Quirky and Autistic Parenting Podcast
If you are new to autism and parenting, this is the podcast for you. It's a funny audience–driven show for parents and autism professionals alike. Samera and her guest co-hosts, all parents to autistic children answer your fundamental questions over the two series. You ask a question, the Frank team will find the answer, they love to research and highlight relevant autism news and views, so you don’t have to. The podcast hosts do go off piste and talk about food. Samera likes cooking and her parent co-hosts love eating - a match made in heaven. Signposting references are listed in the accompanying episode’s transcript and the food consumed at recording. Recipes are included! The content of the podcast is for information purposes only and does not constitute advice.
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I want to break free
03/27/2024
I want to break free
Following a post-14 programme model Samera and her parent co-host Celeste, an NHS transitions coordinator, outline independence skills parents should consider when their young person is moving into adulthood. From how to forge independence, travel skills, and money management to options for supported living. Celeste and Samera also compare an Occupational Therapist’s recommendations, of which household chores they've managed to get their children to do. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript []. If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice.
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When tomorrow comes
03/13/2024
When tomorrow comes
When should you start preparing your young person for adulthood? Following a post-14 programme model, Samera and her parent co-host Celeste, an NHS transition coordinator, discuss what health considerations parents should be discussing with their young person moving into adulthood. From writing health and communication passports, understanding the Mental Capacity Act, to consent and STIs. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript [] If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Paul Henty Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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A change is gonna come
02/28/2024
A change is gonna come
Samera and her parent co-host Michelle, a primary school teacher, answer a listener’s question ‘ Why does my son find the same transition going into school and even going to sleep everyday, so difficult? ' Transitions are a time or process of change and it is natural that change almost always brings uncertainty. The hosts identify why autistic children may struggle with transitions and outline some successful strategies for home and school. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript [] If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Paul Henty Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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The power of love
02/14/2024
The power of love
As part of our ‘pride not prejudice’ series we wanted to give a voice to a cohort who can often be missed when talking about autism. Samera interviewed Jude a mum of three, who described parenting her non verbal 22 year old son, Marky. Jude outlined the joys and challenges they have shared as a family and his route into supported living. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript [] If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice.
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Nobody told me
01/31/2024
Nobody told me
There is a Dynamic Support Register of people that are at risk of going into hospital if they do not get the right care and treatment in the community. Samera and her NHS colleague Les explain what parents should do if their child’s mental or physical health is deteriorating. Samera and Les, who are part of the independent panel, walk parents through care, education and treatment reviews [CETRs],to know their rights and what should you ask a CETR panel. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript [] If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Through the barricades
01/17/2024
Through the barricades
What are the additional barriers when autistic and from an ethnic minority? Samera and Hayley discuss report findings from 2014 onwards where no discernable change seems to have occurred. Their guest Michelle, a teacher, works collaboratively with her students in a resourced provision and also as a parent to her autistic teen Tyler. All references in the podcast are in this episode's transcript [] If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett , Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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We can work it out
12/13/2023
We can work it out
The ‘ask Hayley episode’. Samera puts listeners' questions to our co-host and resident speech language therapist Hayley, whilst sampling regional cheeses. Hayley explains what Total Communication is, Gestalt Language Processing and recounts her recent attendance at a summit by Carol Gray the founder of social stories. There is a quick fire round and tips on how to communicate with autistic teens. All references in the podcast are in If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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You don't have to say you love me
11/29/2023
You don't have to say you love me
There are many reasons why a child is being looked after outside of their birth home. In the third episode of ‘pride not prejudice’ five foster carers share their quirky family stories wanting to make a difference. Samera enjoyed a frank discussion with the carers about the shape of their inclusive families. Known for their clangers, expertly edited out, in this episode Samera and Hayley try the Bedfordshire clanger, recipe . If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Don't get me wrong
11/15/2023
Don't get me wrong
Samera and Hayley discuss Pathological Demand Avoidance or as they prefer to call it Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. Autism can be seen as a disability of trust and their guest Tom, a trainer from the PDA Society outlines the features of PDA, identifying demands and how to build trust. Tom also shares his difficulties in getting a diagnosis for his PDAer daughter. Hayley brings her own vegetarian Worcestershire sauce for posh cheese on toast! If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Come together
11/01/2023
Come together
Back for a second series titled ‘Pride not Prejudice’ with guest contributors, Samera is also creating regional foods for Hayley, this episode it’s vegetarian Betty’s hotpot [#CoronationStreet]. Samera and Hayley discuss the most common co–occurring conditions associated with autism and what layering of diagnoses means, from gastrointestinal and sleep issues to ADHD and dyslexia. Their first guest Emma describes her life as mum to Mac, who has a learning disability, autism and Apert’s syndrome. If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Podcast Engineer: Liv Bennett, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Trail series two
09/27/2023
Trail series two
Quirky and Autistic Parenting is back with a second series of the funny audience–driven show for parents and autism professionals alike. Samera and Hayley, both parents to autistic children, answer your fundamental questions with guest contributors for this series 'Pride and Prejudice'. If you are new to autism and parenting, Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly.
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Ken Bruce: father and Son
04/05/2023
Ken Bruce: father and Son
As the ‘mighty Bruce’, starts broadcasting at Greatest Hits radio, a chance to relisten to Samera’s interview with Ken Bruce about his autobiography, career and as a father to his non-speaking autistic son, Murray. Hayley and Samera will also discuss Chris Packham’s BBC programme ‘’, which Ken and Murray also feature in. If you are new to autism and parenting, this series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Liv Bennett, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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We don't need no education. Part 2
03/22/2023
We don't need no education. Part 2
Samera and Hayley discuss why mainstream schooling is not always the right choice, parents are not failing their children and why ‘one size does not fit all in clothing or schooling’. The hosts outline what are unlawful exclusions and suggest alternative educational provisions for parents to consider. This episode also includes consequences of lockdown correspondence and some TV and book recommendations from parents, to keep you going until the next series. If you are new to autism and parenting, this series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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We don't need no education. Part 1
03/08/2023
We don't need no education. Part 1
Samera and Hayley discuss the current education model. What practices would help all children in and out of the classroom? Why do we need to give children homewor? And which triangle are you? (See the accompanying blog.) They also cover a brief history of SEND legislation, Samera’s mastermind subject and ask what your children’s favourite subject would be if they too were on Mastermind. If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Wonder of You
02/22/2023
Wonder of You
Samera and Hayley interview an autistic blogger Vicki and her ex SENDCo mother Ann, now an autism parent trainer. Vicki explains the importance of psychosocial and emotional development as Ann shares personal stories of Vicki’s adolescence. Listener's correspondence includes what parents consider their super parent characteristics. ‘Ask a question and Samera and Hayley will find the answer!’ If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting Podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Sisters are doing it for themselves
02/08/2023
Sisters are doing it for themselves
Samera and Hayley discuss what a girl wants, her diagnosis, acceptance, and support. The missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of girls and the consequences including mental health are covered in this episode. Following on from Hayley’s pre-diagnosis letter in episode 3, Samera and Hayley share listeners' tips to their pre-diagnosis selves. ‘Ask a question and Samera and Hayley will find the answer!’ If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Something inside so strong
01/25/2023
Something inside so strong
Samera and Hayley interview two leading psychologists Jo and Christine about their evidence-based parenting programme ‘Riding the Rapids.’ The ten-week course is designed to help parents feel empowered to raise their autistic children. ‘Ask a question and Samera and Hayley will find the answer!’ If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling.
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Under Pressure
01/11/2023
Under Pressure
There are a number of reasons why parents of autistic children are more under pressure than most. In this episode Samera and Hayley discuss why parents should consider self care and how to train your mind. The hosts share wellbeing strategies they personally use including ‘star trek yoga’ and ‘embroidery summits’. From habit forming to resilience and beyond, this episode also includes some great correspondence from listeners. ‘Ask a question and Samera and Hayley will find the answer!’ If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling.
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We are family
12/14/2022
We are family
Whether family is related or chosen, in this episode we take a look into family types, roles and dynamics. Lots of listeners’ questions will be answered! Do parenting styles matter and can you change yours? An autistic child’s diagnosis can cause ripples in family life, be it marital, emotional or financial. How to be a dadvocate? ‘Ask a question and Samera and Hayley will find the answer!’ All references on the podcast are in this episode's transcript If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling.
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Changes
11/30/2022
Changes
The emotional impact of a child’s autism diagnosis can affect parents in many ways. Samera and Hayley discuss post diagnostic support and share listeners’ correspondence on the matter. They outline the social model of disability and Hayley reads a personal powerful letter to her pre diagnosis self, Hayley of 2015. ‘Ask a question and they will find the answer!’ All references on the podcast are in . If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling.
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Just like starting over
11/16/2022
Just like starting over
Understanding autism has changed over time from the internal neuroscience definition to the external early development definition, and all points in between. Labelling a child is a personal parental choice, Samera and Hayley discuss the advantages and disadvantages. The diagnosis process, from who is responsible, to the diagnostic tools used and what to expect on assessment day are outlined in this episode. ‘Ask a question and they will find the answer!’ If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. All references on the podcast are in Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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We are detective
11/02/2022
We are detective
Samera and Hayley in their inaugural episode discuss the ’shape of family’ and answer listeners' questions. How do I know if my child is autistic? What are the common signs of autism? What causes autism? What sensory needs should you look out for? Share your food photos and stories in Quirky & Autistic Parenting’s food club. ‘Ask a question and they will find the answer!’ All references on the podcast are in this episode's transcript with references page at The content of this podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice. If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly. Producer: Karen Pirie, Sound Engineer: Mark Bulmer, Theme music: Alisdair Stirling
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Trail
09/21/2022
Trail
If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. It’s about ‘the shape of family’ and is a funny audience–driven show for parents and autism professionals alike! Samera and Hayley, both parents to autistic children, answer your fundamental questions over ten fortnightly episodes. If you are new to autism and parenting, the first series of the Quirky and Autistic Parenting podcast is just for you. Episodes are published fortnightly.
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