According to the CDC, as of 2023, around 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has been diagnosed with autism.
This week, Vanessa and Stephanie learn about autism from Luana Barajas, a mother of 3, middle school teacher, and author. Your co-hosts admittedly did not know very much about autism so they were grateful to learn more about it with an open heart and mind. They learn about masking, stimming, and how the autism spectrum is not linear.
The conversation is also an important lesson on advocating for yourself and your kids, even when the world is telling you otherwise. Luana shares how she listened to her gut and how it changed the trajectory of her relationship with her family and herself. Those mom instincts are real, people!
Stay through the end because Luana tells us about her new book, called V! It’s a sexy novel about vampires, featuring BIPOC characters, inclusive language, and from a neurodivergent POV.
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BUY HER BOOK
V: Available on Amazon, Kindle, KU
V has already received meaningful reviews: “I love this book so much! I find it relatable, and it’s really an interesting read. I would highly recommend this book to my friends and family-and the neurodivergent community!” -Jenna
RESOURCES ON AUTISM
Neuroclastic: Content about autism by autistic and neurodivergent people. A resource for autistic adults, parents of autistic children, educators, and physicians.
Understand more about autism by following others who are autistic or have autism
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DISCLAIMER: This podcast has mature language and content. Moms ears only — don’t have this one on with your kids in the room. These are our opinions and experiences as moms, take what you like, or leave it. Don’t be thinking we’re telling you what to do. Seek professionals, do your research, and call the experts for help.
CREDITS:
This episode was edited by the geriatric millennial, your co-host, Vanessa Anderson
Music by our kids’ brilliant piano teacher, John-William Gambrell
Art by the creative genius Farron Sanders of FiGS ideation Design
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Luana Barajas + autism