THE SJ CHILDS SHOW

Have you ever grappled with the challenging task of engaging in anti-racist dialogues with compassion? We've got some helpful insights for you! Join SJ Childs in an enlightening conversation with our esteemed guests, nonviolent communication trainers and authors, Sarah Peyton and Roxy Manning. We delve into the necessity of starting with self-compassion, understanding our own values, and the implications of binary thinking in these essential discussions.As we journey onwards, we explore the concept of creating beloved communities and fostering inclusive workplaces. We discuss the value of conflict and change in fostering authentic relationships and transforming harmful beliefs. As Sarah and Roxy eloquently put it, each of us has a role to play, whether it's participating in school board meetings, advocating for race curricula in schools, or leveraging our unique skills to contribute to a more equitable world. In our final act, we highlight the interplay of self-compassion and anti-racism. We emphasize the power of small actions and the ripple effect they can have in sparking meaningful change. As we wind down, we engage our guests in a delightful afternoon chat about their social media presence and the value of staying connected. Thank you for joining us on this thought-provoking journey, and we look forward to continuing these critical conversations with you.Support the show

As parents, we all share a common goal of raising well-adjusted, happy children, but how do we navigate the complexities of parenting in today's world? What if there were strategies that could help bridge the communication gap with our children, especially during their adolescent years? In our latest episode, we bring you an insightful conversation with our esteemed guest, Clair Mellenthin, director of child and adolescent services at Wasatch Family Therapy. Together, we explore the profound effects of the pandemic on children's mental health and the rise of school violence, providing you with a wealth of knowledge on community resources tailored to provide support during these trying times.Redefine your parenting approach as we share effective strategies aimed at fostering greater connection with your children. From leveraging daily moments like car rides and bedtime stories, to the 'peach pit moment,' we unravel tips that encourage openness and facilitate meaningful dialogue. We also tackle the hard subjects, such as dealing with sibling dynamics, the unique needs of boys and girls, and the importance of emotional balance. Rest assured, we leave no stone unturned when it comes to addressing the many facets of parenting in this modern age.Wrapping it all up, we delve into the realm of setting boundaries and validating children's emotions – a critical aspect of parenting in a world filled with complexity. We discuss the importance of modeling and maintaining healthy boundaries, particularly during emotional confrontations. We also examine the challenges of parenting amidst a constantly changing world, and how to foster a safe space for our children to flourish. Listen in and empower yourself with valuable insights for navigating the parenting journey. You're not alone in this. We're here to help.Support the show

Have you ever wondered how someone, diagnosed with autism at a young age, can defy limitations and emerge as an inspirational figure? Meet Christian Armstrong, an advocate for autism awareness, a motivational speaker, and a living testament to the boundless potential of individuals with autism. With his candid discussions on overcoming depression, battling societal comparisons, and finding strength in a supportive community, Christian's story is sure to resonate with many.Christian's journey has been inspiring in countless ways, from defying the odds in the world of sports to transitioning from acting to motivational speaking. As we navigate through the diverse facets of living with autism, we’ll hear Christian's insights on often-misunderstood dynamics of autism and marriage. He stresses the importance of open communication and understanding, and views autism not as a disability, but as a different way of learning. The dialogue extends to the pressing need for personalized teaching methods that embrace neurodiversity in our education system.As our conversation draws to a close, we touch upon the shifting societal perceptions of autism. Christian provides us with his perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with autism, while advocating for greater acceptance and inclusion. We also get a sneak peek into an upcoming speaking event where Christian aims to make a profound impact. His story compels us to challenge the status quo and reconsider our perceptions about autism. Tune in for an episode that not only uplifts spirits but also promises to spark a change.Support the show

Ever felt like you're wrestling a storm alone when it comes to navigating autism? Let’s introduce you to the wonderful Mia Dawson and Brenda Major, two incredible women who have walked this journey, felt the overwhelm of a diagnosis and experienced the transformation that comes with acceptance. In a heart-to-heart conversation, they share about their children, the struggle for community understanding, and the resilience they built along the way.We also uncover the inspiring story of Neo, a homeschooled autistic child, whose journey has been supported by his family and a close friend. Neo’s experience reminds us of the vital role a supportive network plays in the well-being of autistic children, shielding them from painful experiences like bullying. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the pressing need for awareness and funding in schools.Lastly, we reflect on how our personal journey with autism has not only transformed us but also led us to become authors and hosts of a radio show. Our book series, "Adventures of Neo," promotes understanding of autism and our radio show offers a much-needed reprieve for parents with special needs children. By the end of the conversation, we hope to inspire you to recognize the beauty and potential in individuals with autism and to see challenges as an opportunity to bring out the superpowers in us all. So, tune in for an enlightening dialogue that promises to make you see autism in a different light.Support the show

Are you ready to embark on an enlightening journey towards understanding and managing emotions in children? We invite you to join us and our distinguished guest, child behavior specialist Laura, for an episode that is sure to empower and equip you with the tools you need. We delve into Laura’s personal experiences of raising emotionally sensitive children, the significance of emotional connection between parents and children, and the need for a shift towards emotional education. This engaging discussion also shatters outdated stigmas and provides resources for parents who may feel unprepared when dealing with heightened emotions.Can you imagine the transformative impact of changing negative parenting habits? Laura will guide us through the world of emotional regulation, its role in parenting, and its impact on our nervous system. Learn the three-step plan for building emotional regulation in both parents and children and the importance of teaching them about their brain and their feelings. Laura, as a passionate parenting coach, offers personalized parenting plans and shares her successes and failures in parenting. She even offers a free tool, the ABCs for keeping calm, that you can access by reaching out to her. This episode is a valuable guide for parents navigating the sometimes murky waters of childhood emotional regulation. Tune in and expand your knowledge on this crucial topic!Support the show

Ever wondered how an autism diagnosis at 25 could lead someone to become a public speaker, mentor, and sports referee? Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Daniel Durany, a leading voice in autism advocacy from Texas. Daniel's inspiring journey, driven by a late diagnosis, has led him to share his unique experiences and empower others on similar paths. Through his passion for sports, Daniel shares how his role as a referee has helped him build vital skills and personal growth, with his sights set on umpiring at Division I softball games.We also delve into the pivotal transition to adulthood for individuals on the spectrum, highlighting the need for early intervention, tailored education, and better preparation for the job market. Explore with us as we unravel complex topics like insurance coverage for therapy, teaching financial skills, and job negotiation strategies. The conversation offers invaluable insights for parents, educators, and individuals with autism alike, and underscores the importance of community involvement. Tune in to hear Daniel's incredible stories and advice, and see how he's making a difference in changing perceptions and enhancing the lives of those on the spectrum.Support the show

Ready to delve into the complexities of trauma? Our episode today promises to be a profound journey, with Courtney Copeland, a trauma counselor and life coach, guiding us through her personal experiences with trauma. A relative's autism diagnosis has shaped her perspective and approach, offering her firsthand understanding of the challenges and adaptations necessary for those living on the spectrum. As we navigate this journey, we'll unveil how autism has influenced her counseling approach and the importance of mindfulness, individual needs, and creating a safe space.Ever wondered what it means to balance trauma and personal growth? We'll shed light on this delicate dance, emphasizing that trauma isn't always the result of a major event and can manifest in various forms. Drawing insights from our personal experiences, we’ll explore the importance of finding a balance between pushing someone out of their comfort zone and respecting their limits. Crafting individualized approaches for autism and trauma, we underline the need for understanding, empathy and support.Parenting, resilience, and processing childhood trauma are also themes we'll engage with. We'll talk about the role of positive reinforcement, the necessity of acknowledging a child's feelings, and fostering self-love. Plus, we've got an enlightening conversation with a trauma specialist on the different ways trauma can show up and the resources available for those seeking help and support. It's a deep dive into the world of autism, trauma, and resilience - we hope you join us for this enlightening discussion.Support the show

Welcome to a truly extraordinary conversation on the SJ Childs Show! Today, we're fortunate to have Gena Sims, the visionary founder of the Autism Theater Project, as our distinguished guest. Gena, an unwavering advocate for the autism community, journeys with us through the landscape of theater and self-expression, while illuminating the talents and potential of individuals on the autism spectrum.With Gena, we explore the fascinating world of "The Voice Inside," a television series that stands as the main project of the Autism Theater Project. This series, designed with a balance of empathy and confidence, serves as a beacon of empowerment for actors on the spectrum. We dive into conversations around self-belief and the thrill of seeing individuals exceed expectations, counteracting societal norms and prejudices. The charisma of Lexa, a performer and sister of an individual with autism, also graces our discussion, offering deeply personal insights into her experiences with the project.We then cast our gaze on the representation of autism in media and entertainment, and the profound influence of the Autism Theater Project within this realm. Guided by Gena's experiences, we examine the unique teaching methods employed in drama classes for individuals with autism. We also uncover powerful tools for coaching individuals with dyslexia and non-speaking individuals, an area that reveals the potential of hidden genius. We conclude our dialogue with an invigorating talk with Jean, another key figure in the Autism Theater Project, shedding light on the project's impact in the community and opportunities for our listeners to contribute to its inspiring mission. Join us on this compelling journey to understand and celebrate the world of autism through the transformative power of theater.Support the show

Picture this - a toddler, still in his blooming cognitive years, meticulously taking apart a watch and putting it back together again, with precision that defies his age. Fascinating, right? We have that child, now Dr. Stephen Mark Shore, an accomplished Autistic Professor of Special Education at Adelphi University, sharing his extraordinary journey from his autism diagnosis to becoming a university professor and an author of several books on autism. As you step into this episode, you’ll be privy to Dr. Shore's personal anecdotes, offering a unique glimpse into his childhood, growing up autistic, and how his parents' refusal to institutionalize him led to his successful development and return of speech. What's more? Dr. Shore takes us further into his world, shedding light on his upcoming project with PBS Broadcasting and his insightful views on autism in society today. This episode is not just about understanding autism, it's about celebrating the strengths of every individual and recognizing their potential. Get ready for an episode packed with courage, determination, and a lot of heart.Support the show

Are you ready to unlock your full creative potential? Join us on the SJ Childs Show where we engage with a former advertising copywriter, multi-talented singer-songwriter, and seasoned Hollywood writer about the transformative power of awareness and acceptance in your creative pursuit. Expect to unpack strategies to overcome fear and self-doubt as we dissect his latest book 'The Book of Practice', a valuable guide for those seeking to make their mark in the world. We assure you, this is a conversation you wouldn't want to miss!This episode offers a deep dive into understanding how recognizing your passions can set you on a path to success. We'll share practical strategies on how to manage your time, negotiate with others, and stimulate your creative juices through writing exercises. We'll also discuss the importance of self-love and acceptance and why focusing on the process rather than the outcome could be the game-changer you need in your creative journey. Lastly, we tackle the value of appreciation, goodwill, and the power of rewards in your creative journey. We'll share tips on self-motivation and how you can use rewards to drive your creative pursuits. Listen in as we discuss the importance of appreciating others' successes and investing in relationships. This episode is packed with insights and practical tips that can catapult your creative endeavors to the next level. Join us, and take that crucial step towards unlocking your creative potential today!Support the show