Link to pre-order! https://a.co/d/00e1yv3b #AutismAcceptance #AutismAwareness #AutismAdvocacy #AutismCommunity #ParentingAutisticTeens #ParentingTeensParenting Teens Advice RedefinedWTF Series: Daring to Belong – Stories of Autism, Courage, and ConnectionIn this raw and unfiltered WTF episode, I’m celebrating something deeply meaningful — becoming a published contributing author in the powerful new anthology Daring to Belong: Stories of Autism, Courage, and Connection. This book brings together 11 voices — parents, educators, advocates, and professionals — sharing deeply personal stories about autism, belonging, resilience, and the courage it takes to walk a path that doesn’t always look like what the world expects. With Autism Acceptance Month approaching and Autism Acceptance Day on April 2, this episode launches a special autism series on Parenting Teens Advice Redefined focused on supporting families raising teens on the autism spectrum. Each upcoming episode will feature conversations with educators, parents, autistic adults, advocates, and professionals sharing their lived experiences and expertise about raising autistic teens, navigating neurodiversity, building belonging, and supporting autistic children into adulthood. And the best part? All presale proceeds from the book go toward autism initiatives supporting individuals and families who need advocacy, resources, and community. Meet the Authors of Daring to BelongThis anthology includes powerful stories from voices across the autism community: Susan Tatem – Founder of Bright Path for Autism, autism advocate, coach, and speaker helping families navigate the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Julia Lavia – Visibility strategist and community builder empowering women entrepreneurs to step into their voice and embrace belonging. Kathleen Souter – Mother of six and longtime special needs advocate whose story reflects persistence, unconditional love, and resilience. Lisa Jacovsky – Psychology professor, behavior specialist, and award-winning children’s author dedicated to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. Anne-Marie Springer – Retired Navy nurse, entrepreneur, author, and autism advocate whose motherhood journey reshaped her life’s mission. Cheryl Pankhurst – Educator, autism advocate, and host of Parenting Teens Advice Redefined. Her chapter, They Would If They Could, explores shifting the mindset between parents and educators from judgment to understanding. Tasha (Contributor) – Shares a deeply personal story of motherhood, grief, growth, and resilience. Candice Fields – Tells the extraordinary story of navigating both cancer and autism in her family while leaning into community and courage. Sherry Dixon – Educational leadership expert and former principal challenging systems that fail neurodivergent students. Jean Ramsey – UK educator helping families and grandparents navigate neurodiversity with understanding and compassion. Trina Reid – A powerful story about family life when autism reshapes expectations and reveals new strength. Why This Book Matters for Parents of Autistic TeensIf you are raising a teen on the autism spectrum, you already know that autism is not a single experience. As the saying goes: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Autism is a spectrum, and each child’s path, strengths, challenges, and gifts are unique. This book reminds us that belonging doesn’t happen by accident. It is something we create together — as parents, educators, families, and communities. Supporting autistic teens requires collaboration between parents, teachers, psychologists, advocates, and extended families so that every child feels seen, supported, and valued. Support the Book & Autism AdvocacyWhen you order Daring to Belong, you are doing more than reading inspiring stories. You are helping fund autism initiatives that provide advocacy, support, and resources for families navigating autism. Consider purchasing copies for: • Parents raising autistic children • Teachers and educators • Grandparents and extended family • Professionals working with neurodivergent students • Anyone wanting to better understand autism Subscribe for the Autism SeriesOver the coming weeks on Parenting Teens Advice Redefined, you’ll hear powerful conversations about: • Parenting teens on the autism spectrum • Neurodivergent students and school support • Autism acceptance and advocacy • Transitioning autistic teens into adulthood • Supporting mental health for autistic youth • Family dynamics and autism Subscribe so you don’t miss these conversations. Connect With CherylWebsite www.CherylPankhurst.com Email support@cherylpankhurst.com Book a complimentary consultation call to explore how Cheryl can support your family navigating autism, neurodivergence, and school advocacy. Parenting Autistic Teens: Stories of Courage, Connection & Belonging | WTF Series
