The Happy Sensory Corner

This episode features Robert and Ryan DeLena, father and son, who share their extraordinary journey from navigating the challenges of therapeutic schools and restraints to discovering Ryan’s passion for skiing, which transformed his life. Robert reflects on the difficult decisions parents face when raising children with special needs, offering heartfelt advice to parents trying to support their ch...

In this episode, we explore three key topics with Jeaneen Tang, a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in early language development and parent training: - Empowering Parents to Avoid the Need for Therapy - Honoring the "No" to build trust - Play Dumb to spark language development We also talk about the brain functions involved in speech development and how to...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jeanette Yates, a Certified Life Coach, Yoga Instructor, and Modern Mindfulness/Meditation teacher, to explore: - The foundation of self-care as "the plate" that supports everything else in life—why it’s not optional and how caregivers can build a solid foundation for themselves. - The challenges of caregiving and how Jeanette learned to set boundaries, prioritize...

About the guest: Delphia L. Howze is an award-winning HR and Diversity and Inclusion leader, CEO of D. Howze Solutions, and Chief Inclusion Officer for a national organization. She has spent over 20 years helping organizations create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Delphia is also the author of Including You: Leading Inclusion From Where You Are. Episode Description In this episo...

Dan MacQueen shares his journey of recovering from two brain hemorrhages and how his experiences led him to develop the "AAA framework" (Acknowledge, Accept, Adapt). A passionate advocate for resilience and personal growth, Dan explains how parents and professionals can embrace challenges and build momentum with small, consistent wins. Claudie Pomares, creator of Sensory Enrichment Therapy, comple...

Natalie Bedard, founder of Lift OneSelf and a specialist in energy healing, shares her unique approach to mindfulness and parenting that blends nervous system awareness, emotional energy, and connection to foster profound healing and understanding. Natalie discusses how mindfulness can be practiced in chaos, such as meditating while her children fought, and why curiosity and honesty are crucial fo...

Anneke Elmhirst is a relationship coach and former behavior analyst. With her we discuss: - Ethical concerns with ABA practices and how they can impact neurodivergent children. - The importance of respect and self-regulation in building healthier relationships between neurodivergent children and their parents. - How parent education can foster acceptance and long-term well-being for children with...

We sit down with Elaine Taylor-Klaus, master certified coach and co-founder of ImpactParents, to discuss her “coach approach” to parenting children with ADHD and other complex needs. Elaine explains the P.I.N.C.H. framework, a practical tool for identifying what motivates kids. She also explores how shifting focus from children’s behavior to empowering parents can transform family dynamics. Episod...

Content Warning:  This episode discusses topics related to suicide and mental health struggles. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to a trusted resource or helpline in your area. We sit down with Carolyn Sophia Skowron, author of Unbreakable and advocate for mental health awareness, to share in the spirit of Thanksgiving. Carolyn brings her unique perspective as a neurodive...

We sit down with Amethysta Herrick, a scientist and advocate who brings a unique perspective on gender, identity, and what it truly means to understand and support a child’s individuality. Drawing from her experiences in genetics, chemistry, and personal transformation, Amethysta shares a compelling story that challenges traditional views on gender and urges us to see human diversity beyond rigid...

Episode Description: We sit down with Rao Mutsume, a healer specializing in generational trauma and personal empowerment, to explore the transformative power of African ancient quantum medicine. Rao shares her unique approach to helping parents reconnect with their true selves, emphasizing the importance of being present and understanding the non-verbal communication of energy. She discusses how p...

We sit down with Amanda Trisdale, founder of a nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers, and her daughter, Lita, a talented tap dancer who has been mentored by some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Amanda shares her journey of creating a safe space where neurodiverse dancers can thrive, despite the challenges they face in traditional dance environments. She talks about the importance of letti...

We sit down with Leroy Slanzi, an experienced educator with 25 years in the field, to explore practical ways to support the mental health and emotional well-being of children with special needs. Leroy shares how schools can create a “pathway” through the mental health challenges faced by students, discussing the role of play-based learning in building emotional intelligence. He emphasizes how prac...

We sit down with Helen Sernett, founder and host of the Sleep Lists podcast, to discuss how we can improve sleep. Helen shares her journey from severe sleep struggles to creating a calming podcast designed to help listeners fall asleep through thoughtfully curated lists. Along the way, we explore some of Helen’s most unusual lists and hear about the unique requests she receives from her audience....

We sit down with Jason Dietrich, a communication specialist with a passion for STEM and sensory inclusion, who was diagnosed with hyperlexia, a form of autism, at a young age. Jason shares how his early challenges with reading comprehension turned into a superpower and discusses how identifying unique strengths in children with special needs can lead them to thrive. We dive deep into Jason’s journ...

We sit down with Dr. Danny Brassell, an internationally renowned speaker, author, and educator, to explore how parents can foster a love for reading in their children, including those with special needs. Danny shares his wealth of experience in helping children overcome challenges in reading, focusing not just on how to read but, more importantly, on getting children to want to read. He dives into...

We sit down with Matt McGee, founder of MRM Education, to explore how he helps students—especially those with special needs—prepare for admission to their dream schools. Eric shares practical strategies for fostering curiosity, building confidence, and navigating the challenges of college admissions. Claudie Pomares, creator of Sensory Enrichment Therapy, joins the conversation to discuss how sens...

We sit down with Tracy Slepcevic, Air Force Veteran, bestselling author of Warrior Mom, and Certified Integrative Health Coach. Tracy shares her powerful journey of helping her son with autism thrive through integrative health approaches. From healing diets to removing environmental toxins, Tracy offers practical advice for parents, teachers, and health professionals looking to improve the quality...

We sit down with Mariela De Santiago, an experienced therapist and advocate for children with special needs, to uncover specific, practical ways to help your child feel happier, more understood, and confident in being their true selves. Mariela explains how small, intentional actions can transform your child’s day by addressing their unique sensory and emotional needs. You’ll learn about sensory t...

We sit down again with Lenora Edwards, Board-Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, to dive deeper into practical strategies for enhancing the lives of children with special needs. In this episode, we focus on balancing eye contact encouragement with cultural sensitivity, managing screen time, and the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for both children and caregivers. Episode High...

We sit down with Lenora Edwards, a certified speech-language pathologist, to explore practical strategies for improving communication and quality of life for children with special needs. In part 1 of this episode, we discuss the early signs of dementia observed through speech, how technology can support communication without replacing human interaction, and actionable tips for creating a stress-fr...

We sit down with Michelle Choairy, founder of Collective Wisdom for Complex Kids, who shares her personal journey and valuable insights on how to improve the quality of life for children with special needs. Michelle discusses her "Thrive Method," a system she developed to help parents navigate the complexities of raising a child with developmental delays or other challenges. In this hear...

We sit down with Kristof Morrow, a US Navy veteran, accomplished author, award-winning journalist, and photographer, who navigates his creative and professional life while living with Tourette’s. Kristof shares his unique experiences, the challenges and triumphs of living with Tourette’s, and the profound impact of storytelling and writing. Join us as we explore how words can connect us, the impor...

We sit down with John Brink to discuss how to improve the quality of life for children with special needs. John shares his journey from surviving World War II to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur and ADHD advocate. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, community support, and viewing ADHD as a superpower. This episode is packed with practical advice and fresh perspectives for parents, specia...

We sit down with Zorina Pritchett, an entrepreneur dedicated to creating games that children with special needs can play with their friends and family, that she says she saw in a vision. They discuss ways to balance digital and non-digital activities to enhance social skills and emotional regulation in children with special needs. Episode Highlights 04:13 - Zorina : Explains how her game, inspired...