Screens have become an unavoidable part of modern parenting, but what happens when unlimited screen time becomes the default for autistic children? Julianna and Kelley explore why screen time is being compared to smoking, examining the advice circulating in PDA communities that promotes unlimited screen access as emotional regulation. They break down the neurological impact of constant digital stimulation, discuss why screens interfere with critical skill development, and share practical strategies for establishing healthier boundaries. From parental modeling to age-appropriate limits, they offer actionable steps to help families navigate screen use without falling into the addiction trap.

Key Takeaways:

• Screen addiction trains developing brains to expect immediate gratification, undermining patience and emotional regulation skills.
• PDA resources often promote unlimited screen time publicly but recommend removal when addiction develops.
• Text-based communication prevents autistic children from practicing crucial emotional recognition and social skills.
• Online friendships pose safety risks and don't provide the real-world social practice children need.
• Parents must model healthy screen habits before expecting children to develop them.
• Starting with zero screen time before age two creates the strongest foundation for healthy limits.
• Curating content, using time-limiting apps, and removing phones from bedrooms are essential strategies.
• Screens can be valuable tools for specific purposes like FaceTime with relatives or educational content.
• Earned screen time should be the highest value reward in your parenting toolkit.
• Managing screen time is a lifetime skill that requires ongoing parental guidance.

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Refrigerator Moms is sponsored by Brain Performance Technologies, a specialty mental health clinic that offers neuromodulation treatments including SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, as well as MERT (Magnetic e-resonance therapy) for autistic people aged three or older. Learn more at https://brainperformancetechnologies.com

Julianna and Kelley discuss the National Council on Severe Autism's position statement advocating for severe or profound autism to be recognized as its own diagnosis, separate from the broader autism spectrum. They explore the evolution from DSM-IV's three-tier classification system to DSM-5's umbrella approach, examining how this change has impacted service allocation and representation. The conversation highlights the tension between neurodiversity advocacy and the needs of profoundly autistic individuals requiring 24/7 care, addressing housing crises, caregiver shortages, and the dominance of higher-functioning voices in autism discourse. The episode concludes with a lighthearted exploration of "outroverts."

Key Takeaways

• The National Council on Severe Autism advocates for severe/profound autism to be its own diagnosis, distinct from the broader spectrum
• DSM-5's umbrella approach consolidated previous categories (Asperger's, PDD-NOS, classic autism) into one autism spectrum disorder with levels 1-3
• Severe autism is qualitatively different, not merely a matter of degree on a linear scale
• Individuals with severe autism typically have significant social communication impairments, cognitive deficits, challenges with basic living skills, sensory dysregulation, and need 24/7 supervision
• Parents of profoundly autistic individuals feel the conversation is dominated by higher-functioning voices and disability advocacy focused on independence
• Competition for limited services creates challenges when level 1 and level 3 individuals are competing for the same therapists and resources
• Popular culture representation of high-functioning autism has positive aspects but can overshadow the needs of the severe autism community
• Current group home options are inadequate, and alternative housing solutions face practical barriers including housing and care worker shortages

Refrigerator Moms is sponsored by Brain Performance Technologies, a specialty mental health clinic that offers neuromodulation treatments including SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, as well as MERT (Magnetic e-resonance therapy) for autistic people aged three or older. Learn more at https://brainperformancetechnologies.com

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Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen tackle the unique challenges of holiday celebrations with autistic children. From routine disruptions to the complexity of Santa Claus traditions, the hosts share personal stories of aggression, anxiety, and family adjustments. They discuss practical strategies including one-on-one visits, managing expectations, and creating new traditions that prioritize peace over perfection. The conversation offers honest insights into traveling with autistic children and the liberating reality that families can define their own holiday experiences without conforming to traditional expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Holidays break routines, which can trigger challenging behaviors in autistic children including aggression and anxiety.
• One-on-one interactions often work better than large family gatherings for autistic children.
• The concept of Santa can be particularly difficult for autistic children who need facts, proof, and concrete information.
• Pre-revealing gifts can reduce anxiety around uncertainty and unmet expectations.
• Test travel limits gradually during non-holiday times rather than attempting new challenges during high-stress periods.
• Social stories and therapist support can help prepare children for holiday travel and events.
• Give Santa an "expiration date" (such as age 8) to manage the transition away from the tradition.
• Avoid comparing your family's holiday experience to idealized versions—create traditions that work for your unique situation.
• Utilize airport sensory-friendly rooms and other available resources when traveling.
• It's liberating to prioritize what works for your family over traditional holiday expectations.

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Refrigerator Moms is sponsored by Brain Performance Technologies, a specialty mental health clinic that offers neuromodulation treatments including SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, as well as MERT (Magnetic e-resonance therapy) for autistic people aged three or older. Learn more at https://brainperformancetechnologies.com

Kelley and Julianna explore transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a breakthrough treatment for autism-related mental health conditions. Kelley shares her professional journey working in a TMS clinic and how she discovered this drug-free, non-invasive therapy when seeking OCD treatment for her son. The hosts discuss why innovative treatments like TMS remain under-marketed despite proven effectiveness and introduce the concept of twice-exceptional (2E) children—intellectually gifted kids with learning disabilities like autism, ADHD, or dyslexia. They emphasize the importance of researching comorbidities to expand treatment options beyond traditional approaches.

Key Takeaways

• TMS is FDA-cleared for depression (ages 15+) and OCD, with studies expanding to younger ages.
• MeRT protocol offers personalized magnetic stimulation for autistic people aged 3+.
• Twice-exceptional (2E) children show intellectual gifts alongside learning disabilities.
• Research comorbidities to discover alternative treatment options beyond standard therapies.
• Many effective treatments lack marketing visibility compared to pharmaceutical options.
• Off-label treatments are common in autism care due to limited approved options.
• Brain stimulation therapies offer drug-free alternatives worth investigating.
• Educational support through IEPs may be needed for 2E children.
• Professional referrals from trusted providers can guide treatment decisions.

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Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen explore the disturbing history behind their podcast name, tracing the "refrigerator mother theory" from Leo Kanner and Bruno Bettelheim through the 1970s. The hosts examine how mothers were blamed for causing autism through cold, detached parenting—a theory used to institutionalize autistic children. They connect this historical scapegoating to modern vaccine misinformation, discussing Andrew Wakefield's fraudulent research and RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine activism. The conversation addresses the real-world consequences of misinformation, from rising vaccine exemptions to measles outbreaks, while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based treatment and critical evaluation of information sources.

Key Takeaways

• The refrigerator mother theory blamed cold, educated mothers for causing autism from the 1940s to the 1970s.
• Bruno Bettelheim compared autistic children's home environments to concentration camps, with mothers as commandants.
• The theory was used to justify removing children from homes and placing them in institutions.
• Bernard Rimland's 1964 research began shifting understanding toward biological causes of autism.
• Andrew Wakefield's fraudulent 1998 study linking vaccines to autism has been thoroughly debunked and retracted.
• Wakefield lost his medical license but continues producing anti-vaccine content.
• RFK Jr. has championed Wakefield and anti-vaccine messaging despite overwhelming scientific evidence against it.
• Austin School District saw vaccine exemptions rise from less than 1% (2019) to 23% recently.
• Two children died from measles in recent outbreaks linked to declining vaccination rates.
• Parents should focus energy on evidence-based therapies rather than unproven "cures" and detox protocols.

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Julianna and Kelley tackle RFK Jr.'s latest claim connecting circumcision and autism through Tylenol use, dissecting the contradictions in his ongoing theories. They explore concerns about potential Department of Education cuts and their impact on IDEA compliance, emphasizing that only six states currently meet requirements. The hosts provide practical advice for parents to protect their children's educational rights by going local and understanding state-level entitlements. The episode concludes with a passionate defense of their recommendation for Labs and Goldens as therapy dogs for autistic children, explaining the importance of predictability when families face so many variables.

Key Takeaways

• RFK Jr.'s circumcision-autism claim contradicts his previous Tylenol theory.
• Only 15% of U.S. public school students receive services under IDEA.
• Six states have met IDEA requirements in the past decade.
• Go local: Know what your school district, regional center, and state provide.
• Understand your entitlements including deadlines and timelines.
• Labs and Goldens offer calm nature, intelligence, and trainability.
• Research your breeder carefully when selecting a purebred dog.
• Reducing variables matters when parenting a child with special needs

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dissect real social media posts from autism parenting communities, examining everything from questionable professional advice to the parent coaching industry loophole. They tackle "my house, my rules" parenting strategies, expose the unregulated world of social media parent coaches charging thousands without licenses, and address the challenge of childhood boredom in autism families. With their signature blend of validation and practical wisdom, they emphasize the importance of context in advice-seeking, warn against unlimited screen time habits, and share creative solutions like theme weeks for managing summer boredom and limited attention spans.

Key Takeaways

1. Context matters in advice: Vague posts seeking validation without full context make it impossible to give meaningful guidance.
2. "My house, my rules" isn't enough: Autistic children need explanations, alternatives, and understanding beyond authoritarian parenting approaches.
3. Parent coaches lack regulation: Social media influencers can charge thousands monthly as "parent coaches" without licenses, training, or standardized oversight.
4. Certification doesn't mean licensed: Coach certification programs are often run by other coaches, not accredited institutions.
5. Insurance won't cover coaching: Parent coaches can't bill insurance because they lack professional licenses.
6. Advice is often rebranded ABA: Many parent coaches are teaching behavioral principles without proper training or calling it what it is.
7. Boredom requires active management: Children with autism often can't self-entertain and need structured activities every 20 minutes.
8. Theme weeks work: Creating themed activity schedules helps manage short attention spans and reduces meltdowns.
9. Screen time creates habits: Unlimited screen access leads to children who can't leave their rooms or engage in other activities.
10. Professional help is worth it: Licensed therapists and ABA providers offer structured support that DIY approaches can't replace.

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Julianna and Kelley explore how autism is portrayed in movies and TV, from Rain Man to The Good Doctor. They discuss problematic stereotypes like the savant genius and the burdensome child, examine why most autistic characters are straight white males, and question who these portrayals actually serve. The hosts share their favorites—including Loop, Everything's Gonna Be Okay, and A Kind of Spark—that get representation right by featuring autistic actors and depicting authentic experiences. They also touch on the trend of "headcanon" characters claimed by autistic fans and why realistic portrayals matter for shaping public understanding of autism.

Key Takeaways

• Rain Man created lasting stereotypes about autism that don't reflect most autistic people's experiences
• Most autistic characters in media are portrayed as straight white males with savant abilities
• Very few shows feature nonverbal or higher support needs autistic individuals
• Shows often use autistic characters as props to develop other characters rather than exploring the autistic experience
• Loop (Pixar) offers rare representation of a nonverbal autistic person with authentic communication challenges
• Everything's Gonna Be Okay portrays autism as part of family life without making it an overwhelming burden
• A Kind of Spark features three autistic actresses and explores masking versus being open about autism
• Many autism portrayals serve as "inspiration porn" designed to make neurotypical audiences feel good
• Casting autistic actors to play autistic characters is an important emerging trend
• Media portrayals shape public understanding of autism, making accurate representation crucial

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen explore the complexities of maintaining friendships while raising autistic children. They candidly discuss losing friends who couldn't handle disability, navigating hierarchy within autism mom groups, and dealing with toxic positivity from well-meaning acquaintances. The conversation highlights the importance of finding authentic connections with people who understand your reality without comparison or competition. Through personal stories of both friendship loss and growth, they demonstrate how their own friendship has thrived despite their children being at different points on the spectrum, ultimately celebrating the silver lining of cultivating a smaller but more meaningful circle.

Key Takeaways

1. Don't compare, don't compete: The foundation of any lasting friendship is avoiding comparison and competition, especially regarding children's progress.
2. Hierarchy exists in autism communities: Some autism parent groups create unspoken hierarchies based on where children fall on the spectrum, which can be alienating.
3. Toxic positivity is real: Comments like "all kids do that" or calling IEP meetings "lucky" demonstrate fundamental misunderstanding and aren't helpful.
4. Friend loss is common: Many parents of special needs children lose friends due to fear, lack of empathy, or others protecting their own families.
5. Know what you need: Understanding what you need from friendships helps identify which relationships serve you.
6. Silver lining of smaller circles: Having less time means cutting out relationships that don't serve you, resulting in higher-quality friendships.
7. Different challenges can coexist: Friendships can thrive even when children have vastly different abilities and needs.
8. Reading the room matters: Friends should be sensitive about bragging during your low moments.
9. Boundaries are necessary: Sometimes protecting your family means letting friendships go.
10. Authentic support is invaluable: Friends who acknowledge they don't fully understand but show up anyway are precious.

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Julianna and Kelley explore the alarming rise of AI chatbot usage among teenagers and its dangerous implications for mental health. With 72% of American teens using AI chatbots as companions and 5.2 million seeking mental health support from them, the hosts discuss how these platforms can encourage self-harm, medication refusal, and social isolation. They share practical strategies for parents to recognize warning signs, initiate conversations about AI relationships, and establish healthy boundaries around chatbot usage while maintaining trust and open communication with their children.

Key Takeaways

1. 72% of American teenagers use AI chatbots as companions, with 5.2 million seeking mental health support from them.
2. Chatbot safety guardrails are easily bypassed through sustained dialogue or creative prompts like "I'm writing a book."
3. AI chatbots amplify negative thought patterns and can worsen conditions like OCD by providing continuous reassurance.
4. Multiple lawsuits are pending against AI companies after teenagers died by suicide allegedly encouraged by chatbots.
5. Individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have stopped taking medication based on dangerous AI advice.
6. Start conversations without judgment by asking what platforms your teen uses and how they feel about AI versus human friendships.
7. Watch for warning signs including social withdrawal, declining grades, and preference for AI companions over human interaction.
8. Establish family media agreements that address AI companion usage alongside other digital activities.
9. Set a consistent time to turn off Wi-Fi each evening to limit late-night chatbot conversations.
10. Teens need to understand that AI companions cannot replace professional mental health support or genuine human connection.

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen explore autism masking—the conscious or unconscious strategy used by autistic people to appear non-autistic. They clarify common misconceptions, distinguishing masking from behavioral changes and social skills. The discussion covers why people mask, the exhausting nature of constant performance, and the importance of safe spaces to unmask. Through personal examples, they examine workplace dynamics, late versus early diagnosis differences, and the balance between fitting in and authentic self-expression. The hosts emphasize that while everyone masks to some degree, autistic individuals face unique challenges navigating a world not designed for them.

Key Takeaways:

• Masking is different from learning social skills— it's driven by external pressure to conform.
• Masking requires significant energy and isn't always successful.
• Home should be a safe space for unmasking.
• Early diagnosis allows for better behavioral training and understanding.
• Late diagnosis often involves years of unconscious masking.
• Workplace accommodations can reduce masking burden.
• Not all quirky behaviors need to be masked if they're harmless.
• Masking shouldn't excuse dangerous or cruel behavior.

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Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive into controversial parenting topics trending on social media, examining posts about unlimited screen time for neurodivergent children, the concept of "hermeneutical injustice" in food aversion disorders, and debates around ODD versus PDA diagnoses. They critically analyze how online echo chambers reinforce potentially harmful parenting practices while discussing the importance of balanced approaches to screen time regulation and the dangers of relying on anonymous internet advice for complex childhood behavioral issues.

Key Takeaways

• Screen time as the primary regulation tool prevents children from developing healthy coping mechanisms.
• "Safe foods" that consist only of junk food aren't actually safe and require professional intervention. 
• Social media parenting groups often become echo chambers that ostracize dissenting opinions.
• ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) is a real diagnosis that shouldn't be dismissed based on internet opinions. 
• Context matters:  "Screen time" is meaningless without knowing what content is being consumed. 
• Children need variety in regulation strategies beyond screens to function as adults. 
• Professional help from occupational therapists is crucial for severe food aversion issues.
• Anonymous online advice cannot replace proper evaluation and diagnosis.

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen explore the concept of "speed to acceptance" when parenting autistic children. Drawing from the five stages of grief, they discuss how quickly moving through denial, anger, bargaining, and depression to reach acceptance can free parents emotionally and help them recognize their child's progress realistically. The hosts share personal stories, including Julianna's pink room painting project, and critique the well-meaning but often unhelpful "Welcome to Holland" poem. They emphasize that acceptance isn't a one-time destination but an ongoing journey requiring boundaries, self-care, community support, and realistic expectations.

Key Takeaways

1. Speed through the five stages of grief to reach acceptance faster
2. Acceptance isn't permanent—you'll cycle back through stages
3. Stuck in denial or anger? You can't make good decisions
4. Set boundaries: ignore miracle cures and judgmental people
5. Self-care must include therapy, respite, and personal time
6. Find parents you genuinely like, not just autism parents
7. "Welcome to Holland" creates false equivalencies about parenting
8. Professionals: skip the platitudes, validate grief instead
9. Grieve expectations, ask questions, make flexible plans
10. Acceptance lets you see progress realistically

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), exploring its evolution from Ivar Lovaas's pioneering work to modern practices. They address common myths and criticisms while sharing personal experiences of how ABA transformed their families. From potty training to turn-taking and communication skills, the hosts explain why ABA remains a cornerstone therapy for autistic children, how it's covered by insurance, and practical strategies for finding quality providers despite challenges from private equity investment.

Key Takeaways

• ABA has evolved significantly and no longer uses aversive techniques—modern ABA focuses entirely on positive reinforcement
• The antecedent-behavior-consequence framework helps parents understand what drives their child's behaviors
• ABA is covered by most state-regulated insurance plans, including child-only plans purchased through state exchanges
• Finding a local ABA clinic with an on-site BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is preferable to large corporate chains
• ABA isn't bribing—it uses temporary external motivators until natural consequences become rewarding
• Turn-taking, communication skills, and other social abilities that develop naturally in some children may require years of ABA intervention for autistic children
• Parents should practice skills learned in ABA sessions at home to reinforce progress
• The criticism that ABA makes children "less autistic" is fundamentally impossible—ABA helps children reach their full potential
• Quality ABA looks like play but involves methodical skill-building based on your child's unique interests and currency
• Social media movements opposing ABA often suggest alternatives that are actually ABA techniques with different terminology

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dissect the recent presidential press conference linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism. They analyze the hyperbolic claims made versus the more measured official HHS statements, exploring how this continues the harmful pattern of blaming mothers for autism. The hosts examine the actual science behind acetaminophen research, discuss the problematic vaccine misinformation shared, and highlight the concerning gap between political rhetoric and medical reality. They emphasize the importance of following medical professionals' advice rather than political statements when making healthcare decisions during pregnancy.

Key Takeaways

• The official HHS statement is much more measured than the press conference rhetoric, acknowledging conflicting studies and lack of clear causal evidence.
• Current medical guidelines already recommend using acetaminophen at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration when treating fever during pregnancy.
• Untreated fever during pregnancy poses known risks to both mother and fetus.
• Claims about mercury in vaccines are outdated—it was removed from most childhood vaccines in the 1990s.
• The folate treatment mentioned only applies to children with specific cerebral folate deficiency, not all autistic children.
• Autism rates in populations like the Amish are similar to general population rates when properly studied.
• The increase in autism diagnoses is largely attributed to better recognition, expanded diagnostic criteria, and increased access to evaluation.
• Genetic research continues to provide valuable insights into autism's causes and potential treatments.
• Parents should consult healthcare providers rather than politicians for medical advice.
• The blame-the-mother narrative continues to harm families affected by autism

Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive into recent autism research developments and practical family considerations. They examine new findings about four distinct autism subtypes based on genetic markers, review Time magazine's autism supplement with mixed reactions, and share honest insights about service dogs versus family pets for autistic children. The conversation covers everything from the limitations of current treatment coverage in mainstream media to real-world experiences with equine therapy and the importance of choosing the right family dog breed.

Key Takeaways

• Scientists have identified four genetically-linked autism subtypes, potentially leading to more targeted interventions
• Autism is better understood as a "stovetop" rather than a linear spectrum - different symptoms can vary independently
• Current mainstream autism treatment coverage remains disappointingly superficial, focusing on basic ABA, speech, and OT
• Service dogs are specialized and expensive; well-bred family pets often provide similar benefits
• Adult autism services have years-long waiting lists - families must advocate proactively and start planning early
• Golden Retrievers and Labs are ideal family breeds for households with autistic children • Genetic testing for autism subtypes may eventually complement traditional diagnostic methods
• Parents should focus on "squeaky wheel" advocacy for adult services and help educate other families
• Animal-assisted interventions like equine therapy can be beneficial but shouldn't replace evidence-based treatments

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen tackle the common "diagnose and adios" experience that leaves autism parents without guidance after diagnosis. They discuss how parents must become researchers themselves, using what they call "The Try-entific Method" to navigate off-label treatments. The hosts share personal experiences with brain stimulation therapies like MeRT and EMDR, provide practical financial advice including ABLE accounts, and emphasize that there is no cure for autism—only ways to improve function. They offer a roadmap for evaluating treatments safely while avoiding dangerous interventions.

Key Takeaways

• "Diagnose and adios" is the common experience of receiving an autism diagnosis without treatment guidance.
• Parents inevitably use off-label treatments because only two FDA-approved medications exist for autism. 
• Establish ABLE accounts immediately after diagnosis for tax-free savings on disability-related expenses.
• There is no cure for autism—focus on improving function and managing symptoms.
• Brain stimulation therapies (MeRT, TMS) show promise for comorbid conditions like OCD. 
• EMDR can help with trauma processing and anxiety reduction in autistic individuals.
• Always exhaust insurance-covered treatments first before pursuing expensive alternatives.
• Evaluate treatments critically and avoid anything promising a "cure." 
• Progress continues throughout life, even if slow—reassessment is crucial as children age. 
• Safety first: Avoid dangerous treatments like chelation therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and restrictive diets.

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive deep into mom panic attacks—a reality many autism parents face but rarely discuss. They explore how fear of the unknown can manifest into physical symptoms and share personal experiences with managing panic attacks through professional help. The conversation then shifts to nonviolent communication (NVC), a powerful framework for understanding feelings that drive behavior, particularly valuable for autism parenting. Finally, they celebrate the viral "We Do Not Care Club,” discussing how letting go of societal expectations becomes essential for autism moms navigating judgment and prioritizing what truly matters.

Key Takeaways:

• Mom panic attacks are real and common, especially among autism parents.
• Panic attacks often stem from fear of the unknown regarding your child's future.
• Seek professional help—medication and therapy can provide significant relief.
• Nonviolent communication follows: observation, feeling, need, request.
• Feelings are primal and drive all behavior and communication.
• Addressing feelings when they arise prevents them from manifesting as panic attacks.
• The "We Do Not Care Club” encourages authenticity over people-pleasing.
• Autism parenting naturally prepares you to stop caring about others' judgments.
• Prioritizing your own wellbeing isn't selfish—it's necessary for effective parenting.
• Letting go of societal expectations frees you to focus on what actually matters.

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive into viral social media posts about autism parenting in this Cold Hard Truths episode. They examine FAFO (F*** Around and Find Out) parenting as a trendy rebrand of natural consequences, analyze complex PDA parenting scenarios including pancake requests and fast food battles, critique Autism Speaks' new legislation proposal, celebrate potty training victories, and discuss the importance of proper diagnosis. The duo provides practical perspectives on navigating autism parenting challenges while cutting through social media noise.

Key Takeaways

• FAFO parenting is simply natural consequences rebranded—avoid contrived punishments.
• Learning happens when consequences remain natural to the behavior.
• PDA accommodations that aren't working need honest evaluation and adjustment.
• Parents cannot and should not be their child's therapist—professional help is essential. 
• Proper diagnosis is the starting point, not the end goal, for understanding behaviors. 
• Consistency and persistence are crucial—some milestones take years to achieve. 
• The Autism Family Caregivers Act may reduce services rather than improve support.
• Level 3 autism and profound autism have important distinctions that matter for services. 
• Self-diagnosis in support groups without professional evaluation isn't helpful.

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Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen tackle the hot topic of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), exploring why it's not a separate condition but rather a feature of autism. They examine how social media influencers are repackaging traditional behavioral interventions under new names, share practical strategies for picking battles with resistant children, and provide actionable guidance for parents navigating PDA behaviors. The discussion emphasizes evidence-based approaches while debunking myths that can isolate families and limit access to helpful resources.

Key Takeaways

• PDA is a feature of autism, not an independent diagnosis—it cannot exist without autism.
• Many "PDA-specific" strategies are actually rebranded Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques.
• Social media echo chambers can provide misleading advice and isolate families from professional help.
• Parents must prioritize battles based on safety, basic functioning, and long-term consequences.
• Sleep issues, toileting, and safety concerns should take priority over academic progress.
• Understanding autism and behavioral science is crucial for effective parenting strategies.
• Avoiding all demands can lead to regression and bigger problems down the road.
• Professional help should not be limited to "PDA-informed" practitioners only.

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