Pieces For My Puzzle

This week Nikki continues her conversation with Rupert Isaacson, author of The Horse Boy.  An incredible experience that has led him to take a deep dive into the neuro-science of how to help his son (and other’s on the spectrum).  Since his son’s diagnosis, he has gone on to help thousands of families since with The Horse Boy Method and The Movement Method!  No doubt that you will be truly inspire...

Explore an extraordinary journey with Rupert Isaacson, author of The Horse Boy and one of the most inspiring parents to children with autism. In this episode, you'll discover how his moving story of love, compassion, and dedication challenged conventional advice about parenting a child with ASD and changed the lives of his family forever.  Join us today and get inspired as we learn from Rupert's i...

Are you a dad with a child on the spectrum?  Nikki brings in her husband, Patrick Shipp, to give the Dad’s perspective on having a child with Autism. You won't want to miss this powerful and inspiring episode! See what it's like to live life as a dad of an autistic son and how he balances both the challenges and rewards of parenting. Learn how Patrick navigates through the autism journey one day a...

Do you want to learn how to work out with autism?  This week on the show we’ve got Tyler Smith, the personal trainer for children with Autism! He will be discussing his journey to helping kids with Autism find success in the gym and how he developed a personal training program specifically designed for them.  Tune in to learn how Tyler is helping kids rise above their challenges and achieve better...

Calling all parents of kids with Autism! Get ready to take your child's training to the next level with Tyler Smith: the personal trainer who specializes in helping kids with Autism become their absolute best.  Our special guest is here to explain the importance of why kids need to get moving in the gym! Don't miss this chance to bring some strength and confidence into your child's life - tune in...

As parents, we often feel like we have to hold it all together. We're responsible for keeping our families running smoothly and ensuring everyone is happy and healthy. But the truth is, parenting can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming at times. And that's ok. Remembering that we're human beings with our own emotions and needs is important. Sometimes, we need a good cry to release all that te...

Autism is often widely misunderstood, with many misconceptions and stigmas attached to it. It's time to shatter these myths and bring about a greater understanding of what Autism really is. Autism is not a disease or a disorder but a neurological difference that affects how people process information and interact with the world around them. It does not define who a person is, nor does it diminish...

Life can be tough, but adding a child on the spectrum into the mix can feel like a whole new level of chaos. But let me tell you -  it's possible to make it through and thrive. It's important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. There are countless resources available to help you support your child and your marriage. So breathe, make time for yourself and your spouse, and communicat...

For those who have received a late diagnosis of Autism, it's important to remember that this is just the beginning of a journey, not the end. Though it may seem overwhelming initially, the discovery of being autistic can unlock a new understanding and awareness of oneself. Those who receive a late diagnosis may have gone through life feeling misunderstood, alienated, or unsupported. Still, they ca...

When it comes to autism, there's a lot of myths and misconceptions out there. But the reality is that autism affects people in different ways. In this video, Nikki talks about connection. It’s something we all have in common.  It’s what brings us together as a family, with our friends, and even with the people that we work with. Without it, we become emotionally compromised.

Did you know that spending time outdoors can open up communication and learning with your autistic child? Check out this video to hear Nikki’s suggestions and quick tips about the benefits of nature and how you can get your family outside and enjoying the fresh air!

When it comes to parenting children on the autism spectrum, communication is key. But sometimes it can be a challenge getting through to our kids. In this video, I share some of the techniques that have helped me communicate better with my son. I hope they help you too! Resources Mentioned: Link for Visual Schedule:  https://amzn.to/3OFosVf

There's no one-size-fits-all sleep plan for kids with autism spectrum disorder, but there are some basic tips that can help. In this video, Nikki shares her best advice for creating a sleep plan that works for your ASD child! Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Do you have a funny story or an inspirational story about your child on the spectrum?  Let’s us c...

Looking for sensory friendly clothes for your child? Look no further! In this episode, we take a look at some of the best places to find ASD friendly clothes. Plus, we share some tips on how to choose clothes that are perfect for your child's unique needs. Resources Mentioned: Primary – https://www.primary.com Kickee Pants – https://www.amazon.com/stores/KicKeePants/page/E9955E74-01A5-444C-827F-6B...

We all have those little voices in our heads that tell us what we can and can't do. For parents of kids with autism, these voices can be especially loud - and destructive. In this episode, Nikki explores the head games we play with ourselves and what you can do to stay in a good headspace. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the challenge of raising a child with autism, don't miss this powerful talk....

Introducing a dog into the home can be a big decision - especially if you have a child on the autism spectrum. In this episode, Nikki shares some tips on how to make sure that adding a dog to your family is the best decision for everyone involved. Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Do you have a funny story or an inspirational story about your child on the...

Are you going on a trip without your kids?  If so, you're likely feeling a range of emotions: excitement, freedom, and anxiety. Preparing for an extended period of time without your child can be difficult, but it's important to do what you can to lessen the stress. In this episode, Nikki offers some tips for preparing for a trip without your child on the spectrum, and prepare them for success whil...

Did you know that colors can have a profound impact on people with autism spectrum disorder?  We relate sensory disorder to light and sound, however, you rarely hear that colors can have an influence too. Nikki discusses and explores how different colors can be used to create an educational and sensory experience for children on the spectrum.  Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instag...

Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Do you have a funny story or an inspirational story about your child on the spectrum?  Let’s us celebrate you!  Submit your stories to be featured on the podcast at info@piecesformypuzzle.com   Stories featured on our podcast receive a special gift from us!

With unlimited access to information these days, social media is now included as a way to search for information.  Nikki talks about the good and the bad on social media and what you can do to cancel the negative noise, and create a positive experience for yourself. There are many great resources on social media that you can use as a starting point to explore further. Tune in!  Story Highlights Li...

Often times there’s more than just “autism” that you are facing when you are trying to help your child.  Tune in as Nikki tells her story about finding out that her son also had ADHD and dyslexia.  She also gives some great quick tips on what you can do to encourage reading and making it a bonding experience for both parents and children.  Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram...

Tune in for a different perspective from Nikki’s good friend and also a mother of an autistic child, Katie Barrie.  This is part 2 of a two part series where Nikki and Katie share the many waves of emotions of being a mother of an autistic child. Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Do you have a funny story or an inspirational story about your child on the...

Tune in for a different perspective from Nikki’s good friend and also a mother of an autistic child, Katie Barrie.  Nikki asks the hard questions like initial reaction to a diagnosis, how her family took the news, and how did she cope on a daily basis.  This inspiring two part series is one that parents will appreciate hearing. Just two mom’s and a kandid conversation.  Story Highlights Like/follo...

There's a lot of debate over whether or not to tell your child they are autistic. Some people believe it's better to let the child find out for themselves, while others think it's important to be open and honest from the start.  Tune is as Nikki weighs in about why you should prepare yourself for that discussion. Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Have you...