If you’ve ever found yourself snapping, shutting down, or spiraling after your child’s behavior, this episode will help you understand why.
In this week’s episode, Shannon unpacks what’s really going on beneath those moments — when your nervous system takes over, your emotions run high, and you react before you can think.
You’ll learn how three hidden triggers — identity, social, and loss — show up in everyday life and why your child’s “bad behavior” isn’t the real problem. It’s what that moment triggers inside of you.
Shannon shares real-life examples from parents of toddlers, tweens, teens, and young adults, showing how these triggers can hijack your calm — and how to get it back.
She’ll walk you through how to name your triggers, calm your body, and respond from your values instead of your fears, so your child hears your guidance instead of your frustration.
PLUS — Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book, Loving Through The Unexpected; Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children. Follow along on social media for updates and sneak peeks!
🎧 Listen now — and remember, Mama: it’s not the behavior. It’s the trigger beneath it.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
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When your child says things that hurt—or acts out inways that feel personal—it’s easy to let those moments sink deep.
You love them, you give everything you have, and hearing “I hate you!” or watching a meltdown unfold can break your heart.
But what if those words and behaviors aren’t about youat all?
In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mompodcast, host Shannon Urquiola shares how to separate your child’s struggle from your sense of self. You’ll learn how to respond without taking their behaviors personally, and why doing so changes everything—for you andfor them.
Shannon shares her own experiences with her son Jordan,plus a story from one of our members that inspired this episode, to remind you that your child’s words in dysregulation are not reflections of yourparenting—they’re reflections of overwhelm.
You’ll also learn her simple P.A.C.E. Yourself tool tohelp you stay calm in hard moments: Pause your story, attend to safety, co-regulate, and explain later.
Member Bonus: Your printable “P.A.C.E. Yourself” visual guide is now available inside the Member Portal and in the FILES section of the Village Facebook group.
And in case you haven’t heard… Shannon is writing abook!Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children is an honest, hopeful look at what it means to find peace and purpose when motherhood doesn’t go as planned.Follow us on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and release details!
🎙️Whether your child is yelling, refusing, or saying things that sting—this episode will help you hold steady, find compassion, and remember… It’s not about you.
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P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
🎙️ Want more support in a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!
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74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time
201.Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back
When your child is melting down, your instinct is to fix it. To solve it. To make it stop.
But here’s the truth—before you can teach regulation, you have to model it.
In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast, Shannon dives deep into why emotional validation is the foundation for every behavioral strategy that actually works.She explains what “feelings first” really looks like in real life, shares real-life scenarios from Jordan (now 29), and offers concrete phrases and resets to help your child feel safe before you address behavior.
You’ll also hear about her upcoming book, When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting an Autistic Child, coming in 2026 — written straight from her heart for moms just like you.
Because when you learn to see the feeling before the behavior, you begin to change everything — startingwith yourself.
🎧 Listen now wherever you stream podcasts.
💙 Connect | Coach | Community: www.notyouraverageautismmom.com
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We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
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Advocating is part of everyday life when you’re raising a child on the autism spectrum — but it can also be exhausting. In this episode, Shannon shares how to manageyour energy so you can advocate effectively without burning out. Learn how to protect your peace, choose your battles wisely, and sustain your advocacy over the long haul.
Shannon also recommends revisiting Episode 157, “Reframing Defeat; Your Child’s Progressis Closer Than You Think,” for added insight and support.
🎧 Listen now and discover how to keep showing up — notjust for your child, but for yourself and your family — with calm confidence and energy that lasts.
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates withyou, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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Life runs on rules—and our kids need practice learning them at home so they can navigate the real world with safety and confidence. In this episode, Shannon shares why rules aren’t harsh or unfair; they’re loving preparation. You’ll learn how to make expectations clear, follow through consistently, and use consequences that teach (not scare).
Shannon opens up about Jordan’s electronics story—why she used to give in, how taking devices away at 24 was the hardest season, and the freedom that followed. No judgment here—just encouragement, clarity, and one simple challenge to help you start today.
I was honored to join Nichole Berlie on News Nation NOW ahead of the administration's press conference on autism & the search for causes.
My hope is that research continues—but without blame or shame for parents. Families deserve support and answers.
Watch at the link below:
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
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Episode 146. The Myth of “One Day”; Spectrum of Strengths
Pragmatic language is about more than just talking—it’s the invisible set of social rules that help conversations flow and relationships grow. For children on the spectrum, these skills can be tricky, but they’re also essential, especially as they move from elementary into middle school.
In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon explains what pragmatic language really means, why it matters so much, and how you can practice these skills at home. You’ll walk away with practical strategies, everyday examples, and a new perspective on helping your child build confidence and connection—one conversation at a time. And if you missed it, Shannon was recently featured on News Nation Now with Nichole Berlie, ahead of the administration’s autism announcement on September 22nd. She shares her perspective as a mom raising an autistic son and as the founder of Not Your Average Autism Mom.
Every chance she gets to use her voice for families like ours is a privilege—and this conversation was no exception. 💙
They talked about what it means to raise children on the spectrum, the challenges families face, and why representation in these national conversations matters so much.
If you missed it, you can watch the full interview here ⬇️👉 Watch Now
I’m always grateful for opportunities like this to shine a light on our families and children. Thank you for being here and being part of this journey with me. 💙
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Episode 148: Shifting Perspective; Looking Through A Different Lens
In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mompodcast, Shannon Urquiola talks about the long game of independence and why the little skills your child learns today matter so much for their future.
Letting go isn’t easy, but when you nurture their confidence through small, everyday moments, you’re laying the foundation for big freedoms later on.
Shannon also unpacks the difference between parentingfor your comfort versus parenting for their future—and why that shift is one of the most powerful things you can do. If you’ve ever struggled with holding on too tightly, this conversation will give you both encouragementand a gentle nudge forward.
Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminderthat you’re stronger than you think. 💙
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We can overcome challenges and create a brighter futurefor our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? Whenyou're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
www.notyouraverageautismmom.com
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement groupon FB
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74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time
133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence
You’re not alone in this, Mama. We’ll get through ittogether—just like we always do.
And above all, remember…
YOU are doing AMAZING at this MOM thing!
Letting go is one of the hardest things we face as moms, and when you’re raising a child on the spectrum, it often feels impossible. In this episode, Shannon opens up about her own struggles with overprotection—why she did too much for too long, and how it actually stalled Jordan’s independence. She explains why stepping back, even when it feels uncomfortable, is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child, and how safe struggles (like we talked about in last week’s episode) not only build confidence for your child, but resilience for you as their mom.
You’ll learn practical strategies to manage your own anxiety in the moment, reframe those fearful “what ifs,” and begin creating opportunities for your child to try, grow, and succeed on their own terms. If you’ve ever thought, “It’s just easier if I do it myself,” this episode will challenge and encourage you to pause, breathe, and remember that easier for us doesn’t always mean better for them.
Join Shannon for an honest, heartfelt conversation about why letting go matters—and how both you and your child can grow through it.
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? Want to work with me? When you're ready to take control and see different results in your life, check out our private membership at Not Your Average Autism Mom
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why can’t they just remember what I said?”—this episode is for you.
Because sometimes, holding it together means understanding why their brain can’t always hold on.
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
157. Reframing Defeat; Your Child’s Progress is Closer Than You Think
Struggle isn’t something most moms want to see theirkids go through — but what if I told you that safe struggles are one of the greatest gifts you can give your child?
In this episode, I’m breaking down why stepping back(instead of swooping in) matters so much for kids on the spectrum.
You’ll also hear a few Jordan stories that show how these lessons play out in real life.
If you’ve been caught in rescue mode, this episode willencourage you to loosen your grip just enough to let your child learn, grow, and surprise you.
Real progress isn’t about perfection—it’s aboutpracticing real life, one small step at a time.
Tune in, breathe deep, and let’s keep building theirbright, independent futures together!
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We can overcome challenges and create a brighter futurefor our families.
P.S.- Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? Whenyou're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources tosave you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us totalk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
222. Locked Pantries and Naked Kids; Autism Parenting Chronicles
223. What to do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)
In this special Listener Q & A episode, Shannon answers real questions from moms, a grandmother, a para, and even a special education teacher. From after-school meltdowns and silent shutdowns to IEP meetings, repetitive questions, friendships, independence, and handling judgment in public — these are the real struggles happening in homes just like yours.
You’ll hear practical strategies, the exact questions to ask yourself (and your child or team), and ways to handle these challenges without feeling so alone. Shannon also points you back to past episodes for deeper dives into some of the most asked-about topics.
If you’ve ever thought, “Is it just me?” — this episode will remind you it’s not. These questions could have come straight from your living room.
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
Get Details HERE
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors
124. What to do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)
Bullying is a fear every parent carries — but for thoseof us raising children on the autism spectrum, there’s a deeper layer. What if it happens… and they can’t tell us?
In this episode, I’m talking about why our kids are morevulnerable to bullying, the signs you might see (especially if your child is non-speaking, minimally verbal, or non-communicative), and how to move from that gut-punch emotional reaction into clear, confident action.
We’ll cover:
If this is one of your biggest fears — I see you. AndI’m here to help you protect your child and give you the tools to act, even in the face of the unknown.
Tune in for actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement, because you are not alone on this journey!
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughtsand experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
We can overcome challenges and create a brighter futurefor our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? Whenyou're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources tosave you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
Get Details HERE
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us totalk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors
124. What to do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)
In this episode, Shannon breaks down why “just stay calm” is one of the most misleading pieces of advice parents of autistic children hear—and what to focus on instead. Calm and regulation are not the same thing, and confusing them can leave you feeling like you’re failing.
Shannon explains how kids pick up instantly when your words and your body don’t match, why chasing calm can backfire, and how your regulation—not your calm—becomes the anchor your child needs. You’ll learn co-regulation strategies and discover simple tools to create space before reacting.
If you’ve ever felt like you can’t keep it together during meltdowns, this episode will help you shift your focus from perfection to connection, and from chasing calm to building true regulation.
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Want more support from a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, coaching, and exclusive resources!
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time
201. Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back
We’re back—and this time, we’re on video too! In this first brand-new episode since our Best Of Summer Series, Shannon shares her best advice for heading into a new school year when your child has an IEP.
From prompting to paperwork to parent rights, this episode breaks down the 5 Big Back-to-School IEP Buckets every autism parent should understand. Plus, you’ll hear common misconceptions that trip parents up and get a pep talk to remind you—you’ve got this.
Whether it’s your first year navigating special education or you’re a seasoned advocate, this episode will help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to lead your child’s IEP team with confidence.
📺 Now available on video too! Watch on Spotify or listen as always—whichever way you tune in, we’re just glad you’re here.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with us! Together, we are stronger.
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership at Not Your Average Autism Mom.com
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be. https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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BEST OF SUMMER SERIES FINALE 🌞
Back-to-school is here… and with it comes big decisions.
Does inclusion really work for my child? What if it’s too much—or not enough? How do I even know what’s best?
This final episode in our Best of Summer series is one you don’t want to miss.
Why? Because inclusion isn’t one-size-fits-all, and this conversation will help you figure out what’s right for YOUR children, right now.
Join Shannon as she unpacks the nuances of inclusion, breaking it down by age groups and sharing real-life scenarios to help you navigate this complex decision. You’ll learn why the IEP is a fluid document, how to reassess your child’s needs over time, and why what works now might not work later.
Whether you’re considering inclusion for the first time or reevaluating your current plan, this episode offers practical strategies, thoughtful insights, and a reminder that YOU are the expert on your child’s needs.
💡 Tune in to gain clarity, confidence, and inspiration for your parenting journey!
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
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Ever notice how even the smallest change can lead to a big meltdown? Like you changed the order of errands… or dinner was late… or a visitor dropped by unexpectedly.
It’s not “just behavior.”
For our kids, unpredictability can feel like the ground is shifting under their feet. In this episode, I talk about why uncertainty is so hard for our kids—and how we can help them feel more secure when routines go out the window (hello, summer chaos 🫠).
In this episode, Shannon unpacks strategies for creating a sense of predictability, including mental maps, structured routines, and sensory tools to help your child feel more secure. You’ll gain practical tips to navigate these
challenging moments and be reminded that even when it feels hard, you are doing AMAZING at this mom thing.
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
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74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time
201. Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back
In this BEST OF SUMMER series re-release, we tackle the complex and often puzzling topic of regression in autism. Summer is the perfect time to revisit this topic. Regression can be a challenging part of the autism journey, where children may lose skills they previously had acquired, such as language, social abilities, or motor functions.
Join us as we explore what regression looks like, share real-life examples, and provide practical strategies to help your child regain their skills and confidence.
We’ll discuss ways to support your child through this phase, from speech therapy and visual aids to creating a safe environment and managing stress. Remember, regression is often a part of the journey, and with patience, understanding, and the right tools, you and your child can navigate through it successfully.
Tune in for encouragement, insights, and actionable advice to help you keep going, stay strong, and never give up. You’ve got this!
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership!
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
In this powerful re-release from our BEST OF SUMMER series, Shannon brings back one of the most heartfelt and relatable episodes for moms navigating a new autism diagnosis.
She explores why so many parents are scared to say the word autism out loud, the weight of the label, and the emotional experience of explaining the diagnosis to others. Through real-life scenarios and honest encouragement, Shannon reminds us that being autistic doesn’t mean being less-than — it simply means experiencing the world differently.
You’ll walk away with specific things you can say when you don’t know what to say, a new perspective on what autism really means, and the confidence to start speaking your truth.
This one is for every mom who’s ever whispered the word, avoided the conversation, or questioned whether she’s doing this right.
Whether you’re still sitting in fear or just unsure how to explain things to others, this episode will give you perspective, courage, and practical support. Because the more you talk about it, the easier it becomes.
And remember — your child isn’t broken. They’re just different. And different isn’t bad.
Tune in for actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement, because you are not alone on this journey!
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
Get Details HERE
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors
124. What to do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)
This Best of Summer episode is for every autism mom who’s ever found herself locked in a battle of wills with her child—especially during the tween, teen, or young adult years.
In this honest and solution-focused conversation, Shannon dives into what’s really behind those power struggles, resistance, and seemingly defiant behaviors. She shares why arguments escalate, how to recognize red herrings (those sneaky distractions that derail progress), and what to do instead.
You’ll walk away with strategies to create calm, reduce conflict, and set boundaries that actually stick—all while staying grounded and connected to your child.
Whether your child slams doors, talks back, or pushes every single boundary—this episode will help you bring peace to your parenting and power to your presence.
Tune in to learn how to navigate defiance with confidence and build a more peaceful home environment.
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership! Get access to exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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This episode struck a deep chord with so many of you—and that’s why it’s part of our Best of Summer series.
Too often, our children are underestimated simply because they’re autistic. In this episode, Shannon revisits the powerful reminder that low expectations can become invisible barriers—and how shifting our mindset can open up opportunities we never imagined.
Whether it’s at school, at home, or in the community, your child deserves to be seen for who they are and what they’re capable of. Shannon shares stories, lessons learned from raising Jordan, and ways you can start raising the bar while still honoring your child’s individual journey.
💡 This one’s about encouragement, belief, and the quiet strength it takes to expect more when others expect less.
Join Shannon for an inspiring conversation about raising the bar for your child and believing in their abilities, no matter what others might say. Whether you have
a son or daughter on the spectrum, this episode will remind you to stop saying “They can’t” and start believing in “They will.”
Tune in for encouragement, insights, and actionable advice to help you keep going, stay strong, and never give up. You’ve got this!
🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership at Not Your Average Autism Mom.com
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly
understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
70. What Do You Make Their Behavior Mean?
124. What To Do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)
In this Best of Summer favorite, Shannon returns to one of the most raw and relatable topics in autism parenting—behavior.
From meltdowns and aggression to sensory challenges and emotional outbursts, this episode is for every mom trying to stay calm in the chaos while figuring out what their child’s behavior is trying to say.
With heartfelt honesty, Shannon shares her personal stories as Jordan’s mom and brings in the lived experiences of other moms inside the NYAAM community. You’ll learn practical, real-world strategies to teach replacement behaviors, set boundaries with love, and manage your own emotions when things feel out of control.
This episode is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out—and that grace under pressure is a skill we learn, one step at a time.
In this episode of Not Your Average Autism Mom, Shannon dives into one of the most challenging aspects of raising a child on the spectrum—managing behaviors. With heartfelt stories from her own journey as Jordan’s mom and insights from moms in the NYAAM community, she explores how to balance understanding and validating your child while setting clear boundaries and expectations.
Shannon shares practical strategies for managing meltdowns, teaching replacement behaviors, and building your resilience muscle along the way. You’ll learn why it’s okay not to have all the answers and how every twist and turn is an opportunity for growth—for both you and your child.
Whether you’re navigating aggression, sensory challenges, or emotional outbursts, this episode reminds you that you’re not alone. Together, you and your child will figure it out, one step at a time.
Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminder that you’re stronger than you think. 💙
🌟 Leave a Review:
If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.
Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.
Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
Have you listened to these episodes yet?
