Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast

Kate Lynch
  • 5.0 (17)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast

Welcome to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents, a neurodiversity-affirming podcast for parents of neurodivergent kids of all ages. I’m Kate Lynch, a mindfulness coach on a mission to create a kinder, more inclusive future. If you're navigating the joys and struggles of raising your unique kids, follow us here for grounding mindfulness practices, relatable stories, and empowering strategies. Subscribe to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Blog: a community that understands your experience and reminds you that you are never alone.

  1. 6D AGO

    Healing My Self Worth Through the Journey of My Child's Psychosis with Shelley Karpaty

    Balancing Joy and Sorrow: Parenting Neurodivergent Children with Shelley Karpaty. In this heartfelt episode of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents, host Kate Lynch engages in a deep conversation with Shelley Karpaty, a writer, meditation guide, and mental health advocate. Shelley shares insightful stories from her journey parenting a child diagnosed with schizophrenia, the importance of self-compassion, and the challenges and strengths of balancing multiple roles as a parent. They discuss societal expectations and how to navigate the complexities of mental health within families. The dialogue weaves through themes of unconditional love, mindfulness practices, and the value of community support. Parents of neurodivergent kids will find solace and understanding here. 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Dual Emotions 00:34 The Heroine's Journey: A Mother's Struggle 01:03 Welcome to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents 01:44 Meet Shelly Karpati: Advocate and Author 02:45 Understanding Schizophrenia and Neurodivergence 05:23 Parenting Challenges and Triumphs 07:16 Support Systems and Community 09:20 Coping Mechanisms and Self-Care 14:07 Mindfulness and Metta Practices 18:03 Reflections on Parenting and Personal Growth 32:26 Final Thoughts and Resources

    38 min

  2. MAR 28

    3 Ways Positive Disability Identity Helps Create a Better World with Jennifer Natalya Fink

    Navigating public spaces with atypical kids, overcoming stigma, and building an inclusive future! In this powerful episode, I’m speaking with Jennifer Natalya Fink, Director of Disability Studies at Georgetown University and author of 'All Our Families: Disability Lineage and the Future of Kinship.' Enter the Book Giveaway: Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed”⁠ below this post⁠⁠. BONUS ENTRIES: ⁠ Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed” ⁠below this post⁠⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Share anywhere. Comment “shared”⁠ below this post⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY! We will choose a WINNER by April 13. Jennifer shares her insights on viewing disability as an identity rather than a deficit and emphasizes the importance of community and cultural understanding for disabled individuals and their families. This episode is a must-watch for parents, educators, and advocates who are on a journey to create a kinder, more inclusive world. Timestamps: 00:00 Positive Disability Identity and Community with Jennifer Natalya Fink 01:21 Introduction to Jennifer Natalya Fink 02:42 Understanding Disability as an Identity 06:14 Exploring Disability Lineage 12:29 Public Perception and Disability 14:50 Building Community and Identity 17:22 Empowering Disabled Children 20:59 Looking Towards the Future 23:39 Embracing Disability: Challenges and Acceptance 24:30 Affirmations and Prepared Language 27:42 Building Community and Seeking Support 30:39 Creating Meaningful Connections 32:17 The Importance of Routine and Commitment 34:14 Cultural and Social Identity 36:12 Personal Growth and Enlightenment 38:08 Legacy and Parenting Memories 40:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

    43 min

  3. MAR 14

    How Atypical Kids Can Build Self Compassion with Jamie Lynn Tatera

    Self-compassion helps parents and their neurodivergent children to feel more resilient. In this episode of Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast, I’m interviewing Jamie Lynn Tatera, a mindfulness and self-compassion teacher and author of 'Mindfulness and Self Compassion Workbook for Kids’. (As an amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.) 3 Ways To Enter the Book Giveaway: Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed”⁠below this post⁠. BONUS ENTRY: ⁠Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed”⁠below this post⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Share anywhere. Comment “shared”⁠below this post⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY! We discuss the importance of self-compassion for both parents and their neurodivergent children, sharing personal stories and practical strategies. The conversation delves into resilience habits, some of the ups and downs we’ve had raising our neurodivergent kids, and the role of mindfulness in navigating the challenges. Jamie Lynn shares breathing exercises and introduces animal characters to help children and parents recognize and manage emotions. The episode will encourage you to grow your mindfulness and self-compassion skills yourself, while showing you fun and relatable ways to share them with your kids. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Resilience Habits 00:22 Welcome to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast 00:59 Meet Jamie Lynn Teterra 02:29 Discovering Self-Compassion 03:36 Parenting Neurodivergent Children 05:00 The Role of Self-Compassion in Parenting 09:51 Practical Self-Compassion Techniques 12:44 Empathic Distress Breath Practice for Highly Sensitive Kids 16:55 Using Animals to Teach Kids Mindfulness 23:00 Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses 31:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    33 min

  4. SEASON 8, EPISODE 10 TRAILER

    Why This Podcast Season Will Change Your Parenting

    Exciting New Season of Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast! Introducing the highly anticipated eighth season of the Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast! Discover new episodes featuring insightful discussions with experts like: Dr. Matt Zakreski, Jamie Lynn Tatera, Jennifer Natalya Fink, Shelley Karpati, Julie M. Green, and Ryan Rose Weaver. Learn about book giveaways, resilience practices, positive disability identity, mental health, and self-compassion. Engage with us and build a supportive community as we navigate raising neurodivergent kids together. Don't forget to subscribe, review, and tune in every two weeks for new episodes! 00:00 Introduction to the New Podcast Season 02:48 Upcoming Guests and Topics 04:07 Mid-Season Highlights 05:18 Engaging with the Community 07:29 Breathing Exercise and Conclusion Thanks for listening to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Podcast!

    9 min

  5. FEB 28

    Be Curious, Not Furious: Writing the Playbook on Neurodiversity with Dr. Matt

    Essential skills for parenting neurodivergent children, from managing expectations to dealing with discomfort. In this episode, I’m talking with Dr. Matt Zakreski, a clinical psychologist, founder of the Neurodiversity Collective, and co-host of the Nerding Out on Neurodiversity Podcast. We’re sharing personal stories and expert advice on managing expectations and finding community support. Dr. Matt introduces his book, 'The Neurodiversity Playbook,' aimed at helping parents and neurodivergent individuals navigate a neurotypical world. 3 Ways To Enter the Book Giveaway: Subscribe to ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠ & comment “subscribed” ⁠below this post⁠⁠. BONUS ENTRY: ⁠Review Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents on Apple Podcasts⁠, then comment “reviewed”⁠ below this post⁠. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Share anywhere. Comment “shared” below this post⁠⁠ for another BONUS ENTRY! We will choose a WINNER by March 16. Timestamps: 00:00 Understanding the Brain's Default to Self-Blame 00:35 Introduction to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Podcast 01:18 Meet Dr. Matt: Expert in Neurodiversity 02:12 Challenges of Parenting Neurodivergent Children 05:49 The Importance of Community and Support 08:24 Curiosity Over Fury: A Parenting Strategy 12:19 The Role of Mindfulness in Parenting 19:52 Giftedness and Neurodiversity: Definitions and Misconceptions 24:59 The Pressure of Perfectionism 25:38 Gifted Kids and Society's Expectations 26:05 A Personal Story of Burnout and Happiness 27:19 Introducing the Book: Theory and Practice 28:22 Understanding Neurodivergence 29:40 The Flash and Neurodivergent Kids 33:17 Helping a Dad Connect with His Son 39:05 Core Values and Parenting 41:36 Sensory Needs and Authentic Parenting 42:50 Conclusion

    44 min

  6. 08/30/2024

    Building Confidence in Parenting: Strategies and Support for Neurodiverse Families

    Listen in on an intimate conversation between myself and one of my beloved private parent coaching clients. She's building confidence and compassion while raising her neurodivergent kid. Learn how self-compassion plays a crucial role in mindful parenting. Building Confidence in Parenting: Strategies and Support for Neurodiverse Families Discover: -the power of a judgment-free coaching relationship. -the simplicity of self-regulation techniques. -the value of connecting deeply with your child. Mindfully Parenting Atypical Kids podcast helps parents feel less alone. Kate interviews parents and experts who share her mission to co-create a more inclusive future. Join us in this insightful interview where we're discussing parenting with compassion, empathy, and boundary-setting. This episode delves into my client's goals, including safety, mindful spending, balancing screen time, fostering open communication, and developing self-compassion as a parent. Read the full transcript, listen to the podcast, watch the video, and subscribe to the blog for more connection and support at ⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog⁠: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/⁠⁠ Witness the transformation and growth in a parent-child bond through practical exercises and mutual understanding. 00:00 Introduction to Mindful Parenting 00:55 Starting the Coaching Journey 02:02 Setting Boundaries and Expectations 02:58 Self-Regulation and Empathy 04:55 Screen Time and Activities 09:58 Building Confidence and Self-Compassion 11:42 Collaborative Problem Solving 12:18 Celebrating Wins and Bonding 13:25 Final Reflections and Gratitude Explore the 3 ways I offer coaching: ⁠⁠Private Parent Coaching Package of 6 Sessions⁠⁠ $445. ⁠⁠Founding Supporter 1-1 Voxer Coaching⁠⁠ 3 months $150. ⁠⁠Community Monthly Mindful Parent Coaching⁠⁠ for all paid Substack subscribers, starting at $5/month.

    14 min

  7. 08/16/2024

    Encouraging Neurodivergent Teens With Dr. Emily

    How to Balance Support and Independence in Neurodivergent Teens Raising neurodivergent teens requires us to walk the razor's edge between offering support and encouraging independence... ...it's a balance that can sometimes feel elusive. I'm Kate Lynch, and the other day I discussed this with Dr. Emily W. King, a child psychologist with a wealth of experience working with neurodivergent kids. Before she became a parent, Dr. Emily was a licensed psychologist. Despite all her academic knowledge and training, having her own kids and working with her clients provided the real education. Nothing prepares you for the emotional experience of parenting. Knowledge helps, but understanding how our brains and bodies work together—in vastly different ways—comes from lived experience. As Dr. Emily put it, “Lived experience is just as valuable as any letters we have behind our name.” Every child is different, and each family figures out what work best for them. For instance, my son is now comfortable taking the subway to school, although that journey had its challenges. He has navigated train disruptions, struggled with confusion, and yet persisted, growing more independent over time.  Dr. Emily noted that our kids are on their own timelines, and traditional age-based developmental milestones don’t apply to neurodivergent kids. Trusting the process, allowing for those inevitable challenges, and seeing them as growth opportunities are critical. Understanding and accepting this can alleviate some parental anxiety. Sometimes, teens might feel they no longer need certain therapies, even when their parents think otherwise. Emily suggested a collaborative approach: understanding the child’s perspective, discussing their goals, and finding compromises that respect their feelings while ensuring they get the support they need.  One particularly touching moment Dr. Emily recalled was when her son unexpectedly grabbed her hand in a crowd, a simple yet profound reminder that there’s a last time for everything—we just don’t know when it will be. By sharing experiences and learning from each other, we can help our neurodivergent kids feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. Join the Movement! Come Together to Create a More Inclusive World for Our Kids, One Parent at a Time... If you’re anything like other parents I talk to, you’re seeking 3 things: Connection with other parents who get it. Support, empathy and guidance through the rough spots. Resources to help your children. I’m committed to providing all three for you here at ⁠⁠Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents⁠⁠! Get access to monthly Mindful Parent Community Coaching by subscribing at any paid tier. Starts at only $5 a month! +PLUS: “Founding Supporter” tier members will have access to 3 months of my 1-1 asynchronous parent coaching pilot program!  "Kate did a great job creating a safe space and bringing relevant topics to the group." ⁠https://katelynch.substack.com/p/back-to-school-support-special⁠

    40 min

  8. 08/02/2024

    5 Step Path From Overwhelm To Compassion for Parents

    When you're suffering and searching for self-compassion, you may be thinking, "But I'm already feeling so vulnerable! I can't take it. I need to numb out. This is too much!!!" Right over that hill you can't quite see beyond, self-compassion is waiting for you.  The other day during a vulnerability hangover, I recorded an especially helpful audio meditation for the Compassion Club Private Podcast. I'd like to share it with my community here because I appreciate you! It's going to be especially helpful for those of you who are ready to tread the transformative path from all-out resistance and overwhelm, through vulnerability, to self-compassion. Listen now | 20 Min Meditation: Self-compassion for the days you have a vulnerability hangover. I share a bit of my personal process in this meditation to show an example of being in the mess and befriending my protective parts.  Learn the 5 steps so you can apply them to your next moment of suffering. Remember, you're not alone. Links: Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents Blog Compassion Club Private Podcast⁠

    23 min
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About

Welcome to Atypical Kids, Mindful Parents, a neurodiversity-affirming podcast for parents of neurodivergent kids of all ages. I’m Kate Lynch, a mindfulness coach on a mission to create a kinder, more inclusive future. If you're navigating the joys and struggles of raising your unique kids, follow us here for grounding mindfulness practices, relatable stories, and empowering strategies. Subscribe to Atypical Kids Mindful Parents Blog: a community that understands your experience and reminds you that you are never alone.

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