Helping Kids Be Kids: Recent Episodes
Little Light House
We help parents of kids with special needs become confident caregivers by sharing parent stories, therapy and teacher techniques and expert solutions. If your child has developmental delays, join our community to find hope and empowerment. Little Light House is a tuition-free Christian developmental center for children ages birth to six. Our mission is to glorify God by improving the quality of life for children with special needs, their families and communities. https://www.littlelighthouse.org/the-crew/
In the podcast episode titled 'From Diagnosis to Resilience: Empowering Parents of Children with Special Needs,' host Mindy Wiggins engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kimberly Fritz, a dedicated mother whose son, Noah, has special needs. Kimberly shares her journey from the initial realization that her son was different to navigating the challenges of obtaining a diagnosis and finding the right resources. She highlights the crucial role of organizations like the Little Light House in providing support and community for families facing similar situations. Throughout the episode, Kimberly emphasizes the importance of embracing adaptive challenges and advocating for inclusive facilities, while also encouraging parents to actively engage in play and create lasting memories with their children. This inspiring conversation sheds light on the resilience and determination required in the world of special needs parenting, offering valuable insights and support for listeners."
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Teens share their unique perspectives on the blessings and challenges of being the sibling of someone who has special needs. For more information on the information discussed in this episode, visit
https://positivepsychology.com/coping/
https://positivepsychology.com/maladaptive-coping/
https://positivepsychology.com/coping-skills-worksheets/
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Betty Esparza is an LLH parent whose daughter Alyssa is part of the 50th graduating class. Betty chatted with us about her journey with Alyssa and Russell-Silver Syndrome. For more information on Russell-Silver Syndrome visit https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/4870/russell-silver-syndrome
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Join us as we interview Jeremy Warren is the executive director of DOSA (Dads On Special Assignment), a group specifically for fathers of children with special needs. For more information about DOSA and how you may get involved, Jeremy may be reached at jw@dosausa.org or check out dosausa.org
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Insight from parents of children with special needs. Listen in as a group of Little Light House parents talk about the challenges their families have face and give advice on how similar families can get through them stronger than ever. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or where ever you get your podcasts!
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Traveling with a child with special needs can present unique challenges, but with careful planning and preparation, it can also be a rewarding and enriching experience. Join our host as she interviews Lorie McNeal, of Dreaming About Vacations and Dreaming About the Mouse, a travel advisor certified to plan for hundreds of destinations. She can be reached at lorie@dreamingaboutvacations.com or (918) 906-5730.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Kim Kite is the Director of Volunteers at LLH. Her story of being the sibling of a person with special needs and how she came to work at the Little Light House is so encouraging.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Brittany Chandler is an LLH parent whose daughter Brooklyn is part of the 50th graduating class. Brooklyn’s unique journey with down syndrome, arthritis, and tuberculosis is inspiring. The information in the article that Brittany referenced can be found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8932915/
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/link-in-bio/
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Learn to identify and accommodate your sensory differences as well as your child's. In this episode, Jodi Howe, Occupational Therapist, discusses the senses, including proprioception and vestibular. We talk about sensory processing, thresholds, and Winnie Dunn's Sensory Profile. Sensory seekers benefit from fidget toys, a rubber band, or a piece of Velcro under their desks. Sensory avoiders are helped by paintbrushes and tools that help them explore messy textures without over stimulating their systems. Understanding these underlying needs will help you decipher what your kids need and give them tools to self-advocate. Thanks, Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast!
This week we bring back our most popular episode.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Did you know that children between one and two years old are five times safer riding rear-facing than forward-facing? Did you know that nine out of ten car seats are installed improperly? With expert advice from our friends at Safe Kids, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child is as safe as possible in the car. Learn more about child passenger safety at www.safekidstulsa.com.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Join us for our final episode from our month of encouragement for dads on life with multiple children with special needs.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Sean Novak's daughter was born with a syndrome so rare; it went undiagnosed for years. Eventually, they learned that Gretchen has PURA Syndrome. When the Novak family was expecting their fourth child, Sean was laid off from his job. In this conversation, he shares how he had to face the fear of not providing for his family.
In honor of Father's Day, Shawn Sejera, Philip Abode, and Sean Novak have an honest conversation about being a father to a child with special needs. They cover topics including what they expected fatherhood would be like and how reality is different, the impact their children's needs have on their marriage and how they protect their marriages, and what advice they would give to other dads.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Shawn and Jerusha Sejera kick off our four-part series to encourage dads by sharing their journey through a high-risk pregnancy that was potentially life-threatening for both mother and expected child. Their son, Giovonni just graduated from the Little Light House and is shining his light in the world. Through laughter and tears, the Sejera's share how God has met them in their joys and struggles. Here is a brief video of Shawn recounting his story https://youtu.be/FSAXYVEldFc.
Shining Light Conference: Learning to See Vision Strategies June 10-11, 2021 https://www.littlelighthouse.org/shining-light-conference/. For special conference registration for LLH families, email helpingkidspodcast@littlelighthouse.org.
Three-year-old Sophia was born with Coloboma, resulting in visual impairments in both of her eyes. Her parents share how they discovered her diagnosis, responded to it, and help her live life to the full. At the end of the show, Lynda Crouch, Sophia's vision therapist at Little Light House, joins us to share her perspective on Sophia's progress. Shining Light Conference - Learning to See at Home and School registration info: https://www.littlelighthouse.org/shining-light-conference/
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Bri Dodson is no stranger to pain. She knows the heartache of infertility, miscarriage, and strained relationships. In this conversation, she shares the highs and lows of parenting kids with various complex diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorders and ODD. Learn how she finds hope amid heartache.
Shining Light Conference: Learning to See https://www.littlelighthouse.org/shining-light-conference/
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Brittany Gartner graduated with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2013. As part of the Little Light House therapy team, she specializes in working with children with mild to severe developmental disabilities. She is passionate about early intervention, gross motor skill development, and parent education. In today's episode, Brittany shares about realizing her son needed PT. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage and empower other parents. You can find more resources to help your kids reach gross motor milestones at the Mommy and Me PT Website http://mommyandmept.org/.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Mother of three adopted kids with special needs and author of three devotionals inspired by her children, Mindy Cariker Wiggins shares some of the insights recorded in her latest book, How God Is Sustaining Me. Mindy shares practical insights into hearing God's voice through your daily experiences. To learn more about Mindy, refer to the previous Helping Kids Be Kids podcast, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: An Adoption Story. Mindy's God Speaks devotionals are available on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/What-God-Teaching-Mindy-Wiggins-ebook/dp/B07G65NFTL
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Amy Bonham is the Special Needs Ministry Administrator for Victory Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As a mother of three, she shares her journey with her middle son, who has autism. For a season, she laid aside her thriving community and successful teaching career to be a stay-at-home mom. A life-long learner with a servant's heart, she diligently learned all she could to help her son. God used her school administration, teaching, and curriculum development expertise to launch Champions Club for her church. Knowing that individuals with autism repeat what they hear, she introduced her son to prayer, the Bible, and worship at an early age. Through her story, you will receive encouragement to abide in Christ and to help your kids fulfill their purpose as you fulfill your own. Contact Amy Bonham: abonham@victory.com A Special Purpose: http://aspecialpurpose.org/
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Keith Boyd, an LLH alumnus with spastic quadriplegia, communicates with a Tobii Dynavox, an eye gaze-enabled speech-generating device. His Dad and his best friend collaborated with him to share the value of AAC to unlock Keith's voice.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Lance McLemore is a brilliant young man on the autism spectrum who uses LAMP Words for Life as his primary form of communication as a result of expressive aphasia. In this conversation, he uses LAMP to share his expereinces as an AAC user. Direct inquiries about hiring Lance for speaking engagements to Center for AAC and Autism at registrations@aacandautism.com.
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
John Halloran, SLP, and creator of LAMP, joins us to share the origin story of the therapy approach called LAMP (Language Acquisition Through Motor Planning) and the assistive technology tool called LAMP Words for Life. Learn more about how the Little Light House, a LAMP Center of Excellence, integrates communication tools to support the speech and language development of students who are experiencing delays in those areas. Center for AAC and Autism https://www.aacandautism.com/
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Have you ever wondered, "What is AAC, and why would I want to use it with my child?" Stefanie Olson, an Assistive Technology Practitioner, explains the benefits of AAC. She assures that AAC does not prevent a child from learning how to speak. It can be a temporary or lifetime support. The LLH uses a therapy approach called LAMP (Language Acquisition Through Motor Planning) and an AT tool called LAMP Words for Life to support our students' speech and language development who are experiencing delays in those areas. Her top three recommendations are to get training (Center for AAC and Autism), model language on the device (without expecting the child to respond), and start early. Center for AAC and Autism https://www.aacandautism.com/
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Contact Amy Bonham: abonham@victory.com
A Special Purpose: http://aspecialpurpose.org/
Information to provide a church so they can prepare to support your child: https://victorykids.family/championsclubform
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Being a parent is a big responsibility. Former Little Light House special education teacher and home-school mom shares the big-picture vision and goals that helped her raise her kids to fulfill their God-given potential. This episode provides insights for creating a purposeful, joyful family culture. This practical message conveys values and practices that help parents bring out the best in their kids. Jody affirms that God will not give us more than we can handle with His grace, love, and wisdom and encourages us to ask God to help you see your child from His perspective.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Let’s face it, trying to determine how to guide our kid’s use of technology can produce a lot of anxiety. Especially while we are staying at home for work and school. How do you determine what’s best for your family? Assistive Technology Practitioner and down to earth mother-of-two is here to give perspective and grace on this timely subject. Resources: Media and Young Minds (Policy Statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics): https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/138/5/e20162591; Media and Children Communication Toolkit: https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/Pages/Media-and-Children.aspx; Create your personalized family media use plan here: www.HealthyChildren.org/MediaUsePlan
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Let's get messy! If your child receives Occupational Therapy, you've most likely heard of messy play or sensory play. Our OTs are here to demystify and simplify messy play. It's just playing that incorporates the senses, and it's fun! We'll help you think like a therapist and give ideas to have fun with your kids while engaging all of their senses.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
It's been a year now since the stay-at-home orders, and COVID precautions went into effect. To support you in your parenting at home, we are launching the "Parenting through the Pandemic" series. Our first topic, literacy, focuses on one of the powerful practices of intentional parenting: reading aloud with your child. Today we guide you through the stages your child will go through in their pre-literacy journey with activity suggestions, book recommendations, and ideas to use literacy to support therapy and child development.
Here is a slideshow for today's message: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1tvQ-tZZES9_TDY99n33YBBtH4trkC5zYLbvMbFTR4E4/edit?usp=sharing.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Do you ever question why your child has special needs? In this episode, Little Light House Founder and former Director shares how she learned to change her perspective by changing her questions from "Why?" to "How?" She candidly explains how her passion for helping her daughter born with a visual impairment led her to found a school with a global impact. For more of the story, read Marcia's books, Milestones and Miracles, and God's Work God's Way.
Milestones and Miracles: https://amzn.to/3ur6pHO
God's Work God's Way: https://amzn.to/37EaChT
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Three siblings share heart to heart about life's struggles and joys with special needs. We cover advocacy, resilience, comparison, and gratitude in this conversation. Our guests share what their parents did that influenced them to devote their careers to serve kids with special needs. This conversation will give you a glimpse into what motivates Little Light House staff to help kids and families thrive.
Kendra Morgan's passion for kids and families led her to found Building All Children in Tulsa, OK. With 20 years of experience in child development, she focuses on training parents and educators in brain development, the hierarchy of learning, and the heart behind the behavior. "We have to look at the heart behind the behavior, so we can guide them to make the appropriate choice." Play and stillness strengthen your connection with the kids in your life.
Shining Light Conference: https://www.giveffect.com/campaigns/17092-shining-light-conference
Building All Children: https://buildingallchildren.org/
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
The relationships you build with your child's education team significantly impact your child's experience in school. Here Diana Lee provides checklists of the vital information you can give your school about your child. She recommends questions to ask and how to ask them to help build collaborative relationships and get the services your child needs.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Little Light House: https://www.littlelighthouse.org
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Does your child need extra support at public school? Are you preparing for an IEP meeting? Listen for great tips from a school psychologist with nearly fifty years of experience. Diana Lee insightfully coaches parents on advocating for their special needs child. You'll learn when to enroll, how to prepare for the meeting, and what to expect from school-based therapy.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
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Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
As the parent of a child with special needs, your heart needs TLC. Shawna McClung knows this personally as a speical needs mother of a six-year-old. In this episode, Shawna shares how changing her perspective gave her confidence to tackle daily tasks. Diana adds practical wisdom from her 48 years of supporting families as a teacher and school psychologist.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
After a holiday break, we are back! Mike and Sarah Ledbetter's innocence about childbirth was stollen when their first child tragically died at birth. Months later, they were devastated to learn that their second child, Gracie, had Down syndrome. Mike and Sarah faced a decision. They could let their hardships drive them apart or draw them together. They chose each other. In this story, Mike shares how his family has grown stronger and his hope has been restored in the process of helping Gracie be Gracie.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
On today's episode we have guest Beth Soderfelt, a dedicated advocate for individuals with special needs who helped start the RISE inclusion program at Marquette Catholic School in Tulsa, OK. She has intentionally prepared her son Aaron for adulthood. Join Beth and Diana Lee for helpful advice on preparing your child with special needs to flourish as a young adult.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Kaylie Boomer vulnerably shares her journey to discover that her son was blind. After a series of disappointments and trials, she learned that her four-month-old had bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia. Find yourself in this young mother's honest conversation as Kaylee finds her way to hope.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast
Join THECREW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZQZ65_fqxI
Grassroots efforts to grow his business brought Michael Amberg through the doors of the Little Light House. The desire to make an impact keeps him here. Michael has used his influence to help kids with special needs through sports camps, corporate fundraisers, and development advice. Learn how you can make a lasting impact by finding what you love and using that to give back to your community.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast/
Having lost her only nephew when he was only six months old, Lisa has a tender heart toward medically fragile children. Twenty-five years ago, she honored her nephew by raising funds to help other kids. Following the initial success, Lisa learned to leverage corporate sponsorships and school choice tax credits to motivate her friends and coworkers to give thousands of dollars. Here she shares her moving story along with tips and tricks you can use to raise money for your favorite charities.
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast/
Dr. John Henshaw has mobilized hundreds of college students to help kids be kids. Under his leadership, mechanical engineering students have been designing custom equipment for the Little Light House for more than a decade. MADE at TU (Make A Difference Engineering), an inclusive Tulsa University club unifies students to help kids with special needs. Join this great conversation between Dr. Henshaw and LLH Executive Director Anne McCoy to learn how you can make a difference through strategic partnerships.
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HKBK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpingkidspodcast/
Jason Burks is the owner of Retrospec Films and Climb Tulsa and is a champion for kids with special needs. Since 2015 he has made films highlighting the work of Little Light House to show the value of children with special needs. Listen and learn why Jason is so generous with his time, talent, and treasure, and why he sees such value in helping kids be kids. He also fills us in on current projects he his working on with his wife, Tayler Burks. Jason and Retrospec Films helped us get Helping Kids Be Kids started.
Retrospec Films: https://www.retrospecfilms.com
HKBK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helpingkidspodcast
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Kaylie Boomer, mother of student who attends Little Light House, passes on her favorite resources for blind or visually impaired kids. Wilder, her child, has bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia, but these tips will help you no matter your child's diagnosis. Here are links to recommended resources: CDC Early Intervention Program Referrals by State; Oklahoma ABLE Tech; American Printing House for the Blind; Braille Tales; Seedlings Book Angel Program.
After having five previous typical pregnancies, Rachel Castillo had no concerns about the sixth. So when she went alone to her first doctor's appointment, she was devastated to learn that her daughter had Spina Bifida. Rachel shares how her journey from denial and depression to hope and delight in her precious child.
Collaboration is the key to helping a child reach their goals, but it takes extra time to initiate and is not a billable service. It often falls on parents to communicate with everyone, which can be burdensome and complicated. The pandemic has improved collaboration with cloud-based platforms for sharing videos and information between agencies/providers. In this episode, Lynda and Stef role-model how they collaborate and explain how teamwork improves their results.
In part 4 of our Feeding Solutions series, Mandy will help you recognize red flags of feeding and let you know when to seek professional help. She adjusts your eyes to see your child's progress, unlocking feelings of accomplishment in yourself and your child. For Mandy, helping kids be kids means, "When they begin to understand themselves and know why things work and don't work for their body, they are more equipped to do hard things in life. That's what we want for our kids. It's not about eating; it's about learning." Thank you to Retrospec Films for recording this episode.
Reference links:
https://www.feedingmatters.org/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Food-Jags-Range-Diary.pdf
In this episode, Mandy Foster and Lauren Gebhard help you face the emotions connected to feeding problems. They debunk mealtime myths and help you overcome false guilt. SOS therapy talks about what parents “bring to the table.” Studies show that 98% of feeding problems are due to a mix of diagnosable organic issues. Learn to change your beliefs about food and your child’s feeding to free you to engage these issues confidently.
Today, we start part 2 of our 4 part series about problem feeding. Lauren Gebhard and Mandy Foster join us to talk about food. There can be a lot of confusion surrounding food, and there are many reasons while a child might not be eating a particular food. We hope this episode will get you tips and tricks on approaching food more comfortably for you and your child. Thank you to Retrospec Films for recording this episode.
Reference links:
https://www.feedingmatters.org/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Food-Jags-Range-Diary.pdf
Today, we are joined by Lauren Gebhard and Mandy Foster, speech therapists, to start a new four-part series about feeding problems. In this episode, we are discussing tips and tricks to get your child on an eating schedule. We discuss what SOS is, sequential oral sensory approach to feeding, and the difference between picky eating or problem feeding. Thank you to Retrospec Films for recording this episode.
Reference links:
https://www.feedingmatters.org/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Food-Jags-Range-Diary.pdf
Physical Therapy helps with significant muscle movements such as head control, sitting, walking, and balance for children with developmental delays. The first three years of life set the foundation for the rest of your child's life. Whether your child has a diagnosis or not, if your gut tells you something is not right, it never hurts to request a PT consultation. Find a therapist who is not only an advocate for your child but you as well. Check out Brittany's resources at Mommy & Me PT https://www.facebook.com/mommyandmept/
Our guest, Mindy Wiggins, shares the adoption journey that led her to Hudson, a precious boy with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. In this episode, she shares how God equipped her for fostering and adopting medically fragile children. "Your obedience is the answer to someone else's prayer. It is not always about you." God is the same, but what that looks like in each season does not look the same. Life is about believing God, even when you don't see the results. God has taught her to extend grace to others. We are not trying to make him be someone he is not. We are letting him be how God made him. We tell our children, God brought you here because God has a plan." If you are interested in more from Mindy, head over to Amazon and order her book, "What God is Teaching Me." https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3AMindy+Wiggins&s=relevancerank&text=Mindy+Wiggins&ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_1
Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording the audio of this podcast.
Today our guest, Dr. Sorrels, talks about the importance of bonding with your child. Attachment is a strong and enduring emotional bond between and child and a caregiver who assumes responsibly for the child's well-being. Attachment is a very sensory process. The first language babies understand is touch. When that first language is taken away, the attachment process can be disrupted. The relationship can still blossom and the attachment can still form. Carve out time and space to be fully present to the child. The architecture of the brain is formed through attachment. Investment parenting reaps great dividends down the road. If I ignore bonding now, it comes back later with behavior challenges. The brain develops through play. Your home needs to look more like summer camp than boot camp. Learn more from reading or listening to Dr. Sorrels book : https://amzn.to/32N7HRG Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording the audio of this podcast.
Assistive Technology (AT) helps someone complete a task they would have trouble doing on their own. Learn how to assess needs with the SETT Framework by Joy Zabala. SETT is a four-part model that promotes collaborative decision-making by looking at the Student, Environment, Task, and Tools. Solutions range from no-tech to high-tech. Assistive Technology helps kids participate in life to the best of their ability and interest. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Mason was developing neurotypically when he all of a sudden developed Meningitis, suffered seizures and had a stroke. He lost his hearing and received a unilateral cochlear implant. Melinda, Mason's mother, learned to embrace the path her life has taken and encourages other parents, "Just because you expected your life to be one way, just because it's different, doesn't mean it can't be just as great." Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Learn to identify and accommodate your sensory differences as well as your child's. In this episode, Jodi Howe, Occupational Therapist, discusses the senses, including proprioception and vestibular. We talk about sensory processing, thresholds, and Winnie Dunn's Sensory Profile. Sensory seekers benefit from fidget toys, a rubber band, or a piece of Velcro under their desks. Sensory avoiders are helped by paintbrushes and tools that help them explore messy textures without over stimulating their systems. Understanding these underlying needs will help you decipher what your kids need and give them tools to self-advocate. Thanks, Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast!
Audre and Kristen share how and why they became teachers at the Little Light House. They discuss how they processed the transition from classroom teaching to virtual learning, both emotionally and logistically. Audre coaches on logistics of using Zoom and Kristen talks about how virtual learning at the Little Light House was just as important for parents as it was for students. One benefit from virtual learning was gaining insight by observing students in their home environment. Audre and Kristen conclude the conversation with tips for educators and share what Helping Kids Be Kids means to them. Learn how to set up an optimal learning environment with parents becoming "learning buddies". Link to more ideas at the Little Light House teacher and therapy Facebook pages: https://www.facebook.com/LLHteacher and https://www.facebook.com/llhtherapyteam. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Katie shares her journey to help her son, Buzzy, live a full life after suffering shaken baby syndrome. Michelle Morris, Buzzy's special education teacher, joins the conversation to share how early intervention is helping him thrive. Learn how classroom set up helps him navigate with a Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) diagnosis and more. Katie talks about how she learned to take a step back and let her son take risks. She expresses the value of family help and how the Little Light House has created a way for her parents to show their support. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Mark introduces four core areas to consider when it comes to financial planning: family support system, legal, financial, and government benefits. Children may be disqualified from services and benefits because of lack of planning ahead, so what are you waiting for! You should start with an assessment of all assets and liabilities, then make two plans; a plan for the parents' estate, and then plan for your child's estate. Planning can start with budgeting, getting out of debt, saving for retirement, and insurance. Tulsa Advancement Group is on the education side of the process and can collaborate with your professional financial advisors. Special thanks to today's guest, Mark Loeber, CEO and Founder of The Advancement Group. To make an appointment with Tulsa Advancement Group, contact helpingkidspodcast@littlelighthouse.org. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Lauren Gebhard, SLP and Ronda Marfuchuk, SLP share professional advice to face problem feeding. Lauren adds a personal glimpse into her journey of helping her son navigate his own feeding problems. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Back in the studio with Laura Robinson, Katie Hough, and Donny Walsh, discover advice on advocating for kids with special needs. Advocacy is a key role for parents. Learn how to handle questions from people in the community and set your kids up for success. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Three parents, Laura Robinson, Katy Hough, and Donny Walsh share hope-filled advice on parenting kids with special needs. This fun conversation introduces their kids, covers the joys and challenges they face and shares what they would tell themselves when they realized their child would have special needs. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.
Welcome to our podcast! Executive Director Anne McCoy shares how the Little Light House has helped kids with special needs and their parents for nearly five decades and how we can help you on your parenting journey. Thanks to Retrospec Films for recording and editing the audio of this podcast.