Adapting Together

Carmen Loke, Gan Xin Yi and Kevin Neoh

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Adapting Together is a Malaysian podcast dedicated to raising awareness about autism and supporting families on this journey. It’s designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and the broader community to access reliable, local, and compassionate information about autism.

FEB 7

EP 23: Supporting Reading, Writing and Spelling in Autism

Reading can be one of the most confusing and emotionally charged challenges for parents, especially when a child is navigating both autism and dyslexia. Many parents find themselves asking: Is my child struggling because of autism? Dyslexia? Or something else entirely? And how do I know what kind of help actually works? In this episode of Adapting Together, we sit down with Rachel, a Literacy Specialist who works closely with children with dyslexia and children on the autism spectrum. Drawing from her real-world experience, Rachel helps unpack what dyslexia really is, how it can look different in autistic children, and why early, accurate understanding matters so much. We explore how professionals assess children who may be facing overlapping challenges, what key patterns parents can look out for, and how reading difficulties related to dyslexia differ from autism-related learning differences. Rachel also shares practical, evidence-informed intervention approaches—along with a meaningful success story that shows what progress can look like when the right support is in place. Beyond therapy rooms, this conversation also looks at everyday life. We discuss how teachers can better support children in school, what parents can realistically do at home, and gentle strategies for encouraging children who feel frustrated, avoid reading, or have lost confidence. Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that reading struggles are not a reflection of a child’s intelligence or effort—and that parents are not alone in this journey. With the right understanding, support, and encouragement, progress ispossible. If you’re a parent feeling unsure about where to start, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or simply looking for clarity and reassurance, this episode is for you.

48 min
JAN 24

EP 22: Travelling Together - Nina's Family Story

Travelling as a family can be joyful, but for families with children on the spectrum, it often comes with extra layers of preparation, uncertainty, and emotional baggage. In this episode of Adapting Together, we speak with Nina, a mother of twins. Her son Martin, now 18 years old, is non-verbal and on the autism spectrum, while his twin sister is neurotypical. Despite the challenges, travelling has become something Martin genuinely enjoys , and also something his family recognises through his smile, his calmness, and the way he responds to new environments. In this heartfelt and grounded episode, Nina shares with us How their family prepares before, during, and after trips Why preparation matters even more when travelling with an autistic family member Their experience using the Butterfly Effect service at Malaysian airports A difficult and distressing travel incident that led to police involvement - and how it was eventually resolved with understanding and empathy How their family practices “me-time” during trips by taking turns caring for Martin Why travelling doesn’t have to mean doing everything together, all the time Most importantly, Nina offers encouragement to parents who may feel discouraged or afraid to travel, reminding us that while every family is different, meaningful experiences are still possible when we put our mind to it. This episode is a candid conversation about realism, flexibility, resilience, and finding ways to keep living life together as a family. 🎧 Listen in if you’re a parent or caregiver wondering whether travel is still possible — and what “travelling together” can truly look like.

38 min
JAN 10

EP 21: Feeding Without Stress

Feeding your child shouldn’t feel like a daily battle — but for many parents of neurodivergent children, it often does.In this episode of Adapting Together, we have an honest and compassionate conversation with Janice, a registered dietitian and co-founder of Fed to Flourish, about feeding, nutrition, and the emotional weight parents carry around mealtimes.Together, we explore:- Why “picky eating” is often just the tip of the iceberg- How sensory needs, stress, trauma, and routines can deeply affect eating- When picky eating is typical — and when it’s a signal to look deeper- What actually happens during a dietitian’s first consultation- How to assess whether a limited diet is still nutritionally adequate- Supporting children who overeat, food jag, or struggle with fullness cues- How to create calmer, more connected mealtimes — without pressure, force, or shame- Why feeding challenges are not a parenting failure and not a “bad child” problem- This episode is a reminder that all behaviour is communication, and that feeding challenges deserve curiosity, patience, and support — not guilt.🎙️ If eating feels stressful in your home, this conversation is for you.

52 min
12/27/2025

EP 20: Creating Connection Through Music Therapy

“You don’t need to be a singer or musician to do music with your kids.” — Sherrene TehJoin us for a heartfelt conversation with Sherrene, one of Malaysia’s pioneers in music therapy, as she shares her unexpected journey into a career that brings so much joy and meaning. From supporting children with autism and developmental needs to creating moments of pure connection, Sherrene shows how music becomes a bridge for communication, emotional regulation, and social growth.In a special moment, she even brings out instruments and sings together with us, showing how music can instantly light up a room and create unforgettable connections.If you’re looking for a credible music therapist in Malaysia, you can reach out to the Malaysian Music Therapy Association here: https://www.mmta.org.my/contactEpisode Highlights:-00:00 – Welcome & podcast disclaimer02:10 – Meet Sherrene: One of Malaysia’s pioneer music therapists06:45 – From corporate career to music therapy: finding her calling12:30 – What is music therapy? (Nasi lemak analogy 🍽️)18:40 – Music therapy vs traditional music lessons24:10 – Using music to build communication (real client example)32:20 – Emotional regulation through music & songwriting38:50 – Social skills, turn-taking & listening through musical play46:30 – Working with non-verbal children: powerful real-life story54:40 – Quality of life & research insights on music therapy58:20 – How parents can use music at home (no singing skills needed!)01:03:10 – Finding a music therapist in Malaysia01:05:30 – Final message for parents & caregivers ❤️

58 min
12/13/2025

Constipation Challenges in Autism

Dr. Cindy is back on Adapting Together — and yes, we’re talking about something every parent deals with but no one likes to mention… constipation. Why does it happen so often in autistic children? What red flags should parents actually pay attention to? And how do you know when tummy troubles are more than “just a phase”? We dig into all of it — from how Dr. Cindy evaluates these concerns in her clinic to the real, practical things parents can try at home: diet tweaks, hydration hacks, sensory-friendly routines, and balancing medical treatment with everyday habits. We also bust a few common myths, talk about how therapists and educators can team up with parents, and wrap up with the one piece of advice Dr. Cindy wants every family to hear. A super real, super helpful conversation — and trust us, you’ll walk away with tips you can use right away.

46 min
11/30/2025

EP 18: Sleep Challenges in Autism

In this episode of Adapting Together, hosts Xin Yi, Kevin, and Carmen sit down with Dr. Cindy, a developmental pediatrician from Sunway Medical Centre, to explore the often-overlooked challenges of sleep among neurodivergent children, particularly autistic children. Sleep can be one of the biggest challenges for children on the autism spectrum and it affects the whole family. In this episode, we explore why autistic children may strugglewith falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up at odd hours. Dr. Cindy shares expert insights on common causes such as anxiety, sensory sensitivities, routines, and habits, and offers practical strategies to improve sleep, including structured bedtime routines, gradual adjustments, outdoor activity,and mindful use of melatonin. Whether you’re a parent or caregiver, this episode provides guidance and encouragement to help your child and your family in getting the rest you all need.

46 min
11/15/2025

EP 17: Beyond Play - The Mental Health Power of Play Therapy

Play is a child's first language, and for neurodivergent individuals, it is a powerful tool for expressing emotions and navigating their world. In this insightful episode, hosts Carmen, Kevin, and Xin Yi welcome dedicated therapist Ms Raynette Soon (Ray) to explore the transformative power of Play Therapy. What You'll Learn: Play as Communication: Discover how a play therapist uses toys and play as a focused language to help children communicate and process their feelings. The Power of Self-Acceptance: Understand the critical link between a child's mental health, self-acceptance, and their motivation and ability to function well. Support for the Whole Family: Learn how Play Therapy can be a useful and supportive tool for your child, and how it can eventually support your own mental health and well-being as a parent. Tune in to open your eyes to the meaningful impact Play Therapy can have on a child's life and the entire family. Resources: Raynette's LinkedInAssociation of Play Therapy (APT), USA ⁠Play Therapy International (PTI)/PTUK, UK Australasia Pacific Play Therapy Association (APPTA), Australia – Asia Pacific Region ⁠Association of Play Therapy-Singapore (APT-S)

1h 6m
11/01/2025

EP 16: 了解自闭症的早期征兆 Spotting the Early Signs of Autism

In this special episode (in Mandarin) of the Adapting Together podcast, hosts Xin Yi,, Carmen and Kevin engage with Dr. Annie Liau Fui Vun, a children's specialist, to discuss autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this episode, Dr. Annie explains in a clear and practical way: What autism is and its common symptoms Early red flags parents can observe in their child’s development The different levels of autism (Level 1, 2, and 3) and the types of support needed for each Common misconceptions about the causes of autism and what science tells usThe importance of early intervention The conversation also highlights behavioral patterns associated with autism and provides guidance for parents on what to observe in their children. Overall, the episode aims to raise awareness and understanding of autism, offering valuable insights for parents and caregivers. 这是第一次我们以话语来谈谈自闭症，在这集节目主持人Xin Yi, Carmen 与Kevin 邀请了儿科专科医生——廖慧汶医生（Dr. Annie Liau Fui Vun），一起探讨关于自闭症谱系障碍（Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD）的话题。节目中，廖医生以浅显易懂的方式说明：什么是自闭症及其常见症状家长可以从哪些早期迹象（red flags）观察孩子的发育状况自闭症不同等级（level 1、2、3）的区别及所需的支持常见关于自闭症成因的误解与科学上的澄清早期介入（early intervention）的重要性此外，Dr. Annie Liau 也分享了家长如何从孩子的行为中察觉异常信号，并鼓励家长以理解与接纳的心态陪伴孩子成长。整集节目旨在提升大众对自闭症的认知与理解，为家长和照顾者提供有价值的资讯与指引，让更多家庭能在适时获得帮助与支持。 Resources: Dr. Annie Liau's BlogDr. Annie Liau's LinkedIn下载：自闭症“9不”简单筛查法 (Dr. Annie Liau 著） Chapters 03:19 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder 06:16 Levels of Autism and Support Needs 09:16 The Role of Genetics and Environment 12:19 Common Misconceptions About Autism 15:16 Identifying Red Flags in Early Development 18:12 The Importance of Early Intervention 30:32 Understanding Social Boundaries in Children 34:07 Developmental Regression 37:07 Recognizing Behavioral Patterns in Autism 40:46 Repetitive and Rigid Behaviors 44:00 Fixated Interests and Uneven Development 48:36 Sensory Processing Issues 50:35 Seeking Help: Where to Start 57:29 Trusting Parental Intuition 01:01:17 Resources for Parents and Early Intervention 章节 00:00 开场与节目介绍03:19 认识自闭症谱系障碍（ASD）06:16 自闭症的分级与不同支持需求09:16 基因与环境的影响因素12:19 关于自闭症的常见迷思15:16 早期发展阶段的警讯与观察重点30:32 了解孩子的社交界限与行为反应34:07 发展退步37:07 识别自闭症常见的行为模式40:46 重复性与固执行为的特征44:00 特定兴趣与发展不均衡现象48:36 感官处理的挑战与敏感反应50:35 家长该如何开始寻求协助57:29 信任家长的直觉与观察01:01:17 给家长的资源与早期干预的重要性

1h 4m

Adapting Together is a Malaysian podcast dedicated to raising awareness about autism and supporting families on this journey. It’s designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and the broader community to access reliable, local, and compassionate information about autism.

Creator

Carmen Loke, Gan Xin Yi and Kevin Neoh
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

23
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Carmen Loke, Gan Xin Yi and Kevin Neoh
Show Website

Adapting Together