Rare Meet For Moms

In this episode of 'Rare Meat for Moms,' host Meghan Weaver tackles the complex issue of managing tantrums in pre-adolescent children, particularly those with rare diagnoses. She draws on personal experiences and advice from an ABA therapist to share effective strategies, such as using a designated safe area and the 'blow your candle out' technique for calming. Meghan underscores the importance of consistency among caregivers and highlights the psychological challenges parents face. Megan invites listeners to join the community by sharing their parenting stories, combining practical advice with a sense of collective support.00:00 Introduction to Rare Meat for Moms00:13 Understanding and Addressing Tantrums00:37 Personal Experiences and Seeking Help01:16 Target Audience and Expectations04:06 Preparing for Challenges and Consistency05:29 Step-by-Step Tantrum Management07:47 Staying Strong and Consistent08:59 Handling Tantrums on the Go09:58 Consistency Among Caregivers10:54 Using ABA Therapy to Manage Tantrums11:47 Dealing with Mealtime Tantrums12:41 Final Thoughts on Tantrum Management14:44 Three Good Things17:40 Conclusion and Encouragement

Episode 005: Demystifying the Invisalign Process: Tammy Ruh on the Process & Benefits for Children with Special Needs | Rare Meet for Moms PodcastIn this episode, Meghan speaks with Tammy Ruh, a dental hygienist and special needs mom, about the challenges and strategies involved in managing her son's dental care, given his diagnosis of GAND (gatad2b associated neurodevelopmental disorder). The conversation covers various aspects from consultation to completion of treatment, including dental cleanings, the use of specialized toothbrushes, and the transition to Invisalign for orthodontic needs such as palette expansion and straightening. They discuss the importance of routine, the role of supportive school staff, and leveraging grants and pro bono services to make treatment accessible. The interview also highlights the success of early intervention and the benefits of having a committed orthodontist.Tammy Ruh bio: Tammy's son, Hudson, was diagnosed with GAND in 2016 when he was 2.5 years old. She served as secretary of the non-profit Helping Hands for GAND for 1 year and is currently on her 3rd year as Vice President. She feels that being involved in continuing to build the GAND community has been a rewarding experience and a position she feels honored to be in. Tammy is a practicing dental hygienist of 14 years and as well as a travel agent that specializes in helping special needs families. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:06 Challenges with Dental Hygiene01:19 Overcoming Dental Cleaning Obstacles02:47 Sedation and Dental Procedures04:22 Starting the Invisalign Journey07:03 Invisalign Treatment Process11:09 Success and Routine with Invisalign18:37 Encouragement and Final Thoughts22:45 Three Good ThingsResources:Orthodontic Grant  https://www.uhccf.org/apply-for-a-grant/Additional info @ www.MeghanWeaver.comInstagram @ Rare.Meet.For.Moms

In Part 2, we dive into the practical application of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices in the classroom. Meghan Weaver and Mindy Youngs, both mothers navigating the challenges of AAC for their children, share their extensive experiences. They discuss the importance of adequately trained staff, the role of paraeducators, and the necessity of real-time data to measure device usage. Mindy elaborates on the specific challenges her daughter Olivia faces using the LAMP Words for Life system in a school environment, and how they ensure it aligns with educational goals. This episode is a vital resource for parents and educators striving to effectively integrate AAC devices into educational settings.Mindy Youngs bio: At the age of 18 months, Mindy's daughter was diagnosed with a nonsense variant in the GATAD2B gene. Mindy helped launch the non-profit Helping Hands for GAND in September 2015 and served on the Board of Directors as Secretary for 4 years. Mindy continues to stay involved in the GAND community and is committed to helping create a sense of community for those affected by this ultra rare disorder. Mindy also brings over 20 years of experience in marketing and is currently Senior Director, Marketing for Procore Technologies. Resources shared in this Episode are linked below and at www.meghanweaver.com00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part 101:02 Challenges of Using AAC in Schools02:10 Training and Support for School Staff02:55 Importance of Language Development Stages04:40 Ensuring Proper Use of AAC Devices07:02 Classroom Settings and Inclusion12:37 Legal and Advocacy Tips for Parents20:55 Three Good ThingsResources: Browns Language Stages here:https://www.speech-language-therapy.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=33:brown&catid=2:uncategorised&Itemid=117Realize Language: Online Service to collect data when the device is usedwww.realizelanguage.com/info

This is an introduction to what I hope will be a put it all out there, let’s figure it out together, laugh or vent about the current state of affairs. This is also a glimpse into what my life looks like raising a child with GAND. This will be conversations with other special needs moms and dads, sharing what’s working and what’s not. This is the resource I want to see in the world so I am creating it. It’s another tool for your ever growing “not so typical” tool box. Let's get to the meat of it!