Autistic Parenting Lifelines: Behavior as Communication

Today we discuss how to use music playlists to help regulate mood and energy. Utilizing specific playlists can help you get out of meltdowns and move from a sad, low energy, or depressed mood to a happier more energetic state. If you are interested in being a guest on the show send me an email at [email protected].

Today I share some tips and tricks I learned from my occupational therapist about how to use proprioception to reduce sensory overload and improve regulation. Ideas discussed in this episode: 1. Carry a weighted backpack while walking 2. Weight Lifting 3. Foam roller, massage gun, or massage chair 4. Knitted weighted blankets If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast send me an email at [email protected].

Join me today to learn what proprioception is and how to use proprioception to reduce sensory overwhelm and stay more regulated. Strategies discussed: 1. Weighted lap pad while working or driving 2. Mini trampoline/adult rebounder for jumping 3. Compression tops, compression vests, or shapewear 4. Using some active proprioception followed by more passive proprioception (weighted blanket, massage, foam roller) If you are interested in being a guest on the show email me at [email protected].

In this episode we talk with Matt Lundeberg, a psychologist who offers adult autism assessments in Portland, OR. In this interview we cover the diagnostic criteria for autism, tips and tricks for managing sensory overwhelm as a parent, aphantasia, and self-compassion. To learn more about Matt visit his website at: https://www.oregonautismevaluations.com/ Please reach out if you would like to be on the show or have questions/comments. Our email is [email protected] and website is parentingwhileautistic.com.

In this episode we discuss letting go of unrealistic expectations and leaning on repetition and routine to make parenting easier. We discuss eating same foods, having a set daily schedule, and doing repetitive outings.

In this episode we discuss how shifting our view of behavior can help us cope as parents. When kids have challenging behaviors it can be tempting to see it as intentional or aimed at making us crazy. However, behavior is often a form of communication. Viewing behavior as communication can help you be more attuned to your children and improve you ability to cope with difficult behaviors.

In this episode we discuss how to give little kids as many decisions as possible during the day to improve their compliance when you make an executive decision. This technique comes from the book "How to Talk so Little Kids will Listen". When giving decisions only offer two options, both of which are alright with you. For example- you could allow your pre-schooler to choose which shoes they want to wear between two pairs.

In this week's parenting lifeline we discuss using fresh air to help you and your children recover from dysregulation. Whether going out for a walk, sitting outdoors, or going to the park getting out in the fresh air can help overwhelmed children to calm down and help you feel better too. Tune in next week for another parenting tip or trick.

In this week's parenting lifeline we discuss how to teach your baby or child sign language. Sign language helps children communicate their wants and needs when they are unable to communicate verbally. This really reduces tantrums! Join us next week for another parenting tip or trick to help you survive or thrive as an autistic parent.

In this episode we talk with Kaylee Torres, a late diagnosed autistic therapist. We discuss her work providing autism evaluations and individual counseling as well as tips and tricks she has related to parenting while autistic. If you want to get in contact with Kaylee here is her info: Kaylee Torres, MA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (WA, HI) Marriage and Family Therapy Associate (OR) Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS) Owner and Clinical Director  Mahina Therapy PLLC Website: mahinatherapy.com Email: [email protected] Link to Transcript: www.parentingwhileautistic.com/listen/dikm2u3lhe24oac9mpbogdrau75vux