Cold Hard Truths: Gene Site Testing, Parenting Instinct, and Autistic Joy
Manage episode 502732460 series 3676729
Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen tackle essential parenting decisions with practical wisdom. They address medication timing concerns, explore the benefits of gene site testing for personalized treatment approaches, and distinguish between parenting instinct versus developed parenting skills. The hosts celebrate autistic joy through recent research findings, sharing personal stories about their children's special interests from lawnmowers to cake decorating. They provide a systematic decision-making framework for parents navigating complex choices while emphasizing the importance of celebrating what brings genuine happiness to autistic individuals.
Key Takeaways
- There's no universal "too young" age for medication - consult healthcare providers with specific goals in mind
- Gene site testing provides valuable DNA-based insights for medication effectiveness and metabolism
- Parenting instinct is important but must be combined with acquired skills and evidence-based decisions
- 94% of autistic people actively enjoy aspects of being autistic according to recent research
- Special interests can develop into professional pursuits and should be celebrated, not discouraged
- Autistic joy flourishes in sensory-friendly, supportive environments without masking demands
- Systematic decision-making involves identifying issues, evaluating current approaches, and considering family fit
- Barriers to autistic joy often come from non-autistic people demanding conformity
- Special interests provide powerful sources of happiness and energy for autistic individuals
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7 episodes