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Every Child Deserves a Voice: Navigating Life on the Spectrum
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Autism doesn't come with a handbook. When Lexi first noticed her son Alexander spinning repetitively at six months old, she had no idea she was witnessing early signs of autism. Despite mentioning these behaviors to doctors, it would be months before medical professionals validated her concerns.
Today, Lexi opens her heart about raising Alexander (affectionately called "Brother"), a non-verbal kindergartner on the autism spectrum, alongside her daughter Adeline, who faced her own medical challenges with a club foot requiring multiple surgeries and treatments. Through these unexpected journeys, Lexi has discovered strength she never knew she possessed.
"Some things Alexander likes – tight hugs or pressure. One thing we learned in occupational therapy is if he's having a meltdown in public, to just start applying pressure from head to toe," Lexi shares, offering a glimpse into the practical strategies that help her son navigate a world that can feel overwhelming to his senses. She explains how common environments like grocery stores can become sensory battlegrounds, with sounds and lights amplified tenfold for those on the spectrum.
This conversation transforms our understanding of autism beyond stereotypes. Alexander might not speak, but he communicates brilliantly by guiding people's hands to what he wants. He experiences joy through repetitive movements that bring him comfort. His sister has become his fiercest advocate, explaining autism to friends with remarkable compassion.
Whether you're raising a child with special needs or simply want to better understand autism, this episode provides profound insights into creating a more inclusive world. As Lexi powerfully states, "I don't need to fix Alexander to fit in. We just need to figure out how to fix those around us to accommodate him better."
Ready to become a more compassionate, informed member of your community? Listen now, and join us in standing for inclusivity and understanding during National Autism Awareness Month and beyond.
Standing In Your Truth Podcast with Yanni Thomas
Chapters
1. Welcome to Standing in Your Truth (00:00:00)
2. What Motivates You as a Parent (00:03:18)
3. Life-Changing Moments: Club Foot Journey (00:08:40)
4. Navigating Autism: Brother's Diagnosis (00:16:20)
5. Communication Beyond Words (00:28:21)
6. Finding Resources and Support (00:39:12)
7. Chosen for This Purpose: Final Thoughts (00:49:23)
51 episodes
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