Parenting Archives - The Autism Dad

Navigating Divorce with Neurodivergent Kids pt 1 (S8E05)

Divorce is never easy, and when neurodivergent children are involved, the challenges can be even more complex. In this episode, I open up about my own divorce for the first time and discuss how it has affected me as a parent. My kids will also be sharing their experiences in future episodes because they deserve a voice in this conversation. Joining me today is Dr. Mikki Lee, a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and their families. Together, we explore the unique challenges of co-parenting neurodivergent kids, the importance of routine and consistency, and strategies to help families navigate transitions with less trauma and more stability. https://youtu.be/KTDC3ef9yOo This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, we’ll be answering your questions about…

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March 8, 2025

My thoughts

My Self-Care Journey: Managing Pain, Fighting Burnout, and Prioritizing My Health

Today was a big day for me. I finally went to see a spinal surgeon for a consult about my back—something I probably should have done a long time ago. For those who don’t know, I’ve been living with a major back injury for the last 25 years. It’s something I’ve carried with me since my time as a fire/medic, and I’ve been living in pain ever since, doing my best to avoid surgery. But lately, things have been getting harder. The pain has been worse, I’ve been struggling with burnout, and I’ve regained some of the weight I had worked so hard to lose. Kelly and the boys have been encouraging me to get checked out and figure out my options. Kelly reminded me—again—that self-care isn’t just something I…

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February 28, 2025

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Seasonal Home Maintenance: What You Need to Know for a Healthy Living Space

Maintaining a healthy living space plays a critical role in leading a quality lifestyle. At each change of the season, different components of your house may be at a higher or lower risk of suffering from functional or structural damage. The best way to keep your house in optimal condition is by conducting regular seasonal home maintenance. Seasonal home maintenance involves reasonable and achievable tasks that will keep your house safe, increase its value, and lower the costs of expensive renovations or repairs. Seasonal Pest Control: Keeping Your Home Critter-Free In each season – Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter – there are different things to consider for maintenance at home. For example, in Spring, most people focus on cleanup and revival after the Winter. Services like Riverside pest control become…

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February 26, 2025

My thoughts

You’re Not a Bad Parent: Frustration is Normal

To all the parents out there feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders: you are not alone. We all have moments where we feel like running away and joining the circus. But remember, you are strong, you are capable, and you are making a difference in your child's life.

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January 9, 2025

5 Things / Autism / Autism 101 / My thoughts

5 Early Signs Your Child May Need an Autism Evaluation

As parents, we spend so much time observing and nurturing our kids, hoping to give them the best foundation in life. It’s normal to wonder if what we’re noticing is just a phase or something more. If you’ve ever felt that little nudge in your gut telling you that something feels “off,” you’re not alone. That feeling doesn’t mean anything is wrong—it simply means you care deeply and are tuned into your child’s development. Today, I want to share some early signs that might indicate it’s time to consider an autism evaluation. This isn’t about labeling your child or jumping to conclusions; it’s about understanding their unique needs and getting support as early as possible. 1. Delayed or Absent Speech Development Every child develops at their own pace, but there…

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December 27, 2024

My thoughts

You Are Allowed to Feel This Way: A Message to Parents of Kids with Disabilities

Parenting is hard, period. But parenting a child with disabilities? It’s a whole other level. I’ve been on this journey for 23 years, raising three autistic kids, two with ADHD, and my oldest with fragile health. I’ve seen it all—exhaustion, frustration, anger, sadness, joy, loneliness, and everything in between. If no one has told you this today: it’s okay to feel all those things. You are allowed to be exhausted. You’re allowed to be frustrated, angry, or even jealous of families who seem to have it easier. You’re allowed to want to run away and join the circus—trust me, I’ve considered it many times over the years. It doesn’t make you a bad parent. It doesn’t make your child a bad kid. It just means you’re human. Give Yourself Permission…

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December 15, 2024

My thoughts / Reviews

Bark Phone Review: A Game-Changer for Families!

I’m genuinely excited to share my thoughts on the Bark Phone—a remarkable innovation that would have made a world of difference for families like mine when my kids were younger. As a proud dad of three incredible autistic kids, I know how hard it is to find technology that fosters independence while keeping kids safe. The Bark Phone isn’t just a smartphone; it’s a thoughtfully designed safety net that empowers parents and equips kids with the tools they need to navigate the digital world responsibly.

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December 6, 2024

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Effortless Dad Style: Staying Cool, Comfortable, and Ready for Anything

Becoming a dad is one of life’s greatest adventures. From chasing after little ones to juggling work, errands, and playdates, fatherhood keeps you on your toes. But just because life is hectic doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Modern dads are redefining what it means to dress for the occasion—whether that’s a day at the park, a casual brunch, or a last-minute meeting. With the right wardrobe staples and a focus on functionality, you can look good and feel great no matter what the day throws at you. The Power of Comfortable Basics One key to nailing dad style is investing in clothing that feels as good as it looks. Relaxed yet refined, oversized joggers for men are a wardrobe essential for dads on the go. They strike…

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November 27, 2024