Imagine stepping into the world of a special education teacher who navigates the same trials and triumphs at home with her own autistic son as she does with her students. Meet Darcy Lippman, a remarkable mother and educator who joins me, Tony Mantor, to unravel the rich tapestry of her experiences with her son. Through Darcy's eyes, we traverse the early days of Jiren's life, confronting developmental delays with a cocktail of love, patience, and early interventions.  Our heartfelt conversation pulls back the curtain on the daily resilience required in parenting and educating a child with autism, offering a treasure map of strategies and support systems for fellow travelers on this path.  Darcy doesn't just share her journey; she gifts us with the wisdom of her dual perspective, shedding light on how professional expertise in the classroom intersects with the emotional realities of home.  Our discourse ventures into the intricate dance of "masking" and societal perceptions that often leave autistic children and their needs in the shadows.  This episode is an invitation for you to grab a front-row seat as we navigate the landscape of autism education, from the disparities in services for verbal autistic children to the enlightening experiences of sitting on both sides of the special education table. In the powerful narrative of Darcy's life, we also celebrate the extraordinary role of alternative therapies, like the magic of horse therapy, in fostering communication and emotional regulation for children like Jiren.  As we wrap up our discussion, we touch upon the critical role of community support, the balance needed in parenting, and the confidence to embrace your own unique path. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a beacon of hope and affirmation for anyone who loves a child with a disability, emphasizing that while the journey may be challenging, it's also replete with moments of profound joy and growth.  Join us as we share stories, strategies, and the unspoken bond that connects us all in the realm of autism. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)