This episode features my colleague Sophie one of the Canterbury coordinators at Parent to Parent.The love and passion for her kids and others is so evident in our kōrero and I’m excited to share her story of fostering a couple of wonderful autistic boys. We may need a part 2, there’s so much more to say!Here is the link to the give a little page she mentions https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/respite-van-fundraiser Before the interview I read out a speech from the recent Autism NZ breakfast at parliament celebrating world autism awareness and acceptance day. The speech is from Joanne Dacombe, Autism NZ board member, researcher and advocate. It was so moving I had to share it with you. Thanks @joannedacombe for your willingness to share this with us.Check out the awesome designs for this years 'Hoods Up Campaign' from Autism NZOur Hoodie Designs - Autism NZSophie mention's using the sunflower lanyard on her travels. You can find out more here: Hidden disabilities sunflower scheme | aviation.govt.nz
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Episode 06 - Meet the parents - Keely
Wellington Mum Keely shares her experiences of what like having two autistic children. There are a couple of teary moments as we discuss some of the hopes and dreams we have for our kids.
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Episode 05 - Meet the parents - Anna
In this episode I talk to Wellington Mum Anna who shares her story with beautiful vulnerability and honesty. We find out what it was like for her to find out pre-natal that there was a chance her baby could have Down Syndrome and what it was like to first look into her eyes when she was born. Anna is also a neurodiversity affirming early intervention teacher passionate about connection and regulation. She supports early childhood teachers and caregivers of tamariki who have support needs. Follow along on @empowerlearningproject
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Episode 04 - Meet the parents - Jack
Episode 4 features my colleague Jack who is the other Wellington Coordinator at Parent to Parent. We talk about what it's like to have a disability yourself and be raising a child with Autism. Listen in to hear an honest and heartwarming story of a Dad who takes every day as it comes, trying to put the pieces of the jigsaw together.
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Episode 03 - Meet the parents - Ken
In this episode I talk with Ken, a Wellington father of two neurodivergent boys. We talk about advocating for your child and what that looks like in different spaces as well as PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) which is a profile of autism.There are a few acronyms mentioned so here's a glossary:ASD - Autism Spectrum DisorderPDA - Pathological Demand AvoidanceCDS - Child Development ServiceADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderCAMHS - Child and Adolescent Mental Health ServiceND - Neurodivergent or NeurodiverseOT - Occupational TherapistSunflower lanyard: Hidden disabilities sunflower scheme | aviation.govt.nz
New Zealand