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Navigating the intricate world of parenting a child with severe autism can be both challenging and rewarding. As a parent, I've experienced firsthand the profound impact external factors like supermoons can have on his behavior, and the importance of understanding these triggers. Through personal anecdotes, I unveil the struggle of handling well-meaning yet sometimes insensitive comments from family, and how I've empowered Jacob to assert himself in such situations. It's all about finding effective strategies to manage everyday challenges, such as thunderstorms, and teaching our children to navigate through life's unexpected events with strength and confidence.

Engaging with a child who has a deep affinity for media can be a complex endeavor. My journey with Jacob showed me that traditional methods, like cartoon-based social stories, often missed the mark. I share the insights gained from understanding Jacob's unique individuality and the broader implications for educational systems that struggle to accommodate neurodiverse children. We explore the necessity of shifting perspectives to better support these unique minds, while highlighting the humor and lessons learned from Jacob's adventurous spirit, from his innocent "I need sock" incident to his fearless exploration of potentially dangerous situations.

The podcast also touches on the emotional sacrifices and personal dreams often altered when raising a child with severe autism. I invite listeners to reflect on their own narratives, fostering a supportive community where shared stories become a source of solace and mutual strength.

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After years of navigating the unique challenges of raising a child with severe autism, I've amassed a treasure trove of stories and insights that I’m excited to share with you. This episode takes you on a deeply personal journey through my life as Jacob’s mom, highlighting the power of community and family in shaping his world. You'll hear about the creative ways we've fostered understanding and acceptance in his school, thanks in part to my husband’s proactive outreach in Wisconsin.

Parenting Jacob is a delicate dance of nurturing his individuality while ensuring our family dynamics remain supportive. I recount poignant moments, like the choice to prioritize Jacob's self-esteem over a less-than-flattering school picture, and the emotional aftermath of his transitions to new schools. These stories underscore the importance of routine and personal expression for Jacob, and reveal the profound impact of small adjustments and family support on his well-being.

My father plays a starring role in this narrative, serving as a pillar of advocacy and support for Jacob. His involvement ranges from medical oversight to educational advocacy, demonstrating the critical role of a family in navigating autism. As we explore these experiences, I also touch on the intriguing effect of supermoons on Jacob's behavior, offering a unique perspective for fellow parents. Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with my spouse, where we’ll dive deeper into our family's journey and strategies.

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Imagine finding a hidden gem—a 50-acre sanctuary that promises tranquility and safety for a child with severe autism. That's exactly the unexpected joy we stumbled upon as we embarked on a journey to create a sensory-friendly haven for my son, Jacob. From thrilling riding trails to a peaceful pier by the river, this new chapter is not just about a change in scenery, but a much-needed shift towards hope and comfort for our family. Join us as we navigate the emotions of this monumental move and the relief of providing Jacob with the freedom to explore safely, away from the hazards of noise and traffic.

The journey of caring for a child with special needs is undeniably demanding, and sometimes, stepping back is essential. We open up about the mixed emotions of taking a month-long respite while Jacob stayed with his grandparents. This break was a double-edged sword, providing time to set up a superhero-themed room in our new home, but also fueling worries about Jacob's safety due to some unsettling social media posts. Discover how we managed the logistics of reuniting with Jacob and the challenges that come with balancing caregiver stress with ensuring his well-being.

Parenting a child with severe autism is a rollercoaster of emotions and learning experiences. We delve into the complexities of communication and emotional expression, sharing humorous anecdotes like teaching Jacob how to eat soup. The episode touches on family dynamics, including Jacob's interactions with his father, and offers insights into how "earthing" practices help both Jacob and us as caregivers. Plus, we're inviting you to join the conversation—submit your questions for an upcoming interview with Jacob's father, who brings nearly two decades of experience to share. It's a candid exploration of resilience, understanding, and the unique beauty of parenting a child with severe autism.

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Ever wondered how a simple water balloon fight could turn into an unforgettable lesson on resilience and understanding? Join me in this heartwarming episode of the Parenting Severe Autism podcast where I share some of our family's most cherished memories, like Jacob's adventurous spirit during our quirky door-knocking sales days, his creative costume designs, and the pride we all felt when he caught his first fish. These stories not only entertain but also shed light on the unique joys and trials of raising a child with severe autism, emphasizing the importance of connection with those who share similar experiences.

Transitioning to a new environment brings its own set of challenges, and our move to Jefferson, Wisconsin was no exception. I open up about the importance of maintaining communication with educators through tools like a daily feedback notebook and how it played a crucial role in understanding Jacob's school days. This episode also touches on the significance of involving children in 'adult' discussions about changes, such as moving homes, to better prepare them for life's transitions. By sharing these experiences, I aim to foster a sense of community and offer insights into creating a supportive and understanding environment for families navigating severe autism.

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What happens when a phone conversation turns into an emotional storm? Join us as we navigate the unpredictable waters of raising a child with severe autism, sharing stories of heartache and hope, laughter and lessons. You'll hear about the time our son overheard a phone call that led to an explosive meltdown, revealing the depths of his feelings of exclusion. We also unravel the curious case where a sudden scare surprisingly soothes him, and explore the evolving role of cannabis in managing his behavior. Educator Claire joins us in spirit, as we express our gratitude for her dedication to understanding and supporting children with severe autism, underscoring the vital role of education in shaping compassionate communities.

Our family's journey takes a turn as we recount the transition to rural life, where joys of open spaces met the challenges of unmet needs in local schools. Delight in the memories of outdoor adventures and a cherished pet, while also feeling the sting of loss and adaptation. Whether it's the bittersweet task of explaining the concept of death to a young mind or finding humor in unexpected weightlifting interactions, this episode is a tapestry of emotions. As we promise more engaging stories in future episodes, we invite you to walk alongside us on this heartfelt journey, embracing both the trials and triumphs of parenting a child with severe autism.

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After an unplanned hiatus, I'm back with the Parenting Severe Autism Podcast to share insights and gratitude with you all. I've got exciting news to kick things off: our podcast has caught the attention of some key players who could really make a difference for families like ours. But life's never straightforward, is it? I also dive into a rather unexpected proposal from a podcast platform manager that stirred up some mixed emotions, opening up conversation about navigating the often-complicated support systems available—or not so available—to families dealing with severe autism.

Balancing a family when one child has severe autism is no easy feat, especially when parenting styles clash. I candidly share the ups and downs of this dynamic, touching on how it affects my relationship with my spouse, who has turned to alcohol as a means of coping. In this episode, I emphasize how important it is to maintain structure and boundaries, both for the wellbeing of my child and the sanity of our home. My return to managing the household is aimed at restoring peace and stability, offering hope and advice to those in similar situations.

When it comes to healthcare, the struggle is real, and managing my son's medication has been a test of patience and advocacy. This episode sheds light on the inefficiencies of the healthcare system that many of us face, from delays in crucial appointments to educators inadvertently fostering unhealthy habits. Despite these challenges, we hold onto cherished moments—like watching my son’s unique imagination come alive in a backyard wiffle ball game. As we look to the future, planning for our child's well-being remains a priority, even as we dream of a more fulfilling life. Join me as I share experiences both heartwarming and challenging, offering solidarity and encouragement to families just like ours.

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As the sun sets on another April, we welcome a time of acceptance that extends far beyond a single month. Imagine shifting this conversation to the heart of summer, when the world is in full bloom, or perhaps as we turn the page to a new school year—moments ripe for the seeds of awareness to take root. Today, I'm going to share a lunar eclipse story, one that unveils the unexpected beauty and chaos of parenting a child with severe autism. It's a tale that might sound familiar to those who walk this path, a narrative that intertwines the challenges of the unexpected with the triumphs of communication breakthroughs.

Parenting a child with severe autism means embracing complexity in every facet of family life. From the mystery of an unusual dark spot to the heartwarming surprise of my son's first full sentences, this episode peels back the curtain on our intricate family dynamic. Hear how the need to collect belongings and a misadventure in the night turn into a moment of pure joy and connection. As I recount how autism has reshaped our routine, including a reduced work schedule to meet home needs, you'll be reminded that sometimes, the messiest moments lead to the greatest leaps forward.

The trek through autism parenting is an uncharted one, filled with day-to-day hurdles and the pivotal moments that test our resolve. Join me as I grapple with the home safety vigilance needed to protect my wandering son, and the delicate dance of balancing his routines with our own self-care, particularly in public spaces like the gym. We're preparing to dive deep into the heartache and hope, acknowledging the solidarity that holds us together. So, I invite you to lean in, share your stories, and find comfort in the shared journey of raising a child with severe autism.

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Every year as I prepare for the daunting task of legal guardianship reporting, I'm reminded of the unique and enduring challenges that come with raising my son, Jacob, who lives with severe autism. This episode peels back the layers of our daily life, from bureaucratic headaches like insurance verifications and PUNS list updates to the heartache of realizing the unchanging nature of Jacob's condition. I offer a raw look into the emotional landscape of a family navigating the complex world of autism adulthood, sharing my personal struggles with a system that often feels impersonal and indifferent to the realities we face.

Celebrations in our household are different, and Jacob's 23rd birthday was no exception. Lacking the usual fanfare, we find solace in the small traditions that bring joy, despite the trials of limited family contact and the impact of health issues on our routine. The episode also ventures into the realm of social media, where our YouTube channel "Burnt From Birth" reveals snippets of our life with autism to the world, often leading to misconceptions. I open up about my husband's solo fight through the early stages of diagnosis and advocacy, inviting listeners to connect with us as we traverse the seasons of parenting a child with autism. Join us for a conversation that promises honesty, solidarity, and a window into a world that many never see.

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