Parenting on the Spectrum w/Jessica Hurlbut
Neurodivergence Series
Equipping parents during their child’s academic years to bring learning to daily moments.
The Parenting IQ Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org
On today’s episode…
In this episode of the Parenting IQ Podcast, Dr. Kelly Cagle interviews Jessica Hurlbut, a mother of five, including two children on the autism spectrum. We discuss the challenges and joys of parenting autistic children, misconceptions about autism, and strategies for building communication and social skills.
Insights
Summary
In this episode of the Parenting IQ Podcast, Kelly Cagle interviews Jessica Hurlbut, a mother of five, including two children on the autism spectrum. They discuss the challenges and joys of parenting autistic children, misconceptions about autism, and strategies for building communication and social skills. Jessica shares her family's daily routines, the importance of advocacy, and the unique experiences that come with raising children with special needs. In this conversation, Kelly Cagle and Jessica Hurlbut discuss the importance of encouraging communication skills in neurodivergent children, navigating social situations, and supporting parents of these children. They share personal experiences and practical advice on how to foster connections and understanding between neurodivergent kids and their peers, as well as how to support their parents in managing the challenges they face.
Takeaways
Jessica has five children, two of whom are on the severe end of the autism spectrum.
Daily life with autistic children can be both beautiful and exhausting.
Misconceptions about autism often stem from a lack of understanding.
Autism is a social disorder that presents differently in each individual.
It's important to teach children about fairness and responsibility in family dynamics.
One-on-one interaction is often more effective for teaching social skills to autistic children.
Public perceptions of autism can lead to judgment and misunderstanding.
Jessica emphasizes the joy and excitement in her life despite challenges.
Every child with autism is unique, and their needs vary greatly.
Advocacy for understanding and acceptance is crucial for families with autistic children. Encouraging children to communicate in one-on-one settings is crucial.
Social skills can be developed through gradual exposure to peers.
Meeting children at their level helps them feel understood and accepted.
Simple conversations can help neurotypical children understand their neurodivergent peers.
Finding common interests is key to building friendships with neurodivergent children.
Parents of neurodivergent children often experience high levels of stress and need support.
Creating inclusive environments allows neurodivergent children to thrive.
Community support for families with special needs is invaluable.
Taking time for self-care is essential for parents of neurodivergent children.
Understanding that every child is unique and may require different approaches.
HEY THERE! I’M DR. CAGLE… DO YOU NEED HELP WITH CREATING GREAT HABITS???
Parenting is hard work. It requires tons of boundaries, daily consistency, so much awareness, as well as lots of patience, grace, wisdom, and filters. Combine that hefty list with all of life’s demands and others’ voice may become louder than yours in your child’s life, increasing their anxiety, fears, and doubts.
Healthy parenting is about seeing yourself as your child’s #1 teacher, saying the right words (or nothing at all) at the right time, and having the right tools to be intentional and impactful. Guessing your way through life, which is what most parents do, is a recipe for failure, but following the lead of someone who has two decades of research-based information and fully understands the demands of parenthood is a recipe for a full life— for you and your child.
With a PhD in education, I’m here to teach you how to use daily moments are learning opportunities so you raise confident and competent lifelong learners that thrive in an ever-changing world.
Additionally, I offer workshops and keynotes on various topics to parents, educators, students, and business leaders— because the need to understand, support, and empower learners is everywhere..
