I for Independence? Not always!

Build a positive relationship with your autistic child - Part 1

This episode is the first in a 3 part series with principles and practical steps to nurture a positive relationship with your autistic child. This the same philosophy and guidelines that transformed my own practice and resulted in consistently successful therapeutic relationships with all the neurodivergent children in my care. As a parent, you need only master one - the one with your baby. The first step is to get clarity on what's most important to you by listing out your preferred values. Listen to this episode if you want to refer my list to guide your own reflection.  Thanks for tuning in! Follow on Instagram @vysdym_

A secure attachment for autistic kids? Hell Yes!

Skills like speech, language and motor abilities are important, but they are impossible to learn and retain without establishing a baseline of safety. The only way to get your autistic child to engage with you is by nurturing a secure attachment. In over a decade of practicing Occupational Therapy, it is the only strategy that resulted in autistic kids letting me into their world repeatedly which opened up infinite possibilities for both the child and me, as the therapist. It is a strategy that MUST be transferred to one/both parents. This episode is for those parents who are willing to do the hard work. A secure attachment is a gift that keeps on giving, for you and your baby! Give it a listen if that stirs something in you.  Thanks for tuning in! Follow on Instagram @vysdym_

The 'NO' grenade.

This 2 letter word - NO- is often relegated to being problematic/triggering for neurodivergent children who are ostracized and made unjustly responsible for the resulting meltdown. NO- is not only necessary, it is a powerful tool in your tool box. As a parent, you must acknowledge the responsibility that comes with great power by answering some tough questions along the way. Listen to this episode if you want to learn the underlying philosophy to use this powerful word tactfully. Do it right, and surprisingly, it will strengthen your relationship with your baby.  Thanks for tuning in! Follow on Instagram @vysdym_

I for Independence? Not always!

How often has your baby been assessed using independent functioning as the yardstick? Is that the most beneficial goal to work towards? How does a hyperfocus on independent participation backfire? How does this impact you relationship with your baby? In this episode, I'm answering all these questions and presenting an alternate perspective - it is another I-word - one that is not only neurodiversity affirming, but also relationship focused. If that's an approach you're interested in adopting, then go ahead, give it a listen.  Thanks for tuning in! Follow on Instagram @vysdym_

The D-word that all parents dread

In this episode we dive deeper into the fear of discharge, which leads to another d-word- disempowerment. We talk about the lies and the disillusionment underneath this fear and how these impact, not only you but also your baby's attachment needs. Like everything else, overcoming this ginormous obstacle is quite doable and possible, but I cannot convince you. You must listen and decide for yourself. I can however, vouch for the liberation that results from running towards your fears instead of away.  Thanks for tuning in! Follow on Instagram @vysdym_