community yet 24:20 Why support for fathers matters Memorable Quote "Once you bond with other fathers, you feel a sense of pride. Like, man, I parent an autistic child, and we're out here doing it." About the Guest Dr. Jonathan Chism is a father, educator, and founder of the Autism Dad Social Club, a community created to support dads of autistic children through connection, social events, resource sharing, and family-centered gatherings. Based in the Houston area, the club helps fathers build brotherhood, reduce isolation, and create supportive spaces for their children and families. Resources Mentioned Autism Dad Social Club Fatherhood Huddle Autism Society of Texas Autism Society Autism Speaks Walk WhatsApp About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and parent coaching services with a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com  

Have you ever wondered if the world will truly understand your child for who they are? In this powerful and deeply reflective conversation, Brian sits down with father, educator, and Autism Dads Social Club founder Jonathan Chism to explore the intersection of race and disability. Together, they unpack what it means to raise an autistic child while navigating cultural expectations, systemic challenges, and the pressure of being seen and understood in public spaces. Jonathan shares how his perspective as a Black father has shaped his parenting journey, including unlearning traditional expectations, embracing patience, and learning to truly meet his child where he is. This episode dives into advocacy, acceptance, and the importance of seeing your child as a whole human being, not just a diagnosis. If you've ever felt the weight of judgment in public or questioned your approach as a parent, this conversation will remind you that connection, not correction, is where growth begins. Topics Covered • The intersection of race and disability in parenting • How cultural expectations can shape parenting approaches • Understanding processing time and routines in autism • Letting go of societal judgment in public settings • The importance of joining your child's world • Seeing your child as "different, not less" Memorable Quote "Your child is not a problem to fix. They are a person to know, connect with, and celebrate." About the Guest Jonathan Chism is a father, educator, and historian specializing in African-American religious history. He is also the founder of the Autism Dads Social Club, a community focused on supporting fathers raising autistic children through connection, advocacy, and shared experience. Resources Mentioned • Uniquely Human by Barry Prizant • Autism Dads Social Club About the Host Brian Keene is an occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a pediatric therapy practice based in Arizona that provides neurodiversity-affirming, play-based services for children and families. He is passionate about helping parents feel confident, supported, and empowered in their journey. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com  

Parenting an autistic child can bring moments of joy, uncertainty, growth, and deep reflection. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Dr. Jonathan Chism, also known as Dr. Chiz, a father, professor, minister, and co-founder of the Autism Dad Social Club. Dr. Chism shares the honest story of his family's journey raising his non-speaking autistic son. He opens up about the early shock and denial after diagnosis, the hope that therapy might "fix" autism, and the powerful shift that happened when he began listening to autistic voices and embracing a different perspective. Instead of focusing on changing his son, Dr. Chism learned to focus on connection, acceptance, and supporting his son's communication and independence. In this conversation, he reflects on the lessons autism has taught him about empathy, patience, inclusion, and what it really means to show up as a father. This episode is especially meaningful for parents who may feel overwhelmed early in their journey. It's a reminder that growth happens not only for children, but for parents too. Topics Covered • Processing an autism diagnosis as a parent • Moving from denial toward acceptance in the autism journey • Parenting a non-speaking autistic child • Listening to autistic voices and lived experiences • Supporting communication through AAC devices • Building strong father-child relationships • Encouraging independence and life skills • Finding community as an autism parent Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jonathan Chism 01:21 Dr. Chism's background and family 03:08 Receiving an autism diagnosis at age two and a half 07:57 Moving from denial toward understanding autism 10:40 Learning from autistic voices and shifting perspective 24:26 Advice for parents feeling overwhelmed Memorable Quote "Be patient with yourself. Your child is a gift, and this journey will create a new normal." — Dr. Jonathan Chism About the Guest Dr. Jonathan Chism, also known as Dr. Chiz, is an associate professor of history at the University of Houston Downtown, an ordained minister, and the co-founder of the Autism Dad Social Club. As a father raising a non-speaking autistic son, he is passionate about supporting fathers, promoting autism acceptance, and helping families build meaningful connections with their children. Resources Mentioned • Autism Dad Social Club • Uniquely Human by Dr. Barry Prizant • AAC communication tools such as TouchChat About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical tools, expert conversations, and supportive insights to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Have you ever wondered if something deeper might be affecting your child's regulation, behavior, or sleep? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Knight, chiropractor and founder of the Autism Wellness Center, to explore how factors like inflammation, gut health, environmental toxins, and cellular health may influence a child's nervous system and overall regulation. Dr. Knight shares his four-phase approach to cellular healing, designed to help support detox pathways, improve mitochondrial function, and restore gut health. The conversation also highlights how addressing these internal systems may help children better engage in therapies, school, and daily life. This episode is not about quick fixes. It's about gaining a deeper understanding of how the body works and how families can explore additional tools to support their child's development and regulation. Topics Covered • How inflammation may influence behavior and regulation • The connection between gut health and neurological function • Dr. Knight's four-phase cellular healing approach • The role toxins and environmental exposures may play in health • Supporting detox pathways safely and thoughtfully • Why mitochondrial health matters for energy and regulation • Real stories of changes families have experienced • Simple lifestyle adjustments families can start today About the Guest Dr. Jeffrey Knight is a chiropractor and founder of the Autism Wellness Center in Utah. His work focuses on a whole-body approach to health, supporting neurological function, detoxification pathways, cellular healing, and gut health. Through his four-phase wellness program, Dr. Knight works with families across the country to help support children's overall health and regulation. Learn more: https://healthempoweredfamilies.com Resources Mentioned Health Empowered Families https://healthempoweredfamilies.com About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical strategies, expert conversations, and supportive insights to help parents navigate autism and neurodiversity with confidence. Learn more: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from the conversation. You can find more resources and support at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Follow Pure Hearts Therapy on social media for more tools, strategies, and conversations supporting neurodivergent families.  

Many parents of neurodivergent children share a common feeling: isolation. Even when surrounded by people, it can feel like no one truly understands the unique challenges your family is navigating. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with autism advocate Mandy Pinckley to talk about the power of community and connection. Mandy shares her personal journey of discovering supportive spaces where she could be authentic about being autistic, and how finding the right community helped her build confidence and self-acceptance. Together, they explore why so many parents feel alone, how community support can transform the experience of raising a neurodivergent child, and practical ways families can begin building their own support networks. From online communities to local support groups, Mandy highlights how even one meaningful connection can help families move from isolation to hope. If you've ever wondered whether other families truly understand what you're going through, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone—and your community may be closer than you think. Topics Covered • Why many parents of neurodivergent children feel isolated • Mandy Pinkley's journey embracing her autistic identity • The power of finding community with people who understand your experience • How support groups can reduce isolation and build confidence • Online communities vs. in-person support networks • How parents can help their children find supportive social environments • Why advocacy and authenticity matter in the autism community • How families can start building their own support networks About the Guest Mandy Pinckley is an autism advocate who speaks openly about identity, community, and the importance of creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals feel accepted and understood. Through advocacy and community engagement, Mandy works to promote inclusion, awareness, and authentic representation of autistic experiences. About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical insights, expert conversations, and supportive strategies to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. You can find more resources and support at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Follow Pure Hearts Therapy on social media for more conversations, guidance, and resources supporting neurodivergent families. Recommended Resources Mentioned CARD – Center for Autism & Related Disabilities Family Inclusion Networks (e.g., "FIN") Local autism organizations Facebook and online support groups Community events and family-friendly meetups    

Many parents know the feeling. Your child comes home and says, "Nobody plays with me," or you watch them standing alone on the playground while other kids easily connect. Every parent wants their child to feel included and accepted, but sometimes it feels like the world doesn't quite know how to make room for differences. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down again with autism advocate Mandy Pinckley to talk about what real inclusion looks like for autistic children. Together they explore how friendships form, how peers can become allies, and what parents and educators can do to create environments where neurodivergent kids feel genuinely welcomed. Mandy shares personal insights from her advocacy work and her own experiences as an autistic adult. The conversation also explores practical ways parents can advocate for their children, teach healthy boundaries, and help kids build confidence and connection with others. This episode is a reminder that inclusion isn't just about allowing someone to participate — it's about creating spaces where every child truly belongs. Topics Covered • What true inclusion means for autistic children • Why some neurodivergent kids struggle with friendships • How peer mentorship programs create inclusive environments • The importance of listening to a child's lived experience • Teaching healthy boundaries and self-advocacy skills • How parents can advocate effectively in school settings • Ways peers can become allies for neurodivergent classmates Memorable Quote "Inclusion isn't just letting someone sit at the table — it's wanting them there." — Mandy Pinckley About the Guest Mandy Pinckley is an autism advocate dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and empowerment for neurodivergent individuals. Through advocacy, community engagement, and educational conversations, she helps families and schools create environments where autistic individuals feel accepted and supported. Resources Mentioned • Penguin Project (inclusive theatre program for children with disabilities) • CARD — Center for Autism and Related Disabilities About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical tools, meaningful conversations, and expert perspectives to help parents support the development and wellbeing of their neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. You can explore more resources and support at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Follow Pure Hearts Therapy on social media for more conversations, strategies, and encouragement for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.  

What is it really like to grow up autistic? And what do autistic youth wish the adults in their lives understood better? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with autism advocate Mandy Pinckley to talk about her lived experience growing up autistic and the journey that led her into advocacy work today. Mandy shares what it was like navigating childhood, friendships, bullying, and the search for belonging while growing up undiagnosed. Together they explore how early understanding, supportive relationships, and open communication can make a meaningful difference for autistic youth. Mandy also shares insights on digital safety, emotional experiences, identity development, and why it's so important for parents to meet their children where they are. This conversation is the beginning of a multi-episode series with Mandy, where Brian and Mandy will explore topics like digital safety, inclusion, peer advocacy, and building supportive communities for neurodivergent youth. If you've ever wondered how to better understand your child's perspective or create a stronger connection with them, this episode offers thoughtful insights and encouragement. Topics Covered • Mandy's experience growing up autistic and being diagnosed later • Why many autistic girls go undiagnosed longer than boys • The emotional experiences many autistic youth navigate • Bullying, isolation, and searching for belonging • The role of digital environments and online safety • How open communication helps protect and support kids • Supporting identity development and self-expression • Helping neurodivergent youth find community Memorable Quote "Meet them where they're at — not where you want them to be." — Mandy Pinkley About the Guest Mandy Pinckley is an autism advocate focused on promoting digital safety, inclusion, and support for neurodivergent youth. Through speaking, advocacy work, and community engagement, she helps families and educators better understand the experiences of autistic individuals and create safer, more supportive environments. Resources Mentioned • CARD — Center for Autism and Related Disabilities About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares expert conversations, practical strategies, and supportive insights to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What if parents could feel less afraid, less confused, and more connected to their autistic children? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Megan Ashley: an autistic Black woman, licensed therapist, parent advocate, speaker, and author. Megan shares her own late autism diagnosis, what helped her recognize autism in herself, and how her lived experience now shapes the work she does with families. Together, they talk about sensory differences, masking, culture, behavior, and why so many autistic children are misunderstood when adults only look at the surface of what they do. Megan offers a compassionate, practical framework for parents who want to better understand their child instead of reacting from fear or frustration. This conversation is a powerful reminder that many behaviors make more sense when we slow down, stay curious, and learn to listen differently. If you've ever wanted to better understand what your child is trying to communicate, this episode is a meaningful place to start. Topics Covered • Megan Ashley's late autism diagnosis and lived experience • Why sensory differences are often one of the clearest signs of autism • How culture shapes the way autism is understood and supported • What masking is and why it can be so exhausting • Why autistic girls are often diagnosed later than boys • How environment influences whether autistic traits are supported or stressed • Redefining what "okay" can mean for your child • How parents can listen beyond behavior and better understand communication Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Megan Ashley's advocacy mission 01:20 Megan's late autism diagnosis and personal journey 03:00 Understanding autistic thinking and communication differences 04:30 Autism culture and why context matters 08:45 Sensory differences and real-life sensory examples 10:20 Masking explained and why it can be exhausting 13:40 Why autistic girls are often diagnosed later 17:20 Recognizing sensory differences in children 20:40 Autism traits, strengths, and supportive environments 25:30 Redefining what "okay" means for autistic children 28:30 How parents can listen better and remove bias Memorable Quote "Meet them where they're at — not where you want them to be." — Megan Ashley About the Guest Megan Ashley is a licensed therapist, speaker, author, parent advocate, and autism advocate. As an autistic Black woman, her work focuses on helping parents better understand and connect with their autistic children through empathy, behavioral understanding, and practical support. She is the author of Blueprints of Behavior: Understanding Autism in Your Family Through Behavior. Resources Mentioned • Perfect Consulting • Blueprints of Behavior: Understanding Autism in Your Family Through Behavior by Megan Ashley • Megan Ashley on Instagram About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical tools, expert conversations, and supportive insights to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

If your child's meltdowns leave you feeling frustrated, stuck, or unsure what to do next, this episode is for you. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Lisa Chan, parent coach, behavior specialist, and former pediatric occupational therapist, to talk about what's really going on during hard moments at home. Lisa explains why emotional regulation is a learned skill, how executive functioning plays a role in everyday struggles, and why parents have more influence than they often realize. Together, they unpack co-regulation, loving boundaries, secure attachment, and social skill development. Lisa also shares practical examples parents can use right away, including how to respond during meltdowns without escalating them and why role-playing can help children build social confidence. This conversation is a reminder that progress often starts with small shifts at home. When parents feel more supported and confident, it becomes easier to help children build the skills they need to thrive. Topics Covered • Why school-age meltdowns are often rooted in emotional regulation challenges • How executive functioning affects behavior, homework, and daily tasks • What co-regulation really looks like in the moment • Why validation and firm boundaries can work together • How secure attachment is built through consistency • Why some kids need direct support with social skills • How role-playing can help children practice real-life interactions • Why parents need support too Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and why this episode matters for overwhelmed parents 00:44 Meet Lisa Chan and how she shifted from OT to parent coaching 04:10 Emotional regulation, meltdowns, and executive functioning explained 12:20 What co-regulation looks like during a public meltdown 20:05 Secure attachment, consistency, and healthy boundaries 22:20 Social skills, self-esteem, and using role-play at home Memorable Quote "The biggest takeaway is really going to be the realization that you have more power in helping your child and helping yourself than you realize." — Lisa Chan About the Guest Lisa Chan is a parent coach, child behavior specialist, and former pediatric occupational therapist with over a decade of experience supporting families. Her work focuses on emotional regulation, behavior patterns, social skills, and helping parents create healthier, more connected family dynamics. Resources Mentioned • Lisa Parent Coach website • Lisa's emotional regulation course About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical tools, expert conversations, and supportive insights to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Navigating autism can feel especially isolating when families are also carrying the weight of cultural barriers, medical mistrust, or systems that were not built with them in mind. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Dr. Martine LaVenture, a licensed social worker, school social worker, therapist, and proud mom of a teen on the autism spectrum. Dr. LaVenture shares how her personal and professional journey shaped her passion for supporting autistic children and their families, especially within historically marginalized communities. Together, they talk about what to do after a diagnosis, how to build a care team and village around your child, how to educate family members in relatable ways, and why culturally responsive care matters so much. This conversation is warm, practical, and deeply encouraging. If you have ever felt like you were carrying too much on your own, this episode is a reminder that you do not have to navigate autism by yourself. There is support, there is community, and there are ways to advocate with more clarity and confidence. Topics Covered • What to do after an autism diagnosis • How to build a strong care team and support village • Helping family members understand autism in relatable ways • Teaching autistic children to advocate for their own needs • Therapy burnout and why breaks can be healthy • Cultural barriers and disparities in autism care • Why communication between families and providers matters • Encouragement for parents carrying a heavy load Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and why this conversation matters 01:14 Dr. Martine LaVenture's background and autism advocacy journey 05:03 What to do after an autism diagnosis 10:13 Building a village and treatment team around your child 12:41 Therapy burnout, breaks, and discharge conversations 15:32 Cultural disparities, advocacy, and communicating with providers Memorable Quote "You don't have to do this by yourself. There is a village, there is a community out there." — Dr. Martine LaVenture About the Guest Dr. Martine LaVenture is a licensed social worker, school social worker, therapist, and autism advocate. She is also a proud mom of an 18-year-old on the autism spectrum and brings both lived and professional experience to her work supporting children, families, and culturally responsive care systems. Resources Mentioned • Dr. Martine LaVenture's website: leventraconsultant.com • Instagram: @laventurecslc • Upcoming children's book about autism About the Host Brian Keene is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing in-home pediatric therapy services for families in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical tools, expert conversations, and supportive insights to help parents navigate the journey of raising neurodivergent children. Learn more at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Many autistic children chew on shirts, toys, or even their own hands. For parents, these behaviors can feel confusing or concerning. But often, mouthing and chewing behaviors are a child's way of meeting an important sensory need. In this episode of the Common Chaos Sensory Series, host Brian Keene is joined by occupational therapist Dipali Devani to explore why these behaviors happen and how families can support their children in safe and supportive ways. Dipali explains how oral sensory needs, regulation challenges, anxiety, and sensory seeking can all play a role in mouthing behaviors. She also shares practical strategies parents can use at home—from sensory replacements and calming routines to creating safe spaces that help children regulate. This conversation helps parents understand what's developmentally typical, when to seek support, and how occupational therapy can help children meet their sensory needs in ways that support their well-being. If your child frequently chews on clothing, toys, or their hands, this episode will give you helpful insight and practical tools you can start using right away. Topics Covered • Why autistic children may chew or mouth objects • How oral sensory needs relate to regulation • When mouthing behaviors are developmentally typical • Signs parents should look for after age 3–5 • Health, social, and eating challenges that may arise • Sensory tools and safe alternatives for chewing • Practical strategies families can use at home • The role of occupational therapy in supporting sensory needs Memorable Quote "Children often chew or mouth objects because their body is trying to regulate itself—they're simply trying to get the sensory input they need." About the Guest Dipali Devani is a pediatric occupational therapist who works with children and families to support sensory processing, regulation, and development. Her experience spans outpatient therapy, home health, and pediatric care settings. In addition to her clinical work, Dipali has studied Ayurveda, a holistic healing system focused on natural wellness and balance. She integrates both traditional occupational therapy strategies and holistic perspectives to support children and families. About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He created the Autism Family Resource Podcast to help parents better understand autism and gain practical strategies that support regulation, connection, and advocacy for neurodivergent children. Through Pure Hearts Therapy, Brian works with families to provide education, therapeutic services, and resources that empower children to thrive. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Parenting a neurodivergent child can bring many unexpected challenges—emotionally, logistically, and financially. In this episode, Brian sits down with autism advocate and father Michael Pereira, founder of My Autism Voyage, to talk about the real-life journey that led him to support other families navigating autism. Michael shares the story of recognizing early signs in his son, moving through denial, seeking professional guidance, and ultimately leaving corporate life to build a mission-driven platform for autism families. Through his blog and newsletter, My Autism Voyage helps parents think about daily living strategies, long-term planning, and entrepreneurship opportunities that can create more flexibility for families raising neurodivergent children. Together, Brian and Michael explore topics that many families don't always have time to think about—like life insurance planning, long-term care considerations, and financial protection strategies that support children well into adulthood. This conversation also highlights the importance of community, collaboration with professionals, and empowering parents with practical tools to move forward with clarity and confidence. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the responsibilities of parenting, planning, and advocating for your child, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and actionable ideas to support your family's journey. Topics Covered • Michael's journey as a father navigating an autism diagnosis • Moving from corporate life to mission-driven entrepreneurship • Practical daily living resources for autism families • Why long-term financial planning matters for families with neurodivergent children • Understanding life insurance, disability protection, and future care planning • Creating income flexibility through entrepreneurship • The importance of community and collaboration among parents and professionals • Common mistakes parents make when seeking advice Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:08 Michael's parenting journey and early signs of autism 09:18 The mission behind My Autism Voyage 13:00 Financial and life planning considerations for families 18:00 Entrepreneurship and creating flexibility for parents 25:05 Why professional guidance and collaboration matter Memorable Quote "Movement brings clarity. When you keep moving toward your goals, you start to see what works and what doesn't." About the Guest Michael Pereira is the founder of My Autism Voyage, a platform created by a parent for parents navigating autism. Through blog content, newsletters, and educational resources, Michael shares practical insights on daily living strategies, long-term financial planning, and entrepreneurship opportunities for families raising neurodivergent children. He is also an insurance professional who helps families think strategically about protecting their child's long-term future. About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian shares practical strategies, expert insights, and parent perspectives to help families support regulation, connection, safety, and independence for neurodivergent children. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit. Listen and subscribe: https://pod.link/1591840956 More resources for families: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Divorce is never easy, and when a child has additional support needs, the process can feel even more overwhelming. In this episode, Brian Keene sits down with family law attorney Anna Kay to talk through some of the biggest questions parents may face when navigating divorce while caring for a neurodivergent child or a child with disabilities. Anna shares practical insight on different divorce process options, including litigation, mediation, and collaborative divorce, and explains why being intentional early can make such a meaningful difference for families. The conversation also explores how parents can reduce conflict, communicate with children in age-appropriate ways, think through therapy schedules and medical decisions, and plan ahead for long-term financial and legal considerations. This episode is designed to offer guidance, encouragement, and a starting point for parents who may be trying to make thoughtful decisions during a difficult season. Whether you are currently navigating divorce or simply want to better understand what support can look like, this conversation offers helpful perspective and practical next steps. Topics Covered The difference between litigation, mediation, and collaborative divorce Why process choice matters for families of children with disabilities How to reduce conflict and protect children emotionally during divorce Why children should not be used as messengers between parents Planning for therapy schedules, medical decisions, and day-to-day logistics How special needs planning and trusts may protect long-term benefits Why working with the right professionals in your state matters The importance of self-care while navigating major family transitions Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:46 What parents can take away from this conversation 02:45 Divorce process options: litigation, mediation, and collaboration 10:27 Reducing conflict and protecting children emotionally 13:42 Therapy, medical decisions, and long-term planning 23:37 Helpful resources and final encouragement Memorable Quote "Please protect your children and shelter them during your divorces as much as you can." About the Guest Anna Krolikowska is a family law attorney who helps families navigate divorce with intention, clarity, and long-term planning in mind. Her work includes supporting parents of children with disabilities as they think through co-parenting, legal agreements, and future planning in a way that protects their children and helps families move forward. Resources Mentioned Anna Kay Law State bar associations Collaborative divorce associations American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Special needs trust planning attorneys About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Some children seem overwhelmed by everyday smells, while others seek out strong scents or react in ways that can leave parents feeling confused and unsure how to help. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene is joined by occupational therapist Dipali Devani to talk about smell sensitivity, sensory processing, and practical ways families can support children who are highly affected by scents in their environment. Dipali explains how the olfactory system connects with regulation, behavior, taste, and memory, and why certain smells can trigger distress, avoidance, nausea, or big emotional reactions. She also shares simple, actionable strategies parents can try, including journaling triggers, introducing smells slowly and safely, and using calming or alerting scents in supportive ways. This episode is a helpful starting point for parents who want to better understand what their child may be experiencing and how occupational therapy can help. It is warm, practical, and full of simple ideas families can begin using right away. Topics Covered What sensory sensitivity means, especially with smell How smell can affect regulation, behavior, and emotional responses Why some children are especially sensitive to certain scents How smell and taste work closely together Why journaling triggers can help parents spot patterns Gentle ways to desensitize children to difficult smells How calming and alerting scents can support regulation Why occupational therapy can be helpful early on Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:30 What smell sensitivity means in sensory processing 04:39 Why journaling triggers is a helpful first step 10:27 How to slowly reintroduce difficult smells 13:44 Real-life OT example using mashed potatoes 18:15 Using calming and alerting scents to support regulation Memorable Quote "You don't know what else is involved. You might not know what else the child needs as a support." About the Guest Dipali Devani is an occupational therapist at Pure Hearts Therapy who specializes in sensory integration and supporting children through practical, family-centered strategies. She is also an Ayurvedic practitioner and brings an integrative, client-centered perspective to her work with children and families. Resources Mentioned The Out-of-Sync Child Occupational therapy Sensory diets About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice supporting children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Friendship, belonging, and inclusion matter deeply for neurodivergent children, but many families still struggle to find environments where their child feels truly welcomed and supported. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Gail Ewell, Executive Director of Hope Technology School, about what it takes to build inclusive spaces at school, at home, and in the community. Gail shares how her own parenting journey led her to create a fully inclusive school for students with diverse support needs. She discusses why friendship is such an important protective factor, how inclusive activities can help reduce bullying, and why communication, advocacy, and community partnerships matter so much for children with higher support needs. This conversation is full of encouragement for parents, educators, and therapists who want to create more connection and opportunity for neurodivergent learners. Gail also offers practical ideas families can use right away, from buddy systems and social groups to community programs and inclusive play opportunities. If you've ever wondered how to help your child build friendships and feel more included, this is a meaningful episode to listen to. Topics Covered Why friendship is essential for neurodivergent children How inclusion can reduce bullying and social isolation Gail's journey as a parent and founder of Hope Technology School What makes a fully inclusive school environment different Practical ways families can encourage connection in everyday life How therapists and community organizations can support inclusion Why communication support matters for children with higher support needs The importance of advocacy, hope, and not giving up on your child's potential Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:10 What families can expect from this conversation 04:17 What makes Hope Technology School different 05:52 Building inclusive environments and circles of friends 10:33 How parents can encourage inclusion at home and in the community 19:39 Communication, advocacy, and not giving up Memorable Quote "Don't give up hope." About the Guest Gail Ewell is the Executive Director of Hope Technology School, a nonprofit inclusive K–12 school in California. She is also a mother of three adult children with diverse support needs and has spent decades building programs, schools, and inclusive opportunities that support neurodivergent children and their families. Resources Mentioned Hope Technology School Inclusive sports programs Buddy systems and mentorship programs Social skills groups AAC and communication supports About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What happens when someone grows up autistic without knowing why the world feels different? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker about his experience growing up autistic without a diagnosis, how that shaped his childhood and work life, and what changed when he was finally diagnosed at age 22. J.D. shares openly about social challenges, anxiety, masking, and the pressure to fit neurotypical expectations. He also reflects on how understanding his autism helped him recognize his strengths, including pattern recognition, structure, and creativity, which now support his work as a successful author. The conversation also explores partnership, parenting, and what it has been like to support his own autistic daughter with a much earlier diagnosis and a stronger support system. This episode offers encouragement for parents, autistic adults, and anyone who wants a deeper understanding of how autism can show up across the lifespan. It is an honest, thoughtful conversation about challenges, self-awareness, support, and the importance of focusing on strengths. Topics Covered Growing up autistic without an early diagnosis How a diagnosis at age 22 changed J.D.'s life Social anxiety, masking, and navigating neurotypical expectations Why some environments are more draining than others How autism can shape creativity, structure, and problem-solving The role of partnership and support in personal growth Parenting an autistic child with more early support Why it helps to focus on a child's strengths and interests Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:15 Growing up autistic without a diagnosis 06:04 Social situations, masking, and recharging 11:35 J.D.'s writing career and current projects 15:18 Parenting, partnership, and supporting his daughter 21:36 Final takeaway on finding a child's strengths Memorable Quote "Find the one thing that they actually do like and encourage that." About the Guest J.D. Barker is a New York Times bestselling author known for thrillers, horror, and suspense novels. He has written numerous bestselling books, collaborated with major authors including James Patterson, and speaks openly about his personal experience as an autistic adult. Resources Mentioned J.D. Barker Master of Suspense Forsaken The Fourth Monkey Dracul Behind a Closed Door The Writer About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Receiving an autism or ADHD diagnosis for your child can bring a wave of emotions, questions, and uncertainty. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with author, speaker, podcaster, and Arizona mom Kari Baker to talk about her journey parenting her son with autism and ADHD. Kari shares honestly about the early years of confusion, the pressure she felt to keep everything together, and the long road toward acceptance and healing. She also talks about the inspiration behind her book, Finding Kind, and how her family moved from secrecy and shame into a more strengths-based, hopeful way of supporting their son. This conversation is full of encouragement for parents who may be in the thick of diagnosis, therapies, school challenges, or simply learning how to let go of the "perfect parenting" picture they once imagined. If you are looking for a reminder that you are not alone, that your child has gifts worth nurturing, and that there can be joy in a different path than the one you expected, this episode is a meaningful one to hear. Topics Covered Kari's journey from financial planning into advocacy and encouragement for families What it was like to parent through an autism and ADHD diagnosis The emotional impact of secrecy, shame, and learning to make peace with a different path Why early diagnosis and early intervention matter How autism and ADHD can show up differently at school and socially Kari's book Finding Kind and why she wrote the story she wished she had found The power of community and finding other parents who understand Why focusing on a child's strengths can change everything Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 04:17 Kari's biggest takeaway for families 06:48 The story behind Finding Kind 10:48 Discovering her son's autism diagnosis 17:23 Autism, ADHD, and school challenges 20:35 Kari's podcast and what she's learning from other families Memorable Quote "Your child was born on purpose for a purpose." About the Guest Kari Baker is an author, speaker, podcaster, and Arizona mom of a son with autism and ADHD. She is the founder of Kind Families and the author of Finding Kind, a book that shares her personal parenting journey and offers encouragement to families navigating diagnosis, therapies, and the beauty of raising neurodivergent children. Resources Mentioned Finding Kind Kind Families Kari A. Baker Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center Think Asperger's ASD Mamas by Your Side About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com  

What does autism therapy look like when it is truly play-based, family-centered, and grounded in a child's individual strengths? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Will Martin from SOAR Autism Center about the Early Start Denver Model, often called ESDM, and how it offers a different approach from more traditional forms of ABA therapy. Will shares how he entered the autism field, what drew him to early intervention, and why ESDM stood out as a developmentally informed, relationship-based model for supporting young autistic children. The conversation explores how SOAR approaches communication, play, challenging behavior, family collaboration, and neurodiversity-affirming care. Brian and Will also talk openly about some of the concerns families have around ABA and how providers can take a more respectful, individualized approach. This episode is especially helpful for families who are trying to understand different therapy options, ask better questions when choosing a provider, and find care that aligns with their values. Topics Covered What the Early Start Denver Model is and how it differs from traditional ABA Will's journey into autism care and early intervention How play-based therapy can support communication and learning What discrete trial training is and why some families seek alternatives Common signs a child may benefit from autism therapy or assessment How SOAR structures assessment, scheduling, and interdisciplinary care What neurodiversity-affirming autism care can look like in practice Why families should ask hard questions when choosing a provider Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:21 What families may take away from the episode 04:23 ESDM compared to traditional discrete trial training 10:34 How SOAR assesses children and builds treatment plans 15:04 Signs a child may benefit from autism therapy 25:29 Neurodiversity-affirming care and concerns around ABA Memorable Quote "Feel empowered to ask tough questions about what type of therapy and what type of approach you might experience at different providers." About the Guest Will Martin is a behavior analyst and Head of Early Start Denver Model Implementation at SOAR Autism Center. He has worked across home, school, clinic, and research settings and is passionate about providing developmentally informed, individualized care for autistic children and their families. Resources Mentioned SOAR Autism Center Early Start Denver Model ESDM curriculum checklist About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Divorce is never easy, and when a child has autism, disabilities, or other support needs, the process can feel even more overwhelming. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with certified divorce coach, mediator, and special needs parent Mary Ann Hughes about how families can navigate separation while keeping their child's well-being at the center. Mary Ann shares her personal experience parenting two children on opposite ends of the autism spectrum while going through divorce, and explains why special needs divorce planning often requires a different level of care, foresight, and support. She offers practical guidance on talking with children about divorce, avoiding rushed decisions, protecting government benefits, planning for therapies and future services, and creating a more child-centered approach to co-parenting. This episode is especially helpful for parents who are currently going through separation, considering divorce, or simply want to understand what to think about if life takes an unexpected turn. It is honest, grounded, and full of helpful perspective for families facing a difficult season. Topics Covered Why divorce planning looks different when a child has special needs How to talk with children about divorce in a supportive way Using social stories to help children understand change Why it is important not to rush major legal and financial decisions How to keep the child's needs at the center of the divorce process Why future planning matters for therapies, programs, and adult services Protecting government benefits and financial eligibility How divorce coaching, mediation, and parenting coordination can help families Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:12 Mary Ann's story and why she does this work 04:28 Talking with children about divorce and using social stories 07:29 Planning ahead for therapies, services, and the future 12:33 Protecting benefits and understanding legal considerations 15:56 How parents can work with Mary Ann and get support Memorable Quote "This is not the end. It's the start of something new and something different." About the Guest Mary Ann Hughes is a certified divorce coach, mediator, and parenting coordinator who specializes in supporting families with children with special needs. She is also a mother of two autistic young adults and brings both personal and professional insight to helping families navigate divorce in a more thoughtful, child-centered way. Resources Mentioned Special Family Transitions Social stories for divorce conversations Special needs trusts Parenting coordination Mediation for families with children with disabilities About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Mental health is an important part of supporting neurodivergent children, yet it is often overlooked in the larger autism conversation. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with social worker and certified autism specialist Mitch Leppicello about the emotional lives of autistic children and why families need practical tools to support regulation, communication, and connection. Mitch brings more than 30 years of experience working with autistic individuals and their families. He shares how the field has changed over time, why anxiety and other mental health challenges often overlap with autism, and how parents can better understand what their child is trying to communicate during emotionally intense moments. He also introduces his Calm Compass framework, which helps families focus on connection, communication, encouragement, and movement as ways to support children through stress and dysregulation. This episode is especially helpful for parents, caregivers, therapists, and educators who want a more compassionate and practical understanding of how mental health and autism can intersect in everyday family life. Topics Covered How Mitch found his way into autism and neurodiversity work Why mental health challenges often overlap with autism Common emotional struggles autistic children may experience Why communication breakdowns can fuel emotional dysregulation Mitch's Calm Compass framework: Connect, Articulate, Lift, and Move How parents can help children better express what they are feeling Why connection and co-regulation matter during hard moments The value of collaboration between families and therapists Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:27 Mitch's path into autism and mental health work 07:17 How autism and mental health challenges overlap 11:31 What the Calm Compass is 13:53 Using "Articulate" to help children express feelings 20:46 Why connection and regulation strategies matter most Memorable Quote "Autism is not an excuse. It's an explanation." About the Guest Mitch Lepicello is a social worker, certified autism specialist, and mental health professional with more than 30 years of experience working with autistic children, teens, adults, and families. He created the Calm Compass framework to help families strengthen connection, communication, and emotional regulation. Resources Mentioned The Calm Compass ASD Parenting Journey Mitch Lepicello's social media resources Stress management tools and visual supports for autistic children About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

The lockdown may feel far behind us, but for many children, its impact is still showing up in everyday life, especially in social communication and emotional regulation. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene welcomes back Lenora Edwards to talk about how the pandemic and isolation affected children's language development, social skills, and confidence in communication. Lenora shares how reduced in-person interaction, masking, and fewer natural opportunities for conversation created real developmental gaps for many children, especially those who were very young during lockdown. She explains why skills like reading facial expressions, understanding tone, problem-solving in social situations, and simply knowing what to say in everyday interactions have become harder for many kids. She also offers practical, encouraging strategies parents can start using right away, including modeling, creating safe opportunities for communication, and helping children build confidence through practice. This episode is especially helpful for parents, caregivers, educators, and therapists who want to better understand what was lost during lockdown and how to gently rebuild those social and communication skills moving forward. Topics Covered How lockdown affected language development in young children Why masks and isolation changed social learning The impact on tone, body language, and facial expression reading Why some children now feel stuck in social situations How texting and screens can reduce real-life communication practice Why modeling communication matters so much Practical ways parents can create safe social opportunities When to trust your instincts and seek professional support Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:56 What families can expect to learn from this conversation 04:10 How lockdown changed language exposure and development 10:14 Why children may not know what to say socially 17:51 Practical strategies parents can use at home 22:06 When to seek help and trust your instincts Memorable Quote "It's our responsibility as the community, as people of this world, to help them communicate." About the Guest Lenora Edwards is a TEDx speaker and Chief Knowledge Officer with Better Speech. She is a speech-language pathologist with extensive experience supporting children and adults with communication needs across a wide range of settings, including hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics, and online therapy. Resources Mentioned Better Speech BetterSpeech.com Speech therapy for social communication Online speech therapy consultations About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com  

What happens when a child who is labeled as "slow" or "lazy" is actually a bright, creative learner who simply needs the right support? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Lynn and Jonathan Greenberg about their family's journey with dyslexia, the challenges Jonathan faced growing up, and the powerful book they created together, Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi. Jonathan shares what it was like to struggle with reading and writing in traditional school settings, how those early labels affected him, and the difference it made when he was finally understood and supported in the right environment. Lynn offers a parent's perspective on trusting her instincts, advocating for her child, and making difficult decisions to get him the help he needed. Together, they talk about how creativity, support, and perseverance helped transform challenges into strengths. This episode is a meaningful listen for parents, educators, and anyone who wants a better understanding of dyslexia, learning differences, and the importance of seeing the child beyond the label. Topics Covered What dyslexia looked like in Jonathan's early school experience How negative labels affected confidence and self-image Lynn's journey of recognizing that something was different Finding the right school and support for a child with dyslexia How dyslexia can affect reading, writing, and visual processing Why support from family can make such a powerful difference The story behind Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi Why learning differences can also come with unique strengths Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 03:56 Jonathan's experience growing up with dyslexia 07:03 Lynn's perspective and finding the right support 10:49 How the book Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi came to life 16:21 Final encouragement for parents and children 20:07 Where to find the book and connect with Lynn and Jonathan Memorable Quote "You may be different, but that's not a bad thing." About the Guest Lynn Greenberg is Jonathan's mother and co-author of Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi. Jonathan Greenberg is a college student, artist, and writer who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child. Together, they created their book to help children and families better understand dyslexia and to encourage confidence, creativity, and conversation. Resources Mentioned Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi Creative Cab Company CreativeCabCompany.com Amazon book listing About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Diaper digging is one of those topics many families experience but few people openly talk about. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Cindy Seifert, founder of Prevent-A-Wear and mother to an autistic daughter with high support needs, about a behavior that can be exhausting, isolating, and hard to manage without the right support. Cindy shares her personal experience raising her daughter Kyla, how diaper digging and disrobing became major challenges in daily life, and how those struggles led her to create clothing solutions designed to help families dealing with incontinence, fecal smearing, and clothing removal. She talks honestly about the emotional toll of these behaviors, the practical realities caregivers face, and the importance of finding tools that help preserve dignity, safety, and peace of mind. This conversation is especially helpful for parents and caregivers who feel alone in these challenges and are looking for practical support without shame or judgment. It is candid, compassionate, and full of real-world insight from a parent who has lived it. Topics Covered Cindy's journey parenting her daughter with autism and epilepsy How diaper digging began and how it affected daily life The emotional and practical challenges of fecal smearing and disrobing Why families often feel alone or unable to talk about these behaviors How Prevent-A-Wear was created out of real caregiver need How specialized clothing can help prevent diaper digging and stripping Why sensory needs may play a role in these behaviors Additional products Cindy created for incontinence and caregiver support Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:04 Cindy's background and her daughter's story 04:11 How diaper digging began and why it was so difficult 08:27 Creating the first clothing solution at home 11:57 Sensory questions around diaper digging 14:09 What Prevent-A-Wear offers for families Memorable Quote "I really do hope that I reach people and they're going to listen to this and they're going to be like, wow, there's help out there." About the Guest Cindy Seifert is the founder of Prevent-A-Wear and the mother of a 25-year-old autistic daughter with epilepsy and high support needs. She created her product line after years of managing diaper digging, fecal smearing, incontinence, and clothing removal at home. Resources Mentioned Prevent-A-Wear PreventAware.com Prevent-A-Wear Facebook page Specialized clothing for incontinence and stripping prevention Waterproof wheelchair pads, bibs, couch covers, and sheets About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What if your child's current school setting just is not working? For many families, that question brings frustration, worry, and a lot of uncertainty about what to do next. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with teacher, tech entrepreneur, and Teach Your Kids host Manisha Snoyer about homeschooling, school choice, and what it can look like to create a more personalized education for your child. Manisha shares her background as an educator and explains why so many families, including families with neurodivergent children, are exploring homeschooling and other customized learning options. She talks about how education can be adapted around a child's needs, interests, and learning style, and why homeschooling does not have to look like one parent sitting at a table teaching all day. The conversation also touches on tutoring, curriculum matching, flexible schedules, and Arizona's Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. This episode is especially helpful for parents who feel stuck, discouraged, or curious about alternatives to the traditional school system and want to know what options may actually be possible for their family. Topics Covered Why many families are feeling frustrated with traditional school systems How Manisha's teaching experience led her into supporting homeschooling families What homeschooling can look like in real life Why personalized curriculum matters for neurodivergent learners How tutoring and flexible education can support unique needs Why homeschooling can work for many different family structures How Arizona's Empowerment Scholarship Accounts can help families Where parents can go to get support, curriculum help, and community Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:10 Manisha's background and why she does this work 04:18 How personalized curriculum can fit different learners 05:55 What homeschooling can actually look like 08:28 How tutors and curriculum matching work 08:56 Arizona ESA support and school choice 10:25 First steps for families interested in homeschooling Memorable Quote "You do know what your children need." About the Guest Manisha Snoyer is a teacher, tech entrepreneur, and the host of Teach Your Kids, a podcast and online community for homeschooling families. She has spent years building tools, resources, and support systems to help families create personalized education paths for their children. Resources Mentioned Teach Your Kids TeachYourKidsPod.com Cottage Class Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What would happen if your child got lost in the community and could not communicate who they are or how to get home? For many parents of non-speaking or high-support-needs children, that question can keep them up at night. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Justin Behnke, a father who created ScanMeHome after realizing his own son needed an added layer of safety. Justin shares how raising his non-speaking autistic son led him to think differently about community safety, wandering, and what families really need in those frightening "what if" moments. He explains how ScanMeHome works, why QR-based safety tools can be so helpful now that people are used to scanning codes in daily life, and how the product can support children, adults with dementia, and others who may need a quicker path back to safety. This episode is especially valuable for parents and caregivers who want more peace of mind when it comes to wandering, field trips, travel, or everyday community outings. Topics Covered Justin's story as a father of a non-speaking autistic son Why wandering and community safety became such a big concern How ScanMeHome was created in just a few days after years of need Why QR code safety tools can work well for non-speaking children What kinds of information families can include in a profile How the product can help in field trips, travel, and community outings Why education and awareness in the community still matter Other uses for the product, including dementia and seizure support Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:15 Justin's background and his family story 02:36 What led him to create ScanMeHome 06:06 How the product works 09:46 Other safety strategies for families 13:20 Discount code and final thoughts Memorable Quote "My purpose was my son. God forbid he gets out, I need to get him home." About the Guest Justin Behnke is a father, technology professional, and creator of ScanMeHome. He designed the product after recognizing that his non-speaking autistic son needed a practical, accessible safety solution that could help others reconnect him with family if he ever got lost. Resources Mentioned ScanMeHome ScanMeHome.com ScanMeHome Instagram QR safety tags for clothing, backpacks, wristbands, and more About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Parents and caregivers often feel excited when their child finally receives an AAC device. But what happens when the device arrives and your child shows little interest in using it? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene is joined by speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Staci Dover to discuss the final part of a three-episode series on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This conversation focuses on the practical side of implementation — how families can help children begin using their AAC device in meaningful ways at home. Lydia and Staci share practical strategies that help families move beyond simply having the device to actually building communication with it. They explain why routines matter, why modeling is so powerful, and why play and joy are essential for helping children develop confidence with AAC. Parents will learn how to introduce AAC in ways that feel natural rather than forced, how to reduce pressure for their child, and how to support language development through everyday interactions. If your child has an AAC device but isn't using it yet, this episode will help you understand what steps to take next. Topics Covered • Why some children don't immediately use their AAC device • The importance of routines when teaching AAC • How modeling helps children learn communication • Why play and preferred activities help build language • Understanding the "hide and show" feature for teaching vocabulary • Why AAC never prevents speech development • How parents can support AAC in everyday life • Why patience and consistency are key for communication growth Memorable Takeaway "Communication happens all day long. It doesn't happen once a week for 30 minutes with the speech therapist." About the Guests Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are Phoenix-area speech-language pathologists who specialize in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). They work through Northern Arizona University's AAC Evaluation and Training Program, helping families and individuals access communication systems that support language development and independence. About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L is the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. His work focuses on helping neurodivergent children and families build skills, confidence, and connection through practical strategies and compassionate care.

If your child is non-speaking or experiencing speech delays, you may have heard about AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) but wondered how families actually obtain a communication device. In part two of this three-part AAC series, host Brian Keene is joined by Phoenix-area speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Stacey Dover to walk parents through the real-world process of getting an AAC device. They explain how families can begin the evaluation process, what steps are involved, and how a team determines the best communication system for each individual. From navigating insurance and Arizona's Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) services to understanding the role of therapists and medical providers, this episode offers practical guidance for parents who want to explore AAC for their child. The conversation also highlights the importance of matching a device to a child's unique needs, including motor abilities, access methods, and family preferences. Parents are active partners throughout the process, helping ensure the selected system truly supports meaningful communication in everyday life. If AAC is something you've been curious about for your child, this episode helps demystify the evaluation process and explains what families can expect along the way. Topics Covered • What AAC is and why it can support communication at any age • Common myths about AAC and speech development • How families begin the AAC evaluation process • Navigating Arizona DDD services and insurance pathways • Why AAC evaluations involve both communication and motor specialists • How the "feature matching" process helps identify the best device • What happens after the evaluation and how devices are approved Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the AAC series and episode overview 02:45 Understanding AAC and common myths 05:00 How families begin the AAC device process 11:40 The AAC evaluation team and their roles 13:20 The "feature matching" process explained 20:30 Paperwork, prescriptions, and insurance approval 22:30 Loaner devices and training for families Memorable Quote "AAC makes sure that anyone, anywhere, at any time can say anything." About the Guest Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are Arizona-based speech-language pathologists who specialize in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They work with individuals and families across home and school environments and are involved with Northern Arizona University's AAC Evaluation and Training Program. Their work focuses on helping individuals access meaningful communication through evidence-based AAC systems and family-centered support. Resources Mentioned • Northern Arizona University AAC Evaluation & Training Program • Arizona Speech-Language Hearing Association (ArSHA) • Arizona Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

If your child is non-speaking or experiencing speech delays, you may be wondering what communication options are available to support them. In this first episode of a three-part AAC series, host Brian Keene sits down with Phoenix-based speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Staci Dover to explore the foundations of communication and language development. Together they unpack what communication really means, beyond just spoken words. Communication includes gestures, facial expressions, writing, texting, and visual supports like AAC devices. Understanding this broader view of communication can help parents better support children who communicate differently. Lydia and Staci also explain how language develops in early childhood, why interaction between caregivers and children is essential for language learning, and how tools like AAC can support communication without replacing speech. One of the most important takeaways from this episode is that AAC is not a last resort. There are no prerequisites for using communication supports, and children can benefit from them at any stage of development. This episode provides parents with a clear, encouraging introduction to AAC and practical ways to support language development at home. Topics Covered • What communication really means beyond verbal speech • The difference between receptive and expressive communication • How language develops during early childhood • Why interaction between parents and children supports language learning • Common myths about AAC and speech development • Why AAC can support communication at any stage • How AAC can help children express their thoughts, needs, and ideas Memorable Quote "If you're breathing, you're ready for AAC." About the Guest Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are speech-language pathologists in the Phoenix area who specialize in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They work with individuals across home and school settings and provide AAC evaluations and training through Northern Arizona University's AAC Evaluation and Training Program. Their work focuses on helping individuals access communication systems that support meaningful participation in everyday life. Resources Mentioned • Northern Arizona University AAC Evaluation & Training Program • Arizona Speech-Language Hearing Association About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Many parents want to understand why their child may be experiencing certain symptoms rather than simply being told which therapies to pursue. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene speaks with Karen Thomas, founder of Naturally Recovering Autism and author who shares her personal journey supporting her son after his autism diagnosis. Karen explains how she began researching environmental health, nutrition, detoxification, and inflammation after noticing her son struggled with aggression, sleep issues, sensory overload, and anxiety. Through years of trial, research, and experimentation, she developed a structured approach focused on improving gut health, reducing toxic exposure, and supporting the body's natural healing systems. During the conversation, Karen outlines a four-stage framework she believes can support families exploring holistic approaches to autism-related symptoms. She also emphasizes the importance of moving slowly, making gradual dietary changes, and supporting both parents and children during the process. Brian also reflects on the importance of exploring multiple perspectives in care and taking a thoughtful, individualized approach to supporting each child's needs. Topics Covered Karen's personal journey supporting her son after an autism diagnosis The connection between gut health, brain health, and behavior Common dietary triggers that may increase inflammation The role of detoxification and environmental health Co-infections such as mold exposure and Lyme disease Why small, gradual changes can help families feel less overwhelmed Taking a holistic approach to supporting neurodivergent children Memorable Quote "Autism recovery is not a sprint, it's a marathon." About the Guest Karen Thomas is the founder of Naturally Recovering Autism and the creator of programs designed to help parents explore holistic health approaches related to autism symptoms. She began researching environmental health, nutrition, and detoxification strategies after her son was diagnosed with autism. Today she shares educational resources, programs, and support for families exploring these topics. Resources Mentioned Naturally Recovering Autism Karen Thomas Food Guide Naturally Recovering Autism Podcast About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Connect with Karen NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/7foods Facebook.com/NaturallyRecoveringAutism Instagram.com/recoveringautism (@recoveringautism)

What do you do when your questions keep getting redirected and you still feel like something important is being missed? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with Debbie Kimberg and her son, Sammy, to share their family's experience searching for answers beyond the explanations they were initially given. Debbie discusses how years of persistent advocacy led their family to explore infections such as Bartonella and Lyme disease and how treatment changed Sammy's day-to-day functioning, learning, mood, and overall well-being. Sammy also shares his own perspective on school, medication, and what it felt like when things began to improve. Together, they talk about the long road to finding the right doctors, the impact of finally getting support that helped, and why families sometimes need to keep asking questions when something does not feel right. This conversation is a personal story, not a one-size-fits-all roadmap, but it offers an important reminder for families: your observations matter, persistence matters, and advocacy can make a powerful difference. Topics Covered Debbie and Sammy's journey searching for answers beyond initial diagnoses Lyme disease, Bartonella, and related infections as part of their family's story How symptoms showed up in school, behavior, mood, and eating The challenge of finding knowledgeable providers Why some treatments helped and others made things worse Sammy's experience with learning, special education, and improvement over time The importance of family advocacy and trusting your instincts Memorable Quote "It's okay to say no when something doesn't feel right." About the Guest Debbie Kimberg is a parent advocate and writer who shares her family's story to help other caregivers ask questions, explore options, and feel less alone. Her son Sammy is a high school student who enjoys singing, weightlifting, frisbee golf, and video games. Together they speak openly about their family's long search for answers and support. Resources Mentioned DebbieKimberg.com @hijackedbrain on Instagram @hijackedbrain on TikTok State and local Lyme support groups ProjectLyme.org About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com If you have a child or family with this condition and you are finding it difficult to access a good doctor, visit www.projectline.org to get a doctor's directory. Connect with Debbie Debbie's website: www.debbiekimberg.com Instagram and Tiktok: @hijacked brains

Mealtimes can feel exhausting when your child only accepts a small handful of foods and every attempt to introduce something new turns into stress. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene talks with registered dietitian Brittyn Coleman about picky eating, nutrition, gut health, and practical ways to support autistic children with limited food choices. Brittyn shares how her personal experience growing up with a brother on the spectrum shaped her work and why she now helps families expand safe foods in a way that respects sensory needs and builds confidence over time. The conversation covers where to start when a child only eats a few preferred foods, how to create a food sensory profile, why food exposure matters, and how small changes can make a big difference. Brittyn also explains how nutritional deficiencies can affect appetite, constipation, and food preferences, along with why supplements may help fill gaps while families work on food expansion. This episode offers realistic, parent-friendly guidance for families who want support without pressure, shame, or one-size-fits-all advice. Topics Covered Where to start when a child only eats a few foods How to create a food sensory profile Food chaining and small changes that feel safer Why exposure to foods matters, even without pressure to eat Supplements and when they can help fill nutrition gaps Constipation, hydration, fiber, and gut health support Food jagging and how to reduce burnout on favorite foods Cups, drinks, oral motor concerns, and sensory preferences How nutrient deficiencies can affect appetite and food behavior Memorable Quote "Small changes make a difference." About the Guest Brittyn Coleman is a registered dietitian, autism nutrition expert, and creator of the Autism Nutrition Library. Through her practice, Autism Dietitian, she helps families support picky eaters, improve nutrition, and better understand the sensory and medical factors that can influence feeding. She also offers programs, courses, and educational resources for both families and practitioners. Resources Mentioned AutismDietitian.com Autism Nutrition Library Healthy Poops Academy Nourishing Autism podcast Brittyn Coleman on Instagram Brittyn Coleman on Facebook About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com Resources: Instagram: instagram.com/autismdietitian Podcast: autismdietitian.com/podcast

Raising a neurodivergent child can place enormous stress on a relationship, especially when families are navigating sleep deprivation, emotional overload, communication struggles, and survival mode. In this episode, Brian sits down with relationship coach Rach Wilson to discuss the realities many parents quietly experience while raising children with complex needs. Rach shares her own personal journey parenting neurodivergent children while trying to maintain connection within her marriage during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. Together, Brian and Rach explore how stress impacts communication, why couples often feel disconnected, and practical ways parents can support each other even during overwhelming periods. This conversation offers compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming insights for parents who may feel isolated, emotionally exhausted, or unsure how to reconnect with their partner. Rach also introduces practical tools like the "traffic light system" and the "peace process" to help couples better communicate their needs and regulate conflict before it escalates. If you've ever felt like parenting challenges have placed strain on your relationship, this episode is an honest and supportive reminder that you are not alone. Topics Covered How parenting stress impacts relationships Why couples of neurodivergent children experience higher burnout Communication challenges during survival mode The role of childhood baggage and emotional triggers The importance of emotional regulation in relationships Practical tools for improving communication and teamwork Using the "traffic light system" to communicate capacity Why seeking support can strengthen relationships Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Rach shares her work with families 03:45 How stress impacts relationships 06:50 Surviving "Death Valley" parenting seasons 13:30 Why relationship skills matter 16:30 The traffic light communication system 23:00 The "Peace Process" for resolving conflict Memorable Quote "When you're tired and stressed, you are not the best version of yourself." About the Guest Rach Wilson is a relationship coach who specializes in supporting couples and families raising neurodivergent children. Drawing from both professional experience and her own parenting journey, Rach helps couples improve communication, navigate stress, and strengthen connection during challenging seasons of life. Resources Mentioned Divine Relating https://divinerelating.com About the Host Brian Keene is an occupational therapist, founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming occupational, speech, and physical therapy services for children and families throughout Arizona, along with virtual parent support and education. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Parenting multiple children while supporting different needs within the family can bring up a wide range of emotions for everyone involved. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with parent guest Crestina Yaiva to talk about sibling relationships, autism, communication, and one parenting shift that unexpectedly transformed the connection between her twin sons. Crestina shares her experience raising nine-year-old twins, including her non-speaking autistic son Franco and his neurotypical twin brother Vincent. She opens up about the emotional dynamics that can quietly develop between siblings and the powerful realization she had after learning the phrase "don't blame the baby." Together, Brian and Crestina explore how subtle language patterns can unintentionally create tension between siblings and how small changes in communication can help strengthen trust, compassion, and connection within the family. This conversation is warm, honest, and deeply relatable for parents navigating sibling relationships in neurodiverse households. Topics Covered Supporting sibling relationships in neurodiverse families Communication challenges between siblings The emotional impact of family language patterns "Don't blame the baby" parenting insight Gentle parenting reflections and awareness Helping siblings feel seen and connected Sibling support groups and community resources Building empathy and understanding within families Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:14 Understanding sibling dynamics in autism 04:30 The "don't blame the baby" realization 08:10 How changing language improved sibling connection 11:29 Sibling support groups and SARRC resources 13:29 Peer mentorship and volunteer opportunities 16:23 Final reflections and parenting takeaways Memorable Quote "Once I stopped blaming the situation on one sibling, I noticed the kids started connecting in a much healthier way." About the Guest Crestina Yaiva is a mother of twin boys and shares her experiences parenting in a neurodiverse household. She is passionate about gentle parenting, family connection, and supporting healthy sibling relationships. Kristina also runs a handmade jewelry business featuring textile-inspired and culturally influenced designs. Instagram: @coco_chenzo Resources Mentioned Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) sibling support programs Arizona Autism United SibShop sibling support groups Autism Family Resource Podcast Episode 14 on sibling dynamics About the Host Hosted by Brian Keene, occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, providing neurodiversity-affirming home-based pediatric therapy services for families across Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Description In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Becca Stoddard, pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Breakthrough Therapy, about Dynamic Movement Intervention, also known as DMI Therapy. Becca explains how DMI uses hands-on support, gravity, sensory input, and repetition to help children build new motor patterns and work toward gross motor milestones such as head control, sitting, crawling, standing, and walking. This conversation is especially helpful for parents who have concerns about low tone, delayed gross motor skills, coordination, balance, or overall strength during play and daily movement. Becca also shares practical ways families can support gross motor development at home, including playground play, core-strength activities, tummy time, tall kneeling, and changing play positions. Brian and Becca also discuss how gross motor delays may show up in some autistic children, even though motor delays are not part of autism's diagnostic criteria. Topics Covered • What DMI Therapy is • How DMI supports gross motor development • Low tone, core strength, balance, and coordination • Gross motor delays in some autistic children • How parents can support movement at home • When to reach out for a therapy screening • Helpful developmental milestone resources Memorable Quote "Our brains want us to be vertical. They want us to be upright." About the Guest Becca Stoddard is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Breakthrough Therapy. She has experience in outpatient pediatrics, outpatient neurological care, and inpatient rehabilitation. Becca provides DMI intensive therapy and ongoing weekly DMI therapy for children working toward motor milestones. Resources Mentioned Pathways.org https://pathways.org Breakthrough Therapy https://www.breakthrough-therapy.com Instagram @breakthrough_therapy_DMI About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming, home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and parent support services in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Many autistic children communicate in ways that may look confusing at first, especially when they repeat phrases, echo questions, or use lines from shows, songs, or familiar people. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with Jodi Thomas, speech-language pathologist and owner of Growing Voices Speech and Language Therapy, about echolalia and gestalt language processing. Jodi explains that many autistic children develop language by learning whole chunks of language first, rather than starting with single words. This conversation helps parents better understand why echolalia is meaningful, how repeated phrases can serve a communicative purpose, and why children may struggle to answer questions even when they seem to "know" the words. This episode offers practical guidance for parents who want to support communication in a more respectful, child-led, and neurodiversity-affirming way. Topics Covered • What gestalt language processing means • Why echolalia can be meaningful communication • How autistic children may develop language differently • Why "say this" and "I want" prompts may not always help • How to model useful phrases during play • Why reducing questions can support communication • How to find speech therapists trained in gestalt language processing Memorable Quote "Echolalia does serve a function. It just isn't what we're used to or familiar with." About the Guest Jodi Thomas is a speech-language pathologist and owner of Growing Voices Speech and Language Therapy in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona. She has a background in school-based speech therapy and opened her private practice to provide more individualized support for children and families. Resources Mentioned Growing Voices Speech and Language Therapy https://growingvoicetherapy.com Meaningful Speech https://www.meaningfulspeech.com About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Many parents wonder if their child's speech delay is something they will "grow out of" or if it may be time to seek professional support. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with Lenora Edwards, speech-language pathologist with Better Speech, about delayed speech, early communication milestones, and when families should consider a speech evaluation. Lenora explains how communication begins long before a child says their first words. She discusses the importance of receptive language, eye contact, turn-taking, responding to names, and following simple directions. Families will also learn why continuing to talk to children, even when they are not yet speaking, is incredibly important for language development. This episode offers practical guidance for parents navigating concerns about speech delays and provides simple, supportive strategies that can encourage communication during everyday routines and play. Topics Covered • Early signs of delayed speech and communication concerns • The difference between receptive and expressive language • Why eye contact and turn-taking matter • How children learn communication from everyday interactions • Why processing time is important for children • Encouraging communication through play and opportunities • When to seek a speech evaluation • How online speech therapy can support families Memorable Quote "Just because they can't express themselves doesn't mean they aren't able to understand and learn from our communication." About the Guest Lenora Edwards is a speech-language pathologist with Better Speech. She specializes in child language development and helping families better understand communication milestones, expressive language, and receptive language skills. Resources Mentioned Better Speech https://betterspeech.com About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Understanding sensory regulation can feel overwhelming for many parents and caregivers, especially when children experience big emotions, sensory-seeking behaviors, shutdowns, or difficulty participating in everyday routines. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with occupational therapists Amanda Newchok and Erin O'Hara, co-creators of the Ready to Learn and Play Sensory Regulation Framework alongside Janice Leinfuss. Together, they discuss how the framework helps children, caregivers, educators, and therapists better understand sensory processing and develop practical self-regulation strategies across home, school, and community settings. The conversation explores how behaviors often viewed negatively can instead be understood as "sensory clues" that communicate underlying regulation needs. Amanda and Erin explain the four phases of the framework and share how visual supports, caregiver coaching, and real-life practice help children build greater self-awareness, autonomy, and participation in daily life. This episode offers practical and neurodiversity-affirming guidance for families wanting to better understand sensory processing while supporting children in ways that feel empowering rather than punitive. Topics Covered • Understanding sensory regulation in autism • Sensory-seeking and sensory-avoidant behaviors • Reframing behaviors as "sensory clues" • The Ready to Learn and Play Framework • Teaching self-regulation skills to children • Generalizing regulation strategies across environments • Caregiver coaching and support • Using visual supports for sensory learning Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Ready to Learn and Play Framework 03:19 Research and development behind the framework 08:03 Phase one: sensory experiences and learning categories 10:10 Phase two: sensory choices and sensory clues 13:38 Phase three and four: generalization and application 17:05 Real-life examples of sensory regulation support 23:11 Resources and how families can learn more Memorable Quote "Your body is telling you something. Let's use that clue." About the Guests Amanda Newchok, Erin O'Hara, and Janice Leinfuss are pediatric occupational therapists and creators of the Ready to Learn and Play Sensory Regulation Framework. Together, they developed the framework to help children, caregivers, and professionals better understand sensory processing and self-regulation through practical, accessible, and neurodiversity-affirming strategies. Resources Mentioned Ready to Learn and Play Framework https://www.readytolearnandplay.com About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming therapy practice providing home-based and virtual services for children and families in Arizona. Through his clinical work, podcast, and community outreach, Brian is passionate about helping neurodivergent children and families build meaningful lives through connection, participation, regulation, and practical everyday support. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Parenting a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, especially in the early years when families are navigating diagnoses, therapies, school systems, and daily life changes. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with Michele Thorne, founder and executive director of Care for the Caregiver. Michele shares her personal journey as a mother of two autistic children and explains how her own experiences with burnout, depression, and isolation inspired her to create an organization focused entirely on supporting caregivers. Families will learn about the many free resources offered through Care for the Caregiver, including support groups, educational webinars, visual schedules, guided meditations, parenting courses, life coaching, and step-by-step roadmaps for navigating Arizona services and disability systems. This conversation is a reminder that caregivers deserve support too and that finding community can make a meaningful difference. Topics Covered • The emotional impact of receiving a diagnosis • Why caregiver support matters • Building community and finding your tribe • Free caregiver resources for families • Visual schedules and supports for autistic children • Parenting strategies and behavior support tools • Navigating Arizona disability systems and services • The importance of inclusive and neurodiversity-affirming support Memorable Quote "If parents are not okay, the children are not okay." About the Guest Michele Thorne is the founder and executive director of Care for the Caregiver. She is also a mother of two autistic children and advocates for caregiver wellness, inclusive community support, and accessible family resources. Resources Mentioned Care for the Caregiver https://care4thecaregivers.org About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

When a child is non-speaking, many parents wonder how to better understand their child's needs, emotions, and perspective. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with Crestina Yaiva, mother of twin boys, including one child who is non-speaking and autistic. Crestina shares her family's personal journey from noticing speech delays to receiving an autism diagnosis and learning how to better connect with her son. She discusses the emotional process of navigating the diagnosis, finding support, and discovering ways to communicate beyond spoken words. Throughout the conversation, Crestina shares practical strategies that helped encourage communication, including creating communication opportunities, using preferred activities, and learning to recognize subtle forms of nonverbal communication. She also discusses two books that deeply impacted her understanding of autism and helped her better understand her son's sensory and emotional experiences. This episode offers encouragement, perspective, and practical ideas for families supporting non-speaking children. Topics Covered • Receiving an autism diagnosis as a parent • Understanding non-speaking communication • Supporting communication without pressure • Learning to recognize subtle communication cues • Creating opportunities for communication during play • The importance of patience and understanding • Communication devices and alternative communication • Books that helped one family better understand autism Memorable Quote "I see you." About the Guest Crestina Yaiva is a mother of twin boys living in Phoenix, Arizona. She shares her personal experiences parenting a non-speaking autistic child and the strategies that helped her family better understand and support communication. Resources Mentioned The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida Not My Boy by Rodney Peete About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Traveling with a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming for many families. Changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, sensory overload, airports, hotels, and long days away from home can create anxiety for both children and parents. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with author and travel writer Dawn Barclay about practical strategies that can help make traveling more manageable for neurodivergent families. Dawn shares insights from her book Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for the Anxious, the Inflexible and the Neurodiverse. She discusses why preparation and predictability are so important for autistic children and explains how families can gradually introduce new travel experiences in supportive ways. Families will also learn about autism-friendly travel programs, sensory-friendly environments, and ways to make vacations more child-centered and less overwhelming. This episode offers realistic, parent-friendly strategies for helping children feel more comfortable, supported, and successful during travel experiences. Topics Covered • Why travel can feel overwhelming for neurodivergent children • Sensory challenges during vacations and travel • How to prepare children for new environments • Social stories and previewing travel experiences • Child-centered vacation planning • Creating predictable travel routines • Autism-friendly hotels, museums, and airports • Supporting anxious or inflexible children during travel Memorable Quote "What children on the spectrum need is a sense of predictability and a frame of reference." About the Guest Dawn Barclay is a travel writer and author of Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for the Anxious, the Inflexible and the Neurodiverse. She has written about travel for more than 30 years and focuses on helping neurodivergent families access meaningful travel experiences. Resources Mentioned Traveling Different https://travelingdifferent.com Traveling Different: Vacation Strategies for the Anxious, the Inflexible and the Neurodiverse by Dawn Barclay IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Sensory processing is one of the most commonly discussed topics among parents of neurodivergent children, yet it can also feel confusing and overwhelming to fully understand. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with occupational therapist Catie Sondrol about sensory processing difficulties, sensory regulation, and practical strategies families can use to support their children. Catie explains how the brain processes sensory information and why some children may feel overwhelmed, disorganized, avoidant, or sensory-seeking in different environments. She also breaks down the eight sensory systems, including vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive systems, in a parent-friendly and easy-to-understand way. Families will also learn why sensory behaviors and emotional regulation often go hand-in-hand, how to think like a "sensory detective," and why Catie prefers the term "sensory lifestyle" over "sensory diet." This episode offers practical guidance for helping children feel more regulated, organized, and supported throughout everyday life. Topics Covered • What sensory processing difficulties can look like • The difference between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding • The eight sensory systems explained • Why sensory processing and behavior are connected • Hyper-sensitive versus hypo-sensitive sensory responses • How to create a sensory lifestyle at home • Frequency, intensity, and duration of sensory activities • Supporting regulation through play and everyday routines Memorable Quote "We all use strategies throughout our day and throughout our life to keep us regulated." About the Guest Catie Sondrol is an occupational therapist and co-owner of Milemarkers Therapy in Arizona. She has worked with neurodivergent children and families for many years and has completed mentorship training through the STARS Institute and Avanti Therapeutic Projects. Resources Mentioned Milemarkers Therapy STARS Institute Avanti Therapeutic Projects About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Siblings of neurodivergent children often experience a wide range of emotions that can be difficult to talk about openly. Some siblings may feel left out, overwhelmed with responsibility, confused about autism, or unsure how to express their emotions in healthy ways. In this solo episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, occupational therapist Brian Keene shares practical strategies for supporting siblings of autistic and special needs children. Brian discusses common emotional experiences siblings may have, including feeling overlooked, taking on caregiver roles too early, and struggling to communicate feelings such as guilt, frustration, embarrassment, or resentment. He also shares simple ways families can create more balance, connection, and emotional support at home. This episode offers practical tools for helping all children in the family feel seen, valued, included, and emotionally supported. Topics Covered • Common emotions siblings of autistic children may experience • Why some siblings feel left out or overlooked • Caregiver burnout in siblings • Creating one-on-one time with each child • Encouraging healthy emotional expression • Teaching siblings about autism in age-appropriate ways • Clarifying responsibilities within the family • Support groups and resources for siblings Memorable Quote "We want to make sure none of our children feel left out or treated unfairly." Resources Mentioned Sibshops by Arizona Autism United Arizona Autism United About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is also a pediatric occupational therapist who works closely with neurodivergent children and their families throughout Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com  

Navigating autism alongside a rare medical condition can feel overwhelming for families, especially when diagnoses come with limited information, financial stress, and complicated medical needs. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with Christina Broderick, mother of two neurodivergent children, including a son with autism and PKU (Phenylketonuria), a rare metabolic disorder. Christina shares her family's journey of learning about PKU after her son's newborn screening and the emotional and financial challenges that followed. She discusses the difficulties of managing specialized diets, traveling long distances for medical care, and trying to navigate unfamiliar systems as a young parent. Most importantly, Christina shares the organizations and resources that helped her family access specialized food, medication support, financial assistance, gas reimbursement, hotel stays, and educational guidance. This episode highlights how life-changing the right support systems can be for families navigating complex diagnoses. Topics Covered • Parenting a child with autism and a rare disorder • Understanding PKU (Phenylketonuria) • Navigating rare disease diagnoses as a parent • Specialized diets and medical nutrition support • Financial assistance programs for families • Traveling for specialty medical care • Organizations that support rare disease families • Finding resources for undiagnosed or complex conditions Memorable Quote "We all want to help our kids and we all want some information or some type of little help to get us there along the way." About the Guest Christina Broderick is a mother of two neurodivergent children living in Arizona. Through her personal experiences navigating autism, PKU, and developmental disabilities, she has become passionate about helping other families find resources, support, and guidance. Resources Mentioned National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) https://rarediseases.org Cambrooke Therapeutics BioMarin Pharmaceuticals Kuvan (sapropterin) Phoenix Children's Hospital Milemarkers Therapy Rise Services, Inc. About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Many behaviors that look like defiance, impulsivity, or emotional overreactions may actually be connected to executive functioning difficulties. In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with occupational therapist and executive functioning specialist Abigail Wool-Biringer about how executive functioning impacts emotional regulation, routines, flexibility, planning, and everyday life for neurodivergent children. Abigail explains executive functioning as the "boss" of the brain that helps children organize, plan, manage emotions, solve problems, and transition between activities. She shares why children with autism and ADHD often struggle with these skills and why behavior should be viewed through a compassionate, skill-building lens instead of simply assuming children are being defiant. Families will also learn practical ways to support executive functioning development through collaboration, problem-solving, flexibility, and empowering children to better understand themselves. This episode offers practical insights for helping children build lifelong skills while strengthening parent-child connection. Topics Covered • What executive functioning skills are • How executive functioning affects emotional regulation • Why transitions and routines can feel difficult • Executive functioning and autism/ADHD • Recognizing patterns behind behaviors • Supporting flexibility and problem-solving • Moving away from "my way or the highway" parenting • Helping children build independence and self-awareness Memorable Quote "Who's the expert in you? Me. Of course you are." About the Guest Abigail Wool-Biringer is an occupational therapist and executive functioning specialist who supports neurodivergent children and families. She provides parent coaching, group programs, and workshops focused on executive functioning, emotional regulation, and collaborative problem-solving. Resources Mentioned Kids Empowered for Life https://kidsempowered4life.com Arizona + ADHD Parent Support Facebook Group Dr. Ross Greene About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based pediatric occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

In this solo episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, occupational therapist Brian Keene continues his two-part series on behaviors and emotional regulation by focusing on how parents can respond to meltdowns with calmness, compassion, and connection. Brian explains why behaviors are forms of communication and discusses the importance of looking beyond the behavior itself to understand what may be triggering a child's emotional response. He shares practical strategies for investigating triggers, remaining calm during difficult moments, and teaching alternative responses in ways that reduce shame and build emotional safety. Families will also learn how sensory experiences, transitions, communication challenges, and interoception difficulties can contribute to meltdowns. Throughout the episode, Brian provides real-life examples of how parents can respond with curiosity, flexibility, and support while still maintaining boundaries. This episode offers practical tools for helping neurodivergent children feel safe, heard, and supported during emotionally overwhelming moments. Topics Covered • Why behaviors are forms of communication • Responding to meltdowns with calmness and compassion • Investigating triggers behind behaviors • Sensory overload and emotional regulation • Interoception and understanding body signals • Teaching replacement behaviors and safer responses • Reducing shame during difficult moments • Providing choices and maintaining boundaries Memorable Quote "If your kids feel safe, they're more likely to open up and communicate." About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is a pediatric occupational therapist who supports neurodivergent children and families throughout Arizona using neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered approaches. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

In this solo episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, occupational therapist Brian Keene begins a two-part series focused on understanding and preventing meltdowns in neurodivergent children. Brian explains why meltdowns often happen when children feel overwhelmed, powerless, or unsupported by their environment. He discusses how routines, visual schedules, calendars, checklists, timers, and countdowns can help children feel safer, more prepared, and more emotionally regulated throughout the day. This episode also explores why predictability and collaboration matter so much for autistic children, especially during transitions, new experiences, or sensory-heavy environments. Brian provides practical examples families can immediately begin using at home to reduce stress and support smoother transitions. This conversation offers parent-friendly tools designed to help children feel more empowered, understood, and emotionally supported while reducing unnecessary overwhelm. Topics Covered • Why meltdowns happen • Understanding overwhelm and emotional regulation • Creating routines for children • Using visual schedules and calendars • Preparing children for transitions and events • Supporting autonomy and collaboration • Visual timers and countdown strategies • Reducing stress through predictability and consistency Memorable Quote "We can reduce meltdowns by making sure our kids feel safe, empowered, and seen." About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is a pediatric occupational therapist who supports neurodivergent children and families throughout Arizona using neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered approaches. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What exactly does pediatric physical therapy help with, and how is it different from occupational therapy? In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with pediatric physical therapist Rhonda Schnabl about the role of physical therapy in supporting neurodivergent children and children with developmental differences. Rhonda explains how physical therapists focus on movement, coordination, endurance, posture, balance, strength, and gross motor development across the lifespan. She also discusses common concerns she sees in autistic children, including toe walking, low muscle tone, poor endurance, balance difficulties, and coordination challenges. Throughout the conversation, Rhonda shares practical examples of how physical therapists use play-based activities to help children build movement skills while supporting participation in everyday life. Families will also learn when to consider a PT evaluation and what signs may suggest a child could benefit from additional support. This episode offers practical guidance for parents trying to better understand pediatric physical therapy and how it can support their child's development. Topics Covered • What pediatric physical therapy addresses • PT versus OT: understanding the differences • Toe walking and movement patterns • Balance, coordination, and endurance • Core strength and posture • Gross motor development in autistic children • Common signs a child may benefit from PT • Communicating with your child's physical therapist Memorable Quote "We consider ourselves movement experts." About the Guest Rhonda Schnabl is a pediatric physical therapist at Mile Markers Therapy in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. She has worked as a physical therapist for over 20 years across multiple settings, including pediatric therapy, stroke rehabilitation, education, and developmental support services. Resources Mentioned Mile Markers Therapy Little Steps shoe inserts About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support for neurodivergent children and families in Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

What exactly does occupational therapy help with, and how does it support autistic and neurodivergent children in everyday life? In this solo episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, occupational therapist Brian Keene breaks down the role of occupational therapy and explains how OTs support children through play, sensory processing, emotional regulation, daily routines, social participation, and life skills. Brian explains that occupational therapists focus on helping children participate in meaningful everyday activities, which OTs refer to as "occupations." He walks families through the major areas occupational therapy may address, including sleep, play, self-care skills, social participation, school participation, executive functioning, sensory processing, and routines. This episode also explores how occupational therapists evaluate children, collaborate with families, and create individualized interventions that support development while honoring each child's unique strengths and needs. Families will leave this episode with a clearer understanding of what OT services may look like and how to maximize therapy support at home and within everyday routines. Topics Covered • What occupational therapy actually is • The eight major occupations OTs address • Sensory processing and emotional regulation • Social emotional development and communication • Executive functioning and coordination • Daily living skills and routines • Environmental adaptations and supports • How parents can collaborate with occupational therapists Memorable Quote "OTs do way more than just fine motor skills." About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is a pediatric occupational therapist who supports neurodivergent children and families throughout Arizona using neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered approaches. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

The new year often brings pressure to set goals, improve routines, and "do better" as parents. But parenting neurodivergent children already requires an incredible amount of flexibility, patience, and emotional energy. In this solo episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene shares three practical parenting resolutions designed to support both children and caregivers throughout the year. Brian introduces the "Three C's" for families: connection, consistency, and compassion. He discusses how meaningful connection can strengthen relationships with children, why routines and predictability help reduce overwhelm, and how compassion for both children and caregivers can create healthier family dynamics. This episode offers realistic, neurodiversity-affirming strategies that families can begin using immediately without needing to completely overhaul their lives or parenting approaches. Families will leave this conversation with simple tools to help create more connection, emotional safety, and balance within everyday routines. Topics Covered • Building stronger connections with your child • Following your child's interests • Why routines and schedules matter • Preparing children for transitions and changes • Using social stories and visual supports • Practicing compassion for your child and yourself • Reducing pressure and comparison in parenting • Finding parenting support and community resources Memorable Quote "We are never going to be a perfect parent." About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is a pediatric occupational therapist who supports neurodivergent children and families throughout Arizona using neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered approaches. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Resources Mentioned Parenting support groups Parenting podcasts and educational resources Social stories Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

Sleep impacts nearly every part of a child's development, including attention, emotional regulation, learning, memory, physical health, and overall wellbeing. Yet many neurodivergent children struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking feeling rested. In this solo episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, occupational therapist Brian Keene discusses how sleep affects child development and shares practical, family-friendly strategies to improve sleep hygiene and bedtime routines for neurodivergent children. Brian explains how sensory differences, stress levels, environmental factors, screen time, nutrition, and routines can all influence sleep quality. He also introduces a practical sleep journal tool families can use to identify patterns and better understand what may be helping or disrupting their child's sleep. This episode offers supportive and realistic strategies families can begin implementing immediately to improve bedtime routines, reduce sleep disruptions, and support healthier regulation throughout the day. Topics Covered • Why sleep is important for child development • Sleep challenges in neurodivergent children • Sensory processing and sleep • Creating healthy sleep hygiene routines • Bedtime routines and environmental supports • Screen time and blue light effects • Nutrition and sleep quality • Using a sleep journal to identify patterns Memorable Quote "Sleep is one of the most important things we do every day and has the ability to impact every aspect of our lives." About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. He is a pediatric occupational therapist who supports neurodivergent children and families throughout Arizona using neurodiversity-affirming and family-centered approaches. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and family-centered support services for neurodivergent children and families. Resources Mentioned Moshi app Calm app Headspace app White noise machines Weighted blankets Sleep Better app Snore Track app Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com