Episodes

In this episode of the Raising Special Needs Kids podcast, Monica speaks with Shelia Allen about her son Micah, who has Down syndrome. They discuss the importance of family support, overcoming societal labels, and the significance of inclusion in education and the workplace. Sheila shares heartwarming stories of Micah's achievements and the love that has driven their family to advocate for him. Shelia emphasizes the power of love, acceptance, and teaching others how to interact with individuals ...

Scott Maulsby shares a candid, heartfelt story of navigating unspoken barriers, from church policies on baptism to the overlooked need for accessible ministry. His journey reveals the overlooked truths about true inclusion, the power of persistence, and how community can transform hardship into hope. Scott's honesty about aggressive behaviors, emotional trauma, and the raw realities of raising a child with severe needs offers invaluable lessons for any caregiver feeling overwhelmed or isolated. ...

In this episode of the Raising Special Needs Kids podcast, Monica speaks with Lynn Cable about her experiences growing up with her sister Annie, who had significant disabilities. Lynn shares the challenges and triumphs of advocating for Annie within the educational system and the importance of hope for families with special needs. The conversation highlights the evolution of special education, the need for parental advocacy, and the significance of community support for families navigating these...

In this heartfelt episode, Christa breaks down the realities of navigating trauma, learning to meet silent needs, and helping her son develop self-awareness and a relationship with Jesus—all at age six. She shares the transformative power of understanding silent needs versus special needs, the importance of family therapy, and how small acts of love and faith can lead to extraordinary moments. You’ll discover how to recognize and embrace your child's unique journey, even when it feels overwhelmi...

"You don’t have to do it all alone — even when it feels like everyone’s watching and judging." In our latest episode, Monica and guest Pam Hackney dive into the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs. From NICU heartbreak to life-changing therapies, Pam shares it all. Remember, there’s a community here to support you, and you’re not alone in this journey. Check out this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids podcast out today! What’s been your biggest challenge or breakt...

In this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids, host Monica Schmelter engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tammy Osborne about the journey of parenting a child with Down syndrome. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a special needs diagnosis, the importance of sibling relationships, and the long-term planning required for families with special needs children. Through their shared experiences, they emphasize the blessings that come from these challenges and the grace neede...

In this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids, host Monica Schmelter speaks with Andrea Robinson, a mother of two, including a daughter with Down Syndrome. They discuss the journey of parenting a child with special needs, the importance of treating children as individuals beyond their diagnoses, and the value of community support. Andrea shares her experiences with inclusive education, the joys and challenges of parenting, and offers encouragement to other parents navigating similar paths.