149 | the EF toolkit: supporting autistic children with navigating life in a neuroaffirming way with Iris Wong

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay shares a real-time update on US policy changes and their impact for autistic individuals and neurodiversity affirming supports. This episode was recorded and published on Jan 29th, 2025 and addresses topics such as DEI, Medicaid, NIH, gender recognition, ICE, and Elon Musk. This episode is not intended to be a news source but instead encourages you to stay informed and presents the implications for the neurodiversity affirming movement. If you feel passionate about neurodiversity and autistic supports, this is a must-listen.RESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay is joined by school psychologist Briana Drimmer to explore the complexities of school eligibility criteria for autism. They discuss the differences between medical diagnoses and educational eligibility, the role of an IEP team, and how to advocate for your autistic child within the school system. The episode also covers the educational impact, specially designed instruction, and other common eligibility categories such as OHI and ED. Tune in to learn how to effectively navigate the school system and ensure your child receives the support they need.00:00 Introduction to School and Autism Eligibility00:36 Meet Briana Drimmer: School Psychologist01:34 Navigating School Systems vs. Clinical Diagnoses04:21 Understanding the IEP Team05:31 The Process of School Evaluation for Autism08:13 Challenges and Denials in the Evaluation Process14:52 Eligibility Criteria for Autism in Schools21:58 Differences Between DSM and IDEA Criteria30:58 Understanding Educational Impact Beyond Grades31:05 Communication and Social Challenges31:35 Emotional and Adaptive Skills31:59 Mobility and Academic Examples32:27 Curiosity and Broader Definitions32:59 Specially Designed Instruction35:10 Accommodations vs. Special Education36:27 The Role of 504 Plans38:21 Specialized Academic Instruction39:24 Behavioral and Counseling Services42:33 Navigating School Systems and Advocacy51:10 Co-Occurring Diagnoses and Eligibility57:32 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRESOURCES⚡️ Follow Briana on Instagram @educationallypsyched ⚡️ Check out her resources on Teachers Pay Teachers ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay hosts Marissa Ramos, a bilingual English/ASL speech therapist, to discuss the benefits of incorporating sign language into communication strategies for autistic and hard of hearing children. They dive into the overlapping needs of these children, the surprisingly low percentage of speech therapists who are fluent in ASL, and share insights on the importance of early language exposure. Marissa also discusses her personal journey with ASL and her advocacy for its broader use in therapy. The conversation highlights the significance of multimodal communication and introduces listeners to resources for learning and integrating ASL into everyday practice.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview03:28 Marissa's Background and Journey into ASL05:36 Understanding Deaf Culture and Terminology09:26 The Power of ASL in Early Childhood13:13 Neurodiversity Affirming Approaches to ASL17:06 Sign Language as a Form of Communication20:20 Spoken Language vs AAC: Efficiency and Accessibility21:25 Understanding the Difference: ASL vs AAC22:34 The Benefits of Teaching Sign Language25:11 Statistics on Hearing Loss in Autistic Children28:15 The Importance of Multimodal Communication33:12 Language Deprivation Syndrome37:19 Resources for Learning ASL39:10 Conclusion and Next StepsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Marissa on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook⚡️ check out her resources, including the free 100 word checklist here ⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Iris Wong, a speech-language pathologist, executive functioning coach, and late diagnosed AuDHD mother with ND children to discuss the importance of executive functions. The conversation covers the definition of executive functions, how they manifest in daily life, and particularly how they impact autistic and ADHD children. They explore practical examples and strategies to support executive functioning skills, focusing on using special interests and leveraging AI tools. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding individual brain patterns and provides resources for continued learning.00:00 Introduction to Executive Functions00:27 Meet Iris Wong: A Journey Through Neurodivergence01:11 Understanding Executive Functions in Daily Life01:29 Welcome to A Parenting Space Designed for You02:48 Iris Wong's Personal and Professional Background04:31 The Role of Executive Functions in Family Dynamics06:53 Challenges and Strategies for Parents08:45 Defining Executive Functions15:45 Executive Functions and PDA Profile18:33 Navigating Burnout and Executive Functions21:46 Real-Life Examples and Practical Advice23:25 Flexible Schooling and Self-Care Tasks25:26 Understanding Body Doubling in Schools25:51 Navigating Self-Care with EF Challenges26:43 Innovative Self-Care Strategies27:54 Supporting Neurodivergent Adults28:44 Accommodations for Executive Functioning29:43 Demand Avoidance and Overwhelm30:04 Personal Stories and EF Challenges31:55 Special Interests and EF Skills42:28 The Role of AI in Supporting EF45:14 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ Follow Iris on Instagram⚡️ Learn about her resources >> www.eftoolkit.com⚡️ Check out her book all things EF >> https://akidsco.com/products/a-kids-book-about-executive-functioning⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this final episode of 2024, Dr. Tay recaps the top 10 most downloaded podcast episodes of the year, reflecting on the amazing growth and impact of the show. The podcast, focused on autism and parenting, has garnered significant attention with an average of 1,400 downloads per week recently, and a total of over 55,000 all-time downloads. Highlighted episodes include deep dives into PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), autism in females, low demand parenting, sensory regulation at home, and various therapeutic approaches. Dr. Tay also discusses future plans for monetization to enhance the podcast's reach and quality, including potential ads and sponsorships that align with the listeners' interests. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and topic suggestions for future episodes. Happy New Year and looking forward to the exciting developments in 2025!00:00 Welcome and Episode Recap Introduction00:51 Podcast Analytics and Listener Engagement02:32 Future Plans and Monetization03:58 Top Episode #1: What is PDA?05:18 Top Episodes #2-5: PDA and Beyond10:48 Top Episodes #6-10: Autism Insights and Alternatives19:26 Honorable Mentions and Listener Appreciation20:37 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay discusses the pressures of modern life, the need for human connection, and the importance of being present. She reflects on her experiences from the past year, including her professional milestones and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of celebrating accomplishments instead of always striving for more. Dr. Tay also talks about her upcoming plans, including the highly-anticipated membership launch. As she recaps the year, Dr. Tay invites listeners to focus on their own growth and wins, and to remember that epic fails do not define them, but how they recover and move forward does.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:22 Personal Reflections and Social Media Insights02:19 The Importance of Slowing Down03:27 Taylor Swift and Personal Growth07:13 Holiday Season Reflections10:41 Epic Fail and Business Update13:33 Neuro Affirming Care and Personal Growth14:10 Balancing Work and Personal Life15:00 The Membership Journey17:17 Reflecting on Achievements and Failures23:35 Parenting and Personal Development24:42 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay hosts Betsy Hicks (@betsyonthego) who discusses her journey parenting her 31-year-old non-speaking autistic son, Joey. The conversation delves into Betsy's experiences with autism awareness over the years, the impact of nutrition on Joey's behavior, and the significant breakthrough they experienced with Spelling to Communicate. Betsy shares the process and emotional experience of Joey moving out and gaining independence, emphasizing the importance of following one's intuition as a parent. Dr. Tay and Betsy also address the challenges and nuances of parenting within the autism community and the role of social media in providing support and spreading awareness.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview02:23 Betsy's Journey Begins03:40 Discovering the Impact of Diet04:27 A New Chapter with John05:55 The Shift in Understanding Autism07:34 Spelling to Communicate09:14 Reflections and Insights15:25 Navigating Social Media and Advocacy29:27 Joey's Progress and Moving Out31:54 Realizing Children's Independence33:44 Joey's New Caregiver: Nick's Story35:29 The Apartment Community's Support42:03 Navigating Section 8 Housing45:39 Balancing Caregiving and Independence49:25 The Importance of Nutrition54:30 Wrapping Up and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ Follow Betsy @betsyonthego on TikTok and Instagram and learn about her resources betsyonthego.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

In this heartfelt mini-episode, Dr. Tay sheds light on the disturbing practice of using seclusion rooms for dysregulated children, often presented under names like 'calm down rooms' or 'regulation rooms.' Highlighting the traumatic impact of these practices, Dr. Tay empowers parents with information on how to identify and advocate against the use of these rooms. The episode includes practical tips for parents on educating themselves about state laws, inquiring about school policies in IEP meetings, and proposing proactive, humane solutions. Dr. Tay calls for community unity in advocating for neurodiversity-affirming care and ensuring autistic children are treated with dignity and respect.00:00 Introduction to a Difficult Topic00:29 Understanding Seclusion Rooms01:42 Real-Life Stories and Impact02:56 Advocating for Change08:32 Proactive Strategies and Solutions15:35 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionRESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇in this episode, Dr. Tay talks about helpful tips and strategies for autism families navigating the holiday season. we discuss the importance of preparing for potential disruptions to routines, setting realistic expectations, giving choices, and setting boundaries. Dr. Tay addresses several elements including helping your child anticipate upcoming events, being mindful of safe foods, empowering your child by involving them in the process, and handling comments from others. there is an emphasis on the importance of being present during these moments and cherishing the progress that your child has made since the last holiday season. RESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approachᵀᴹ and current services offered? schedule a free consult call here or email [email protected] if you have questions.⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay

In this special mini-episode Dr. Tay, a child psychologist specializing in autism, discusses how extended family members can better support parents of autistic children during the holiday season. Drawing on over a decade of experience and direct feedback from parents, Dr. Tay shares practical advice, such as understanding triggers, recognizing the effort parents put into preparing for events, and ways to offer meaningful help. This episode is what your loved one wants you to know! A special thank you to the parents who submitted their insights and are featured on this episode. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:12 Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity02:21 Holiday Support for Autistic Children03:29 Parental Insights and Requests06:38 Common Misunderstandings and Challenges15:07 Sensory and Social Considerations18:38 Creating a Supportive Environment for Neurodivergent Children19:05 Offering Help and Dropping Judgment20:21 Understanding Meltdowns and Neurodivergence21:11 Challenges in Getting Diagnoses and Support21:51 Validating Parents' Efforts and Experiences23:23 Navigating Family Traditions and Accommodations27:18 Grief and Emotional Complexity in Parenting32:08 Final Thoughts and EncouragementRESOURCES⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay