350:Behavior Is Communication By Kristina Avritt

My main topic for this episode is what it's like for anyone with autism to drive. I start by outlining the reasons why driving might not be appealing or essential for those with autism.  I also discuss the parents' experiences and the symptoms of their anxiety. I also go into the anxiety that people with autism face and the causes of their fear of driving. Furthermore, I discuss how someone with autism may find being pulled over to be a terrifying experience. Lastly, I do offer suggestions for improving a person with autism's ability to drive safely. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zD3oVSdDZiA

I talk about board and card games in this episode. The first and most significant topic I discuss is the benefits of board and card games for people with autism. Additionally, I explain the specific rules that can be taught to individuals with autism while playing board and card games. I even provide the parents with instructions on how to teach a board or card game to a person with autism. I also address the typical errors people with autism may make when playing card or board games. I also go over the parallels and discrepancies between board and card games with my audience. In the final section,  I outline  comparisons between autism and various board and card game pieces and games that I have owned in the past. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhqB-E3hgxk https://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/uno-championship-series-mattel-tournament-grand-prize/4144465/?amp=1

My concept on this episode is focused on prioritization. First, I explain to my audience why this managerial functioning skill is challenging when "we see it as equally important" and "everything as urgent." I will also share a video that listeners should view because it explains how to prioritize their mental health. I additionally tell you which priorities are "seasonal," meaning that they occur only occasionally. Furthermore, I discuss the numerous mistakes that people with autism make while attempting to prioritize. I also discuss why it is more difficult for adults with autism to prioritize than children. I also dive deeper into my experience by sharing some of my own stories about having difficulty prioritizing. However, at the conclusion of the episode, I do contribute by providing advice on how people with autism might improve their prioritization skills. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/6VdA6hWA3ac

Today I have a talented professional as a guest: Oliver Graves. Oliver is referred to as a "goth comedian" because of the extreme contrasts in his clothing and makeup. Oliver is a comic who has given performances at clubs and events all around the country. Oliver's weekly article for the Argus Courier, "Oliver's World," was recognized in 2021 by the esteemed California Journalism Awards. Oliver has participated in a number of stand-up comedy competitions, including the San Francisco International Comedy Competition and The World Series of Comedy. Oliver's stand-up act was approved by each of the four judges on NBC's America's Got Talent, including the notoriously stubborn Simon Cowell. I wanted to understand more about him because he has stated that "he knows he's not the norm" due to his flow and dark side of comedy. So why wait?  Welcome to Autism Rocks And Rolls, Mr. Graves! https://www.change.org/p/support-xavier-s-law-for-autism-awareness?recruiter=1421043525&recruited_by_id=d94814b0-765a-11f1-adad-d5baf1ef5346&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=starter_onboarding_share_personal&utm_medium=copylink&share_id=hVXg6KL4md https://www.olivergraves.com/  

Come along as I discuss the "levels" of autism in this new episode.  Additionally, I explain why we shouldn't use the term "levels" and who is at fault when we do. I also go over each understanding of autism and the ways to help someone who has it. Additionally, I let my audience know who should and shouldn't be aware of your personal understanding of the autism spectrum. Lastly, I provide stories when one person's understanding was evident, both with and without me. https://childmind.org/article/understanding-the-levels-of-autism/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325106

Today's visitor is Kristina Avritt, whom I met at a podcasting hosting event. After meeting her and learning that she also has a son with autism, I knew she was a perfect match for Autism Rocks And Rolls. Kristina is a co-host of the Bringing Education Home podcast and founder of Vibrant Family Education, which explores educational concepts and family success. With over thirty years of experience in education, coaching, and family development, she helps parents create positive learning environments where children can thrive both mentally and spiritually. As she stated, this technique honors each child's unique learning style while also teaching parents about a stronger link, determination, and lifelong enthusiasm for learning. Welcome to Autism Rocks and Rolls, Mrs. Avritt! https://vibrantfamilyeducation.com/home https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bringing-education-home/id1651695357

We are back with the final segment of the Total Drama Specials. The final part  focuses on Total Drama Pahkitew Island, its fifth branch. In this episode, I talk about what happened during Total Drama All Stars, which resulted in Total Drama Pahkitew Island. I also talk about the new aspects and characters included in Total Drama Pahkitew Island, in addition to how they relate to autism and other impairments. Finally, I discuss the challenges that the cast experienced this season, each with a symptom suggesting autism or a disability.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxLp7NNTDdY&t=82s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUEs2rvr944

We're back with the fifth part of the Total Drama Specials. The fifth chapter centers around Total Drama All Stars, the fourth spinoff. In this episode, I discuss what transpired in Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, which created Total Drama All Stars. I also speak about the elements and returning characters on Total Drama All Stars, in addition to their connection to autism. Finally, I describes the challenges the returning cast members  faced that season, each featuring a sign showing autism or a disorder.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73mbuRoMIag

We are back with the fourth part of the Total Drama Specials. The fourth segment focuses on Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, Total Drama's third spinoff. In this episode, I explain what transpired throughout Total Drama World Tour to enable Total Drama Revenge Of The Island. I also discuss the nuances and new characters that appear only in Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, along with how they connect to autism. Finally, I detail the challenges encountered during this season, each featuring a sign representing autism or disability. 

With our third season, we will continue to broadcast Total Drama specials. The third part addresses Total Drama World Tour, Total Drama's second spinoff. In this episode, I recount what happened in Total Drama Action that made Total Drama World Tour possible. I also explain the factors and one of the three characters who only appear in Total Drama World Tour, as well as their relationship to autism. Finally, I outline the challenges in many parts of the world, each one featuring a sign signifying autism or other abilities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5-ai0QsRK8&list=PLB298C0107EFC6BCE&index=31 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVFWUPPqPCE