Autism and parenting performance are at the heart of this conversation between Profound Autism Mom Sarah Kernion and Dr. Cynthia Anderson, Chief Clinical Officer at Avela Health. Together, we unpack what performance really looks like in everyday parenting, for us and for our kids. Together, we explore how context, expectations, skills, and capacities interact, and what happens when there’s a mismatch between what’s being asked and what’s truly possible in the moment.

Dr. Anderson offers a compassionate, autism-informed lens on behavior and performance, reminding us that people do well when they can. We talk about why it’s not only okay—but often essential—to step back, drop certain expectations, and honor real limits so that both caregivers and autistic children can thrive.

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Autism parenting and consciousness intersect in this incredible Inchstones episode! Cognitive neuroscientist and consciousness researcher Dr. Julia Mossbridge joins us to explore her new book "have a nice disclosure" which invites you on a journey that unites science, spirit, and wonder into one life-changing exploration of who you truly are. Autism Mom Sarah and Dr. Mossbridge share the deeper currents of love, connection, and ethical education especially for non-speaking people. We talk about unconditional love as a practical healing force, how truth-telling shaped her writing process, and why anomalous cognition deserves careful attention rather than dismissal. Julia highlights the ethical responsibilities researchers and educators hold when working with non-speakers, and she shares concrete steps toward curricula that support meaningful communication. We also discuss advocacy often led by mothers, gendered patterns in emotional expression, and the reminder that trauma does not set a ceiling on growth. Throughout, Julia returns to a simple, radical invitation: participate in a love revolution grounded in empathy, relationship, and respect.

Dr. Mossbridge's new book "have a nice disclosure" can be purchased here on Amazon!

Click here to find all of Dr. Mossbridge's work.

Autism and autism parenting guide this week’s Inchstones Podcast as Autism Mom Sarah Kernion sits down with Brittany Vecero and Jada Watkins, two compassionate therapists in the field of ABA therapy, to discuss the heart of behavioral education, therapy, and care + the importance of trust, and the joy of working with children in special needs education and development.

Together, they explore how collaboration and communication between parents and therapists shape meaningful progress for children on the autism spectrum. The conversation dives deep into the emotional realities of therapy—navigating transitions, building consistent teams, and ensuring that every intervention is grounded in empathy and love.

Brittany and Jada also share how positive reinforcement, small daily changes, and partnership with parents can strengthen confidence, independence, and growth at home and in therapy sessions.

Key Takeaways:

• Therapeutic AND respite care provide essential relief and support for families.
• Building trust between parents and therapists enhances outcomes.
• Effective communication ensures consistency across home and therapy.
• ABA therapy can be transformative when done ethically and with compassion.
• Transitions in therapy teams can affect children’s emotional security.
• Collaboration and feedback loops foster stronger relationships.
• Positive reinforcement and small steps lead to lasting growth.
• Parents and therapists thrive when united in purpose and care.