Ever felt like you're running on fumes while trying to manage your day-to-day responsibilities? We promise you'll leave this episode armed with practical strategies to reclaim some time for yourself and effectively support children on the spectrum during social situations. We'll explore why self-care is non-negotiable and how it can transform your …

Is your child’s homework causing meltdowns and staring spells? Discover strategies that can transform study time into a manageable and even enjoyable experience. In this episode, we discuss how to recognize signs of stress and disengagement in children, ensuring study sessions are short and tailored to their age. From having all necessary supplies …

Have you ever wondered how small changes can make a big impact on your family's life, especially when raising children on the spectrum? This Monday morning, join me for an uplifting and heartfelt podcast where I share my hopes and practical tips to help you and your family navigate the week ahead. I promise you'll gain insights on embracing milesto…

Ever wondered how to transform your child's school lunches into nutritious, delicious, and waste-free meals? This episode is packed with expert tips and practical strategies to help you do just that. We'll guide you through creating a lunch calendar that aligns with school menus, ensuring a balanced mix of proteins, starches, and fats, while keepin…

How can you effectively support students with autism in their educational journey? In this episode, we offer practical strategies and essential insights for educators and parents navigating the complexities of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), classroom accommodations, and fostering social skills. We discuss the emotional challenges IEPs po…

Is homeschooling the right choice for your autistic child? Discover the transformative benefits and potential challenges, as we tackle common concerns like overcrowded classrooms, underfunded schools, and the lack of specialized training for educators. We'll reassure you that choosing to homeschool is not a sign of failure but a practical and perso…

Ever wondered what it takes to turn personal challenges into a lifelong mission? Today, I share my journey from a small town in Michigan to a fulfilling career in special education across the country. From the struggles of job rejections and career uncertainty to the joy of making a difference in the lives of children with disabilities, especially …

Ever wonder how a simple walk in the park could transform your child's mood and patience, especially if they are on the autism spectrum? Join us for an eye-opening discussion on the incredible benefits of outdoor activities for children. We'll guide you through engaging ways to introduce your kids to nature—from planting gardens to bird watching. L…

Can nonverbal communication unlock the door to effective language development for children? Discover how simple strategies like sign language, pictures, and token boards can transform frustration into meaningful communication. In this episode, we share personal stories that highlight the dramatic impact of introducing language early and consistentl…

Ever wondered how a simple checklist could transform a child's experience of their environment? This episode promises practical strategies for enhancing the environmental awareness and organizational skills of children on the autism spectrum. We'll explore the unique challenges these children face in noticing their surroundings and how methods like…

Ever wondered why your little one consistently shuns certain foods? Get ready for a transformative dining experience as we unravel the mysteries behind picky eating habits in children. In our latest episode, we dive into the sensory world of kids, uncovering why they might refuse foods based on texture, smell, color, or taste. Learn how to identify…

Ever wondered how to keep your kids' minds buzzing and learning over the summer break? Say goodbye to summer learning loss and hello to fun-filled educational adventures with our latest episode! As your guide, I share my philosophy that while a bit of relaxation is great, keeping a learning rhythm is key. Whether you're a homeschool veteran or seek…

Send us a text Drop me a line!By Debra Gilbert

Discover how to navigate the stormy seas of meltdowns in children with autism. As your guide, I'll unveil the secret to creating an environment of comfort and security through routine and predictability. I'll share effective strategies for diminishing anxiety and handling the inevitable disruptions, showcasing how tools like advanced warnings and v…

Ever wonder why the heart and soul of our classrooms—our teachers—are trading in their grade books for a quieter life away from the chalkboards? This week, I take you through the disheartening reality of teacher burnout, revealing personal stories of educators who are drowning in paperwork and extracurricular duties that eat into their true passion…

As the sun climbs higher and the days grow longer, the allure of cool blue waters beckons our children to dive into summer fun. But with alarming drowning statistics for kids on the autism spectrum, it's crucial that we equip them with the skills to navigate the waters safely. In our latest episode, I share my personal journey in teaching my child …

When life throws you a curveball, sometimes all you need is a fresh perspective and a good laugh to turn your week around—and that's exactly what this episode is all about. From the moment I found myself unexpectedly signing papers for a new car, I knew this was going to be more than just another week. But it's the little stories, those snippets of…

As we navigate the aftermath of an autism diagnosis, the journey unfolds with profound lessons and heartfelt stories, like that of young Trent, whose artistic flair has captured the hearts of many. Today's episode is a beacon of hope, shining light on the steps to take post-diagnosis to empower both you and your child. From understanding the spectr…

Discover the transformative power of ABA behavior specialists for children on the autism spectrum and the relief it can bring to families. As a former educator and parent navigating these challenging waters, I share how these specialists can work wonders in improving functional activities, managing meltdowns, and enhancing social skills. Every chil…

Have you ever considered how a simple conversation could transform your child's education? Our heartfelt episode unravels the intricacies of the relationship between teachers and parents, exploring how their combined efforts can significantly enhance the learning experience for our children. We tackle the real challenges both educators and families…

Navigating the world of autism can be like trying to solve a complex puzzle, but imagine if you had the right pieces to help those special kids thrive. On our latest episode, I'm thrilled to share some of the most effective strategies I've learned from personal experience and hands-on practice for engaging children on the autism spectrum. You'll di…

As we unravel the complex tapestry of Autism Spectrum Disorder, we promise an enlightening journey into its intricate world, highlighting the message that autism is no one’s fault. Our conversation sheds light on the perplexing gender disparities in diagnosis, the invaluable role of early intervention, and the remarkable growth potential within the…

Want to support Trent with his drawings! Send us a text Drop me a line! Support the Show.By Debra Gilbert

Embark on a journey through the intricacies of Individualized Education Programs as we unlock the secrets to crafting IEP reading goals that truly make a difference. Imagine a world where decoding becomes second nature to students, where fluency is not just a goal but a reality, and where comprehension is the key that opens the door to lifelong lea…

Discover the keys to crafting an unforgettable summer for your child on the spectrum. With decades of educational experience, I've learned that the biggest thrills don't always come without a hitch, especially when navigating vacations with special considerations in mind. This episode is your treasure map, revealing how to chart a course for a stre…

Ever wondered how gifted autistic students can thrive in college? Let me illuminate the path for you, drawing from Joseph Maddus's enlightening article and my own wealth of experience as a college instructor. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and personal insights, detailing the journey gifted autistic students take to excel in higher …

Embrace the heart and uncover the unexpected joys of kids on the autism spectrum with me, your host, who has been touched by these extraordinary children through my academic and professional journey. My life's work has led me to a profound admiration for their capabilities and an unwavering commitment to their cause. I'll be sharing insights from m…

As we navigate the twilight hour, crafting a serene bedtime routine for your child can seem like a distant dream. But what if it didn't have to be? Unravel the complexities of a tranquil nighttime ritual, with a special focus on the unique needs of children on the autism spectrum. Embracing the hush of evening, we discuss tailoring the perfect envi…

Have you ever wondered how the way you parent echoes in your child's development? Embark on a journey through the parenting landscape with us, as we dissect the nuanced influences of various parental archetypes. From the vigilant eyes of the helicopter parent to the strict command of the drill sergeant, we delve into how these approaches can affect…

Have you ever faced the challenge of attending community events with a child who has special needs? Our latest conversation sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of including these wonderful children in church services, festivals, and more. We delve into the reasons why families with children on the autism spectrum or other disabilities might h…

Have you ever wondered how to create a learning environment that empowers children to thrive? That's exactly what we unpack in our latest conversation, where we share a goldmine of strategies to support your child's educational journey. We kickstart by highlighting the transformative power of an organized space—a designated learning area with ready…

Join us as we navigate the intricate world of supporting children on the autism spectrum to engage in the present moment during educational activities. Amidst the myriad of challenges they face, like the pull of repetitive memories or deep-seated fixations, we've unearthed practical ways to guide their focus back to the learning at hand. Our discus…

Ever feel like your efforts in teaching or parenting hit a wall? Join us as we explore the nuanced dance between achievement and reception, two concepts that hold the key to unlocking success in learning and personal goals. This episode thrives on unraveling the subtle art of ‘reception’—the act of truly absorbing ideas and information, a skill tha…

Ever wondered how to keep your little learners engaged and excited about education? This episode is your treasure map to crafting the perfect task boxes, tailor-made to offer your child a delightful blend of fun and learning. I'm going to walk you through the ins and outs of creating these magical boxes, choosing the right materials, and deciding t…

Every parent knows the heat of frustration when your child's antics push your buttons, and every night can feel like a siege of wills when bedtime rolls around. Have you ever wondered how to channel your anger into something constructive, or how to outmaneuver the bedtime stalling tactics of your little one? In our latest episode, we tackle these u…

When it comes to nurturing responsibility in children with autism, many of us feel like we're walking a tightrope—how do we balance compassion with expectation? Join me, Debbie, as I reveal the secrets to striking that balance, guiding you through the intricate steps of encouraging your child to willingly tackle daily chores. We'll navigate the oft…

Navigating the path of parenting a child with autism can be as unpredictable as it is rewarding. That's why I've dedicated this episode to the unsung heroes—parents just like you and me—who face the daily dance of balancing self-care with the needs of their exceptional children. I open up about the mountains and valleys of this unique journey, offe…

Unlock the mysteries of keeping children with autism engaged with the guidance of Debbie, a seasoned special education expert in our latest episode. She shares a treasure trove of effective strategies that help visualize task completion, understand the ebb and flow of work and reward, and maintain motivation. Through the use of visual aids like tim…

Helping kids on the spectrum seeing the end of a task. Hope this Podcast help you motivate your child to complete his lessons. Send us a text Support the Show.By Debra Gilbert