ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

Dr. Tay explores the concept of declarative language and its benefits, especially for demand-avoidant children, with Linda Murphy—a speech therapist, RDI consultant, writer, and expert on the topic. They discuss the definition of declarative language and how it differs from demand-based phrases, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful communication that invites a collaboration. Linda shares insights from her book Declarative Language Handbook and provides practical strategies for parents to effectively use declarative language. They also cover topics such as building self-advocacy, fostering cognitive flexibility, and managing sibling conflicts through this approach. The importance of mindset shifts is emphasized as well as the continuous learning process in order to improve communication with autistic children.

00:00 Introduction to Declarative Language

00:30 Meet Linda Murphy: Expert in Declarative Language

02:12 Understanding Declarative Language

03:37 The Power of Declarative Language

05:29 Practical Examples and Strategies

08:47 Proactive Conversations and Mindset Shifts

16:05 Dynamic Support and Scaffolding

22:17 Direct vs. Indirect Declarative Language

25:40 Introduction to PDA and Indirect Language

26:18 Experimenting with Communication Strategies

26:53 Building Transparent Communication

28:23 Practical Examples and Techniques

29:48 Using Declarative Language in Different Scenarios

33:13 Modeling and Validating Emotions

45:00 Declarative Language with Non-Speaking Individuals

48:34 Final Thoughts and Resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ continue learning at declarativelanguage.com, including ordering Linda's books and checking out the resources referenced in the episode (types of DL and direct language for PDAers)

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

Note: PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this mini-episode, Dr. Tay discusses the importance of noticing and reinforcing small wins in the autism parenting journey. Emphasizing the balance between avoiding toxic positivity and acknowledging positive moments, Dr. Tay explains how behaviorism done in a neurodiversity affirming way can play a role in promoting desired behaviors in autistic children. She shares practical tips on how parents can start recognizing subtle behavioral shifts and reinforce them to facilitate positive change. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Dr. Tay offers valuable strategies for improving parent-child interactions and fostering an environment where small steps are celebrated on the way to achieving bigger goals.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:04 Understanding the Concept of Wins

01:45 Behaviorism and Neurodiversity Affirming Approaches

02:57 Practical Examples and Strategies

07:57 The Importance of Interpretation

09:04 Reinforcing Small Wins

12:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

Dr. Tay welcomes Lo Farmer to discuss the role of parental advocacy. Lo shares her journey from discovering her son's developmental delays to advocating for equitable access to services. Highlighted topics include the emotional and logistical challenges of getting a diagnosis, the broken support systems for special needs families, and Lo's significant efforts to change policies at the Fort Worth Zoo regarding 1:1 aides. Dr. Tay and Lo emphasize the importance of community support, the need for systemic change, and the value of giving parents grace during this demanding journey.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Theme

00:23 Inspiring Quote and Guest Introduction

01:35 Welcome to the Parenting Space

02:42 Guest's Background and Family Journey

03:45 Challenges in Accessing Services

05:07 The Broken System and Advocacy

07:29 Navigating Diagnosis and Support

10:54 The Emotional Toll and Parental Grief

15:58 Public Advocacy and Viral Impact

20:44 Facing Legal Challenges Without a Lawyer

21:15 Empowering Special Needs Moms

21:43 Strategic Advocacy for Change

22:31 The Zoo Inclusion Controversy

22:57 Navigating Support Systems

24:10 The Importance of Familiarity in Care

28:36 Advocacy Goals and Personal Challenges

35:40 Parental Stress and Community Support

39:40 Wrapping Up and Staying Connected

RESOURCES

⚡️ connect with Lo on Instagram @sipdinedesign and continue to hear her updates on inclusion

⚡️ research article about parental stress discussed in episode linked here

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit any questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay