On the latest Middletown Podcast, we’re joined by the wonderful students from New-Bridge Integrated College. Logan, Faith, Summer and Molly are part of a post primary peer mentor programme designed to shape an inclusive student culture. They are a neurodiverse group and they all have their own perspective and lived experience. They share their experience and then they take the mic to ask MCA staff for our thoughts on inclusion. We share what inclusion means to us, why assumptions are still a major barrier, and why listening to student voice is the change that lasts.

In this episode, we’re talking about belonging and inclusion. We chat to Louise King, Middletown staff member, who shares her experience supporting autistic children and young people in lots of different school settings. We talk about the importance of inclusion, where challenges might arise and how to address them. Louise shares really useful examples and practical ideas. 

A pupil walks into a classroom and instantly scans for one thing: am I safe to be myself here? That simple question sits underneath everything we explore with Middletown colleagues Finola McElhatton and Ruth McCausland as we dig into what inclusion really means and why “rightful presence” raises the bar even further.

We talk about what happens when autistic students aren’t included, worries that educators might have and advice for school staff who want to create a safe environment for everyone.

In the latest episode of the Middletown Podcast, we sit down with Kevin Schaefer, Director of Equity and Inclusive Practices for California’s Supporting Inclusive Practices (SIP) project. We ask how we can support students to experience belonging and power in the spaces where they learn? Our conversation centres on the concept of rightful presence, and why it helps schools move away from compliance towards human dignity. You’ll also hear practical, school-ready ideas: building self-advocacy over time, protecting the dignity of risk, and understanding Universal Design for Learning. 

In the latest episode we chat to poet, researcher and advocate, Kayren Hayes. Kayren has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She was very keen to share her journey as an autistic person, navigating a very serious health condition and navigating the healthcare system. 

Kayren is very honest about her experiences in cancer treatment, so if you feel like you can't hear about cancer and the challenges it poses, then it might be no harm to skip this episode for today. 

Kayren shares two stunning poems in the episode and, as ever, she is insightful and compassionate. 

We have another episode with Clinical Specialist OT, Susan Madigan. Susan brings a wealth of knowledge through working with university students. This episode is for students who are heading back to college or university but are feeling some dread about it. 

You can find out more about Susan's work here: https://www.susanmadigan.ie/ 

In the first of two back-to-university episodes, we chat to Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, Susan Madigan. Susan has years of experience working with autistic students in universities. In this episode we discuss the challenges and many joys that autistic students might experience when they are just starting out in their college or university life. Susan shares lots of practical tips!

You can find out more about her work here: https://www.susanmadigan.ie/

In this episode we share time with Oisin, a young autistic advocate who is working to improve the education system for all autistic people. Oisin is non-speaking, so Noel, Oisin’s carer, read the answers that Oisin wrote to our questions.

Oisin shares his thoughts on advocacy for non-speaking people and how we should all challenge our assumptions about people who communicate in different ways. 

We talk with Deirdre O’Shea about educator burnout and why so many teachers are running on empty while being asked to deliver major change. We explore how space, compassion, and neuroaffirming practice can protect both staff wellbeing and autistic pupils’ experience of school.

Break time can look like freedom from the outside, but for many autistic students it can feel like the most demanding part of the day: unstructured social rules, sensory overload, and nowhere obvious to recharge or recover. In this episode, we're joined by Jenny Gibson, a researcher at the University of Cambridge, to get specific about why play matters and what schools can do to make playtime and lunch time genuinely inclusive.

In the latest episode of the Middletown Podcast, we chat to Elaine McGoldrick and Aoife Munroe about how they have adapted the SPACE Framework for an education setting. The framework is a neuroaffirming guide for professionals that are supporting autistic people. They share practical tips founded in the framework to guide educators to better understand and support autistic experience. 

In the latest episode of the Middletown Podcast we chat to Niamh Mellerick from AsIAm about their recent report focusing on consent and sex education in Ireland. They collaborated with the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland to learn more about how autistic people learn about and understand consent. Niamh shares their findings and practical ideas to support an understanding of consent for young people. 

In the latest episode of the Middletown Podcast, we chat to Dr Amy Pearson about her research on autistic people’s experiences of relationships. She and her team at Durham University created a guide to help autistic people recognise healthy and unhealthy relationship traits.  

Find out more about the Autistic Guide to Healthy Relationships here: https://www.durham.ac.uk/news-events/latest-news/2024/04/autistic-guide-to-healthy-relationships/

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat about sexual wellbeing for autistic people. Dr Jeroen Dewinter shares his research on community perspectives to better understand and support sexual wellbeing.  

In this episode we mention the support service BelongTo  

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to Dr Brett Heasman about his research into Autistic Flow. He explains how it can be a helpful model for understanding autistic experience and how beneficial flow states can be for wellbeing.  

Find out more about the work that Brett and his team are doing at the Heasman Flow Lab.  

In latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to autistic advocate Niamh Biddulph. Niamh has been an advocate for many issues faced by the community, including inclusive employment.  We talk about how she’s navigated anxiety to achieve so much.  

On the latest Middletown Podcast chat to autistic parent and advocate, Amanda McGuinness. We talk about Christmas and how Amanda and her family navigate pressure, excitement and expectations around the holiday season. We try very hard not to spoil any of the magic of Christmas in our chat, but you might want to listen to this one away from the ears of little believers. 

More about Amanda: 

Amanda McGuinness is an Autistic advocate, Autism and Visual Supports Specialist, and Founder of Little Puddins. She is also the Director of Autism Advocacy and Professional Practice at Flourish Autism Consultancy & Training, an Autistic-led organisation providing neuro-affirmative training, consultancy, and professional development across Ireland. Through Flourish, founded by Bernie Smith,  Amanda and the team deliver evidence-informed, lived-experience focused learning for families, educators, and professionals, alongside a growing range of free community resources designed to promote understanding, inclusion, and authentic support for Autistic individuals and their families.   

On the Middletown Podcast we chat to playwright, accessibility consultant and community activist, Jody O’Neill. She discusses Neuroconvergence, a new initiative that is building community and celebrating autistic creativity.   

You can find out more about Neuroconvergence here: https://www.neuroconvergence.ie/ 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to autistic teacher, lecturer and author Dr Kara Dymond. Kara is passionate about creating truly inclusive classrooms and she shares her experience and her philosophy around teaching. We also discuss Kara’s new book “Creating a Neurodiversity-Affirming Classroom”. 

You can find out more about Kara’s work here 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to researcher, Dr Sinead McNally about recent DCU research focused on the experiences that young, Irish autistic people have of bullying. We talk about how the team supported young people to feel comfortable enough to share their experiences and what we can learn from them. 

You can find out more about the bullying study here. 

Find out more about the Autism-Friendly Schools Project. 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to Occupational Therapist, Sorcha Rice. Sorcha brings her expertise and lived experience to discuss PDA (Persistent Drive for Autonomy). We discuss what PDA feels like and what supports might be useful at school and at home.  

You can find out more about Sorcha and her work here

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to play therapist Gráinne Warren about building authentic connections rather than “training” social skills. Gráinne brings years of practice, research and lived experience to her work, and she has created a resource focused on supporting young people to create connections that make them comfortable. 

You can find Gráinne’s resources here: https://grainnewarren.com/

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to Australian authors Clem Bastow and Jo Case about “Someone Like Me”, a new anthology of autistic writing that they have edited. We talk about how the book came about and the importance of real representation.  

📚You can find out more about the book here: https://www.vervebooks.co.uk/bookpage.php?isbn=9780857309266 

Festival season may be coming to an end for this year, but in the latest episode of the podcast we’re thinking about how festivals and events can be made more comfortable for autistic people. We’re joined by event inclusion expert, Adam O’Brien, who shares lived experience and expertise to help organisers create inclusive events. 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat to CJay Smith, Assistive Technology and Communication Specialist with Neurodiversity Ireland. CJay brings their expertise and lived experience to share their knowledge on the benefits of technology and myths around its use. CJay also shares lots of advice for parents and educators who want to learn more about supporting communication. 

You can find out more about CJay’s work here: https://linktr.ee/CJay_NeurodiversityIreland  

CJay is speaking at the Your Voice Matters summit on September 27th: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/your-voice-matters-tickets-1445316152519  

In the latest Middletown Podcast, Adam Harris joins us to chat about the upcoming Autism Europe Congress. Adam and Cat are both involved in organising the Congress, and they discuss why hosting the Congress in Ireland is important, what they’re most excited about and what they hope the impact of the Congress will be.  

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we speak to Allie Mason – author, advocate and adventurer! Allie has written a book, “The Autistic Guide to Adventure”. Her book is designed to support autistic folk of all ages to take part in new activities and find fun and adventure at their own pace. 

Find out more about Allie’s work here: https://alliewrote.com/ 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we chat with Nessa Hill from Neurodiversity Ireland. We talk about the importance of practical autism-affirming supports and the positive impact that a neurodiversity-informed approach can have for everyone. Nessa chats about how seeing neurodiversity as a social justice movement informs her work. 

Find out more about Neurodiversity Ireland: https://neurodiversityireland.com/

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we speak to Joan McDonald, autism advocate, consultant, specialist teacher and trainer. Joan has a wealth of knowledge on many topics, but for this episode we’re chatting about Monotropism. Joan shares a practical perspective informed by research and lived experience. She explains exactly what Monotropism is and how we can support monotropic thinking.  

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we speak to Charli Clement, autistic author and activist. They live with chronic pain and have written a book to support other autistic young people experiencing chronic pain.  

For more information about Charli’s book, All Tangled Up in Autism & Chronic Illness click here. To keep up to date on Charli’s work click here 

In our latest podcast, we speak to autistic psychologist and author, Maja Toudal. She has developed Energy Accounting, a system to help manage anxiety and support good mental health.  

You can find out more about Maja’s book, click here  

Maja is a keynote speaker at the upcoming Autism Europe Congress in Dublin this September. You can find out more, click here 

In the latest Middletown Podcast,  we chat with researcher Holly Sutherland about her ground-breaking work focusing on autistic communication. We discuss differences in communication between autistic and non-autistic people and practical ways for non-autistic people to make their communication more meaningful. We also discuss Holly’s experience as an autistic autism researcher. 

In the latest Middletown Podcast, we speak to Steven Murray - creative, storyteller and Engagement Officer with Aspire Ireland. We discuss his journey through education, his creative life and how he feels about autism representation.   

In this episode, we’re delighted to chat to professional athlete and Rugby Referee, Aimee Barrett-Theron. Aimee represented South Africa in the Rugby World Cup before becoming an International referee. We discuss the positives that being autistic brings to refereeing and how she shapes her sensory and communicative experience. 

To understand student needs, it’s essential that we give space for autistic students to share their experiences. On the latest podcast, Dr Finbar Horgan talks about his research, which gave space to the student voice.  

It can be difficult for parents to know how to best support their child as they explore their autistic identity. In this podcast, we chat to autistic author Niamh Garvey about her new book focused on children as they learn what being autistic means for them.  

For more information on Niamh’s book, “Being Autistic (And What That Actually Means)” visit: https://niamhgarvey.com/books-for-autistic-kids/  

For a long time, our understanding of autistic communication was based on assumptions made by non-autistic researchers. In this podcast, we chat to autistic researcher, Gemma Williams about her neurodiversity-affirming approach to communication.  

To find out more about Gemma’s book, visit: https://pavpub.com/health-and-social-care/health-autism/understanding-others-in-a-neurodiverse-world-a-radical-perspective-on-communication-and-shared-meaning?srsltid=AfmBOop9_uw9zqqjqGaWZ13uDPJvFbpM4h-iwQDJdNEip49dubFUbbCI 

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an approach to supportive learning that is growing in prominence. In our latest podcast we chat to Zarah Doyle, Training and Accreditation Manager with AsIAm. Zarah is an expert in the theory and practice of UDL. She shares her insight and we chat about her own experience as a multiply neurodivergent parent and professional.  

You can also find an interview with Zarah in our latest Research Bulletin:
https://www.middletownautism.com/research/research-bulletins

Double Empathy is a theory that many believe is central to understanding autistic experience. In this episode we chat to Dr Damian Milton, the autistic researcher and theorist who developed the theory. We discuss what Double Empathy means for other theories of autism and how it can shape practical supports.  

Ahead of our Differentiation masterclass on the 15th, we chatted to Dr Jo Fitzsimons about adaptive teaching and the small changes that can have a huge impact in the classroom.  

To find out more about Jo’s Masterclass visit: https://www.middletownautism.com/package/professionals/middletown-masterclasses 

We know that autistic people are more likely to have Tourettes Syndrome or tic conditions. In our latest podcast, we chat to comedian, playwright and author, Jess Thom aka TourettesHero. She talks about her experience living with Tourettes Syndrome and how she’s reclaiming and reframing this misunderstood condition.  

You can find out more about Jess here: https://www.touretteshero.com/ 

Research suggests that between 50 and 70% of autistic people may also have ADHD. On our latest podcast we chat to Ken Kilbride, CEO of ADHD Ireland to learn more about life with ADHD. 

For more information on ADHD Ireland, please visit:  

https://adhdireland.ie/  

Non-speaking Awareness Day falls next week. On the podcast, we’re celebrating a young woman who is using Makaton to support young people who speak few or no words. Eve McIvor has Down Syndrome and is autistic. She’s also a Makaton Master bringing her passion for communication to young people in Northern Ireland.  

You can follow Eve’s work through her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552576340634

Trauma is a serious but important topic. In this episode, we’re joined by Specialist Teacher, Deirdre O’Shea who explains what trauma is, how it may impact autistic people and how we can support someone through trauma.  

For more information on the topics discussed, please visit: 

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/ptsd-autism 

https://mental-health-wellbeing.middletownautism.com/information-strategies/ptsd-and-trauma/ 

 https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-infographics/autismandtrauma 

It looks like there was a glitch in our podcast with Dr Mary Doherty. For anyone who couldn't access it, here is the full version-

In this episode, we chat to autistic health professional and researcher, Dr Mary Doherty. Mary has driven research to support autistic patients and healthcare workers.  We find out about her work and her experience as an autistic autism researcher.  

You can find some of Mary’s research work here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mary-Doherty-9

Animals & Nature with Becca Lory Hector
Many autistic people feel particularly comfortable around animals and nature. In this podcast we speak to autistic author, researcher and advocate, Becca Lory Hector about her relationship with animals and how they have improved her life.  

Trigger warning: this episode includes mention of mental health challenges and grief.  

To learn more about Becca visit: https://beccalory.com/  

The theory of Monotropism focuses on how autistic people allocate their attention. Autistic theorist, Fergus Murray joins us on the latest podcast episode to discuss how the theory, which was developed by autistic people, may explain much of autistic experience. 

To read some of Fergus’ writing visit: https://oolong.co.uk/ 

In this episode, we’re learning more about the link between autism and physical health conditions. Dr Jessica Eccles, joins the podcast to discuss hypermobility: when someone has very flexible joints that can often cause pain. 

You can find out more about Jessica’s work here: https://www.bsms.ac.uk/about/contact-us/staff/dr-jessica-eccles.aspx 

In this episode, we’re joined by Bethany Donaghy, an autistic researcher focused on understanding the experience of pain in autistic young people. She talks about the importance of challenging assumptions so we can better understand autistic children’s experience and expression of pain. She also chats about how being autistic has shaped how she conducts her research.  

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Alison Doyle - an educational psychologist, researcher and practitioner who has spent years supporting neurodivergent people. We discuss Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), why people may relate to it, how they can find support and why the topic may be controversial for some.  

As the Leaving cert approaches, lots of young people might also be thinking about university life. In this podcast we chat to Fiona Earley about Dublin City University’s autism-friendly initiative to find out about the steps that they’ve taken to support autistic students and staff.   

We’ve been delighted to partner with the IRFU to develop training for coaches who are supporting autistic players. To create our training, we talked to players, family members and coaches from across the country. In this podcast, Cat chats to James and Wendy Vahey, who are both players in Leinster. They chat about the benefits of ruby and the strengths that autistic people can bring to the game.  

 In our latest podcast episode, we chat to two NHS sleep experts, Debbie Spain and Tasos Galanopoulos.  They have a conversation with our host, Cat, to help us better understand the science of sleep and how it might impact autistic people.  

In our latest podcast episode, we chat toNoelle Foley Coughlan, a student who recently graduated from the MA in Autism Studies co-designed by Middletown Centre for Autism and Mary Immaculate College. Noelle focused her research on exploring the many strengths of autistic people of marginalised genders.  

To find out
more about our graduate courses visit: https://www.mic.ul.ie/faculty-of-education/programme/graduate-certificate-diploma-ma-autism-studies?index=0  

 As a Master's student dedicated to inclusivity and diversity, Noelle peels back the layers to expose the underreported strengths of autistic people from marginalized genders. Her groundbreaking research sheds light on the unique strengths of autistic women, girls, non-binary, transgender, and intersex individuals.

In this riveting conversation, we debunk the pervasive myth that autistic people lack empathy. Instead, we reveal the truth – autistic individuals are often compassionate, creative, detail-oriented, empathetic, and resilient. Noelle's invaluable findings challenge societal norms, encouraging us to bridge the gap between the autistic and non-autistic worlds. We delve into the heart of the matter, discussing the vital role of accurate representation and understanding.

The episode evolves to discuss how we can better support the autistic community. Revealing the power of self-care, embracing one's true self, and building a strong community, Noelle's advice is aimed at empowering young autistic people. We also discuss the need for organizations to recognize and capitalize on autistic strengths. As we wrap up, the focus shifts to the future – a future where autism research and education are more inclusive, representative, and focused on embracing the diverse strengths of all autistic individuals. Join us for this powerful conversation that champions diversity, resilience, and the strength in all of us.

Ever been fascinated by the realm of autism, particularly in women diagnosed late in life? Strap in for an insightful journey, as we joined by Karen Hayes - a researcher with a freshly minted Master's in Autism Studies who has devoted her time to understanding these unique narratives. Karen unravels captivating stories of 14 participants, sharing their struggles, their reasons for seeking diagnosis, and how they navigated the world while hiding in plain sight.

Our conversation meanders through the labyrinth of experiences these women have faced. We explore the stigma and shame, and how it often becomes a hurdle. Interestingly, we also discuss the powerful effects of public figures coming out as autistic, and the inspiration it brings for others in the community. Using her research as a platform, Karen magnifies the voices of these women, sharing their experiences, their resilience, and their need for understanding communities and role models.

We also dive into the challenges these women face in accessing autism diagnosis, with Karen sharing heartrending narratives of women denied treatment post-diagnosis. We further delve into the factors influencing women who received a late autism diagnosis and their choices to disclose their condition. Wrapping up, we leave no stone unturned in addressing the trials of conducting research on autism, with Karen serving up some priceless advice for fellow researchers. Tune in for an episode filled with fascinating insights, compassionate understanding, and a journey into the world of late-diagnosed autistic women.

To find out more about our graduate courses visit: https://www.mic.ul.ie/faculty-of-education/programme/graduate-certificate-diploma-ma-autism-studies?index=0

In our latest podcast episode, we chat to Carmel Rainsford, a student on the MA in Autism Studies co-designed by Middletown Centre for Autism and Mary Immaculate College. Carmel had  studied on the graduate certificate and graduate diploma before she undertook the MA. The MA is focused on creating autism-affirming research. This is the first of our podcasts that will be celebrating the work of some of our students as they get set to graduate later this week. Carmel focused her research on understanding what school staff need so they are able to support meaningful inclusion for their autistic students.  

To find out
more about our graduate courses visit: https://www.mic.ul.ie/faculty-of-education/programme/graduate-certificate-diploma-ma-autism-studies?index=0 

On our latest podcast we chat to Amanda McGuinness, the creative mind behind Little Puddins. We talk about advocacy, parenting a child with a different neurotype and the importance of positive autistic representation.  

You can find
more of Amanda’s work here: https://littlepuddins.ie/ 

Returning to school can be an exciting time for many, but for some students it can produce real upset and anxiety. In our latest podcast, we speak to Autism Trainer Advisor, Tara Vernon, about her work supporting young people who find themselves unable to attend school. 

In the latest episode of the podcast, we talk to Sharon and Caolán McCarthy about the many ways that the environment can impact on autistic people. As students return to school, this podcast might help teachers focus on how the classroom environment can support all of their students.  

You can find out more about Sharon and Caolán’s new book, “Making Space for Autism” here https://pavpub.com/learning-disability/autism/making-space-for-autism-strategies-for-assessing-and-modifying-environments 

In the latest episode of the podcast, we talk to Dr Peter Vermeulen about his recent work and how our understanding of autism has changed over the years.  

Learning about an autism diagnosis and making sense of what that diagnosis means personally, can feel like an overwhelming task for lots of young autistic people. On our latest podcast, Sarah O’Brien chats to us about her own experience post-diagnosis and what she wishes she had known while on that journey.  

You can find
more about Sarah’s book, “So, I’m Autistic” here: https://uk.jkp.com/products/so-im-autistic 

Masking is something that impacts all autistic people. In this podcast, we speak to researchers and advocates, Dr Amy Pearson & Kieran Rose, who have recently published a book on the topic, “Autistic Masking”. They break down the complicated idea of masking, explain its impact and give advice for people navigating their own experience of masking.  

Dr Carly Jones MBE joins us on this week’s podcast. Carly was a huge hit at the Middletown Conference this year. She joined the podcast to talk about her passion for safeguarding and the experiences that brought her to autism advocacy.  

Dr Alyssa Alcorn joins us on this week’s podcast. Alyssa presented at the Middletown Conference to a packed room. She joined the podcast to talk about the neurodiversity-affirming LEANS Project for primary schools 

Professor Sue Fletcher Watson joins us on this week’s podcast. Sue was one of the keynote speakers at the Middletown Conference where she was discussing neurodiversity.  We continue that conversation and find out how the neurodiversity paradigm guides her research
 
 

This week on the Middletown podcast we meet Roisin McAnulty. She talks about her experiences growing up & the choices she's made as an autistic parent to autistic
children (including author & naturalist, Dara) 

Roisin will be speaking at the Middletown Conference this month 

The centre is celebrating some of our brilliant autistic community members in the Middletown podcast. In this episode we chat to Brian Irwin, autism advocate and Board Member with AsIAm, about his thoughts on growing up & becoming an advocate 

The Centre is continuing to celebrate our autistic community members in the podcast. In this episode we chat to Zoe McCormack, researcher & founder of the Autistic Art Club. She talks about mental health & the power of art  

Trigger
Warning: mention of suicide  

The Centre is continuing to celebrate our autistic community members in the podcast. In this episode we talk to Elaine McGoldrick, researcher & retired teacher. She talks about her experience growing up undiagnosed & her drive to support autistic students  

Elaine will be speaking at the Middletown Conference next month. Find out more here: https://www.middletownautism.com/social-media/middletown-conference-2023-2-2023 

For Autism Acceptance Month, the Middletown Podcast is celebrating some of our autistic community members. In this episode we learn more about Bobby Trundley, the autism advocate & multi-award winning motorsport driver.

“It is the world that is inept, not us. And when we are put in situations where we do have the ability to thrive, our fairy tales and our happily ever afters are going to be so incredibly magical.”  Powerful words from Chloe Hayden, author, activist and actress.  Listen more to Chloe’s experiences of being neurodivergent in this podcast recorded with Gemma O’Brien at the recent AsIAm conference.  

Continuing our podcast series in the build up to World Autism Accepatance Month, the Centre is delighted to share another insightful podcast recorded at the AsIAm conference last month.  This time Gemma O’Neill interviews Dr Wenn Lawson.  He discusses his passion for research and the importance of co-production, but also the challenges experienced by autistic researchers and the right to access a supportive workplace.  He finishes with some previews into his many and varied current and future projects. 

Pet owners gain a gain a huge amount of joy from their pets. In this  podcast Dr Cat Hughes (Researcher, Middletown Centre for Autism) talks to Dr Ana Maria Barcelos, a researcher at @universityoflincoln. Her research looks at how dog ownership can positively impact wellbeing & even suicidal thoughts in autistic adults. You can find out more about Ana’s study in our upcoming Research Bulletin. 

Please note that this podcast contains discussion on suicide which some listeners may find upsetting.

In this podcast you will hear an open and honest account of the teaching experiences of a newly qualified teacher in Fleming Fulton School.  She discusses the impact on her autistic students of getting the correct visual supports in place and acknowledges the support received by the school from Middletown Centre for Autism.

Acknowledgements: Helen Forde, Tracey McGovern and  Hannah Jordan.

Many young people will be preparing to make a significant life transition over the coming weeks.  Starting third level education is a major milestone, and for autistic people, it requires careful planning and additional support.  In this podcast interview, Claire Smyton talks about her son’s experience of making the transition from special school to college last September.  She explains his specific anxieties and the supports which ensured a positive experience for him.

In this podcast teachers Elaine, Aisling, Máire and Éabha discuss teaching autistic pupils in an Irish-medium environment with Dáithí Murray. 

In recent years, the number of autism classes in Irish-medium and Gaeltacht schools has greatly increased. So too has the number of children benefiting from Irish-medium education and the immersion model from naíonra onwards. 

The panel will share some of the benefits of Irish-medium and Gaeltacht education for autistic children and young people, as well as some tips and advice for colleagues working in the sector. They will also share some insights into unique issues facing those working in Irish-medium education to support autistic pupils and students reach their full potential. 

Sa phodchraoladh seo, pléann na múinteoirí Elaine, Aisling, Máire agus Éabha a dtaithí ar pháistí uathacha a mhúineadh sa chóras lán-Ghaeilge le Dáithí Murray.  

Le blianta beaga anuas, tá méadú mór tagtha ar líon na ranganna uathachais i scoileanna lán-Ghaeilge agus Gaeltachta. Ciallaíonn sé sin freisin go bhfuil méadú mór tagtha ar líon na bpáistí atá ag fáil buntáistí an oideachais lán-Ghaeilge agus mhúnla an tumoideachais ó leibhéal an naíonra ar aghaidh.  

Roinnfidh an painéal roinnt de na buntáistí a bhaineann leis an oideachas lán-Ghaeilge agus Gaeltachta do pháistí agus daoine óga uathacha, mar aon le cúpla leid agus comhairle bhreise do chomhghleacaithe eile atá ag obair sa chóras. Tabharfaidh siad léargas freisin ar roinnt de na saincheisteanna faoi leith a bhaineann leo siúd atá ag obair san earnáil chun tacaíocht a thabhairt do dhaltaí agus scoláirí uathacha barr a gcumais amach. 

In this podcast, Cat Hughes (Researcher, Middletown Centre for Autism) interviews Ellie Buckley (Research Fellow in East London NHS Foundation Trust).  She discusses research carried out when she was Honorary Research Associate, University College London.  The research examined employment experiences of autistic people in the performing arts, and Ellie offers advice to young people interested in a career in this area.  She highlights the importance of flexibility and support in the workplace, with a particular focus on mentorship.

Links to useful organisations:

https://flowobsad.wixsite.com/flow-observatorium

https://accessallareastheatre.org/

https://cordialfox.com/

In this week of international autism acceptance, the Centre is delighted to share a podcast interview in which Cat Hughes (Middletown Centre for Autism) converses with Mel Romuladez (Centre for Research in Autism and Education).  They discuss the challenges of disclosing a diagnosis in the workplace and the importance of employers creating an ethos of acceptance and understanding. 

 To mark the start of Autism Acceptance week learning , the Centre is sharing this podcast recorded by Helen Forde (Specialist teacher, Middletown Centre for Autism) with Kevin Warde and Shauna Lyness from Lismore Comprehensive School.  This is an example of a school which has placed a focus on how the school can accept and meet the diverse learning styles of all students.  They discuss changes adopted by the school to ensure they meet the emotional and needs of autistic students.  This has included environmental environmental modifications throughout the whole school and increasing the knowledge about autism amongst staff and students.  

Whole School Interview with James from Harberton School with James and Middletown Centre for Autism Helen Forde 

interview Coordinated by Catherine Latimer (Research Team Middletown Centre of Autism) and with Helen Lynch  (University College Cork senior Lecturer) 

 In this episode, one of the Centre’s specialist teachers, Breiffni O’Reilly, interviews Mary Sharkey, Autism Coordinator in a post primary school.  

They discuss the partnership between the school and Middletown Centre for Autism, and the importance of supports for emotional regulation.  Mary recommends a range of online resources, podcasts and webinars which can be accessed on the Social Media section of the Centre’s website. 

Jody is an award-winning autistic writer and performer with over 20 years’ experience working in the theatre, film and TV sector in Ireland and internationally.

Jody is speaking at the Centre’s international conference.  You can register now at this link: 

https://eventfulbelfast.eventsair.com/mca/register/Site/Register 

Today, on World Autism Day, the Centre wants to celebrate the evolving perspectives on autism, and recognise that different and unique minds positively shape the diverse world in which we all live.  

In this special podcast interview, Dr Stephen Shore talks to Dr Fiona McCaffrey about how the global pandemic has offered an insight into autistic thinking.  He reflects on the work and lifestyle changes in the last year, and the potential long-term benefits for everyone. 

The Centre is delighted to share the link to its podcast interview with Professor Richard Grinker, one of the keynote speakers who will be presenting at the conference on 23 April 2021.  Richard Grinker is Professor of Anthropology and International Affairs at the George Washington University in Washington and author of several books, including ‘Unstrange Minds’ and ‘Nobody’s Normal’.  In this interview with Tara Vernon, he provides valuable insights into Neurodiversity and the impact of the current pandemic on evolving perspectives of mental health. 

The Centre’s online conference will take place on 23-24 April 2021 and is open for registration at this link: 

https://eventfulbelfast.eventsair.com/mca/register/Site/Register 

The Centre is excited to officially launch its new podcast series, as part of the build up to the conference to be held online on 23-24 April 2021. 

In this first episode, Dr Barry Prizant, author of ‘Uniquely Human’ and co-creator of the SCERTS framework, talks to Jill McCanney about his perspectives on Neurodiversity and how unique differences enrich society for all. 

If you enjoy this podcast, you can hear more from Dr Prizant when he presents the keynote speech on Friday 23 April at the Centre’s international conference.  You can register now at this link: 

https://eventfulbelfast.eventsair.com/mca/register/Site/Register 

To hear more podcasts from Dr Prizant’s, you can access his own series, ‘Uniquely Human’, at this link: 

https://uniquelyhuman.com/ 

Fiona Ferris is Deputy CEO of AsIAm Ireland and is the final guest on the Community Voices podcast series. Fiona discusses her experiences at school, university as an autistic woman and parent of an autistic daughter. 

In this final episode of the Centre’s ‘Community Voices’ podcast series, produced in partnership with AsIAm, Aoife chats to Fiona about school, college and her career as an illustrator and comedian.  She offers inspiration to young autistic people, encouraging them to pursue what they enjoy and how visualising ambitions can help them to become a reality.  She also stresses the importance of having one person who believes in you, and then trying to be that person who believes in others. 

The Centre would like to thank Fiona Ferris from AsIAm and the guest speakers: Grainne, Eleanor, Nicholas and Aoife. 

Today’s podcast and the previous 3 episodes are on Buzzsprout, Spotify and Apple

Today the Centre and AsIAm bring you episode 3 in the Community Voices podcast series.  Nicholas, a writer and documentary maker talks to Fiona, Vice-CEO of AsIAm, about both his positive and negative experiences in school, the importance of good support and how his skills and interest in writing and film making have led to the production of two highly successful documentaries. 

Please be advised that this podcast addresses the important issue of bullying, but this may be upsetting for some. 

In this Drama Therapy podcast, Orla provides some ideas for exploration and creative writing. Parents and teachers may want to pause the podcast at various points to give the child time to reflect on the issues discussed. 

Eleanor is a performer and advocate from Kilkenny, currently living in Dublin. 

Middletown Centre for Autism and AsIAm are excited to launch the first podcast in a four-part series entitled ‘Community Voices’.  In this episode, Grainne talks to Fiona Ferris from AsIAm  about how she navigated post-primary education, her current experiences of college education and her career aspirations.  This podcast will offer valuable insights for other autistic teens and their support circle. 

The Centre is delighted to invite you to listen to the second podcast in the Drama Therapy series, produced with Orla Gildea.  This week is about Physical Development so click the lick and get ready to move in a fun and engaging way! 

The first episode in the Centre’s Drama Therapy podcast series is here!

Please click the link to listen to Orla Gildea’s excellent podcast, this week focusing on the topic of Emotional Regulation.

Click on the link below to get access to the Visual resources that accompanies this Podcast

https://www.middletownautism.com/social-media/drama-podcast-week-1-1-2021

Podcast Name: Siblings 

Jessica from Co Clare discusses life with her autistic twin brothers 

This is the Centre’s last podcast interview of 2020 and an opportunity to talk again to Claire Smyton and gain her insights into parenting a young person with autism.  This time Claire discusses her experiences of celebrating Christmas with her son, Jonah.  She discusses the things which make the holiday season joyful for him and the whole family, and the new traditions which have developed around his likes and interests.  She explains the challenges which Christmas can bring to those on the autistic spectrum but that by ensuring predictability and encouraging others to be flexible, the celebrations can be relaxing and enjoyable for all. 

This podcast is being released to highlight the Centre's forthcoming Classroom Assistant training programme.
Frances O'Neill who developed and delivered the training discusses the unique role of the Classroom Assistant. 

In this episode Joan discusses strategies to support autistic students back into the post-COVID educational setting. 

In our final podcast (for now!) Jill McCanney, one of the Centre’s specialist occupational therapists, will discuss the challenges which personal care activities may create for many autistic people. The use of visual supports, calming strategies and desensitisation will be explained during the discussion which will focus on the impact of sensory differences on participation in self-care tasks and strategies which can reduce anxiety and support engagement.  

Question and answer with Middletown CEO Gary Cooper and Dr Temple Grandin. This podcast was taken from the webinar broadcast on 25 July 2020. 

In a follow-up to his two webinars Dr Jed Baker discusses strategies to manage anxiety during homeschooling and towards going back to school.

In this podcast author and educator Kari Dunn Buron speaks with Dr Fiona McCaffrey on emotional regulation and gives practical strategies to support parents and educators in providing their child or student with the skills to self-regulate their emotions.

Adam Harris of https://asiam.ie/ discusses 'what works for me' during COVID-19.

In our podcast today Middletown Trainer/Adviser Tara Vernon discusses strategies to promote positive sleep habits for children and young people with autism.

Dr Brian McClean discusses Mindfulness. 

Dr Patsy Daly discusses strategies in her book Small Changes Can Make Big Differences 

Peter discusses his webinar, which addressed promoting fun, leisure and happiness. 

 Brenda discusses strategies for wellbeing and being well, including strategies for structuring home and leisure time.