In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, Kat Lee visits with Dr. Rachelle Sheely to talk about overscheduling and why children need a parent’s presence more than another appointment on the calendar. They discuss: ✔ Why overscheduling often comes from fear and crisis ✔ How constant appointments drain children and families ✔ What it means to create a time to guide at home ✔ Practical ways to silence the noise and make choices that fit your child ✔ The value of laughter, simple routines, and shared moments Dr. Sheely offers a calm path forward so families can slow down, reconnect, and support growth through the guiding relationship. Subscribe for more episodes of Autism: A New Perspective Learn more about RDI®: https://www.rdiconnect.com #Autism #Parenting #Overscheduling #RDIConnect #GuidingRelationship

In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, host Kat Lee sits down with Lisa Palasti, RDI® consultant, parent, and director of RDI® professional training in Canada, to talk about why self-care is not selfish—especially for parents raising children with autism. Together they discuss: ✔ Why self-care is essential, not optional, for parents ✔ How social connection reduces stress and builds resilience ✔ The challenges of guilt and “not enough time” ✔ Practical, everyday ways to integrate self-care into family life ✔ Why taking care of yourself is a gift to your child and family This honest, hopeful conversation offers both encouragement and practical tools to help parents reframe self-care as a foundation for stronger families and healthier relationships. Subscribe for more episodes of Autism: A New Perspective Learn more about RDI® at https://www.rdiconnect.com #Autism #Parenting #SelfCare #RDIConnect

In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, host Kat Lee welcomes back Dr. Tom Atkinson for an honest, hopeful conversation about autism and stress, what it is, where it comes from, and how parents and children can learn to cope. Dr. Atkinson, an RDI® consultant and research psychologist, draws from decades of experience as both a professional and a parent to share valuable insights on: ✔ What stress really is ✔ How stress affects both parents and children on the autism journey ✔ Practical tools for building emotional resilience ✔ The role of positive psychology and goal-setting ✔ Why connection and self-care are essential for long-term well-being Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for tools to better support your family, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped. Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes Learn more about RDI® at https://www.rdiconnect.com #Autism #Parenting #Stress #EmotionalWellbeing #RDIConnect

In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, RDI® consultant and research psychologist Dr. Tom Atkinson joins host Kat Lee for an inspiring and compassionate conversation on parental well-being and why taking care of yourself is essential, not selfish. Together, they explore the emotional roller coaster that so many parents of autistic children experience and share practical, science-backed strategies for staying grounded, connected, and resilient. Topics we cover in this episode: - Common emotions parents face: loneliness, overwhelm, fear - The power of gratitude and positive thinking - How social connection protects your mental health - Why self-care is a necessity, not a luxury - Setting realistic goals and celebrating small wins - Managing stress and navigating trauma as a parent Dr. Atkinson brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a longtime RDI® parent, offering encouragement and real-world advice for families raising neurodivergent children. Listen to more episodes: https://www.rdiconnect.com/resources/podcast #RDI #AutismSupport #ParentingAutism #Neurodiversity #AutismPodcast #Wellbeing #SpecialNeedsParenting #ParentingSupport #PositiveParenting #RDIRelationships

If you’re caring for a child or adult with autism, this episode is for you. So many caregivers carry a quiet, constant weight—the emotional exhaustion, the loneliness, the pressure to always keep going without pause. If you've ever skipped your own doctor’s appointment, missed out on time with friends, or felt like taking a break wasn’t an option, you're not alone. In this episode of Autism, A New Perspective, host Kat Lee and Dr. Rachelle Sheely, President of RDIconnect®, speak directly to the needs of caretakers like you. T hey explore: -The guilt and self-sacrifice many parents feel—and how to shift that mindset -How to ask for (and accept) help in a way that actually works -The importance of trusted support, even if it’s just someone kind giving you a few hours -Why caring for yourself is one of the best ways to care for your child -And how to recognize the signs that you may still be in a state of quiet crisis We hope that when you finish listening to this episode, you’ll feel seen, supported, and encouraged to take the time you need—not just for your sake, but for the good of everyone you love. Find the support you need. Discover more resources to support parents and caregivers of autistic children at: https://www.rdiconnect.com/autism-resources/

When people talk about autism, they often picture boys—because statistically, boys are more likely to be diagnosed. But what about the stories we don’t hear as often? The ones about girls? About the unique, often overlooked journey of a mother and her daughter? In Part 3 of our special series on Autism and Girls, Kat Lee welcomes RDI® Consultant and parent Lisa Malone for a profoundly moving conversation about her daughter Elliot’s story. If you’re a parent navigating your own journey—or just want to better understand the inner world of autistic girls—you won’t want to miss this episode. You’ll walk away reminded that growth is possible, connection can be created, and the story is still unfolding. Learn more about the RDI® approach and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/ Listen to our two previous episodes about Autism and Girls here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/tag/girls-and-autism/