Parenting Severe Autism

Shannon Chamberlin
  • 5.0 (5)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Parenting Severe Autism is a raw, unfiltered podcast for parents and caregivers raising children with Severe Autism. Hosted by Shannon Chamberlin - a parent, not a professional - this show is your emotional lifeline, real-talk resource, and reminder that you're not alone. From early childhood to adulthood and beyond, Shannon shares honest stories, painful truths, small victories, and survival strategies for the families the world forgets. Whether you're in crisis mode or just need someone who gets it, this is your space. No fluff. No sugarcoating. Just truth, hope, and community. Severe Autism and special needs considerations. This type of autism parenting is lifelong... it becomes adult autism parenting.  Seek caregiver support when possible.

  1. APR 29

    I Tried Oils And Herbs And Nothing Worked

    Send us Fan Mail We juggle a new school year for our high support needs severely autistic son while we question staffing, trust, and classes without enough help. We also share what happened when natural remedies and cannabis products worked unpredictably, plus a bigger idea about respite communities that could use technology to fill real care gaps.  • Shifting into a new school era and tightening our focus on staff  • Needing one-on-one support and sometimes more at school  • Frustration with mainstreaming vs functioning level  • Trying herbalism, homeopathic tablets, and essential oils as coping tools  • Seeing “opposite” reactions and losing faith in what what we believe in  • A funny morning script plus pizza day attitude after a bigger dose  • Exploring safer lifestyles and respite communities with AI support  • Asking for ideas to market the concept to the right people  Don’t forget to send your comments, questions, and stories to me at contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com.  Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    13 min

  2. APR 8

    What Safety Costs A Family Living With Severe Autism

    Send us Fan Mail We talk through what happens when severe autism elopement becomes so constant that we start padlocking gates and doors, then realize those same locks can trap us when seconds matter. I share the fear, the guilt, the dark humor, and the safety steps that finally make our days a little more survivable.  • padlocking after repeated escapes  • the moment he scales the fence and I cannot get out  • how elopement forces impossible split-second choices  • how our long-term work and caregiving plan collapses   • desperation searches for safety tools and finding AngelSense GPS tracking  • a woods search when he disappears  • his running routes  • the spiraling parent guilt story and the reminder that it is not you  • first day of school stress and the constant baseline of aggression  • a surprising improvement with arm biting and a rare proud moment  • a full clear sentence during bedtime chaos  • the workaround that makes walks calmer  • noticing better focus and speech attempts with vitamin C and B complex  • the local emergency box and special needs stickers for responders  • building familiarity with poli AngelSense DeviceAngelSense GPS Monitoring Device Tracker For Kids, Teens, ElderlyS.A.F.E.R. Lifestyles Respite GoFundMePlease share this GoFundMe to help raise funds for building our DREAM, Outlined in Episode 57Fingerprint Entry Door HandleBiometric Fingerprint Entry Interior Door HandleNO MORE HANGERS!Hanging soft box closet organizerSAVE 5% LIFEPRO FITNESS PRODUCTSWe love our Waver Vibration Plate and BioHeal Plus Red Light Panel! Calming. Healing. YES.Therapressure Brush 6 Pack Latex FreeSpecial Supplies Sensory Brush for Occupational and Sensory Brushing 6 Pack Latex Free StimulateCalmSelect a Size TV Screen Impact ProtectorHeavy Duty. Extensively tested; will deflect any thrown remote control or a toy.View My Summer Supplies Shopping Cart!iHerb supplies some of the safest summer products for sunscreen, bug screen, and stress management!Organic Matcha TeaI enjoy the calming and strengthening benefits of this tea.Magnesium Citrate Nervous System SupportNOW Foods - Magnesium Citrate Nervous System Support 400 mg. - 240 Vegetable Capsule(s) NOW Foods MaDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    36 min

  3. MAR 25

    EP.80 How Much Vigilance Can One Parent Hold Parenting Severe Autism

    Send us Fan Mail We relive a brutal stretch of severe autism insomnia where bedtime turns into instant chaos and every tool we have becomes about safety and survival. We share the phrases and hacks that actually land with our son, plus the day his dysregulation spills into the neighborhood and changes how we think about vigilance.  • using two to three word scripts for receptive language limits  • “no touchy” as a low conflict boundary cue  • “stay down” and “time for sleep” as bedtime anchors  • the baby monitor breaking and switching to low tech communication  • the sting of unsolicited advice about medication and barriers to care  • hypervigilance after neighborhood access  Please remember you can support my podcast by clicking the Buy Me a Coffee icon on your podcast player.  Please remember you can always email me at contact.parenting severe autism at gmail.com.  S.A.F.E.R. Lifestyles Respite GoFundMePlease share this GoFundMe to help raise funds for building our DREAM, Outlined in Episode 57AngelSense DeviceAngelSense GPS Monitoring Device Tracker For Kids, Teens, ElderlyNO MORE HANGERS!Hanging soft box closet organizerFingerprint Entry Door HandleBiometric Fingerprint Entry Interior Door HandleSAVE 5% LIFEPRO FITNESS PRODUCTSWe love our Waver Vibration Plate and BioHeal Plus Red Light Panel! Calming. Healing. YES.Therapressure Brush 6 Pack Latex FreeSpecial Supplies Sensory Brush for Occupational and Sensory Brushing 6 Pack Latex Free StimulateCalmSelect a Size TV Screen Impact ProtectorHeavy Duty. Extensively tested; will deflect any thrown remote control or a toy.View My Summer Supplies Shopping Cart!iHerb supplies some of the safest summer products for sunscreen, bug screen, and stress management!Magnesium Citrate Nervous System SupportNOW Foods - Magnesium Citrate Nervous System Support 400 mg. - 240 Vegetable Capsule(s) NOW Foods MaDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    21 min

  4. MAR 11

    EP.79 Retirement Villages For Everyone… Except Us?

    Send us Fan Mail We share raw truths from the frontline of severe autism care. From morning quiet-time rules to fingerprint locks and parent-led training, we fight for safety, structure, and a real village. • why isolation and burnout demand respite communities • how parent-led training creates consistent, safer care • the 15-minute morning rule as regulation, not preference • using fingerprint locks and auto-locks to reduce risk • new behaviors and responses • stepping back when interaction harms the caregiver • how weather and celestial shifts can amplify behaviors • a call for shared responsibility inside multigenerational homes • open request for stories, tips, and educator insights “Thank you for your donations. When I’m able to save up enough of your donations, we want to help another family in need who may not be able to afford the therapy items, clothing, or specialty food items that their loved one needs.” “I would love to hear from you and see if you guys have experienced any of this kind of stuff, and if you have any suggestions, or if you have any questions.” S.A.F.E.R. Lifestyles Respite GoFundMePlease share this GoFundMe to help raise funds for building our DREAM, Outlined in Episode 57AngelSense DeviceAngelSense GPS Monitoring Device Tracker For Kids, Teens, ElderlyFingerprint Entry Door HandleBiometric Fingerprint Entry Interior Door HandleSAVE 5% LIFEPRO FITNESS PRODUCTSWe love our Waver Vibration Plate and BioHeal Plus Red Light Panel! Calming. Healing. YES.NO MORE HANGERS!Hanging soft box closet organizerSelect a Size TV Screen Impact ProtectorHeavy Duty. Extensively tested; will deflect any thrown remote control or a toy.View My Summer Supplies Shopping Cart!iHerb supplies some of the safest summer products for sunscreen, bug screen, and stress management!Therapressure Brush 6 Pack Latex FreeSpecial Supplies Sensory Brush for Occupational and Sensory Brushing 6 Pack Latex Free StimulateCalmRhodiola AdaptogenicNervousSystemsupportThese are some of my favorite products - Organic with no fillers, no flow agents, and no synthetics.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    33 min

  5. FEB 25

    EP.78 When Calm Snaps Into Chaos

    Send us Fan Mail We share a brutal garage meltdown from our Summer of Hell and the ripple effects that followed, then end with small, human moments that reminded us why we keep going. Fear, responsibility, and survival sit beside laughter, food, and connection. • moving from gratitude into a hard story • morning spiral and the sprint to the garage • real physical danger • being attacked and a late rescue • fear aftershock and weighing self‑defense options • dinner plans that calm anxiety • playful nudges done gently for once • Thai‑style stretches, safe roughhousing, and big laughs • eclipse surge, self‑injury, and moon or weather links • reminders to stay ready, ask for help, and keep sharing Buy merch: screaming pillows, insulated mugs, wine tumblers, and water bottles. Keep sharing my episodes. Support the show for as little as one dollar through Buy Me A Coffee. Contact: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    25 min

  6. FEB 11

    EP. 77: Our Son, The Welcome Mat, And The Pants Problem Severe Autism

    Send us Fan Mail We open our hearts about caregiver fatigue, broken trust, and the sharp edges of life with severe autism while weighing practical options like group homes and community respite. Along the way we face language boundaries, public behaviors, new obsessions, and small moments of joy that keep us going. • caregiver stress after years without respite • loss of trust with family after neglect • emotional needs of severe autism, not stereotypes • dependence vs dignity and pacing independence • marriage strain and the ethics of group homes • community-based respite and pooled solutions • summer of hell at day camp and stripping • language boundaries and slurs corrected • wardrobe tactics to reduce impulsive behaviors • emerging obsessions and safety concerns • gaps in medical care and self-regulation tools • family triggers and a moment of self-advocacy • humor, creativity, and small wins that sustain us Please remember you can support this podcast and help me keep it free for everyone who needs it by donating through the Buy Me a Coffee program Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    31 min

  7. JAN 28

    EP 76: Private Needs, Public Stress, And The Cost Of Sleepless Caregiving

    Send us Fan Mail Sleepless nights, decoding a taboo topic with compassion and clarity... Safety, dignity, and small wins guide the way while we keep reaching for calmer mornings and better tools. • naming severe autism risks and caregiver isolation • addressing startle responses • coping with sleep deprivation and night chaos • removing obsessional objects that spike aggression • setting consequences for self-injury on pizza day • discussing self-pleasure without shame while teaching hygiene Please contact us at contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com. If you can share this episode with anyone in your life, please do that to help me out. I also have the Buy Me a Coffee program if you would like to donate or support me in any way. S.A.F.E.R. Lifestyles Respite GoFundMePlease share this GoFundMe to help raise funds for building our DREAM, Outlined in Episode 57AngelSense DeviceAngelSense GPS Monitoring Device Tracker For Kids, Teens, ElderlySAVE 5% LIFEPRO FITNESS PRODUCTSWe love our Waver Vibration Plate and BioHeal Plus Red Light Panel! Calming. Healing. YES.NO MORE HANGERS!Hanging soft box closet organizerFingerprint Entry Door HandleBiometric Fingerprint Entry Interior Door HandleTherapressure Brush 6 Pack Latex FreeSpecial Supplies Sensory Brush for Occupational and Sensory Brushing 6 Pack Latex Free StimulateCalmSelect a Size TV Screen Impact ProtectorHeavy Duty. Extensively tested; will deflect any thrown remote control or a toy.Magnesium Citrate Nervous System SupportNOW Foods - Magnesium Citrate Nervous System Support 400 mg. - 240 Vegetable Capsule(s) NOW Foods MaOrganic Matcha TeaI enjoy the calming and strengthening benefits of this tea.Rhodiola AdaptogenicNervousSystemsupportThese are some of my favorite products - Organic with no fillers, no flow agents, and no synthetics.View My Summer Supplies Shopping Cart!iHerb supplies some of the safest summer products for sunscreen, bug screen, and stress management!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    33 min

  8. JAN 14

    EP 75: Morning Reset, Calmer Days, Regulating A Dysregulated Home

    Send us Fan Mail We share how escalating anxiety pushed our family to the edge, and how a simple morning reset brought peace back. Clear boundaries, a 20-minute quiet window, shifting behavior and energy fast. Also another item on the daily menu during the Summer of Hell. • closet destruction, failed fixes, safety locks • meds context • behavior as communication • mapping triggers • the non-negotiable • visible changes in anxiety, cannabis dose, and attention loops • family roles, energy, and being the calm leader • practical steps to observe antecedents and set boundaries Please remember, you can always support this podcast and help me keep it free for those who need it by donation through Buy Me a Coffee or a Membership AngelSense DeviceAngelSense GPS Monitoring Device Tracker For Kids, Teens, ElderlyNO MORE HANGERS!Hanging soft box closet organizerFingerprint Entry Door HandleBiometric Fingerprint Entry Interior Door HandleSAVE 5% LIFEPRO FITNESS PRODUCTSWe love our Waver Vibration Plate and BioHeal Plus Red Light Panel! Calming. Healing. YES.S.A.F.E.R. Lifestyles Respite GoFundMePlease share this GoFundMe to help raise funds for building our DREAM, Outlined in Episode 57Select a Size TV Screen Impact ProtectorHeavy Duty. Extensively tested; will deflect any thrown remote control or a toy.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show https://www.buzzsprout.com/1989825/supporters/newhttps://psa.buzzsprout.com Get Podcast Merch at the following link:   https://psapodcast.creator-spring.com/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Parenting-Severe-Autism-podcast/100083292374893/ Email: contact.parentingsevereautism@gmail.com

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Parenting Severe Autism is a raw, unfiltered podcast for parents and caregivers raising children with Severe Autism. Hosted by Shannon Chamberlin - a parent, not a professional - this show is your emotional lifeline, real-talk resource, and reminder that you're not alone. From early childhood to adulthood and beyond, Shannon shares honest stories, painful truths, small victories, and survival strategies for the families the world forgets. Whether you're in crisis mode or just need someone who gets it, this is your space. No fluff. No sugarcoating. Just truth, hope, and community. Severe Autism and special needs considerations. This type of autism parenting is lifelong... it becomes adult autism parenting.  Seek caregiver support when possible.

Information

  • Creator
    Shannon Chamberlin
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Parenting Severe Autism
  • Show Website
    Parenting Severe Autism