This curated collection of resources is designed to support families navigating neurodiversity, emotional regulation, education, and daily life. These tools may be helpful for parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals seeking reliable information and support.
Animated videos that help explain neurodiversity, communication styles, sensory processing, and learning differences in a child-friendly way. Available in multiple languages and useful for families, educators, and peers.
Parent support and custom planning for families navigating an autism diagnosis. Founded by Dr. Nikki Sammet, the practice combines professional expertise and lived experience to help parents access neuro-affirming therapies, inclusive education options, and trusted providers with clarity and confidence.
Families seeking licensed counselors, psychologists, or therapists can explore trusted professional directories to identify providers based on specialty, location, and insurance coverage. These platforms allow families to research credentials, areas of expertise, and treatment approaches to help find support that fits their specific needs.
• Supports emotional and behavioral self-regulation
• Builds social interaction and play skills
• Improves focus, communication, and coping strategies
• Uses developmentally appropriate, play-based approaches
• Helps children regulate sensory input
• Supports attention, coordination, and daily functioning
• Addresses sensory-related behavioral challenges
• Strengthens expressive and receptive communication
• Supports social language and interaction
• Encourages functional communication skills
Include:
• Weighted/compression items
• Wobble seating
• Deep pressure supports
Include:
• Sound machines
• Ear protection (general mention)
• Environmental supports
• Fidget Club 🡵
• Fun and Function 🡵
Love on the Spectrum
The Good Doctor
Sesame Street (Julia)
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Thoughtful representation of neurodivergent individuals in media plays an important role in fostering understanding, empathy, and acceptance. When differences in communication, learning, and social interaction are portrayed with care and accuracy, families feel seen, children feel validated, and communities gain a deeper appreciation for diverse ways of experiencing the world.
• My Brother Charlie – Holly Robinson Peete & Ryan Elizabeth Peete
• Uniquely Wired – Julia Cook
• All My Strips: A Story for Children with Autism – Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer
• Diversity Ninja – Mary Nhin
• It’s OK to Be Different – Sharon Saha
• My Awesome Autism – Nikki Saunders
• What to Do When Your Temper Flares – Dawn Huebner
• The Anger Workbook for Teens – R. Lohmann
• Chillax! – M. M. Craver
• Little Spot of… series – Diane Alber
• Lying Up a Storm – Julia Cook
• Keys to Parenting Your Anxious Child – Katharina Manassis
• Your Anxious Child – John S. Dacey & Lisa B. Fiore
• Freeing Your Child from Anxiety – Tamar Chansky
• Wilma Jean the Worry Machine – Julia Cook
• What to Do When You Worry Too Much – Dawn Huebner
• Please Explain Anxiety to Me! – Laurie & Jordan Zelinger
• Optimistic Child – Martin Seligman
• Helping Your Depressed Child – M. Barnard
• Mind Over Mood – Dennis Greenberger & Christine Padesky
• Feeling Good Handbook – David D. Burns
• Getting Your Child to Say “Yes” to School – Christopher Kearney
• When Your Child Refuses School – Ann G. Dolin
• The School Refusal Workbook – S. Rapee & L. Schniering
• Parenting the Strong-Willed Child – Rex Forehand & Nicholas Long
• Win the Whining War & Other Skirmishes – Cynthia Whitham
• No More Meltdowns – Jed Baker
• The Answer Is NO – Cynthia Whitham
• STEP Program: Systematic Steps for Effective Parenting
• Zones of Regulation – http://www.zonesofregulation.com 🡵
• Participation in school clubs, after-school programs, or structured classes
• Music, art, or martial arts lessons to encourage teamwork and focus
• Organized sports, swimming, or rock climbing for social skill development
• Social skills groups or therapy-based programs for practicing communication
• Random outings like fairs, parks, or movies for low-pressure social exposure
• Boys & Girls Clubs of America – structured activities, social engagement, mentorship
• Scouts programs (Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts) – skill-building and group participation
• Local libraries or community centers – workshops, storytimes, or events
• Sensory-friendly activity centers like We Rock the Spectrum and Georgia Parkour Academy
• Big Brothers Big Sisters – long-term mentoring and positive role modeling (http://www.bbbs.org/)
• Peer buddy programs in schools or community centers
• Support groups for children and parents to connect and share experiences
• Online resources and moderated communities for safe peer interactions
• Hobbies such as art, music, STEM, or coding clubs
• Outdoor activities and playground meetups for social practice
• Structured playdates or small group gatherings
• Family-friendly sensory-friendly events and movie screenings (AMC Sensory Friendly Films, Autism Society: http://www.autism-society.org)
• Quiet spaces for reading, homework, or concentration
• Advance warning for transitions like bells or fire drills
• Earplugs or noise-reducing tools for loud environments
• Adjust lighting and visual stimuli as needed
• Consider occupational therapy or sensory integration training for continued support
• Non-stimulant and stimulant medications may be discussed with your child’s provider for managing attention or hyperactivity symptoms.
• Monitoring responses to medication at home and school can help evaluate effectiveness.
• Pharmacogenomic testing may be discussed to guide individualized medication choices.
• Behavioral therapy is recommended in combination with any medication for best outcomes.
• Omega-3 (DHA/EPA) supplements may support attention and cognitive function.
• Limiting artificial food dyes (e.g., Red #40, Blue #1, Yellow #5/6) may be considered for behavioral regulation.
• Natural supplements such as magnesium, probiotics, Lion’s Mane, or adaptogens (e.g., ashwagandha) may support focus and stress management.
• Any supplements or dietary changes should be discussed with your child’s provider.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, relaxing bedtime routine, and comfortable sleep environment.
• Limit evening exposure to bright/blue light and avoid large meals or caffeine before bedtime.
• Electronic devices should be turned off at least 30 minutes before sleep.
• Sensory supports such as earplugs or calming techniques may be helpful.
• Use of melatonin or magnesium supplements may be discussed with your child’s provider if additional support is needed.
• May help cover costs for intensive therapies related to developmental or medical needs.
• Applications may require updated evaluations every 2–3 years to maintain eligibility.
• Local Social Security offices or support programs can assist with the application process.
• Programs such as the Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver may provide Medicaid coverage for children with special needs.
• Requirements and eligibility vary; periodic re-evaluations may be needed to maintain benefits.
• Periodic re-evaluation (typically every 2–3 years) may be required by providers or insurance for ongoing therapy coverage.
• Re-evaluation helps assess progress, adjust interventions, and ensure continued support for your child’s development.
DISCLAIMER:
These resources are provided for informational purposes only and do not replace medical, educational, or therapeutic advice.
Families are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals regarding their individual needs.
Special education advocacy, parent coaching, and future planning for neurodivergent children and young adults. Services available virtually and in person (U.S. & international).
This website is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical, legal, or emergency mental health services.
© 2022 Dr. Dannette Taylor. All rights reserved.