Pieces For My Puzzle

When it comes to autism, every person is different. But one thing that's universal is the importance of connection. Autism can be isolating for both the person with autism and their loved ones. But planning activities like art therapy, can help in a profound way. Tune in as Nikki talks about different types of art therapy and suggestions of how to implement in the home.  Resources Mentioned: Books...

If it’s not on the calendar then it doesn’t exist!  At least, that’s how it is in Nikki’s house.   Staying organized and giving visuals can be vital for people on the spectrum.  Tune in as Nikki gives some quick tips on how she creates calendar schedules to help her son with visuals for an easier transition in their daily lives.   Resources Mentioned: None Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebo...

What would happen if your child with autism wandered away from home?  The harsh truth - 49% of kids on the spectrum wander.  This startling statistic has led more resources to become available to make sure kids are staying safe. When it comes to autism and safety, it's important to have a plan.  In this video, Nikki gives ideas for resources that you can look to help keep your loved one safe and h...

Looking for a fun and informative way to keep your family safe around water? Look no further! In this episode, Nikki covers how they transitioned their son moving to their new home that has a pool.  Tune in for some basic safety tips, how to prep for pool time, and deal with autism and other special needs in the water. So grab a swimsuit and dive in! Resources Mentioned: Pool Safety social story e...

Do you know your IEP Terminology?  If not, don't worry! You're not alone. In this episode, Nikki breaks down some of the most important terms every parent should know when it comes to their child's IEP. From "Least Restrictive Environment" to "Supplemental Aids and Services," we cover it all!   Resources Mentioned: IEP Terminology and breakdown of definitions:  https://www.parentcenterhub.org/keyt...

Dental visits don't have to be a drag. In fact, they can be downright fun! Nikki is especially passionate about this topic as she retired from a 17 year career and as a Dental Hygienist.  She gives some quick tips on how to prep for a dental visit, questions to ask, and how to practice good oral hygiene at home.  It’s sure to make dental visits more enjoyable for your kids!  Resources Mentioned: D...

Camping can be a great experience for the whole family...except when you have to worry about your special-needs child.  Nikki shares some tips on how to make camping with your autistic child a little bit easier. From considering your child’s needs to packing the right supplies, we'll help you make sure that everyone has a great time! Resources Mentioned: National parks have a free lifetime access...

Are you looking for ways to connect with your child on the spectrum?  It can be tough, but games are a great way to bond and have some fun. It also can enhance your child’s development through play! Nikki shares some fun games that you can play with your autistic child, and how it’s helped her connect with her son. Check it out now! Resources Mentioned: Need more ideas for games to play?  This boo...

If you're the parent of a child with autism, you know that having an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a critical part of making sure your child gets the best education possible. But how do your understand such an overwhelming process? In this video, Nikki breaks it down by road mapping it for you, so you can understand what's going on during your child's IEP meeting and make sure they get th...

We can all agree that self-confidence does not come easily in today’s world.  So how does that translate to a person who has autism?  Is self confidence important?  Tune is as Nikki speaks with Dani from Dani Shaw Coaching about the importance of teaching kids a different kind of education – one that involves belief systems, self-confidence, and self-love! Get in touch with Dani at: Website: danis...

Eat your broccoli!  But for some, that’s easier said than done.  It’s hard enough for kids to try new foods.  Mealtime can be one of the most difficult times for a child on the spectrum.  The introduction of new foods can seem daunting - but it doesn’t have to be!  If you think it’s going to be hard, then it will be - so start with correcting your mindset. In this episode, Nikki gives some quick t...

Podcast YouTube Description: We all know that autism affects how people communicate and interact with the world. Anxiety is a common problem for autistic people. In fact, over ⅔ of the autistic population have reported anxiety. In this episode, Nikki gives some simple steps to help your loved ones with anxiety and live the best life possible as an autistic person. Story Highlights Do you have a fu...

Recently Nikki learned a new term that is common in Autistic adults called “Autistic Burnout”.  Tune is as Nikki explains what it is, and how getting resources for your child at an early age is critical for avoiding or understanding how to cope with Autistic Burnout. Story Highlights Do you have a funny story or one of success about your child on the spectrum?  Let’s celebrate the wins!  Submit yo...

We’ve all been there - the holiday pictures you want to capture for the sake of tradition but your child’s behavior is unpredictable.  Nikki gives quick tips on how to prep your child, transition from A to B, and take in the surroundings so you know how to best help your child. With a little luck, you’ll be able to get that photo with the Easter Bunny this upcoming holiday. Story Highlights Do you...

You know your child might need long term care but it’s so hard to think about it when you're busy helping them now with resources. Most parents don’t even know where to start, and having someone to help educate and guide you is extremely important.    Listen in as Nikki speaks with guest speaker Christina Anderson from Thrivent about the importance of making sure you and your child have things in...

When you need additional help, finding the right Hab providers can be challenging.  When Nikki first started out trying to find resources for her son, she was unaware that she would have to do some of the recruitment herself.   Learn more about the types of questions to ask, finding an agency to help, and how it’s important to get used to the idea that you will have people in and out of your home....

Nikki engages in an amazing conversation with Brenda Del Monte , author, speaker, and speech pathologist about her latest book release, I See You In There. This inspiring episode teaches us the importance of belief.  Listen in as Nikki and Brenda talk about how important connection is no matter what form of communication you are using.   Resources Mentioned: Brenda Del Monte resources Website: Tec...

The meltdown has occurred.  It’s past the point of you trying to comfort your child, and you’re not sure why it’s all happening. A child on the spectrum can have many triggers or sensory issues that will cause a meltdown.  They also may not communicate the same way, which makes it hard for them to tell you what’s really wrong. How do I figure out what’s wrong? How can I de-escalate the situation?...

Let’s talk sensory!  Many children on the spectrum have sensory processing disorders than can affect them on a daily basis.  Some kids are hypersensitive, and others are hyposensitive.  I’ll deep dive into some quick tips and tell you what has helped me with my son. Resources Mentioned: Calm strips:  https://calmstrips.com/ Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder:  https://sensoryhealth.org/ STA...

There’s no manual when is comes to parenting, especially with a child on the spectrum.  You may need to work harder than others to find resources and solutions for your child. So how you are taking time for yourself?  That’s a loaded question! Tune in as I discuss some quick tips on how to destress in your household.  Resources Mentioned: In this episode, we gave reference to some simple meditatio...

Special needs services and paperwork can seem daunting. You have tons of paperwork to sift through and it sucks!  Feeling unorganized can make you feel more overwhelmed than you already are.  Utilize these quick tips to get organized and keep it maintained.   Story Highlights Let’s celebrate the wins!  Submit your stories to be featured on the podcast at info@piecesformypuzzle.com Like/follow us o...

IEP’s - They are a total pain in the A**!   Navigating them can be difficult and you’ll feel overwhelmed and confused if you don’t have a plan.  Nikki gives a breakdown of quick tips on how to learn more about IEP’s, what questions to ask an advocate, and how to stay proactive.  Resources mentioned  Understood.org: https://www.understood.org/articles/en/understanding-the-iep-proces and Understand...