Episodios

  • The Harmony of Parenting: Insights with Craig Parks
    May 22 2025

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Craig from
    Parenting Harmony, as we discuss his passion for empowering families through
    connection, mindfulness, music, and play. Craig shares his personal story and
    professional insights tailored to help families, especially those in the autism
    community, create more meaningful and joyful parenting experiences.



    Episode Highlights:



    ·
    Craig tells us about his background and what
    motivated him to create Parenting Harmony.



    ·
    Learn about "Parenting A to E" and
    how it empowers parents to cultivate memorable moments with their kids.



    ·
    Craig emphasizes the crucial role of
    "Affect" in parenting. Discover how this concept helps build stronger
    bonds between parents and their children.



    ·
    Simple, actionable examples of using tone,
    body language, and presence to increase trust and connection in family
    relationships.



    ·
    Explore how letting go of societal
    expectations can improve a parent's well-being and why this shift is so
    important.



    ·
    Craig offers a peek into the music- and
    play-based activities featured in his Parenting A to E course that help nurture
    relationships and create joy in everyday parenting moments.



    ·
    Listen in as Craig shares one of his original
    songs, a special treat that adds even more heart to this episode.



    Don't miss this engaging and insightful discussion as we
    learn parenting techniques that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary
    connections.



    Connect with Craig:



    For more information or to connect directly with Craig,
    visit his website at
    ParentingHarmony.com
    or follow him on Instagram at
    @ParentingHarmony
    or on Facebook at
    https://www.facebook.com/craigparksmusic/



    Thank you for listening, and we hope this episode
    inspires you on your parenting journey!



    Connect With Us:




    • Follow
      us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle


    • Email
      us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com


    • Learn
      more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com




    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need
    Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

    #autism #autismparenting #parenting #specialneedskids

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    33 m
  • Building Harmony at Home: Anastasia Arauz on Supporting Neurodivergent Families
    May 8 2025

    This episode features an inspiring conversation with Anastasia Arauz, founder of Live Life with Clarity. Anastasia brings over 20 years of experience working with autistic children in public schools and private therapy to her mission of helping families create balance, break generational trauma, and foster healthy systems. Her rich background as a family counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and coach adds depth to her approach and makes her expertise a must-hear for families navigating similar challenges.
    Key Topics Discussed:
    •Developing Healthy Family Systems: Anastasia shares her approach to coaching families and helping them build balanced, supportive environments while cultivating a healthy mindset.
    •Traveling with Neurodivergent Children: Practical tips and strategies for making family trips smoother and more enjoyable for children with neurodivergence.
    •Setting Structure in the Home: The challenges families face in creating routines and structures that work for neurodivergent children and support the entire household.
    •Supporting Siblings of Neurodivergent Children: Insightful advice on helping neurotypical siblings understand and support their siblings while maintaining a balanced sense of attention for all children.
    •Maintaining Family Connection: Exploring ways to create harmony, celebrate progress, and maintain strong bonds across all family members.
    This episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt wisdom for families seeking to strengthen their relationships and create positive environments for everyone at home.
    Connect with Anastasia:
    For more guidance and support from Anastasia Arauz, you can reach out directly:
    •Website: www.anastasiaarauzcoaching.com
    •Email: anastasiaj37@gmail.com
    •Phone: (919) 423-3820
    Don’t miss this insightful discussion! Share this episode with friends and family who may benefit from Anastasia’s expertise, and connect with her to discover practical tools and resources for your family’s needs.
    Connect With Us:
    •Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    •Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    •Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com
    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ #piecesformypuzzle #parentingspecialneeds #SPED #autism #autismawareness #autismkids #autismparent #autismmom #autismdad

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    36 m
  • Guiding Families Through Complexity: Michelle Choairy on Parenting, Advocacy, and Clarity
    May 1 2025

    Join us for an insightful episode featuring Michelle Choairy, founder of Collective Wisdom 4 Complex Kids. Michelle shares her inspiring personal story as the mother of Drake, her son with a rare genetic disorder known as TBR1, which causes autistic traits. Her experience navigating the challenges of raising a complex child led her to create Collective Wisdom 4 Complex Kids, a platform dedicated to guiding families from confusion to clarity.
    What You’ll Learn:
    •Understanding Complex Kids
    Michelle shares valuable advice for parents unsure about seeking professional help for their child’s behavior or developmental delays. She also dives into her 5-step process designed to help parents connect with and understand their children who may struggle with communication.
    •Empowering Parents
    Learn actionable strategies for advocating effectively in schools and healthcare settings. Michelle also opens up about helping parents overcome feelings of guilt or inadequacy, often referred to as the “bad mom” mindset.
    •Family Dynamics and Positivity
    Discover how families can create more positive and supportive environments for everyone in the household. Michelle brings creative ideas to celebrate small wins and foster more understanding among family members.
    •Broader Insights
    Michelle debunks common misconceptions about raising complex kids and leaves parents with an essential piece of advice for those just beginning their journeys.
    Connect with Michelle:
    If you’d like to learn more or connect with Michelle, here’s how you can reach her:
    •Website: http://wisdom4complexkids.com •Email: michellechoairy@gmail.com
    •LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellechoairy/ •Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Choairym •Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle.choairy/ Call-to-Action:
    Don’t miss this heartfelt and empowering episode filled with practical tips and inspiration. Share it with other parents or caregivers who could benefit from Michelle’s wisdom, and be sure to connect with her to explore how her guidance can help your family!
    Connect With Us:
    Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com
    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

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    36 m
  • S2E47: Breaking Barriers: Inclusive Education for Neurodiverse Children with Gail Ewell
    Apr 23 2025

    In this inspiring and insightful episode of Pieces For My Puzzle, we sit down with Gail Ewell, a pioneer in special needs education and the executive director of Hope Technology School in Palo Alto, California. Gail has dedicated her career to transforming education systems to empower neurodiverse children and foster truly inclusive learning environments.

    During our conversation, Gail shares her personal and professional story, discussing what inspired her to focus on special needs education and how her experiences as a parent of two boys with autism have shaped her groundbreaking approach. We explore the challenges neurodiverse children and their families continue to face, the power of inclusive classrooms in addressing these needs, and how educational policies can evolve to create more equitable systems.

    Gail also opens up about how technology has become a game-changer at Hope Technology School, helping to dismantle barriers for neurodiverse students and enabling personalized learning experiences. For educators, families, and community leaders, she provides actionable advice on how to take the first steps toward building inclusive and accessible education systems.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Gail’s background and what led her to champion inclusive education
    • The unique and innovative approach of Hope Technology School
    • The role of inclusive classrooms in meeting social, emotional, and intellectual needs
    • Challenges families with neurodiverse children face in traditional school systems
    • How technology is helping redefine education for students of all abilities
    • Practical steps for schools and educators to create inclusive learning environments
    • Gail’s vision for the future of education and what it could mean for children of all abilities

    If you're an educator, parent, or advocate for neurodiverse children, this episode is packed with meaningful insights and tangible strategies to create a brighter future for all learners.

    🎧 Tune in now to learn from one of the leading voices in inclusive education!

    Connect with Gail:

    Website: https://hopetechschool.org/

    Phone Number: (650) 565-8391

    Email: tellmemore@hopetech.org

    Linkedin Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gail-ewell-2554124b/


    Connect With Us:


    • Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    • Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com

    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

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    33 m
  • S2E46: Breaking the Teen Connection Code with Parenting Coach Jeanine Mouchawar
    Apr 17 2025

    Parenting teenagers isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to feel impossible. This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Jeanine Mouchawar, a seasoned life coach who specializes in helping parents foster meaningful, conflict-free relationships with their teens. Jeanine combines her personal parenting experience of raising three children—including a neurodivergent child—with her expertise in communication strategies to transform chaos into connection.

    During this episode, Jeanine shares her personal parenting story and reveals powerful strategies to help parents overcome challenges like miscommunication, social media stress, academic pressure, and mental health concerns. Whether you’re parenting neurotypical or neurodivergent teens, Jeanine’s insights will empower you with the tools to create a calm, cooperative home and rebuild trust, even if it feels like it’s already been lost.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Jeanine's personal parenting transformation and why she became a parenting coach
    • Why parents today struggle to connect with their teens
    • Common mistakes parents make with teen communication—and how to avoid them
    • Strategies for supporting teens through social media, academic pressure, and mental health challenges
    • Shifting from controlling to guiding your teen, and the mindset shift required
    • Practical steps to rebuild trust and communication with your teenager
    • Jeanine’s insights into parenting neurodivergent teens, using her own experience

    You’ll also hear an inspiring success story from one of Jeanine’s clients and get a sneak peek into her free guide, “5 Questions That Get Teens Talking.”

    Connect with Jeanine:

    Learn more about Jeanine’s coaching services at http://www.jeaninemouchawar.com/

    Phone Number: (949) 395-3338

    E-mail: jeanine@jeaninemouchawar.com

    Linkedin Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaninemouchawar/

    Facebook Profile Link: https://www.facebook.com/jeaninemouchawarcoaching

    Instagram Profile Link: @jeanine.theparentingcoach

    Don’t miss this opportunity to gain perspective and tools you can use immediately to transform your parenting approach. Hit play now!


    Connect With Us:

    • Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    • Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/
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    39 m
  • Unleashing Potential: How EBL Coaching Empowers Special Needs Learners with Dr. Emily Levy
    Apr 10 2025

    Education expert and founder of EBL Coaching, Dr. Emily Levy, joins us to share her incredible insights on helping children with special needs excel academically. With decades of experience, Dr. Levy has developed groundbreaking, research-backed teaching methods, including multi-sensory and individualized instruction, that have transformed the way students learn.

    During this episode, you'll learn about:

    • What inspired Dr. Levy to create EBL Coaching and her commitment to multi-sensory teaching techniques.
    • Practical strategies parents can use to advocate for their child's education.
    • How to spot signs that a child may need additional academic support or intervention.
    • The key role executive functioning skills play in a student's overall success.
    • How EBL's virtual and in-home coaching programs can be customized for diverse learners.
    • Ways to reduce the overwhelm of navigating the education system and take effective action.

    If you're a parent, educator, or professional eager to learn more about supporting children with unique learning needs, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable tips.

    About Dr. Levy:

    Dr. Emily Levy is a renowned education expert, author, and founder of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program offering personalized instruction for children with special needs. With advanced degrees in special education and over a decade of research in innovative teaching methods, she has helped thousands of students unlock their academic potential. Dr. Levy is also the author of several educational workbook series that are used in schools across the country.

    Tune in and discover how EBL Coaching is shaping the future of individualized education!

    Interested in learning more about EBL Coaching or Dr. Emily Levy’s teaching methods? Visit EBL Coaching's website to explore their tutoring programs or grab a copy of her educational workbooks today!

    Don’t miss this inspiring and informative episode! 🎙️✨

    Connect with Dr. Levy:

    • Website: https://eblcoaching.com/
    • Phone Number: (212) 249-0147
    • E-mail: elevy@eblcoaching.com


    Connect With Us:

    • Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    • Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com

    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

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    24 m
  • S2E44: The Harmony of Healing: Exploring Music Therapy and Autism
    Apr 3 2025

    Music is more than just entertainment—it's a powerful tool for connection, communication, and healing. On today’s episode, we sit down with Samantha Foote, a board-certified music therapist and expert in neurodivergent care, to explore how music therapy can transform the lives of children with autism and other neurodivergent conditions.

    With a career built on strengthening family bonds, enhancing social skills, and building emotional awareness, Samantha brings incredible insights and real-world examples of the life-changing power of music.

    What you’ll learn in this episode:

    • What music therapy is and how it works
    • The unique benefits of music therapy for children with autism
    • Real-life success stories of families impacted by music therapy
    • Practical advice for parents and caregivers considering music therapy
    • Insights into Samantha's podcast, Every Brain is Different, and the key messages it delivers

    About Our Guest:

    Samantha Foote is a passionate advocate for empowering parents, children, and adults through music therapy. With a Bachelor’s Degree from Utah State University and a Master’s Degree in Music Therapy from Colorado State University, Samantha is an expert in her field. She holds several advanced certifications, including Neurological Music Therapy Fellow and Positive Discipline Parent Educator.

    When she’s not working with families, Samantha enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and children through activities like fishing, camping, and hiking.

    Connect with Samantha:

    • Website: https://www.boisemusictherapycompany.com/
    • Podcast: Every Brain is Different https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/podcast
    • Phone Number: (208) 739-5469
    • E-mail: samantha@boisemusictherapycompany.com


    Connect With Us:

    • Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    • Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/


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    25 m
  • S2E43: Nurturing Digital Balance Through Play
    Mar 20 2025

    Join us this week as we welcome the inspiring Zorina Pritchett to the show! Creator of ZomadicShift and founder of ZoChey, Zorina is not just a game designer—she’s a storyteller, a passionate advocate for children, and a champion of digital balance. After a 30-year career helping veterans access benefits as an Army Veteran herself, Zorina embarked on a new chapter by creating "Pass-n-Play," an innovative card game designed to engage, educate, and spark joy for kids and families.

    If you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver wondering how to help children strike a healthy balance between screen time and physical play, this episode is for you. Zorina shares her personal story, the inspiration behind her games, and actionable strategies to encourage digital breaks. We’ll even demo her popular game so you can imagine the fun firsthand!

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • Zorina's transition from caregiving and military service to entrepreneurship
    • The inspiration behind "Pass-n-Play" and ZomadicShift
    • Real feedback from kids and families about the game
    • The challenges and rewards of starting a business at 60
    • Why digital balance is critical for kids today
    • How "Pass-n-Play" encourages creativity, laughter, and connection
    • Tips for parents and educators to create a healthy play routine

    Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    Want to learn more about Zorina and "Pass-n-Play"? Check out her website at ZoChey! https://zochey.com/

    Buy the game: https://www.walmart.com/search?q=ZoChey&facet=brand:ZoChey


    Connect With Us:

    • Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle
    • Email us: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com
    • Learn more: www.piecesformypuzzle.com

    Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/



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    38 m
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