Harmony in
Neurodiversity
THE BLOG
Welcome to Harmony in Neurodiversity, a blog dedicated to exploring the profound impact of music and positive parenting strategies on the lives of neurodivergent individuals. Join Samantha, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy fellow and a passionate Positive Discipline Parent Educator, as she shares her expertise in leveraging the power of music and effective parenting approaches to support and empower neurodiverse communities.
In her blog posts, Samantha delves into the intricate connections between music and the brain. She explores how specific musical elements and interventions can enhance cognitive functions, regulate emotions, improve communication, and promote social interaction among neurodivergent individuals. Through insightful articles and case studies, she demonstrates how rhythm, melody, and lyrics can serve as powerful tools for therapeutic interventions, fostering growth and self-expression.
Positive Discipline Parenting Strategies:
Drawing from her expertise as a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Samantha sheds light on nurturing positive relationships between parents and neurodivergent children. Her blog offers practical advice, evidence-based strategies, and real-life anecdotes that empower parents and caregivers to cultivate respectful, encouraging, and effective parenting techniques. From setting clear boundaries to fostering a supportive environment, Samantha guides readers in navigating the challenges and joys of parenting neurodiverse children.
Exploring Intersectionality:
Samantha doesn't limit her discussions to singular approaches. Instead, she delves into the intersectionality of Neurologic Music Therapy and Positive Discipline Parenting, illustrating how these methodologies complement each other. Through her insightful content, she showcases how the harmonious integration of music-based interventions and positive parenting strategies can create holistic support systems for neurodivergent individuals, promoting their well-being and personal growth.
Community Engagement and Resources:
Additionally, Samantha fosters a vibrant online community where readers can engage, share experiences, and seek advice. She curates a wealth of resources, including recommended readings, workshops, and practical tools, empowering her audience to implement valuable insights into their lives effectively.
The Power of Patience: Why Waiting Can Be the Key to Connection With Your Autistic Child
When you ask your child a question, how long do you really wait for an answer?
Five seconds? Maybe ten?
For many neurodivergent kids, that’s not enough.
In episode 134 of the Every Brain is Different podcast, guest Jennifer Celeste Briggs shared how learning to wait transformed communication with her daughter, Sarah. Sarah was nonverbal for many years, and through the Sunrise Program, a parent-led approach to connection and language, Jennifer discovered that slowing down could change everything.
She calls it the “milkshake moment.”
One day, Sarah asked for a milkshake using only a sound and a sign. Instead of rushing to make it, Jennifer gently said, “Can you try saying the whole word?” Then she waited, really waited. After a long pause, Sarah made a sound. Jennifer celebrated exuberantly.
That moment showed her the power of belief and time.
Even now, years later, Jennifer says she sometimes counts to 20 or 30 in her head after asking a question before deciding her daughter isn’t going to respond, and often, just as she’s about to give up, Sarah answers.
It’s a reminder many of us need: silence doesn’t mean your child isn’t listening. It means they’re processing.
As professionals and parents, it’s easy to fill silence with more words, more questions, or more prompting. But kids, especially neurodivergent kids, need space to think, to regulate, and to find the words or gestures that work for them.
I’ve seen this firsthand in my own work with children. Early in my career, I assumed a lack of response meant a child didn’t hear me or wasn’t interested. Now, I train my team to wait. Ask a question and wait. Give the kid time to process. Give them time to show you what they can do.
When we slow down, we’re saying, I believe in you.
The next time your child doesn’t respond right away, resist the urge to fill the silence. Count to 20. Wait with patience and trust. You might be surprised by what happens next.
For more from our interview with Jennifer Celeste Briggs, check out episode 134 of the Every Brain is Different podcast.
