Adapting Together

💊 Should my child take medication for ADHD or autism?It's one of the most common and most emotional questions parents ask.In this episode, we sit down with Developmental Paediatrician Dr. Ragini to discuss the facts behind ADHD medication, including:• When should medication be considered?• How do stimulant and non-stimulant medications work?• What are the common side effects?• Is medication a lifelong commitment?• How can parents make an informed decision with their doctor?We also share real clinical experiences, common misconceptions, and practical guidance to help families weigh the benefits and risks with confidence.🎧 Listen now and empower yourself with evidence-based knowledge to make the best decision for your child.

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.

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 symptomsEarly red flags parents can observe in their child’s developmentThe different levels of autism (Level 1, 2, and 3) and the types of support needed for eachCommon misconceptions about the causes of autism and what science tells usThe importance of early interventionThe 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）Chapters03:19 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder06:16 Levels of Autism and Support Needs09:16 The Role of Genetics and Environment12:19 Common Misconceptions About Autism15:16 Identifying Red Flags in Early Development18:12 The Importance of Early Intervention30:32 Understanding Social Boundaries in Children34:07 Developmental Regression37:07 Recognizing Behavioral Patterns in Autism40:46 Repetitive and Rigid Behaviors44:00 Fixated Interests and Uneven Development48:36 Sensory Processing Issues50:35 Seeking Help: Where to Start57:29 Trusting Parental Intuition01:01:17 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

Communicating is one of the very essential foundations of life. For children who are on the spectrum, learning to communicate means letting us understand their world better. In this episode of Adapting Together, co-hosts Carmen, Xin Yi, and Kevin engage with Speech and Language Pathologist Emma Lee Yi Fang to discuss the critical role of speech therapists in supporting children with speech developmental delays, particularly those on the autism spectrum. The conversation delves into the emotional journey of parenthood, the significance of early intervention, and the delicate balance between parental expectations and children's capabilities. Emma also shared practical tips and strategies parents and caregivers can adopt, making it possible to support and encourage children in developing their speech and language capabilities even from home.Resources:Emma Lee's LinkedInDevelopmental Milestones ReferencesDirectory for Qualified Professional Speech Therapists

In this episode of Adapting Together, hosts Xin Yi, Carmen, and Kevin engage with Jacqlynn Teong, a pediatric occupational therapist, to explore the critical topic of sensory integration. This episode discussed the importance of understanding sensory processing differences, the key components of sensory integration, and how these affect children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. As a Malaysian Registered Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Jacqlynn has rich experience working with children. She shares insights on identifying red flags, the assessment process, and effective interventions. This conversation also addresses common misconceptions about sensory processing and emphasizes the need for self-compassion among parents and caregivers.Resources:Connect with Jacqlynn on LinkedInThe Passion Hub, PenangThe Collaborative for Leadership in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI) 6 Modules Certification ProgramAbout EASI (Evaluation of Ayres Sensory Integration)Chapters00:00 Introduction04:00 Key Components of Sensory Processing17:03 Identifying Red Flags in Sensory Processing21:20 Setting Priorities in Sensory Integration Therapy26:41 Understanding Sensory Integration Assessments31:07 Exploring Sensory Integration Interventions35:53 Practical Sensory Strategies for Home and School39:55 Training and Certification in Sensory Integration47:30 Common Misconceptions About Sensory Processing52:01 The Importance of Self-Compassion for Caregivers

Ever wondered when and how to start Early Intervention for your child? In this episode, we sit down with a Chartered Educational Psychologist, Ms Tan Cheng Yi, to break it all down — from who’s involved in EIP, what options exist in Malaysia, to how YOU as a parent can play a powerful role. ✨ Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to understand the system better, this one’s for you.🎙️ Tune in now and let's make sense of Early Intervention Programme—together.