Dr. Mary Barbera https://marybarbera.com Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:28:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://marybarbera.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/cropped-cropped-tree-36x36.png Dr. Mary Barbera https://marybarbera.com 32 32 5 Lessons Learned from Love on the Spectrum Season 2 https://marybarbera.com/5-lessons-love-on-the-spectrum-season-2/ https://marybarbera.com/5-lessons-love-on-the-spectrum-season-2/#respond Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:32 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23479 Dr. Mary Barbera explores the intricacies of love and autism with insights from "Love on the Spectrum" Season 2.

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In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on “Love on the Spectrum” Season Two, a series that deeply resonates with my passion for autism advocacy. We dive into the heart of love and autism, exploring the complexities, challenges, and beautiful moments that define the pursuit of love within the autism community. This series not only opens our eyes to the diverse needs for love and companionship but also challenges common misconceptions about individuals on the spectrum. Join me as we unpack 5 key lessons from Love on the Spectrum Season Two, shedding light on the importance of support, understanding, and representation in media.

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Autism and the desire for love
  • How Love on the Spectrum involves and hires autistic adults
  • About the diversity on the autism spectrum
  • The involvement of family and support systems on the show

Autism and Love

Watching the series reinforced my belief that people with autism have the same desires for love and companionship as anyone else. This contradicts the common misconception that individuals on the spectrum are disinterested in relationships. It’s a reminder that love knows no boundaries, including those of neurodiversity.

Spectrum of Autism

The show beautifully illustrates the wide range of the autism spectrum, showcasing individuals with varying needs, personalities, and ways of communicating. This diversity within the autism community highlights the importance of understanding and adapting to each person’s unique perspective on love and relationships.

Relationship Building Challenges

The participants’ experiences shed light on the unique challenges they face in forming romantic connections, such as difficulties with social cues and communication. It’s a powerful reminder of the hurdles that many on the spectrum have to overcome in pursuit of love, emphasizing the need for patience, understanding, and support.

Role of Support Systems

The series also underscores the invaluable role of family, friends, and other support networks in facilitating romantic relationships for people with autism. This support can take many forms, from providing encouragement to offering practical advice on navigating the complexities of dating and relationships.

Representation in Media

Finally, “Love on the Spectrum” serves as an important step forward in the representation of autism in the media. By portraying the love lives of individuals on the spectrum with honesty, respect, and sensitivity, it challenges stereotypes and increases awareness of the rich emotional lives of people with autism.

These lessons have deepened my understanding of the nuances of love and autism, emphasizing the universal need for connection and affection.

RESOURCES

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Review of Huberman Lab Podcast; Dr. Karen Parker on Intranasal Vasopressin for Autism https://marybarbera.com/huberman-lab-podcast-karen-parker-intranasal-vasopressin-autism/ https://marybarbera.com/huberman-lab-podcast-karen-parker-intranasal-vasopressin-autism/#respond Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:00:17 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23374 Dr. Mary Barbera discusses the realities of autism waitlists and steps to navigate them effectively in this podcast. She addresses the emotional toll of waiting, reasons for long waitlists, and strategies for proactive engagement while waiting.

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Are you curious about the latest developments in autism research? Dr. Mary Barbera dives into an enlightening discussion on the potential breakthroughs in treating autism, particularly through the study of intranasal vasopressin, as shared by Dr. Karen Parker. With the generous funding from the Simons Foundation, researchers like Dr. Parker are on the frontier of discovering treatments that could revolutionize care for children with autism. Despite the challenges in translating animal model research to human application, the episode sheds light on the hope that innovative treatments like vasopressin offer. Join the movement by exploring the SPARK program and supporting autism research for a brighter future.

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Overview of the Huberman Lab’s work and interview.
  • Discussion of the interview and research of Dr. Karen Parker
  • The Simons Foundation and the impact on autism research
  • Spark Foundation and autism research 
  •  Struggles in advancing autism reserarch

Introduction to Autism Research Advancements

I enjoyed reading, listening, and reviewing the research on intranasal vasopressin presented on the Huberman Lab Podcast with Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Karen Parker. We also discussed the crucial role of the Simons Foundation in providing substantial funding for autism research, which has been instrumental in advancing our understanding and treatment capabilities. The transition from small-scale studies to large clinical trials, while challenging, is a necessary hurdle we discussed, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and collaboration in the scientific community to bring new treatments to those in need. Another project funded by the Simons Foundation is the SPARK program. They focus their efforts on building the largest genetic research cohort for autism in the U.S., encouraging families to participate. This initiative is pivotal for future breakthroughs in our understanding and treatment of autism.

Dr. Karen Parker on Intranasal Vasopressin

My discussion on intranasal vasopressin, based on Dr. Karen Parker’s research, reveals its potential to significantly improve social responsiveness in children with autism. This study, involving 30 children, showed promising results, with vasopressin enhancing social behavior and reducing anxiety, which is groundbreaking. On the other hand, while oxytocin, closely related to vasopressin and known for its role in social bonding and childbirth, showed some promise in early studies, its effectiveness in larger populations could not be established, leading to a pivot towards vasopressin research. Both substances play critical roles in regulating social behavior, but it’s vasopressin’s potential in treating autism that stands out in our discussion, marking a hopeful direction for future research and treatment methodologies.

RESOURCES

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Navigating Autism Preschool Choices with Lisa from Cruising with Kruz https://marybarbera.com/navigating-autism-preschool-choices-lisa-cruising-with-kruz/ https://marybarbera.com/navigating-autism-preschool-choices-lisa-cruising-with-kruz/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2024 08:00:10 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23364 Mary Barbera and Lisa Houseworth, an ABA expert, mother, and blogger from Cruising with Kruz discuss navigating autism preschool choices. From recognizing early signs to embracing intensive ABA therapy, Lisa discusses the transformative impact of personalized interventions.

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Lisa, an ABA expert and mother, shares her journey navigating autism both professionally and personally. Early in her career, she embraced ABA principles, which later became invaluable when her son, Kruz, was diagnosed with autism. She emphasizes the transformative impact of early, intensive ABA therapy, which helped Kruz develop communication skills and reduce tantrums. The episode also delves into the challenges of transitioning from early intervention services to school-based programs, highlighting the importance of individualized planning and parent advocacy when looking at autism preschool choices. Lisa’s story offers hope and practical insights for families embarking on similar journeys and especially those trying to find the right placement in autism preschool. 

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Lisas’ professional and personal fall into the autism world
  • Navigating early intervention
  • Transitioning from early intervention to autism preschool
  • ABA at home and how to teach when therapists are gone.
  • Progress Kruz made with his ABA home program

Lisa’s Professional Background:

Lisa embarked on her professional journey in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) while in college in 2001, initially working with a young child with autism. Her dedication to the field led her to become a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst in 2006 and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2010. Her academic pursuits also took her through law school, enriching her analytical skills. Alongside her husband, who is also a BCBA, Lisa co-owns a small business that provides behavior analysis services. Their shared expertise brings ABA into their daily family life, especially beneficial for their youngest son, Kruz, diagnosed with autism. This blend of professional expertise and personal commitment to ABA principles underscores the depth of Lisa’s understanding and the unique perspective she brings as both a professional and a mother navigating the challenges of autism.

Early Signs and Diagnosis:

Lisa’s keen observation as a behavior analyst helped her recognize early signs of autism in Kruz when he was around a year old. Noticing his lack of intentional sounds, gesturing, and engagement in typical developmental behaviors such as clapping and dancing to music, Lisa and her husband sought early intervention services. Despite initial reassurances that Kruz was merely a late talker, a significant regression in his behavior and the emergence of self-injurious behaviors and severe tantrums indicated deeper challenges. This period marked the beginning of a more intensive journey towards diagnosis and therapy, highlighting the critical role of parental vigilance and early intervention in addressing developmental delays.

ABA Therapy’s Impact:

The introduction of ABA therapy into Kruz’s life has been transformative, showcasing the profound impact of personalized therapeutic interventions. Lisa’s account of Kruz’s progress emphasizes the significance of ABA in enhancing communication skills and mitigating challenging behaviors. Through dedicated application of ABA strategies, Kruz has made remarkable strides, transitioning from minimal communication to engaging in phrases and even humor. This journey underscores the efficacy of ABA therapy in fostering significant developmental gains, illustrating its potential to change trajectories for children with autism.

Navigating Autism Preschool Choices:

As Kruz approached the age for preschool, Lisa faced the complexities of navigating educational services for children with autism. This transition from early intervention services to a formal educational setting underscored the challenges parents encounter in securing appropriate support within the education system. Lisa’s proactive approach in exploring various educational options, including public and private autism preschool programs, reflects a broader concern among parents for choosing environments that best meet their child’s unique needs. Her determination to find an optimal setting for Kruz highlights the importance of parental advocacy and informed decision-making in educational planning for children with autism.

Parental Involvement and Advocacy:

Lisa’s narrative also sheds light on the critical role of parental involvement and advocacy in the therapeutic and educational journeys of children with autism. Her active participation in Kruz’s therapy, coupled with her advocacy for his educational needs in autism preschool, exemplifies the pivotal role parents play in navigating the complex landscape of services and support. By sharing their journey publicly, Lisa aims to empower other families with insights and strategies for advocating for their children’s needs. This commitment to advocacy and involvement underscores the essential partnership between parents, educators, and therapists in supporting the development and well-being of children with autism.

Lisa Houseworth on Turn Autism Around Podcast

Lisa Houseworth is Mama to 3 boys, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, adjunct faculty and business owner. After 20+ years of professional experience in behavior analysis, Lisa’s youngest son was diagnosed with autism and she shares her son’s journey through social media and a blog titled “Cruising with Kruz.”

RESOURCES

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Top 3 Questions Answered: Navigating Autism Waitlists https://marybarbera.com/3-questions-autism-waitlists/ https://marybarbera.com/3-questions-autism-waitlists/#respond Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:00:19 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23358 Dr. Mary Barbera discusses the realities of autism waitlists and steps to navigate them effectively in this podcast. She addresses the emotional toll of waiting, reasons for long waitlists, and strategies for proactive engagement while waiting.

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Are you struggling with autism waitlists and feeling stuck? This podcast episode, featuring Dr. Mary Barbera and Kelsey, unveils the harsh realities and offers a beacon of hope. From the emotional toll of waiting for a diagnosis to actionable steps you can take today, this episode is a must-listen for anyone on this journey. Discover how to become the captain of your ship, leveraging resources and strategies to navigate the system effectively. Tune in to transform your waiting time into a proactive path toward support and understanding

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Reasons for the long waitlists
  • The impact of waiting on the lists before taking action
  • Strategies while waiting for services
  • What to do if you aren’t happy with therapy but fear a waitlist

What is an Autism Waitlist, and Why are They So Long? 

Autism waitlists refer to the queues families find themselves in while waiting for diagnostic evaluations, therapy sessions, or access to specialized services for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These waitlists can be extensive, sometimes spanning months to years, due to several factors, including a shortage of specialized healthcare providers, increasing ASD diagnosis rates, and systemic healthcare inefficiencies. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, wait times for an autism evaluation could range from nine months to two years across the United States, with similar or worse scenarios reported globally. The bottleneck exacerbates as once a diagnosis is received, families often find themselves queuing again for therapies like speech, occupational therapy (OT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), vital for the child’s development.

What Can I Do While on a Waitlist for Diagnosis or Services? 

While on waitlists, parents and caregivers are encouraged not to remain passive. Engaging in early intervention strategies, even before an official diagnosis, can be beneficial. In the United States, children under the age of three can qualify for evaluations and services through the Birth to Three program, which may offer free or low-cost access to vital therapies. Beyond governmental services, parents are urged to educate themselves on autism and related interventions. Resources like Mary Barbera’s “Turn Autism Around” book and associated online courses offer practical advice and strategies that can be implemented immediately. These resources emphasize the importance of proactive involvement in a child’s development, suggesting that knowledge and early action can significantly impact a child’s progress.

My Child is In Therapy, But I’m Not Happy With It. Should I Stay or Leave?

This question touches on the dilemma many parents face when they feel current therapy isn’t meeting their child’s needs, yet alternatives seem scarce due to waitlists. The consensus is that while it’s crucial not to abandon therapeutic support entirely, parents should feel empowered to seek better-fitting services or adjust their approach. This might involve consulting with different therapists, considering online therapy options, or integrating strategies learned from autism education resources into daily routines. The emphasis is on collaboration with professionals who are open to parental input and willing to adapt strategies to suit individual needs. Importantly, parents are encouraged to become informed advocates for their children, ensuring that interventions are not only accessible but also positively impact the child’s development and well-being.

These discussions underscore the challenges and potential solutions within the autism services landscape, offering hope and direction to families navigating these complex systems.

RESOURCES

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The #1 Self-Care Tool you Need to Teach Children with Autism https://marybarbera.com/1-selfcare-tool-children-with-autism/ https://marybarbera.com/1-selfcare-tool-children-with-autism/#respond Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:06 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23321 Learn the #1 self-care tool for teaching children with autism essential skills like hand washing and tooth brushing. The Turn Autism Around® approach helps showcase the importance of task analysis in breaking down tasks.

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In this episode, I explore teaching self-care skills to children with autism. We will discuss the one tool you need to teach everything from hand washing, toothbrushing, and more! I will share how we use my four step Turn Autism Around® approach, to teach self-care skills.  I discuss the importance of breaking down complex tasks into simpler steps through task analysis. Throughout the episode, I emphasize the significance of consistent practice and positive reinforcement to work through the task analysis. I also touch on the necessity of tailoring teaching methods to the unique needs of each child. This episode is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to support the development of self-care skills in children with autism or toddlers showing signs. Don’t miss the one tool you need for building self-care skills!

YOU’LL LEARN

  • How to teach self-care skills using the Turn Autism Around Approach®
  • Importance of self-care skills
  • Using a task analysis
  • Samples of a task analysis
  • The benefits of practice and reinforcement

Importance of Self-Care Skills

This podcast episode brings to light the crucial role self-care skills play in the lives of children with autism or toddlers showing signs. Self-care, encompassing basic activities like dressing, grooming, eating, and potty training forms the foundation of a child’s independence and self-esteem. I stress how mastering these skills not only improves the quality of life for these children but also instills a sense of accomplishment and autonomy, essential for their overall development.

Using the Turn Autism Around® Approach

Using the 4-step Turn Autism Around® approach is crucial for being successful when teaching self-care skills. I go through each step in the episode. First, we start with an assessment, like a self-care checklist available for free with my book resources,  followed by making a plan. We then move into teaching and taking easy data.  It stands out for its structured yet flexible framework, enabling a tailored approach to each child’s learning needs. This methodological approach ensures that the teaching process is as effective as possible.

Using a Task Analysis

A key component of the episode is the explanation of task analysis. Using a task analysis is the one tool you need to teach self-care skills.  What is a task analysis?  This method involves breaking down complex self-care tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. By doing so, it becomes easier for children with autism to understand and learn each step, gradually building up to the complete task. I emphasize the effectiveness of this approach, as it aligns with the cognitive processing capabilities of these children, making learning less overwhelming and more achievable. We will also go over how you can easily create a task analysis to teach any self-care skills.

Reinforcement and Practice

The importance of consistent practice and positive reinforcement in teaching self-care skills is another major point in the episode. I explain how regular practice helps solidify these skills, while positive reinforcement motivates and encourages the child. This combination is a powerful tool in ensuring that children with autism not only learn these essential skills but also feel supported and motivated throughout their learning journey.

Adapting Teaching Methods

Finally, the episode covers the importance of adapting teaching methods to suit the individual needs of each child with autism. I discuss how every child is unique, with their own set of strengths and challenges. Therefore, it’s crucial to customize teaching approaches, tools, and strategies to align with each child’s specific needs and learning style. This personalized approach fosters a more inclusive and effective learning environment. 


RESOURCES

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5 Legal & Financial Tips Every Autism Parent Needs! https://marybarbera.com/5-legal-and-financial-mistakes-autism-parents/ https://marybarbera.com/5-legal-and-financial-mistakes-autism-parents/#respond Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:00:50 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23309 Dr. Mary Barbera discusses 5 crucial legal and financial tips for parents of children with autism. From establishing a will and special needs trust to managing finances for social service eligibility, Dr. Barbera covers key strategies to secure your child's future.

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In this episode, join me as I discuss five legal and financial mistakes commonly made by parents of children with autism. I emphasize the importance of preparing a will and a special needs trust, and managing finances to maintain eligibility for social services. I will also addresses the potential pitfalls in education decisions, like prematurely withdrawing a child from public school. I highlight the need for parents to be actively involved in their child’s education and to navigate insurance and state services effectively. The episode is a valuable resource for parents seeking to avoid common mistakes and secure a better financial future for their children with autism.

YOU’LL LEARN

  • 5 Financial and Legal Mistakes
  • Necessity of a will and special needs trust
  • Limiting a child’s savings so they can access public services
  • Importance of staying within the school system as long as possible 
  • How to be involved in advocacy,legal and financial decisions

Creating a Will and Special Needs Trust

Importance in Estate Planning: Establishing a will and a special needs trust is vital for parents of children with autism. But what is a special needs trust? According to a Forbes article; it is a trust set up by a parent or guardian to secure assets such as money or life insurance. It’s not just about distributing assets; it’s about ensuring long-term care and financial stability for their child. This trust specifically caters to the unique needs of a child with autism, providing for their future without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits. As I explain in the podcast, neglecting this aspect can lead to significant legal and financial complications down the road.

Financial Limitations for Benefits Eligibility:

Navigating Public Benefits: Many parents are unaware of the financial thresholds that can affect their child’s eligibility for social services. A critical example is the $2000 savings limit, which, if exceeded, can disqualify a child from receiving essential benefits. I delve into strategies to manage finances effectively, ensuring that families remain eligible for these crucial supports while also planning for their child’s future financial security.

School Enrollment Decisions 

Impact on Developmental Outcomes: Making informed decisions about school enrollment is crucial. In the podcast, I discuss the long-term effects of these decisions on a child’s educational and developmental outcomes. Pulling a child out of public school prematurely can deprive them of essential social and educational experiences. I emphasize the importance of understanding and utilizing the resources available within the public education system until a young adults early 20s.

Exploring Insurance and State Services:

Accessing Necessary Support: Navigating the maze of insurance and state services can be daunting for parents. However, these services are often essential for providing the necessary support for a child with autism. I talk about how to effectively explore and access these services, shedding light on the options available and how to advocate for the necessary support.

Parental Role in Education and Advocacy:

Being the Child’s Advocate: The role of parents in the education and advocacy for their child with autism cannot be overstated. As I highlight in the episode, active parental involvement is key to ensuring that a child receives appropriate educational and behavioral support. I share insights on how parents can become effective advocates, navigating the complexities of the education system and healthcare services to best support their child’s needs. 

My goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions for their child’s future. By avoiding common pitfalls and embracing proactive strategies, parents can ensure that their child with autism has the best possible opportunities for a fulfilling life.

RESOURCES

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Top 3 Autism Assessments You Can Do Today To Support a Child with Autism https://marybarbera.com/top-3-autism-assessments/ https://marybarbera.com/top-3-autism-assessments/#respond Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:00:29 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23286 Dr. Mary Barbera reveals the top 10 Turn Autism Around podcast episodes in 2023, as determined by listens, downloads, and views. These episodes give helpful insights for parents on the autism journey, covering subjects ranging from the gestalt language processing dispute to toilet training tactics and the influence of curated information. Dr. Barbera questions conventional wisdom about autism as a lifelong condition and investigates fresh studies on autism outcomes.

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Today on Turn Autism Around®, we are diving into the top 3 autism assessments you can do TODAY to start helping a child with autism. The best part is? They are free and simple to use! You wouldn’t walk into a new doctor or therapist and expect them to just jump into treatment without first doing an assessment to help decide where to start. Helping a child with autism is no different and these 3 autism assessments will help you to decide the best starting place. So, let’s get started with the top 3 autism assessments.

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Importance of conducting 3 assessments before intervention
  • Where to get free autism assessments
  • How to conduct video samples, language samples, and online digital assessment
  • Importance of using assessments to monitor progress

Video Samples

All of the assessments from today are available for free with my book Turn Autism Around®, but even if you don’t have the book you can get them from the book resources page here. 

We want to start with collecting baseline videos to measure progress before and after implementing intervention strategies. It’s essential to conduct these assessments even if a child is still struggling or functioning at a lower level. Our focus is particularly on language development, and the book resources provide clear directions on recording videos one and two. We suggest capturing one to two minutes of the child alone, observing their behavior, whether it’s lining up objects, engaging in stimming, labeling pictures, or participating in other activities. This assessment gathers vital information for future interventions. We will continue to take these videos every couple of months so we can see changes in language, play, and engagement. 

Language Sample

Equally important is conducting language samples to document a child’s vocalizations and progress over a specific timeframe. We recommend an unconventional approach of engaging the child initially, followed by discreet observation to capture their spontaneous language when they believe no one is paying attention. So basically this means, completing some of the language samples while engaging them, and some of it while just watching them even if they are just making sounds or babbling. The recommended duration for the language sample is 15 minutes, including both engaged and unengaged scenarios. Document important details like date, time, duration, and level of engagement during this process. We provide examples of various language samples to help you carry out this assessment effectively.

Autism Assessment Online

Our last free autism assessment is a free digital assessment that evaluates self-care, language and learning, and problem behavior. Accessible online, this assessment generates scores in these areas, providing a clear snapshot of a child’s development and progress. To tie it all together, conducting a baseline digital assessment is crucial for establishing a starting point to monitor progress. Reassess this assessment after two months, especially if you enroll in our online course. Ideally, you should observe growth in videos, language samples, and digital assessment scores. If minimal improvement is seen, it may be necessary to scrutinize intervention strategies more closely. 

I encourage you to reach out with any questions and dive deep into these assessments to effectively track your child’s progress. Don’t hesitate – let’s get started!

RESOURCES

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Does your child have a new autism diagnosis? Your top 5 questions answered https://marybarbera.com/new-autism-diagnosis-top-5-questions/ https://marybarbera.com/new-autism-diagnosis-top-5-questions/#respond Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:42 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23273 In this episode, I cover the decision of whether to pay for private speech therapy or ABA therapy for children with autism.

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In this podcast episode, join Dr. Mary Barbera and Kelsey as they delve into the top five questions surrounding a child’s newly diagnosed autism. A new autism diagnosis can bring a lot of grief and worry. There is so much you can to help your child and the whole family. So if you have questions regarding your child or clients new diagnosis or autism and what that means for them and your family, you are in the right place! 

YOU’LL LEARN

  • After a diagnosis: Processing, support, and action
  • Navigating systems and overcoming barriers
  • Realistic goals and proactive planning
  • Navigating grief and autism 
  • How to talk to family and friends about autism
  • Managing expectations 

 We explore the emotional impact of receiving a diagnosis and stress the importance of seeking support and taking the time to process. Our focus is on proactive steps to support the child and their family, including applied behavior analysis treatment and navigating available resources. Even if you have had an autism diagnosis for a while, this information might be new for you. 

Grieving after an autism diagnosis.

We emphasize the significance of understanding how to navigate systems and overcome barriers by gaining knowledge. Having a new diagnosis of autism can be a big learning curve but this episode will be sure to give you the knowledge you need.  We address the topic of grieving and worrying about the child’s future, emphasizing the range of challenges autism presents. Managing expectations, appreciating small victories, and practicing self-care are key themes in this episode.

Throughout the episode, we share inspiring stories of children who have made significant progress with treatment and parental involvement, highlighting the power of a personalized plan. We challenge the notion of a set number of ABA therapy hours and promote a tailored approach to intervention that is based on assessment and the childs individual needs.

You also won’t want to miss the importance of actively engaging with children with special needs, promoting evidence-based support, and avoiding negative outcomes. Once you learn how to actively engage your child with the techniques in my online courses, you will be able to have less stress during your days. 

How to tell my family and friends about autism diagnosis?

We also navigate a common question I get about how to inform friends and family about a diagnosis, reassuring listeners that there is no shame in it and encouraging them to do what feels right for them. Sometimes, starting with just the people you see every day is the best first step. Often, if we don’t tell people what is going on then they cannot support us!

 We conclude by discussing opportunities for children of all abilities to participate in adaptive sports teams, highlighting the safety, independence, and happiness of every child. Throughout the episode, we provide information on accessing our podcast, “Turn Autism Around,” and recommend valuable resources for parents and professionals dealing with autism-related challenges. Join us as we explore the path to turning autism around!

RESOURCES

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Carrie Cariello on Empowering Relationships: Navigating Autism and Building a Family https://marybarbera.com/carrie-cariello-navigating-autism-families/ https://marybarbera.com/carrie-cariello-navigating-autism-families/#respond Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:00:03 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23241 In this podcast episode, I cover the benefits of early assessment through a free digital assessment tool, the challenges of pacifier addiction, and explore the importance of tackling adaptive skills in autism.

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In this episode of the Turn Autism Around® podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Carrie Cariello, an incredible author and advocate in the autism community. She is the mother to 5 children, her second oldest, Jack was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months old. I couldn’t help but praise Carrie’s exceptional writing skills, which are evident in her latest book, “Half My Sky.” She joined me to discuss her journey as a parent to Jack, her other children, and as a wife. Raising children with autism can be stressful for a marriage and I loved Carrie’s insights on this. So come join me as we learn more about her journey.

YOU’LL LEARN

  •  Introduction of Carrie Cariello and her book “Half my Sky”
  •  Carrie’s experiences raising a son with autism alongside her typically developing children
  •  Transition to adulthood for individuals on the autism spectrum
  • The decision to have more kids
  • Autism and marriage, the impact on relationships and strategies for maintaining a strong partnership

Autism College Programs

Carrie opened up about her personal experiences raising a son with autism and the challenges they faced along the way. From the early signs they noticed, and navigating the early stages of therapy to managing relationships and sibling dynamics, Carrie shared valuable insights that resonated deeply with me. I loved hearing about the type of program they found for Jack outside of the home and how she has transitioned him into his college program. So even if you are just starting this journey, you won’t want to miss how Jack’s college experience is going.

Autism and Relationships


We had an engaging conversation that covered various topics related to autism and relationships. How her marriage was affected by both autism parenting and typical parenting and how they are doing now. Carrie Cariello’s authenticity and vulnerability in sharing her journey were truly inspiring. We go into questions such as what she wishes she knew when she first started this journey, and  explore if you should have more kids after an autism diagnosis that you won’t want to miss. We share that managing marriages alongside parenting children with autism can be tricky but doable. 

I can’t wait for you all to listen to this insightful episode with Carrie Carriello. Her perspective and experiences will undoubtedly offer valuable insights into autism, marriage, and siblings and offer support to anyone navigating the world of autism. Stay tuned for the upcoming release in January, and don’t forget to leave your comments and questions for us to address!

Carrie Cariello on Turn Autism Around Podcast

Carrie Cariello is the author of What Color is Monday, How Autism Changed One Family for the Better, Someone I’m With has Autism, and Half my Sky. She lives in Southern New Hampshire with her husband Joe and they five children. 

 

Carrie is a regular contributor to the Huffington Post, TODAY Parents, the TODAY Show, Parents.com, Love What Matters, and Grown and Flown. She has been interviewed by NBC Nightly News and has a TEDx Talk. She speaks regularly about autism, marriage, and motherhood, and writes a weekly blog at www.carriecariello.com

 

One of her essays, “I know what causes autism,” was featured as one of the Huffington Post’s best of 2015, and her piece “I know why he has autism,” was named one of the top blog posts of 2017 by the TODAY show. 

RESOURCES

The post Carrie Cariello on Empowering Relationships: Navigating Autism and Building a Family appeared first on Dr. Mary Barbera.

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The Transition to Autism Kindergarten with Michelle C https://marybarbera.com/transition-autism-kindergarten-michelle-c/ https://marybarbera.com/transition-autism-kindergarten-michelle-c/#respond Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:37 +0000 https://marybarbera.com/?p=23240 Today’s topic is on teaching life skills to children with autism featuring Julie Swanson, The Life Skills Lady.

The post The Transition to Autism Kindergarten with Michelle C appeared first on Dr. Mary Barbera.

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In this episode of “Turn Autism Around,” we welcome back Michelle C., to discuss autism and kindergarten. She shares her journey with her daughter Elena since her autism diagnosis at the age of two. She shares how, when Elena was diagnosed, she had just 2 words, and after taking my course, had over 500 in just 2 months! But now, it is a few years later and we are focusing on the challenges and successes of transitioning Elena into kindergarten. So come join us as you will hear all about Michelle’s decision to not disclose autism to her school and more! 

YOU’LL LEARN

  • Initial dismissal of signs and diagnosis of autism
  • Effectiveness of early intervention and course progress
  •  Transition from preschool to kindergarten
  • The challenges of autism and kindergarten
  • Progress in social and play skills

Autism Diagnosis and Early Progress

Michelle discusses the initial delays in Elena’s development, particularly in speech, and her journey through speech therapy. Despite initially dismissing concerns, Michelle realized the need for professional evaluation when her daughter’s difficulties became evident. A pediatric neurologist diagnosed Elena with autism, prompting Michelle to seek help and set up various therapies. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their appointments. Michelle then joined my online toddler course that brought significant progress to Elena’s language skills, going from two words to 500 words in just 33 days. I was so surprised and happy with these changes that I actually created a white paper to discuss Elena’s progress! The podcast highlights the effectiveness of early intervention and targeted strategies in supporting children with language difficulties.

Autism and Kindergarten

The discussion further explores the transition of a child with autism from a preschool setting to a typical kindergarten classroom. The transition of autism and kindergarten is not always easy or smooth and can involve transition meetings and IEPs, but with Elena’s early progress  at home and in preschool, Michelle made the decision to not inform the school.  The decision to disclose the child’s diagnosis was debated, but Michelle ultimately chose not to, and the transition seems to be going smoothly. Elena’s progress is monitored through periodic conferences and communication with the teacher, who provides positive feedback on her work and behavior in the classroom.

Overall, we emphasize the lessons along the way, like the importance of implementing strategies from the online courses to develop social and language skills naturally. Elena’s overall language score significantly improved, indicating the effectiveness of these strategies. The podcast also touches on the limitations of standardized assessments and the importance of incorporating other tools for reliable results. It highlights the positive outcomes seen in girls with autism and the significance of early intervention in preventing intellectual disabilities. The podcast concludes with a message of hope and the potential for growth and positive change for children with autism.

Keep listening every week to hear more inspiring stories, insights, and helpful resources.

Michelle C on Turn Autism Around Podcast

Michelle is a Michigan mother of 2 girls. Her oldest was diagnosed with autism at 23 months of age by a pediatric neurologist. After 2 years of using Mary’s strategies at home, that same neurologist is talking about reversing that diagnosis. She was a secondary school  teacher for about 7 years. She is married, and her husband is a police officer. 

RESOURCES

The post The Transition to Autism Kindergarten with Michelle C appeared first on Dr. Mary Barbera.

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