Episode 28: Sign Language as a Tool and a Ministry

Episode 28: Sign Language as a Tool and a Ministry

Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown explores the importance of sign language, sharing inspiring books and stories about deafness, autism, and other challenges. She discusses how these stories can foster empathy, creativity, and ministry opportunities within families and communities. This first aired on Books that Spark podcast on 10/26/2020. Key Topics Sign language and its role in ministry and communication Children's books that teach about deafness, autism, and disabilities The story of James Castle and artistic determination Biographies of William Hoy and Helen Keller Teaching sign language to children and cultural etiquette Ministry opportunities for reaching autistic and deaf communities Character lessons about perseverance and compassion Sound Bites * "Understanding my sister helps me love her more." * "Art is a powerful way to communicate beyond words." * "Everyone is uniquely made by God." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sign Language and Its Significance 01:09 Personal Connection to Sign Language and Ministry 02:01 Book: I Have a Sister, My Sister Is Deaf 04:23 Book: Silent Days, Silent Dreams by Alan Say 10:28 Biographies of William Hoy and Helen Keller 12:58 Learning Sign Language: Resources and Tips 17:02 Ministry Opportunities and Resources for Disabilities 20:32 Encouragement for Inclusive Ministry and Final Thoughts Resources I Have a Sister, My Sister Is Deaf by Jean Whitehouse Peterson: https://amzn.to/4eCAMmz [https://amzn.to/4eCAMmz] Silent Days, Silent Dreams by Allen Say: https://amzn.to/4w8EGuL [https://amzn.to/4w8EGuL] The William Hoy Story by Nancy Churnin: https://amzn.to/3T1edkj [https://amzn.to/3T1edkj] The Story of Helen Keller: A Biography Book for New Readers by Christine Platt: https://amzn.to/4uSVkxq [https://amzn.to/4uSVkxq] The Story of My Life by Helen Keller: https://amzn.to/4gJRwLg [https://amzn.to/4gJRwLg] Who Was Helen Keller? by Gary Thompson: https://amzn.to/4oS2kcE [https://amzn.to/4oS2kcE] Time to Sign: Sign Language for Kids by Catherine Clay: https://amzn.to/3SJIBzA [https://amzn.to/3SJIBzA] American Sign Language for Kids: 101 Easy Signs by Rochelle Barlow: https://amzn.to/4eC9sq5 [https://amzn.to/4eC9sq5] Unbroken Faith by Diane Kim: https://amzn.to/3R38l9E [https://amzn.to/3R38l9E] Leading a Special Needs Ministry by Amy Finton Lee: https://amzn.to/4wteP0T [https://amzn.to/4wteP0T] God Made Me Unique: Helping Children See Value in Every Person by Joni and Friends and Trish Mahoney: https://amzn.to/4eFAV93 [https://amzn.to/4eFAV93] An additional book not mentioned in the podcast: My First Sign Language Book for Nonverbal Kids: ASL for Toddlers, Nonverbal Children, Autism and Early Communicators: https://amzn.to/4oMQ0KA [https://amzn.to/4oMQ0KA]

Episode 27: Picture Books to Help Us Feel Seen, Heard, and Understood

Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of listening and being heard within family dynamics, especially in mixed needs families. She shares insightful book recommendations and biblical principles to foster respectful communication and emotional understanding. Key Topics * The importance of listening and being heard in families * Book recommendations for teaching listening skills * Biblical insights on listening and understanding * Tools like the Five Point Scale for emotional regulation * The role of family culture in emotional safety Takeaways * Listening is a vital skill that shows respect and fosters understanding. * Books like 'Lacey Walker Nonstop Talker' and 'My Mouth is a Volcano' can teach children about listening and self-control. * God listens to us, and teaching children that they are heard by God is powerful. * Creating a family environment where children feel safe to express themselves is essential. * Using tools like the Five Point Scale helps children articulate their feelings. Sound Bites * "Children need to understand the importance of hearing and listening." * "Words just explode out of my mouth. My mouth is a volcano." * "God bends down to listen, just like we do with our children." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mixed Needs Families 01:09 The Importance of Being Heard 03:13 Books That Spark Conversations 09:45 Understanding Listening Through Stories 15:12 Tools for Emotional Understanding 17:30 Creating a Safe Family Culture 23:10 The Gift of Being Heard

Episode 26: Picture Books for Mixed-Needs Kids

Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown shares four insightful books that help parents and children understand and navigate neurodivergence, sensory issues, and emotional health, emphasizing faith-based perspectives and practical strategies. Key Topics * Neurodivergence and sensory issues in children * Using children's books to teach emotional regulation * Faith-based approaches to parenting neurodivergent kids * Practical strategies for understanding and supporting children * The importance of discipleship in everyday family life Takeaways * Books can be a powerful tool to help children understand themselves and their emotions. * Incorporating faith into discussions about neurodivergence and sensory issues can be empowering. * Parents should look for resources that validate children's experiences and promote understanding. * Storytelling and illustrations are effective in teaching children about emotional health. * Open conversations about sensory issues and emotions foster better family support. Sound Bites * "Discussing books that bless your kids." * "These books show how her mind works." * "God made us complex and marvelous." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Everyday Discipleship 02:42 Books for Children with Special Needs 04:32 Exploring 'Gina Kaminsky Saves the Wolf' 11:21 Understanding Anxiety through 'What Does Simon Say?' 12:21 Promoting Understanding with 'Scritchy Scratchy Socks' 17:07 Encouraging Conversations through Literature Resources * Gina Kaminsky Saves the Wolf [https://amzn.to/4e5sRzd] * Gina Kaminsky Rescues - The Giant [https://amzn.to/3SkCNwe] * Scritchy Scratchy Socks [https://terriehellardbrown.com/product/scritchy-scratchy-socks/] * Terrie Hellard-Brown - Website [https://terriehellardbrown.com/]

Episode 23: Tips for Stress-Free Family Road Trips

Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown shares practical tips for making family road trips enjoyable and stress-free, especially for families with neurodivergent members. She discusses her innovative road trip regulation kit, strategies for managing sensory needs, and creating memorable travel experiences. Key Topics Road trip planning and preparation Creating a portable regulation station for kids Activities and entertainment for children during travel Managing sensory needs and overstimulation Building family memories through travel Sound Bites * "Family road trips build relationships and create memories" * "Magnetic toys and fidget tools help with sensory needs" * "Making stops for sightseeing turns travel into adventures" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mixed Needs Families 01:57 The Joy of Road Trips 04:47 Creating a Road Trip Kit 10:54 Engaging Activities for Kids 18:24 Planning for Comfort and Regulation 25:53 Managing Motion Sickness and Other Challenges 32:31 Final Tips and Reflections

Episode 22: Trusting God's Plan for Our Children's Future

Summary Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the fears of the future for parents of children with special needs, emphasizing prayer, wisdom, and trusting God's plan. She shares personal stories, biblical insights, and practical advice for guiding neurodivergent and neurotypical children. Key Topics Fear of the future for parents of children with special needs The importance of prayer and seeking God's wisdom Guidance for high functioning and low functioning children The role of discernment and understanding your child's gifts Trusting God's plan and holding it loosely Sound Bites * "Pray for wisdom, not just for your kids" * "Early diagnosis can make a difference" * "Laugh without fear of the future" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mixed Needs Parenting 01:00 Facing the Fear of the Future 02:52 The Importance of Prayer and Wisdom 05:16 Navigating High Functioning Autism 09:27 Making Difficult Decisions for Our Children 10:54 The Value of Early Intervention 12:18 Finding Your Child's Passion and Direction 15:37 Adjusting to God's Plan 22:46 Teaching Determination and Resilience 27:34 Encouragement for Mixed Needs Families Want to dig deeper? Longing for more peace in your life and in your family culture? Check out this short 7-Day challenge, just 7 minutes each day. 7 Days to Fewer Blowups at Home: https://wholefamstore.mysamcart.com/27-7-days-to-fewer-blowups-at-home-1/