In Episode 7 of The Beautiful Reality of Autism, Guy Shahar is joined by Dr Janet Rose, Principal of Norland College, co-developer of Transforming Autism’s First Steps programme, and a parent of an autistic son.
Janet shares her early parenting journey and the challenges that didn’t fit the stereotypes: a child who was an early talker and early reader, but who struggled with sleep, sensory sensitivities, change, and emotional regulation (especially at home). She describes the fear, self-blame and tension that can build when parents judge surface behaviour, rather than understanding what is happening underneath.
Janet explains emotion coaching: a strengths-based, relationship-led approach that looks ‘under the iceberg’ of behaviour. It validates the child’s feelings, supports calming and co-regulation first, and then teaches self-regulation skills over time. She shares vivid examples of how this can shift a child’s language and behaviour, and how it also requires adult self-regulation.
This episode is a practical reset for parents: compassion without permissiveness, boundaries without shame, and connection as the pathway to growth.
What you’ll learn (bullets)
This episode is shared for information and support. It is not medical advice. If you are worried about your child’s well-being, contact your GP or relevant professional support.
If you have found this episode helpful and would like to support Transforming Autism’s work, you can make a donation here: https://tinyurl.com/tap-donate
Every contribution means we can support even more young Autistic children to fulfil their potential and, with their families, live happy, fulfilling lives.
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