In this episode of 'Finding Hope on the Spectrum,' host Brooke reconnects with Gail Ludwig, RDI® Program Certified Consultant and Licensed Speech Language Pathologist, for the first installment of a three-part series exploring the foundational elements of RDI® (Relationship Development Intervention). This episode focuses on experience sharing as the cornerstone of all human connection and relationships. The conversation examines how experience sharing develops naturally in typical childhood development and provides practical strategies for RDI® consultants and families working with autistic individuals. Gail shares personal stories from her experiences as both a professional and grandmother, illustrating the profound joy that comes from meaningful emotional connections. The discussion emphasizes that experience sharing is a fundamental human right and explores how to create optimal environments for fostering these crucial developmental milestones at any age or ability level.
00:00 Opening Story: The Baby Whisperer
00:31 The Energy of Connection and Regulation
01:05 Welcome to Finding Hope on the Spectrum
02:00 Introducing the Three-Part RDI® Series
04:00 Meet Gail Ludwig: RDI Expert and Speech Pathologist
04:32 Experience Sharing as Foundation of Human Connection
06:00 Typical Development: First Two Months
08:00 The Role of Emotional Regulation
09:00 Personal Stories: Soothing Granddaughters
10:00 Creating Comfort and Safety
11:08 Social Smiles: Two to Three Months
12:51 The Beginning of Back-and-Forth Flow
13:57 Shared Joy and Turn-Taking: Four to Five Months
15:40 Personal Reflections on Connecting with Grandchildren
18:18 The Human Right to Connection
19:37 Recognition and Shared Affect: Six to Seven Months
21:31 Emotional Referencing and Seeking Support
22:35 Intentional Interaction: Eight to Nine Months
24:51 Joint Attention and Complex Sharing: Ten to Twelve Months
26:29 Referencing for Approval and Boundary Testing
29:11 Personal Story: Anticipation and Connection
29:45 The First Relationship Book Reference
31:52 Understanding Autism and Experience Sharing Challenges
35:00 Creating Regulation and Safety
36:46 Removing Sensory Overload
40:02 Finding Meaningful Activities for Each Child
42:29 Declarative Communication and Taking Pressure Off
45:01 The Power of Anticipation and Transition Cues
46:25 Co-Regulatory Patterns in RDI Work
48:43 Framing Interactions for Success
49:43 Nonverbal Experience Sharing
51:00 Experience Sharing Across All Ages
52:22 The Gift of Shared Joy for FamiliesConnect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:
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Recommended Resources
The First Relationship, by Daniel Stern
