In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille sits down with her friend Taylor J for a heartfelt and honest conversation about how friends and extended family members can better support families raising children with special needs.

Whether you’re a sibling, grandparent, cousin, or close friend, you may often wonder: How can I help? This episode dives into the kind of help that actually makes a difference—from emotional support to practical ways to show up for the everyday challenges.

🎙️ Topics We Cover:

• What not to say to special needs parents

• Practical ways to show up and support

• How to include the child with special needs

• Why empathy matters more than understanding

• Personal stories from Camille and Taylor’s journey

💬 If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to be there for a family you love, this episode will give you the insight and encouragement you need.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support special needs families everywhere.

#SpecialNeedsParenting #FamilySupport #AutismAwareness #MomentsOfJoyPodcast #TaylorJ #ParentingPodcast #Neurodiversity #DisabilityInclusion #HowToHelp

We’re diving into a powerful conversation that every caregiver needs to hear. I’m joined by my friend, Dr. Tiyahri Wilson, Counseling Psychologist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), as we talk about the mental health of parents raising children with special needs. Dr. Wilson brings both professional insight and heartfelt compassion—offering practical tools, encouragement, and reminders that our wellness matters too. As caregivers, we often pour from an empty cup. This episode is your invitation to pause, breathe, and feel seen.

You can connect with Dr Wilson here : www.instagram.com/tiyahri

• Community is essential for parents of special needs children.
• Feeling misunderstood is common, but you are not alone.
• It's important to seek support from others who understand your journey.
• Caregiver burnout is a real issue that needs addressing.
• Prioritizing mental health is crucial for effective caregiving.
• You can advocate for your child without sacrificing your well-being.
• Self-affirmation and positive self-talk can help combat negativity.
• Finding local and online support groups can provide valuable resources.
• It's okay to let go of relationships that don't support your journey.
• Choosing joy is a powerful mindset, even in difficult times.

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille Joy discusses the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process for children with special needs. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the special education system, advocating for children's rights, and the necessity of evaluations to identify needs. Camille shares personal stories and insights on navigating IEP meetings, the significance of documentation, and the power of affirmation in supporting children with disabilities. The episode serves as a guide for parents to empower themselves and their children in the educational journey.

In this conversation, Areva Martin shares her journey as an advocate for autism awareness and support, stemming from her personal experiences as a mother of a child with autism. She discusses the disparities in services available to families based on socioeconomic status and race, the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, and the need for community support. Areva emphasizes that communication can take many forms and that autism should be viewed as a unique way of being rather than a deficit. She encourages parents to embrace their child's diagnosis and highlights the resources available through her nonprofit organization, the Special Needs Network.

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille Joy interviews Irisa Leverette, who shares her journey of raising her son Darius, who is on the autism spectrum. They discuss the importance of autism awareness and acceptance, the challenges of navigating the education system, and the need for advocacy. The conversation also touches on planning for the future, employment opportunities for individuals with autism, and the impact of social media on their lives. The episode emphasizes the uniqueness of each child on the spectrum and the importance of community support. In this conversation, Irisa shares her experiences and insights on raising an autistic child, discussing the challenges, the importance of advocacy, and the need for awareness and acceptance in society. She emphasizes the significance of mental health for caregivers and offers practical advice for new parents navigating the autism journey. The discussion highlights the importance of kindness and understanding towards individuals with autism and their families, encouraging a supportive community.

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, host Camille Joy sits down with R&B singer Faith Evans to discuss her journey as a mother raising an autistic son, Ryder. Faith shares her experiences from the initial concerns about Ryder's development to navigating the complexities of autism diagnosis, early intervention, and the challenges faced within the school system. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of the diagnosis, the importance of community support, and the advocacy needed to ensure that children with autism receive the education and care they deserve. Faith emphasizes the significance of sharing knowledge and experiences to help other parents in similar situations. In this conversation, Faith shares her experiences as a mother of a child with autism, discussing the challenges of balancing her career and family life, the importance of community awareness, and the progress her son Ryder has made. She emphasizes the need for safety and understanding in interactions with law enforcement, the significance of family support, and the mission of her organization, Ryders Room, to provide resources and support for families affected by autism. Faith also offers advice to new parents navigating similar journeys and highlights the importance of kindness and empathy towards individuals with autism.

In this heartfelt episode of the Moments of Joy Podcast, I open up about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with receiving a diagnosis for your child—whether it's autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or another special need. As a special needs parent, I share the top lessons I wish I knew from day one. 💛 If you're a parent, caregiver, or family member navigating the world of special needs parenting, this episode will bring you comfort, clarity, and connection. You're not alone!