In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon explores a powerful and often overlooked topic in autism families: parentification — when children, especially siblings of autistic kids, take on adult roles far tooearly.

Are they helping… or quietly carrying too much?

Shannon shares real-life stories, signs to look for, and strategies to ensure your typically-developing child doesn’t lose their childhood in the chaos of caregiving. She opens up about her own intentional journey as a mom, how sheprotected her daughter Maddie from taking on that “third parent” role, and how the sibling relationship between Maddie and Jordan beautifully unfolded later in life — on their own terms.

You’ll walk away with greater awareness, practical ways to shift emotional weight back to where it belongs, and a gentle reminder: there is no perfect sibling bond — only what’s right for your family.

Whether your children are close or distant, growing together or still finding their way — this conversation is for you.

Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminder that you’re stronger than you think. 💙

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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 privatemembership.

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If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠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 it together—just like we always do. And above all, remember… YOU are doing AMAZING at this MOM thing!