Episodes
Struggling with toddler biting? Dr. Mary Barbera offers a 4-step method to address biting behavior, emphasizing understanding the underlying causes and implementing positive strategies. Learn why biting isn't just a phase and explore assessments to determine triggers and give proactive responses and alternatives to prevent and manage biting incidents, fostering positive behavior in toddlers. Tune in to stop biting and promote a safe, supportive environment for your toddler's development.
Published 05/07/24
Published 05/07/24
Today, Dr. Mary Barbera offers three simple assessments for parents concerned about their toddler's behavior. These assessments include language sampling, baseline video recordings of play, and the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment™ (BECA). By utilizing these tools, parents can gain insights into their child's development and identify potential areas of concern or strength. These assessments empower parents to take proactive steps in supporting their child's development and seeking further...
Published 04/30/24
In today's rebroadcast, learn effective strategies to address toddler hitting and throwing behaviors. Join Dr. Mary Barbera and Rachel Smith, Program Director for Positive Toddler Parenting™, as she shares her experience with her son Everett and discusses child-friendly solutions, prevention techniques, neutral discussions, and attention removal strategies to curb problem behaviors. These methods, adaptable for children with or without developmental delays, aim to promote positive...
Published 04/23/24
Dr. Mary Barbera and Rachel discusses how to start preparing toddlers for a new sibling. You'll learn about timing considerations, practical strategies, emphasizing safety and smooth transitions. These tips include involving children in preparations, maintaining routines, and fostering a supportive environment. All of these tips should help ease your child into the addition of a new family member more readily.
Published 04/16/24
In this episode, Dr. Mary Barbera announces the end of the Turn Autism Around® podcast, but embraces a new journey as Positive Toddler Parenting™. The transition reflects a broader focus on toddler development and parenting, aiming to support all families. The rebranding introduces the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment (BECA)™ tool and offers practical solutions for various developmental challenges. While still valuable for autism families, the podcast now caters to a wider audience. Join us...
Published 04/09/24
Learn about the essence of social skills development with BCBA Kelly McKinnon-Birmingham. She and Dr. Mary Barbera go over the significance of joint attention beyond mere eye contact and its role in transitioning to group learning, effective classroom management strategies and the power of positive reinforcement in fostering a conducive learning environment. Learn about Kelly's unique stress reduction practices, including the transformative concept of non-contingent Sundays for family...
Published 04/02/24
Dr. Mary Barbera explores the intricacies of love and autism with insights from "Love on the Spectrum" Season 2. Learn about the series' portrayal of love, challenges, and misconceptions surrounding autism, highlighting the significance of representation and support in media. The show involves and empowers autistic adults while showcasing the diverse spectrum of experiences.
Published 03/26/24
Dr. Mary Barbera interviews her son Spencer, sharing his experiences growing up with a brother with autism. Spencer, now entering medical school, offers valuable insights and advice for siblings of autism, highlighting resilience, compassion, and the importance of family support. Discover their journey, challenges, and decisions regarding guardianship for Lucas. A touching exploration of sibling dynamics and the strength of family bonds in navigating autism.
Published 03/19/24
Dr. Mary Barbera explores the latest in autism research, focusing on Dr. Karen Parker's study on intranasal vasopressin. Despite challenges, such as translating animal model research to human application, vasopressin shows promise in improving social behavior and reducing anxiety in children with autism. Supported by the Simons Foundation, this research highlights potential breakthroughs in autism treatment. Join the movement through initiatives like the SPARK program, fostering collaboration...
Published 03/12/24
Mary Barbera and Lisa Houseworth, an ABA expert, mother, and blogger from Cruising with Kruz discuss navigating autism preschool choices. From recognizing early signs to embracing intensive ABA therapy, Lisa discusses the transformative impact of personalized interventions. Discover the challenges of transitioning to school-based programs and the importance of parental advocacy. Lisa's journey offers practical advice and hope for families seeking the right placement for their children with...
Published 03/05/24
Dr. Mary Barbera discusses the realities of autism waitlists and steps to navigate them effectively in this podcast. She addresses the emotional toll of waiting, reasons for long waitlists, and strategies for proactive engagement while waiting. Learn how to leverage resources and advocate for your child's needs, transforming waiting time into a proactive path toward support and understanding.
Published 02/27/24
Dr. Mary Barbera goes over the importance of early autism detection and treatment through Dr. Ami Klin's groundbreaking work in this rebroadcast. Learn about the impact of early intervention on a child's developmental trajectory, focusing on the crucial birth to age 3 period. Dr. Klin's insights on preventing behavioral and speech disorders, emphasizes the significance of treating autism early.
Published 02/20/24
Learn the #1 self-care tool for teaching children with autism essential skills like hand washing and tooth brushing. The Turn Autism Around® approach helps showcase the importance of task analysis in breaking down tasks. Embrace consistent practice, positive reinforcement, and personalized teaching methods for effective learning. For anyone supporting the development of self-care skills in children with autism or toddlers showing signs, this episode is a must watch.
Published 02/13/24
Dr. Mary Barbera discusses 5 crucial legal and financial tips for parents of children with autism. From establishing a will and special needs trust to managing finances for social service eligibility, Dr. Barbera covers key strategies to secure your child's future. Learn about the importance of staying within the school system, accessing public benefits, and advocating for your child's education and healthcare needs. Empower yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions and avoid common...
Published 02/06/24
Today Dr. Mary Barbera goes over the essential three autism assessments, providing immediate support for children with autism. These free and user-friendly assessments are crucial for determining the right starting point in intervention. Dr. Mary Barbera emphasizes the significance of baseline videos, language samples, and an online digital assessment to monitor progress effectively. With clear instructions and accessible resources, this episode guides parents and caregivers on leveraging...
Published 01/30/24
Dr. Mary Barbera addresses the top five questions surrounding a child's recent autism diagnosis. From processing emotions and seeking support to navigating systems and managing expectations, the episode provides essential guidance for families. The discussion emphasizes proactive planning, personalized intervention approaches, and the importance of communicating the diagnosis to family and friends.
Published 01/23/24
Dr. Charles Barbera, autism dad and husband to Dr. Mary Barbera, opens up about their family's autism journey. From breaking through denial to dealing with grief, Charles shares his perspective and the lessons learned. The discussion touches on challenges in setting up the future for their son, pride in unique achievements, and valuable advice for autism dads navigating family dynamics post-diagnosis.
Published 01/16/24
Today, Dr. Mary Barbera shares an interview with author and advocate Carrie Cariello. As a mother to five children, including Jack, diagnosed with autism at 18 months, Carrie shares her journey and insights from her latest book, "Half My Sky." Explore topics like raising children with autism, managing relationships, and sibling dynamics and get valuable perspectives on autism, marriage, and siblinghood. Carrie's authenticity and vulnerability offer support and wisdom to those navigating the...
Published 01/09/24
Michelle C. shares her journey with her daughter Elena's autism diagnosis at the age of two. From initial dismissals to remarkable progress through early intervention and Dr. Mary Barbera's course, Michelle discusses the challenges and successes of transitioning Elena into kindergarten, the decision not to disclose her autism to the school, Michelle reflects on Elena's language development and social skills progress.
Published 01/02/24
Dr. Mary Barbera reveals the top 10 Turn Autism Around podcast episodes in 2023, as determined by listens, downloads, and views. These episodes give helpful insights for parents on the autism journey, covering subjects ranging from the gestalt language processing dispute to toilet training tactics and the influence of curated information. Dr. Barbera questions conventional wisdom about autism as a lifelong condition and investigates fresh studies on autism outcomes.
Published 12/26/23
Dr. Mary Barbera sheds light on the research suggesting that nearly 40% of diagnosed toddlers may no longer meet autism criteria between ages five and seven. Explore the controversies, impacts of adaptive skills, and the critical role of early intervention. Dr. Mary Barbera goes over the intricacies of autism recovery, intervention nuances, and potential long-term effects.
Published 12/19/23
Mary Barbera covers the benefits of early assessment through a free digital assessment tool, the challenges of pacifier addiction, and explore the importance of tackling adaptive skills in autism. My guest Izzy's experience highlights the significance of early intervention, finding the right therapy provider, and the role of parents in creating a supportive environment.
Published 12/12/23
In this episode, I cover the decision of whether to pay for private speech therapy or ABA therapy for children with autism. Going into U.S. regulations, I explore avenues for free speech therapy through early intervention programs and school districts. Emphasizing parental involvement and awareness, I also discuss potential insurance coverage for therapy services.
Published 12/05/23
Today’s topic is on teaching life skills to children with autism featuring Julie Swanson, The Life Skills Lady. Julie shares her personal journey advocating for her son with autism, leading to her expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and special education law. The episode emphasizes the importance of incorporating life skills into Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and addresses challenges faced by individuals with autism in various areas of life.
Published 11/28/23