Seizures, Strength and Storytelling: Parenting Through Challenges with Constance Lewis - Episode 106

Inclusion and Disability Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Constance Lewis, a nurse practitioner turned children’s book author and mom of three, to explore how emotions, inclusion, and advocacy intersect. Constance shares her family’s emotional journey navigating her son’s seizures, the inspiration behind her upcoming children’s book Colorful Capes of Feelings, and the power of teaching emotional literacy through creativity. She discusses practical strategies for helping children—especially those with medical or developmental challenges—express emotions safely. This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that inclusion begins with empathy, storytelling, and listening to our children in new ways.

Key Takeaways:

Emotional Expression – Teaching kids to express feelings through creative tools like colors fosters emotional literacy.

Medical Advocacy – Parents must trust their intuition and ask questions—especially when navigating complex healthcare systems.

Inclusion Through Storytelling – Books that reflect all children’s experiences help kids feel seen, safe, and included.

From Nurse to Author – Personal experience inspired Constance’s transition from nurse to author and emotional coach.

Start with Feelings – Building inclusive environments starts by helping kids understand and express their emotions.

Constance’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is just creating space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, especially in their full authentic expression.

Constance’s Bio:

Constance Lewis, a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, began her career in neonatal intensive care before transitioning into roles as a discharge nurse, breastfeeding counselor, and childbirth educator. Inspired by her personal experiences with infertility and pregnancy, Constance pursued a WHNP degree, which allowed her to provide compassionate care to women for eight years in a private OBGYN office. After their son Miles was diagnosed with epilepsy, Constance decided to step back from her career to focus on her family. Her son was diagnosed at age 4, at which she started an uphill battle with multiple doctors and medical facilities to improve his overall care. She continues to advocate for other families who have children with a similar diagnosis. Her personal experiences navigating her son’s health issues led to the creation of "Miles and His Capes of Feelings," a heartwarming and practical tool to help children express their emotions. Their home, filled with love, laughter, and a red Labradoodle named Ginger, reflects their deep commitment to family and helping others.

Connect with Constance:

Website: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorful_feelings.books

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 43

No - 61

☕ Buy me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad

Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates

Want to create videos like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6041699795730432

Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad