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Lindsey Workman takes us on a deeply personal journey through her experience raising a daughter with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) - a rare genetic disorder causing benign tumors throughout the body. When Daisy was diagnosed at just three months old after experiencing infantile spasms, Lindsey found herself navigating unfamiliar medical territory with little community support.

What follows is a candid conversation about the realities of special needs parenting - from the early days of diagnosis where doctors cautioned against Google searches to the present day where Daisy, now approaching her ninth birthday, has made remarkable progress. Lindsey doesn't shy away from discussing the difficult parts: the seizures, behavioral challenges, self-harm incidents, and the isolation that many special needs families experience.

Perhaps the most powerful message comes when Lindsey reflects on her decision to keep Daisy in a "bubble" during those early years. "Don't do that," she advises other parents. "Go out into the world early, because you will wish that you did." This hard-earned wisdom highlights how isolation, while sometimes easier in the moment, creates bigger challenges down the road for both child and family.

When Lindsey couldn't find local support specifically for parents of young children on the autism spectrum, she created it herself. Her Facebook group "Caregivers Raising Children on the Spectrum" has become a safe space where parents can connect without judgment, share resources, and simply know they aren't alone. As she eloquently puts it: "Life is messy and it's nice to be messy with others."

Join us for this moving conversation that reminds us all that sharing our stories openly not only lightens our own burden but creates community where isolation once existed. Whether you're a parent, educator, or healthcare provider, Lindsey's perspective offers valuable insights into supporting families navigating complex medical and developmental challenges.

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The episode features a discussion with Gina Volstorff about her transition from general education to special education. She shares insights into the importance of collaboration, communication, and understanding the diverse needs of her students, showcasing how this transformative journey enriches her teaching experience.

• Gina's transition from Gen Ed to SPED
• Understanding specific needs of students with IEPs
• Enhancing collaboration with general education teachers
• Benefits of a diverse classroom environment
• The impact of communication on student success
• Recognizing and addressing behavioral challenges
• Personal growth and joy in teaching special education

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Unlock the potential of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) with our distinguished guests, Rebecca and David Johnson, both Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Discover how ABA extends beyond therapy for individuals with autism and into everyday scenarios like seatbelt reminders and the efficiency of business practices. Rebecca and David share their experiences and strategies for using ABA principles to foster independence and address socially significant behaviors, emphasizing personalized approaches and the importance of collaboration with families.

Explore the journey of effective communication and behavior reinforcement, particularly for children facing communication challenges. We discuss how clear expectations and consistent language, such as using "safe hands" or "calm hands," can guide children towards positive behaviors in various situations. Learn about the significance of generalizing these skills across different environments and how embedding these strategies into daily routines creates a supportive atmosphere that promotes adaptability and growth.

Collaboration stands at the heart of successful ABA implementation, especially in educational settings. In our conversation, we stress the value of teamwork among teachers, parents, caregivers, and specialists to create supportive environments that understand and accommodate the unique needs of each child. Rebecca and David's dedication is apparent as they share how being a reliable presence in classrooms and homes can make a profound impact. We express gratitude for their insights and passion, setting the stage for future enriching discussions.