Neurodiversally Speaking

Eating & Feeding: Instagram vs. Reality

Let's face it, navigating the world of picky and selective eaters can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's cube...while blindfolded! In this intro to our "Eating & Feeding" series, we'll discuss the ins and outs of feeding our young neurodiverse kiddos while breaking down the differences between picky and selective eaters, and share our own relatable mom struggles to dish out real-life strategies that actually work. We'll also tackle common misconceptions by reviewing instagram advice vs reality and provide actionable strategies to help you create a more positive mealtime experience by understanding the developmental phases of eating to practical tips on how to encourage variety - without pressure. Timestamps: (01:25) - Welcome (12:24) - Selective Eating vs. Picky Eating (17:09) - ARFID and Picky Eating (28:03) - Mealtime Challenges (30:11) - Dinner Routines and Strategies (43:41) - Separate Meals As A Strategy (48:31) - Encouraging Kids to Try New Foods (51:48) - "They'll Eat When They're Hungry.." (01:01:20) - The Shift in Feeding Therapy Approaches (01:05:33) - Take Home Message Episode References: * Pjetraj, D., Pjetraj, A., Sayed, D., (...), Lionetti, M.E. (2025) Decoding Picky Eating in Children: A Temporary Phase or a Hidden Health Concern?. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243884]Nutrients [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243884]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243884] * Breiner, C.E., Knedgen, M.M., Proctor, K.B., Zickgraf, H.F. (2024) Relation between ARFID symptomatology and picky eating onset and duration. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101900]Eating Behaviors [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101900]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101900] * Silvers, E., Erlich, K. (2023) Picky eating or something more? Differentiating ARFID from typical childhood development. [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000119]Nurse Practitioner [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000119]. [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000119] * Zickgraf, H.F., Richard, E., Zucker, N.L., Wallace, G.L. (2022) Rigidity and Sensory Sensitivity: Independent Contributions to Selective Eating in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults. [https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2020.1738236]Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology [https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2020.1738236]. [https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2020.1738236] * Bayoumi, S.C., Halkett, A., Miller, M., Hinshaw, S.P. (2025) Food selectivity and eating difficulties in adults with autism and/or ADHD. [https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613251314223]Autism [https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613251314223]. [https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613251314223] * Chiong, T.X.B., Tan, M.L.N., Lim, T.S.H., (...), Aw, M.M. (2024) Selective Feeding—An Under-Recognised Contributor to Picky Eating. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213608]Nutrients [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213608]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213608] * Tarawneh, A., Al-Dhmour, H., Almajali, R.M., (...), Mahgoub, S.S. (2024) Zinc and Growth with Picky Eating in a Jordan Pediatric Clinic: An Observational Study. [https://doi.org/10.35516/jmj.v58i3.1249]Jordan Medical Journal [https://doi.org/10.35516/jmj.v58i3.1249]. [https://doi.org/10.35516/jmj.v58i3.1249] * Zohar, A.H., Pick, S., Lev-Ari, L., Bachner-Melman, R. (2020) A longitudinal study of maternal feeding and children's picky eating. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2020.104804]Appetite [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2020.104804]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2020.104804] * Pesch, M.H., Bauer, K.W., Christoph, M.J., (...), Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2020) Young adult nutrition and weight correlates of picky eating during childhood. [https://doi.org/10.1017/S136898001900346X]Public Health Nutrition [https://doi.org/10.1017/S136898001900346X]. [https://doi.org/10.1017/S136898001900346X] * Page, S.D., Souders, M.C., Kral, T.V.E., (...), Pinto-Martin, J. (2022) Correlates of Feeding Difficulties Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-04947-4]Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-04947-4]. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-04947-4] * Sarnataro, R., Siracusano, M., Campanile, R., (...), Mazzone, L. (2025) Relationship Between Food Selectivity, Adaptive Functioning and Behavioral Profile in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. [https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121664]Behavioral Sciences [https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121664]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121664] * Zhang, S., Hu, R., Zhao, S. (2024) Autistic traits and ARFID-associated eating behaviors in preschoolers: Mediating effects of sensory processing patterns. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107237]Appetite [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107237]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107237] * Harris, H.A., Bowling, A., Santos, S., (...), Jansen, P.W. (2022) Child ADHD and autistic traits, eating behaviours and weight: A population-based study. [https://doi.org/10.1111/ijpo.12951]Pediatric Obesity [https://doi.org/10.1111/ijpo.12951]. [https://doi.org/10.1111/ijpo.12951] * Ariyanti, F.W., Fatmawati, A., Sari, I.P. (2023) Factors Associated with Picky Eating in Preschool Children. [https://doi.org/10.20473/amnt.v7i1SP.2023.8-11]Amerta Nutrition [https://doi.org/10.20473/amnt.v7i1SP.2023.8-11]. [https://doi.org/10.20473/amnt.v7i1SP.2023.8-11] * Patel, M.D., Donovan, S.M., Lee, S.-Y. (2020) Considering nature and nurture in the etiology and prevention of picky eating: A narrative review. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12113409]Nutrients [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12113409]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12113409] * Chilman, L., Kennedy-Behr, A., Frakking, T., (...), Verdonck, M. (2021) Picky eating in children: A scoping review to examine its intrinsic and extrinsic features and how they relate to identification. [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179067]International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179067]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179067] * Wang, J., Wu, R.-X., Cheng, X.-W., (...), Zhu, D.-Q. (2021) Moderating effect of children's temperament on the relationships between parental feeding practices and their preschoolers' picky eating. [https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2021-0061]Zhongguo Ertong Baojian Zazhi [https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2021-0061]. [https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2021-0061] * Diamantis, D.V., Emmett, P.M., Taylor, C.M. (2023) Effect of being a persistent picky eater on feeding difficulties in school-aged children. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106483]Appetite [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106483]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106483] * Pereboom, J., Thijs, C., Eussen, S., (...), Gubbels, J.S. (2023) Association of picky eating around age 4 with dietary intake and weight status in early adulthood: A 14-year follow-up based on the KOALA birth cohort study. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106762]Appetite [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106762]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2023.106762] * Barnhart, W.R., Dial, L.A., Jordan, A.K., (...), Musher-Eizenman, D.R. (2025) Higher meal disengagement and meal presentation are uniquely related to psychological distress and lower quality of life in undergraduate students. [https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2023.2245912]Journal of American College Health [https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2023.2245912]. [https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2023.2245912] * Wolstenholme, H., Kelly, C., Hennessy, M., Heary, C. (2020) Childhood fussy/picky eating behaviours: A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative studies. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-019-0899-x]International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-019-0899-x]. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-019-0899-x] * Wolstenholme, H., Kelly, C., Heary, C. (2022) ‘Fussy eating’ and feeding dynamics: School children's perceptions, experiences, and strategies. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2022.106000]Appetite [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2022.106000]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2022.106000] * Wirth, J.M. (2023) Evaluation and management of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.JAA.0000947112.60744.28]Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.JAA.0000947112.60744.28]. [https://doi.org/10.1097/01.JAA.0000947112.60744.28] * Bandeira Dos Santos Junior, P., Rezende Soares da Paz Oliveira, N.L., da Paz Oliveira, G. (2025) Prevalence of food selectivity and eating disorders in autism: A meta-analysis. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amp.2025.10.003]Annales Medico-Psychologiques [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amp.2025.10.003]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amp.2025.10.003] * Calisan Kinter, R., Özbaran, B., Inal-Kaleli, I., (...), Ghaziuddin, M. (2024) The Sensory Profiles, Eating Behaviors, and Quality of Life of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-023-10063-6]Psychiatric Quarterly [https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-023-10063-6]. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-023-10063-6] * Kozak, A., Czepczor-Bernat, K., Modrzejewska, J., (...), Matusik, P. (2023) Avoidant/Restrictive Food Disorder (ARFID), Food Neophobia, Other Eating-Related Behaviours and Feeding Practices among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and in Non-Clinical Sample: A Preliminary Study. [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20105822]International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20105822]. [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20105822] * Kasak, M., Okumus, H.G., Celik, Y.S., (...), Öğütlü, H. (2025) Selective Eating and Sensory Sensitivity in Children With ADHD: A Comparative Study of ARFID Symptom Profiles. [https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.24512]International Journal of Eating Disorders [https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.24512]. [https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.24512] * Martin, E., Dourish, C.T., Higgs, S. (2023) Interoceptive accuracy mediates the longitudinal relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) inattentive symptoms and disordered eating in a community sample. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114220]Physiology and Behavior [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114220]. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114220] * Keller, J., Mandy, W.P.L., Herle, M., Carter Leno, V. (2026) Adolescent eating behaviours: associations with autistic and ADHD traits in childhood and the mediating role of anxiety. [https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70051]Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry and Allied Disciplines. [https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70051] * Thomas, K.S., Keating, J., Ross, A.A., (...), Jones, C.R.G. (2025) Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) symptoms in gender diverse adults and their relation to autistic traits, ADHD traits, and sensory sensitivities. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-025-01215-z]Journal of Eating Disorders [https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-025-01215-z]. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-025-01215-z] * Breda, C., Santero, S., Conti, M.V., Cena, H. (2025) Programmes to manage food selectivity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. [https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954422424000052]Nutrition Research Reviews [https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954422424000052]. [https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954422424000052] * Hunt, M.A. (2020) Occupational therapy for the treatment of selective eating. [https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429299391-24]A Spectrum of Solutions for Clients with Autism: Treatment for Adolescents and Adults [https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429299391-24]. [https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429299391-24] * Roen, A., Fishbein, M. (2025) A Plateful of Advice: How to Address Picky Eating in Primary Care. [https://doi.org/10.3928/19382359-20250811-01]Pediatric Annals [https://doi.org/10.3928/19382359-20250811-01]. [https://doi.org/10.3928/19382359-20250811-01] **** Visit The Sensory Supply [https://thesensorysupply.com/] for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe [https://www.elemenoe.ca/] where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com [https://neurodiversallyspeaking.com/] for all podcast & show info: Follow us: * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] * X [https://x.com/neurodiverspeak] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK5EmV4nDSjUSjIcjGTTeA] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@neurodiversallyspeaking] Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

School Strategies w/ Dr. Emily Levy

Today, we're excited to welcome Dr. Emily Levy to the podcast! Emily is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. In this episode, we’re diving deep with Dr. Emily Levy, who’s all about turning educational struggles into success stories. We tackle the common hurdles parents face when their little ones hit the classroom—whether it’s reading, writing, or math—and how to advocate for their needs without breaking a sweat. Emily provides us with great advice on practical strategies that can turn those sometimes tough school days into long lasting positive memories. So, if you’re looking for ways to help your child thrive in school, you’re in the right place. Timestamps: (01:27) - Welcome (02:08) - Meet Emily (04:00) - Parent Challenges and Advocacy (09:15) - Early Recommendations From Emily (15:31) - Understanding Perfectionism and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Learners (22:39) - Signs To Look For (33:44) - Strategies for Time Management (42:05) - Reading Components for Neurodiverse Learners (46:23) - Engaging Students Through Multi-Sensory Approaches (52:50) - Emily's Educational Resources Mentioned In This Episode: * EBL Coaching [https://eblcoaching.com/ ] * 5 Best Apps for Students With ADHD [https://eblcoaching.com/5-best-apps-for-students-with-adhd/] About Dr. Emily Levy: Dr. Emily Levy is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She graduated from Brown University and received her Master's Degree in Special Education from Nova University in Florida as well as her Doctorate Degree in Education from Nova University. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 22-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for reading comprehension, writing, note taking, and executive functioning skills; the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program; and the Flags and Starts multi-sensory math student workbook program. Follow Dr. Emily Levy: * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@eblcoaching] * X [https://x.com/eblcoaching] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/EBLCoachingNewYork] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EBLCoaching] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emily-levy-79b1728/] * Website [https://eblcoaching.com/] **** Visit The Sensory Supply [https://thesensorysupply.com/] for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe [https://www.elemenoe.ca/] where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com [https://neurodiversallyspeaking.com/] for all podcast & show info: Follow us: * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] * X [https://x.com/neurodiverspeak] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK5EmV4nDSjUSjIcjGTTeA] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@neurodiversallyspeaking] Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

Sleep & Bedtime Strategies

Kiddos struggling with sleep? You’re definitely not alone! Today, we're talking sleep & bedtime strategies for kids - whether neurodiverse or neurotypical. We'll share some real-life hacks from our experiences as both clinicians and moms, offering tips & strategies that’ve worked in our homes and clinic. We’ll discuss everything from bedtime routines that actually make a difference to the common sleep woes parents face. So, grab your favorite cozy blanket, kick back, and let’s tackle those nighttime battles together – we’ve got your back! *This episode is intended to share general discussion around sleep, informed by personal experience, clinical knowledge, and principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. It does not provide newborn sleep coaching or individualized sleep recommendations. Timestamps: (01:36) - Welcome (08:31) - What We Know From The Research (13:35) - Nighttime Sensory Processing Differences (19:42) - Sleep In Middle-Childhood (7-12) (25:42) - Cultural Perspectives on Sleep and Parenting (32:53) - Adapting Sleep Routines (41:52) - Strategies for Bedtime Routines (47:52) - Behaviour Contracts Mentioned In This Episode: 1. Chung, K.-M., Chung, E., & Lee, H. (2024). Behavioral interventions for autism spectrum disorder: A brief review and guidelines with a specific focus on applied behavior analysis. [https://doi.org/10.5765/jkacap.230019]Journal of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 35 [https://doi.org/10.5765/jkacap.230019](1), 29–38. [https://doi.org/10.5765/jkacap.230019] 2. Guazzo, G. M., & Nappo, C. (2025). Sleep disorders in children with ASD: An ABA-oriented intervention. [https://doi.org/10.59324/jcpmr.2025.1(3).08]Journal of Clinical Practice and Medical Research, 1 [https://doi.org/10.59324/jcpmr.2025.1(3).08](3), 49–53. [https://doi.org/10.59324/jcpmr.2025.1(3).08] 3. Malow, B. A., Muscatello, R. A., McGonigle, T., Vandekar, S., & Corbett, B. A. (2025). Trajectory of sleep patterns across adolescence in autistic and neurotypical youth. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2025.106604]Sleep Medicine, 133 [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2025.106604], Article 106604. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2025.106604] 4. Spanò, G., Combs, D., Dwyer, P., Luongo, A., Parent-Johnson, W., & Edgin, J. (2024). Autism and sleep across development: Advancing research and treatment through co-production. [https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330241238668]Neurodiversity, 2 [https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330241238668], 1–10. [https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330241238668] 5. Taylor, B. J., Pedersen, K. A., Mazefsky, C. A., Lamy, M. A., Reynolds III, C. F., Strathmann, W. R., & Siegel, M. (2024). From alert child to sleepy adolescent: Age trends in chronotype, social jetlag, and sleep problems in youth with autism. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-023-06187-0]Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 54 [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-023-06187-0](12), 4529–4539. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-023-06187-0] Other Resources: 1. Greg Hanley Sleep Assessment Tool [https://practicalfunctionalassessment.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/satt.pdf] 2. Hatch Light [https://www.hatch.co/?srsltid=AfmBOorw0ThHz2AApRjXJs4doqhmLYjrGhkjjMhQyuT08lg18sY6xsGc] 3. Grow Clock [https://www.tommeetippee.ca/product-support/nursery-sleep-aids/groclock-sleep-trainer-clock] Sleep Playlist & Podcasts We Use: 1. Koala Moon [https://koalamoon.fm/ ] 2. Please Please Sleep [https://open.spotify.com/show/5zh7xGdUzkesXveE1Bhn3w ] **** Visit The Sensory Supply [https://thesensorysupply.com/] for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe [https://www.elemenoe.ca/] where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com [https://neurodiversallyspeaking.com/] for all podcast & show info: Follow us: 1. Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 2. Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 3. X [https://x.com/neurodiverspeak] 4. YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK5EmV4nDSjUSjIcjGTTeA] 5. TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@neurodiversallyspeaking] Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

PDA w/ Dr. Hilda Ho

Welcome Dr. Hilda Ho for our discussion on all things PDA - and not the PDA you may be thinking of. This episode is all about "Pathological Demand Avoidance" in young neurodiverse learners. Dr. Hilda Ho is a registered psychologist with a practice in Child Clinical Psychology, based in Vancouver, BC. She has extensive experience with the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions and is one of the few registered psychologists in Canada who has completed post-doctoral training focused on the early identification of autism in young children (under the age of 6). We kick things off by unpacking why there's a lack of solid research on PDA, Hilda shares her journey into the world of autism, detailing how she transformed from a law enthusiast to a psychologist, driven by a passion for helping neurodiverse kids. Throughout our chat, we emphasize the importance of getting curious about children’s behaviours instead of putting labels on them—because let’s be real, understanding the "why" behind demand avoidance can lead to better support strategies as a whole! Timestamps: (01:30) - Welcome (02:32) - Meet Dr. Hilda Ho (09:43) - What Is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) (18:10) - Research Challenges (21:30) - Definitions and Parent Perspectives (30:16) - PDA and Its Implications (37:15) - Effective Strategies for Parents (41:51) - Demand Avoidance in Neurodivergent Children (49:13) - Understanding the Diagnostic Process (51:15) - Collaboration in Autism Assessment (55:44) - In Summary Resources Mentioned In This Episode: 1. Reviewing the Current Evidence on Pathological Demand Avoidance in Children and Adolescents. [https://drhildaho.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Reviewing-the-Evidence-on-Pathological-Demand-Avoidance-in-Children-and-Adolescents.pdf] 2. Further Resources [https://drhildaho.com/resources/] **** Visit The Sensory Supply [https://thesensorysupply.com/] for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe [https://www.elemenoe.ca/] where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com [https://neurodiversallyspeaking.com/] for all podcast & show info: Follow us: 1. Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 2. Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 3. X [https://x.com/neurodiverspeak] 4. YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK5EmV4nDSjUSjIcjGTTeA] 5. TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@neurodiversallyspeaking] Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

"Kids Play For Autism 2026" w/ Autism Canada

Welcome back Jamie McCleary from Autism Canada to chat about a super fun upcoming event called Kids Play For Autism, kicking off this April for Autism Acceptance Day (April 2nd). This event is all about play — and we know that play looks different for everyone, especially for children on the autism spectrum. Jamie shares the heartwarming origin story of the event and how we can all get involved. We also discuss what play can mean for all kids, emphasizing that it’s not about rigid rules or competitive spirits. Instead, it’s about joy, movement, and inclusion. Kids are encouraged to express their unique ways of participating, whether that means running around, spinning, or simply being themselves! It’s a reminder that play should be inclusive, flexible, and most importantly, fun! Join us as we get excited for the event and explore how we can all contribute to making play accessible for every child. Timestamps: (01:32) - Welcome (02:27) - Introduction to Kids Play for Autismmie (23:34) - Understanding Play and Communication in Children (37:50) - Understanding Indicating Behaviours (48:20) - Expanding Play Interests Mentioned In This Episode: About Autism Canada: For five decades, Autism Canada has stood at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges faced by Autistic people and their support networks across the nation. Established in 1976, our organization has been unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life and well-being Autistic people. We achieve this through robust education, targeted advocacy, and steadfast support. Learn more about Autism Canada by visiting: autismcanada.org [https://www.autismcanada.org/] About Kids Play For Autism 2026: This April, in honour of World Autism Acceptance Day (April 2nd) and Autism Canada’s 50th year, we’re inviting kids, families, and schools across Canada to take action, by doing what kids love most: play. Kids Play for Autism Acceptance is a joyful, movement based fundraising campaign where kids get active, work toward shared goals, and raise funds to support Autistic people and their families across Canada. Inspired by Laura, a young advocate who first launched this idea in 2024 by turning her love of the monkey bars into a powerful fundraiser, this campaign shows how play can create real impact. Whether at school, at home, or in the community, every jump, lap, game, and challenge helps build more inclusive communities through play. 1. Kids Play toolkit [https://www.autismcanada.org/acresources/kidsplay]: This toolkit goes over the Kids Play for Autism campaign, the story being it, fundraising ideas, and social media materials. 2. Kids Play for Autism fundraising/campaign link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/peer-to-peer/kids-play-for-autism--2026 [https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/peer-to-peer/kids-play-for-autism--2026] **** Visit The Sensory Supply [https://thesensorysupply.com/] for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe [https://www.elemenoe.ca/] where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com [https://neurodiversallyspeaking.com/] for all podcast & show info: Follow us: 1. Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 2. Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/neurodiversallyspeaking] 3. X [https://x.com/neurodiverspeak] 4. YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsK5EmV4nDSjUSjIcjGTTeA] 5. TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@neurodiversallyspeaking] Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com