Re-Release: New Year, Same Me

Setting New Year's resolutions that you don't follow through with can leave you feeling defeated. Instead, focus on how amazing you are this year and share that with those around you!Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

You know that ‘bored’ feeling? No? Oh right, you’re a parent. These days, our devices are a source of constant entertainment, information, and connection -  but they can also increase our stress and take us away from our kids (even when we’re with them). Here’s the antidote. Resources mentioned in this episodeIf you give a mom a minute…Exploring Nature to find our CalmHow to Keep it Together: A GuideWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Let’s talk about overstimulation, especially during the holidays. Here’s the interesting part though, this is about overstimulation for us parents. Here are 4 tips that have helped me a lot.Resources mentioned in this episodeOverstimulated by Life? 20 Ways to Give Your ADHD Senses a BreakStudy shows overstimulation caused by smartphones, while they promise the oppositeDigital Overload: What Is It, and How Is It Affecting Our Mental and Physical Health?Sleep and healthJust Needs: Better parenting through self-regulation Just Needs: Co-regulation: your secret tool for managing meltdownsWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Holiday gatherings can be stressful. If you’re welcoming a family with kids with disabilities, here are six things you can do to make sure they feel welcome.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is a developmental disability?What is sensory processing? And can it help explain my child’s behavior?What are accommodations?Six Things Not to Say to Children with Disabilities (and Some Things To Say Instead)Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Extra stressed during the holidays? We are too. Here are some of our favorite parenting mantras to get us through.Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is self-regulation and how can it help me be a better parent?How can co-regulation help my child’s behavior? Strategies for parenting children with disabilitiesWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Nothing’s sure but… well, you know the end of that sentence. If your family includes a child or adult with a disability, here are 5 important things to know before you file your 2024 taxes.Resources mentioned in this episode5 Things to Know Before Filing Taxes for People with DisabilitiesABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountsSpecial Needs Alliance: Attorneys for Special Needs PlanningTax Help for People with DisabilitiesLiving and Working with Disabilities (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): free tax preparation help for taxpayers who qualifyWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

This week, Christina chats with Dr. Nilong Vyas of Sleepless in NOLA, on the importance of sleep in early childhood. They’ll answer questions like, “Why is sleep important?” and “My child is a terrible sleeper. Is it me or something else?” Listen along for helpful information and tips and tricks around sleep. Resources mentioned in this episodeWhat is a sleep consultant and how do they help families?Sleep Disorders in ChildrenAutism Awareness & SleepMelatonin for Kids: A Guide for Parents and CaregiversSleepless in NOLADr. Vyas’ Bedtime ChecklistThank you Dr. Vyas for offering our families a discount on your services! For a 10% discount use code: INEEDSLEEP10Where to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Nothing’s sure but… well, you know the end of that sentence. If your family includes a child or adult with a disability, here are 5 important things to know before you file your taxes in 2022.Resources mentioned in this episode5 Things to Know Before Filing Taxes for People with DisabilitiesABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountsSpecial Needs Alliance: Attorneys for Special Needs PlanningTax Help for People with DisabilitiesLiving and Working with Disabilities (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): free tax preparation help for taxpayers who qualifyWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

Flying with kids with disabilities can be stressful and overwhelming. This week’s podcast episode has 5 tips to make the trip easier for you and your child.Resources mentioned in this episodeBetter parenting using self-regulationWhat is self-regulation and how can it help me be a better parent?¿Qué es la autorregulación y cómo puede ayudarme a ser un mejor padre?Co-regulation: Your secret tool for managing meltdownsHow can co-regulation help my child’s behavior? Strategies for parenting children with disabilities¿Cómo puede ayudarle a mi hijo la corregulación? Estrategias para ser padre de niños con discapacidadesUS Department of Transportation; Wheelchairs and Other Assistive DevicesDisabilities and Medical ConditionsWhat is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?Wings for Autism / Wings for AllTSA Notification CardWhat To Do When an Airline Damages Your WheelchairWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn

In this bonus episode, Christina discusses doing a pediatric sleep study with her son and his sensory needs.  Resources mentioned in this episodeThe importance of sleep in early childhood with Dr. Nilong VyasSleepless in NOLAOur Lady of the Lake Sleep MedicineWhere to find Exceptional LivesFacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedIn